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.

Gardner Conservation Commission Discusses Dun State Park Drainage Improvements Amid Community Notification Concerns

Overview: The Gardner Conservation Commission meeting focused on significant infrastructure projects and community communication concerns. Key discussions included drainage improvements at Dun State Park, community notification issues regarding a dredging project, and safety measures related to a local nature trail.

Gardner City Council Discusses Electric Buses, Public Safety, and Lifeline Program Concerns

Overview: During the Gardner City Council meeting on August 4, 2025, the council focused on several topics, including the introduction of electric buses, measures to enhance public transportation safety, and concerns surrounding the city’s involvement with the Lifeline program. The meeting saw attendance from various council members and representatives from the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART).

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.