Gardner public meetings in 2023

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to conduct a site visit for a specific property case. The board will review a proposal for an outpatient treatment counseling center.

• Site visit for Case 2023-12-02 regarding an outpatient treatment counseling center at 213 School St.

Retirement Board

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve financial records and payroll warrants. The board will discuss the posting for a fifth board member and a PERAC five-year audit. Members will also consider the approval of retirements and the acknowledgment of deceased members.

• Approval of Trial Balance, General Ledger, and City Treasurer’s Bank Reconciliation
• Review of November 2023 PRIT Statement
• Posting for Fifth Board Member 3-year term (01/02/2024-01/01/2027)
• PERAC Five Year Audit
• Approval of retirements and acknowledgment of deceased members

School Building Financial Sub Committee

The committee will meet via Zoom to review bills and orders from Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Beacon Construction. The meeting includes reports from OPM regarding budget status and proposed amendments for extended services, as well as architect updates on change orders.

• Approval of bills and orders for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Beacon Construction
• OPM report on budget status and proposed amendment for extended services
• Architect report regarding construction change orders

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on four property requests. These include applications for a new dance studio, a two-family dwelling, and an outpatient treatment counseling center.

• Case #2023-11-01: New dance studio at 25 Kraft St.
• Case #2023-11-02: Zoning update status for 123 Partridge St.
• Case #2023-12-01: Two-family dwelling with lack of frontage at 0 Oriole Street.
• Case #2023-12-02: Outpatient treatment counseling center at 213 School St.

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to review financial reports and the 2024-2025 budget. The meeting also includes updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent.

• Review and approval of 24-25 Budget
• Review of Receipts Report
• Review of Expense Report
• Approval of November 27th, 2023 meeting minutes

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee is reviewing multiple applications for Class I, II, and III motor vehicle dealer licenses. The committee will also consider a recommendation from the Traffic Commission to amend the city code regarding parking on Park Street.

• Class I Motor Vehicle Dealer License applications: Salvadore Chevrolet (442 West Broadway) and Salvadore Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (442 West Broadway)
• Class II Motor Vehicle Dealer License applications: 15 total applicants including AC Auto Clinic, Brian’s Auto Sales, and Gardner Motors, LLC
• Class III Motor Vehicle Dealer License applications: Osagi Enterprise, LLC. and Riverside Auto
• Ordinance amendment for Chapter 600, Section 24 regarding prohibited parking on Park Street

Public Service Committee

The Public Service Committee will meet to approve minutes from September and November 2023. The agenda includes a letter to the Mayor and City Council and updates from Public Works, Survey/Engineering, and the Conservation Commission.

• Review and approval of minutes from September 29 and November 3, 2023
• Department updates from DPW Director Dane Arnold
• Department updates from City Engineer Rob Oliva
• Department updates from Conservation Commission Director Trevor Beauregard

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review correspondence. The committee is also scheduled to examine financial statements.

• Review of financial statements

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and reports. The agenda includes an Executive Director's report and the review of monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of November 16, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee will meet to review a series of district policies. Discussion items include negotiation goals, the school calendar, and curriculum development.

• Review of HA, HB, and HF policies regarding negotiations goals, legal status, and negotiating agents
• Review of IC/ICA and ID policies regarding the school year, calendar, and school day
• Review of TE, IGA/IGD, IGB, and IGE policies regarding instruction, curriculum development, and support services
• Review of THAMA and THBG-E policies regarding sex education parental notification and home education forms

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority is meeting to discuss its 2024 meeting schedule. No other substantive business items are listed on the agenda.

• 2024 Meeting Schedule

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review proposed ordinances to add sports betting to the zoning table and change the quota method for marijuana establishments. The board will also continue public meetings regarding storage expansion and a 52-unit multi-family development.

• Ordinance to add 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses
• Ordinance to change the quota method for Marijuana Establishments
• Continuation of public meeting for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC at 143 Colony Road
• Continuation of public meeting for PrivateOversight, LLC 52-unit development at 0 West Broadway

License Commission

The Commission will consider 2024 annual liquor license renewals and two one-day beer/wine permits for Moon Hill Brewing. The meeting also includes a hearing regarding officer changes for Gardner Post #129 American Legion, Inc.

• One-day beer/wine permit for Mayor Nicholson’s Inauguration at City Hall
• One-day beer/wine permit for Member Social at Fitness Concepts
• Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers for Gardner Post #129 American Legion, Inc
• Review of 2024 ABCC Liquor License Renewal failure for The Napoleon Club
• Approval of 2024 Annual Liquor License Renewals

School Committee

The School Committee will consider adopting policies regarding school security cameras, staff conduct, and personnel records. The body is also reviewing several professional staff employment and salary policies and receiving updates on Murdock Middle School and school improvement plans.

