Gardner Commission Tackles Wetland Restoration and Violations

Overview: The Gardner Conservation Commission recently convened to delve into a variety of issues, with focus on wetland restoration, potential environmental violations, and the management of stormwater. The meeting’s most discussions centered around a notice of intent for a project on Colony Road, aimed at extending an existing storage facility and incorporating additional storage units, some of which encroach upon buffer zones adjacent to vegetated wetlands. A rigorous third-party review by Time Bond provided an extensive analysis of the site, revealing the intricacies of historical site alterations and their impacts on wetland delineation.

Gardner Golf Commission Debates Non-Resident Membership Policy

Overview: At a recent Gardner Golf Commission meeting, the Commission engaged in a comprehensive debate regarding an ordinance that involved potentially opening commission membership to non-residents. The discussion centered on whether to maintain the current policy that limits commission membership strictly to Gardner residents or to allow non-residents who contribute to the golf course to have voting rights on the commission. This was a particular point of contention, as some members felt it would be more equitable to allow individuals who are financially invested in the golf course, regardless of residency, to have a say in its operations.

Gardner Council Confirms Key City Appointments Amid Resignations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Gardner City Council confirmed several appointments while also addressing notable resignations within the city’s government infrastructure. The council confirmed Thomas Zupa as the new Building Commissioner, recognized the reappointment of Rick Germano as a local building inspector, and discussed the appointment of James E. Imprescia as the plumbing and gas inspector, along with Charles LeBlanc to the Board of Assessors and Timothy Horgan to the Redevelopment Authority. However, the withdrawal of Linda Denbeck from the Disability Commission due to a family medical issue and the resignation of Ron Cormier from the Gardner Redevelopment Authority were also key points of discussion.

Gardner City Council Advances Solar Energy Initiatives

Overview: In an effort toward sustainability, the Gardner City Council unanimously approved measures related to the installation of solar panels on various city-owned locations. During the April 16th meeting, the council discussed and passed the measures, which included declaring the air rights of the Nolton Street parking lot and the roofs of several city buildings as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array. This initiative, supported by the Finance Committee, is anticipated to yield cost savings and generate additional revenue for the city.

Gardner School Committee Approves Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Gardner School Committee voted to accept the proposed fiscal year 2025 school budget, which includes substantial investments in educational programs for specific student populations. The meeting also saw the appointment of the superintendent to two collaborative educational groups and the approval of school improvement plans and a student field trip.