Gardner Finance Committee Advances Proposal to Revise City Employee Compensation Structure

Overview: In a recent Gardner Finance Committee meeting, officials debated a proposed amendment to the city’s personnel compensation schedule for non-union employees. The amendment aims to promote internal advancement and retention by establishing a revised salary structure, encouraging employees with a minimum of five years of service to qualify for promotional opportunities.

Gardner City Council Welcomes First Female Building Commissioner and Discusses Key Appointments

Overview: The Gardner City Council meeting on August 26, 2025, focused on a series of personnel changes and appointments, including the historic appointment of Melissa McDonald as the city’s first female building commissioner. The council also confirmed the appointments of Russell Counts as a police officer and Mario Guay to the board of registrars, while addressing resignations and forthcoming elections.

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.