• Vote on adoption of policies: Security Cameras in School (ECAF), Staff Conduct (GBEB), Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff (GBEBC), Drug-Free Workplace (GBEC), and Personnel Records (GBJ)
• Acceptance of grant funds totaling $124,765.00
• Ratification of Warrant #24-19 for $874,115.15
• Ratification of Warrant #24-20 for $326,506.75
• Ratification of Warrant #24-21 for $418,050.44 and Warrant #24-22 for $426,779.82

Conservation Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a Notice of Intent for storage container extensions at 143 Colony Road and the addition of two pre-fabricated homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace. The meeting also includes discussions on utility pole replacements, land clearing, and various ongoing wetland protection projects.

• Notice of Intent: Extension of storage facility at 143 Colony Road including 7 containers
• Notice of Intent: Addition of two single-family pre-fabricated homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: Geotechnical soil borings for A1/B2 Transmission New England Power Company
• Emergency Certificate: 12 inch culvert replacement and road repaving on Keyes Rd
• Notice of Intent: Construction of contractor building at 170 Mill Street

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled to conduct site visits for two specific properties. The board will review a proposed new dance studio and a request for a zoning update status.

• Site visit for 25 Kraft St. regarding a new dance studio (Case 2023-11-01)
• Site visit for 123 Partridge Street regarding a zoning update status (Case 2023-11-02)

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will meet to review expense reports and project updates. The agenda also includes discussions regarding gifts, donations, and new business.

• Expense Report Review
• Projects Update
• Gifts & Donations

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to review updates regarding the runway, master plan, and the Pilot Lounge project. The body will also receive the Airport Manager's report and discuss aircraft ownership on the ramp.

• Runway update
• Update of Master Plan, CIP, AIP, and BIL
• Pilot Lounge Project
• Aircraft ownership on ramp

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss tax rate certification and classification hearings. The body will also review exemption applications received for fiscal year 2024.

• Review of FY24 exemption applications
• Assessor update on Classification Hearing and Tax Rate Certification by DOR
• Approval of October 17, 2023 meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the Mayor's notifications regarding the FY2024 tax levy, tax rate, and tax recapitulation. The committee will also consider an order to authorize a payment for prior year salary expenditures.

• Order 11105: $3,085.47 payment of prior year salary expenditure
• Notification 11106: Certification of FY2024 Tax Levy
• Notification 11107: FY2024 Tax Rate and FY2024 Tax Recapitulation

Appointments Committee

The committee is meeting to consider the confirmation of three mayoral appointments. The body will also discuss the general status of appointments made by the Mayor.

• Confirmation of Debra Pond as Human Resources Director (term expires October 31, 2026)
• Confirmation of David Hackett as Disability Commission Member (term expires October 30, 2026)
• Confirmation of Debra Pond as Disability Commission Member (term expires October 30, 2026)

Board of Health

The Gardner Board of Health is meeting to consider a variance extension request for a construction project. The board will also review minutes from the October 30, 2023 meeting.

• Variance Extension Request for Construction Project at 400 Matthews St

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the November 30, 2023 financial report and discuss a board vacancy. The board will also receive updates on the Waterford St. facility and the Age Friendly Designation.

• Waterford St. Facility update
• Age Friendly Designation update
• Board vacancy discussion
• November 30, 2023 Financial Report

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission is meeting to discuss parking restrictions and crosswalk visibility improvements. The body will review specific requests for parking changes on several city streets and the installation of a crosswalk on Pearson Blvd.

• Parking on Edgell St
• Crosswalk visibility and enforcement at Parker St and Coleman St
• Handicap parking near Ale House, Pricella’s, Turks Barber Shop, and Hometown Barbers
• Crosswalk from Gabby’s to Williams Restaurant on Pearson Blvd
• Eliminating a parking spot at West Lynde St and Pine St to increase visibility

Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board is meeting to approve financial records and payroll warrants. The board will discuss 2024 retirement allowance mail dates and new Medex health insurance rates effective January 1, 2024.

• Medex Health Insurance Rates effective January 1, 2024
• Retirement Allowance Checks & Notice of Deposits Mail Dates for 2024
• Posting for Fifth Board Member 3-year term (01/02/2024-01/01/2027)
• Approval of Trial Balance, General Ledger, and City Treasurer’s Bank Reconciliation
• Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #11/23

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to review financial reports, including receipts and expenses. The body will also discuss a membership reimbursement or compensation for W. Walker.

• Review and approval of financials
• Receipts report
• Expense report
• W. Walker membership reimbursement/compensation

Williams-Rockwell

The Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Foundation Committee will meet to discuss investment updates and grant processes. The body will vote on opening the grant application process for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Review of outstanding awarded grants
• Raymond James Investment update (vote required)
• Opening of 2023-2024 School Year Grant Application Process (vote required)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review tax exemption applications for FY24. The session includes an update on the Classification Hearing and recapitalization sheet.

• Review of FY24 exemption applications
• Assessor update on Classification Hearing and recapitalization sheet
• Executive Session under G.L. c. 59 § 60

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on four cases regarding land use and zoning updates. The board is considering requests for business uses, a new dance studio, and an increase in inpatient beds.

