Gardner Conservation Commission Maintains Enforcement Order on Sludge Landfill Amidst Public Concerns

Overview: In a recent Gardner Conservation Commission meeting, members voted to uphold an enforcement order on the sludge landfill on Milk Road, responding to public concerns regarding potential wetland contamination.

Gardner City Council Considers Saving Historic School Street School Building from Demolition

Overview: During the recent Gardner City Council meeting, discussions centered on the potential preservation of the historic School Street School building, with $770,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds earmarked for its demolition. Renewed interest from developers has prompted the council to consider alternative options, with a Request for Proposals (RFP) process underway. This initiative aims to explore viable proposals for preserving the building, which holds historical significance for the community. The current minimum bid for the property is set at one dollar, established by the previous city administration in 2017. Roughly 15 individuals have requested information about the building.

Gardner City Council Faces Deadlock Over Special Permit Requests Amid Parking Disputes

Overview: In a recent Gardner City Council meeting, contentious issues surrounding parking regulations and special permit requests dominated discussions. Notably, the council faced a tie vote, ultimately denying special permits for a property development project, while residents raised concerns about local zoning violations and environmental impacts.

Gardner City Council Debates Salary Ordinance Amid Calls for Transparency and Clarity

Overview: During the recent Gardner City Council meeting, discussions were predominantly centered around a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 8 of the city’s personnel regulations, focusing on revising the non-union compensation schedule. This ordinance, which has generated considerable debate among council members, proposes adjustments to department head salaries that have remained unchanged for two decades. Council members expressed a need for greater transparency regarding how these adjustments were determined, with several raising concerns about the ordinance’s implications on the city’s budget and financial sustainability.

Gardner License Commission Grapples with October Fest Mobile Bar Location

Overview: The Gardner License Commission meeting on August 12, 2025, primarily focused on the upcoming October Fest event scheduled for September 27, 2025, with a debate centering around the placement of a mobile bar. The commission also addressed various licenses for local events, including a celebration of life event and a parking lot party, as well as updates on ongoing applications and potential changes to local licensing regulations.