Gardner Finance Committee Renews Veteran Services Agreement, Addresses Building Commissioner Vacancy

Overview: At the Gardner City Council Finance Committee meeting, the primary focus was on renewing an intermunicipal agreement with Ashby for veteran services and addressing a vacancy in the building commissioner position. The committee authorized the mayor to enter into a renewed agreement with the town of Ashby, extending collaboration on veteran services until June 30, 2028. The agreement, initially based on a per-capita charge, will see a 3% annual increase. The mayor confirmed that no interruption in services occurred despite the delay, as Ashby remained supportive during the renewal process.

Gardner Finance Committee Approves Surplus Sale of Former School Property Amid Community Center Renovations

Overview: The Gardner Finance Committee meeting on July 2, 2025, saw the approval of several measures, including the declaration of the Helen May Solder School property as surplus for sale, alterations at the Waterford Community Center, and the establishment of a youth center director position. These decisions are set to impact the city’s infrastructure, educational services, and community support systems.

Gardner Finance Committee Approves Veteran Services Agreement, Proposes Special Committee for Community Center

Overview: During the Gardner Finance Committee meeting, the proposal to authorize an intermunicipal agreement with Winchendon for veteran services was unanimously approved. The agreement would allow Gardner’s veteran services office to extend its operations to Winchendon for fiscal years 2025 through 2027, with a financial model involving a charge of $2 per person from Winchendon, amounting to approximately $20,000. This collaboration arose from Winchendon’s need following the retirement of its veteran services director and was facilitated by the town manager reaching out to Gardner due to its effective veteran services operations. The director of veteran services assured council members that Gardner’s current staffing levels could accommodate the additional workload without incurring extra costs. The agreement includes a cancellation clause to address any potential payment issues from Winchendon.

Gardner Finance Committee Tackles Engineering Contracts and Health Insurance Concerns

Overview: During the recent Gardner Finance Committee meeting on April 16, 2025, discussions revolved around extending the city’s on-call engineering contracts and addressing rising health insurance costs. The committee also reviewed the city’s clean financial audit and considered proposals for enhancing communication on capital improvement projects.

Gardner Finance Committee Rejects Proposed Building Fee Increases Amid Concerns Over Economic Impact

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Gardner City Council Finance Committee, debates highlighted the rejection of proposed increases to building department fees, the establishment of a special committee for the Waterford Community Center project, and updates to the city’s outdated sexual harassment policy. The committee also discussed organizational efficiencies within facilities management and health insurance options.