Gardner City Council Discusses Key Developments in Demolition Projects and Community Grants

Overview: The Gardner City Council recently convened to discuss developments regarding demolition projects and the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for Fiscal Year 2025. Key discussions focused on the impending demolition of the Greenwood Pool and the Old Room Rome building, alongside updates on various community service projects funded by the CDBG.

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 Planning Board Advances Zoning Amendment to Preserve Historic Properties

Overview: The Gardner Planning Board, during its recent meeting, focused on a proposed zoning amendment designed to facilitate the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic properties within the city. The amendment, presented by attorney Christine Tree on behalf of Chair City Church, aims to create special provisions allowing for expanded uses, relaxation of dimensional requirements, and adjustments to parking and signage regulations for structures listed on various historical registers.

Gardner City Council Deliberates Parking Disputes and Special Permit Extensions

Overview: In a recent Gardner City Council meeting, the focus was predominantly on complex parking arrangements and special permit discussions concerning properties on Pine Street. The deliberations highlighted the intricacies of zoning requirements, non-conforming structures, and the implications of proposed changes on local residents.

Gardner School Committee Faces Challenges in FY26 Budget with Rising Enrollment and Costs

Overview: The Gardner School Committee meeting focused on the challenges of the fiscal year 2026 budget, highlighting an increase in student enrollment and rising costs, including a stark escalation in out-of-district expenses and the financial implications of online schooling. The budget discussion emphasized the necessity for increased local contributions and highlighted the complexities of meeting the district’s educational needs.