Gardner Council Confirms Key City Appointments Amid Resignations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Gardner City Council confirmed several appointments while also addressing notable resignations within the city’s government infrastructure. The council confirmed Thomas Zupa as the new Building Commissioner, recognized the reappointment of Rick Germano as a local building inspector, and discussed the appointment of James E. Imprescia as the plumbing and gas inspector, along with Charles LeBlanc to the Board of Assessors and Timothy Horgan to the Redevelopment Authority. However, the withdrawal of Linda Denbeck from the Disability Commission due to a family medical issue and the resignation of Ron Cormier from the Gardner Redevelopment Authority were also key points of discussion.

Gardner City Council Advances Solar Energy Initiatives

Overview: In an effort toward sustainability, the Gardner City Council unanimously approved measures related to the installation of solar panels on various city-owned locations. During the April 16th meeting, the council discussed and passed the measures, which included declaring the air rights of the Nolton Street parking lot and the roofs of several city buildings as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array. This initiative, supported by the Finance Committee, is anticipated to yield cost savings and generate additional revenue for the city.

Gardner City Council Prioritizes Cyber Security and Grant Writing

Overview: The recent Gardner City Council meeting saw the prioritization of significant fund appropriations to enhance the city’s cyber security and to bolster its ability to secure federal grants. The council approved the allocation of funds from free cash to various city departments and accounts, including a notable investment in the city’s IT department for cyber security at City Hall. Additionally, the council passed an order for a $49,000 allocation to the mayor’s unclassified Professional Services for grant writing expenses, highlighting the success of previous grant endeavors and the strategic move to focus on federal grant opportunities.

Gardner City Council Tackles Zoning Variance Confusion and Property Development

Overview: The Gardner City Council addressed significant zoning and property development issues in their latest meeting, including the confusion surrounding a court decision on variances and a proposal for the expansion of residential apartments by combining two downtown properties.

Gardner Council Tackles Block Grant Program Challenges

Overview: The Gardner City Council meeting on March 25, 2024, delved into the complexities of managing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, highlighting concerns over funding delays for key city projects. The grant, aimed at supporting low and moderate-income individuals and remedying blight, has encountered obstacles in both construction and public social services arenas that have stalled the release of funds. The discussion centered on the environmental review requirements and the response to an audit for previous fiscal year grants, revealing the intricate process of grant administration and the need for improved management strategies.