• Case #2023-08-01: Motor vehicle general repairs at 400 Matthews Rd.
• Case #2023-11-01: New dance studio at 25 Kraft St.
• Case #2023-11-02: Zoning update status for 123 Partridge St.
• Case #2023-11-03: Special Permit to increase inpatient beds from 8 to 12 at 205-213 School St.

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and the Executive Director's report. The board will also review invoice history and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of October 24, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of district policies. The discussion focuses on professional staff employment, compensation, and school security.

• Review of ECAF policy regarding security cameras in schools
• Review of GCBA professional staff salary schedules
• Review of GCBC and GCBB-1 policies on the employment of principals and administrators
• Review of GCRD policy regarding tutoring for pay
• Review of GCE, GCF, and GCG policies regarding staff recruiting, hiring, and substitute employment

School Building Financial Sub Committee

The Financial School Building Sub Committee will review bills, approve change orders, and discuss budget and construction status. The meeting is primarily procedural with no notable new business items.

• Approve Bills: Colliers, Jones Whitsett, Beacon Construction
• Report from OPM on Budget Status and Construction Updates
• Report from Architects on Change Orders

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several appropriation requests from free cash and a borrowing request for fire department equipment. The body will also discuss a proposed ordinance to protect workers from wage theft on city projects.

• Order to borrow $2,200,000.00 for a new Fire Department ladder truck
• Appropriation of $513,506.11 from Special Purpose Stabilization Fund for Fire Department vehicles
• Appropriation of $220,000.00 for Mass Trail Grant Match and $156,420.00 for PARC Grant Match
• Proposed Ordinance Chapter 504: Wage Theft Protection for contractors on city projects
• Measure to establish tax exemptions for Gold Star Families

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue discussions on rezoning requests for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC's self-storage facility expansion at 143 Colony Road and Private Oversight, LLC's proposed 52-unit multifamily development at 0 West Broadway.

• Continuation of public meeting for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC to expand existing self-storage facility
• Continuation of public meeting for Private Oversight, LLC to develop a 52-unit multi-family project

License Commission

The Commission will review hearing requests for two single-day events at Perry Auditorium. The meeting also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes and an update on a previously approved liquor license.

• One-day permit for Moon Hill Brewing for Women’s Circle of Giving Meeting on November 29, 2023
• One-day permit for Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce for Holiday Spectacular on December 6, 2023
• Approval of October 10 and November 2, 2023, meeting minutes
• Update on Golf Rx annual liquor license approved by the ABCC

School Committee

The School Committee will consider the adoption of several new policies regarding security cameras and staff conduct, as well as the second reading of transportation and employment policies. The body will also vote on a scholarship for GHS and a band and chorus trip to Florida.

• Acceptance of grant funds totaling $159,825.00
• Ratification of four warrants totaling $937,013.88
• Vote on GHS Band & Chorus field trip to Disney World & Universal Studio
• First reading of policies including ECAF (Security Cameras) and GBEB (Staff Conduct)
• Second reading of policies including EEA (Transportation) and GBA (Equal Employment Opportunity)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings on several Notices of Intent, including a storage facility extension at 143 Colony Road and two new homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace. The meeting also includes discussions regarding dam maintenance and utility pole replacements.

• Public Hearing: Extension of storage facility with 7 containers at 143 Colony Road
• Public Hearing: Addition of two single-family pre-fabricated homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace
• Public Hearing: Construction of contractor building at 170 Mill Street
• Public Hearing: Exploratory geotechnical soil borings along A1/B2 Transmission Right of Way
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: Gardner Redevelopment Authority project at 140 South Main Street

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review correspondence. The body will also examine financial statements and discuss other business.

• Review of financial statements

Board of Registrars of Voters

The Board of Registrars of Voters will meet to reorganize its leadership for 2023–2024 and appoint assistant registrars. The board will also process UOCAVA ballots and discuss election-related matters.

• Election of Board Chair for 2023–2024
• Appointment of Assistant Registrars of Voters
• Appointment of Temporary Assistant Registrar of Voters
• Processing and counting of UOCAVA Ballots

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider a payment for a prior year police department expenditure and a proposed ordinance regarding wage theft protections for workers on city projects.

• Order 11075: $12,551.87 payment for prior year Police Department expenditure
• Ordinance 11061: Proposed Chapter 504 'Wage Theft Protection' for contractors on city projects

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review financial reports and minutes from October 2, 2023. The board is scheduled to discuss updates regarding the Waterford St. facility and the Age Friendly Designation.

• October 31, 2023 Financial Report
• Age Friendly Designation update
• Waterford St. Facility update
• Director's Report

Public Service Committee

The Public Service Committee will hear water and sewer appeals for two properties and discuss a road opening request. The meeting includes updates from the DPW Director, City Engineer, and Conservation and Planning Agent.

• Water/Sewer appeals for 52 Blanchard Street and 250 East Broadway
• Road opening request for 68 Oak Street (Unitil)
• DPW updates regarding a sump pump discharge letter and tree removal list

School Subcommittees

The Facilities Sub-Committee will meet to provide updates on current projects. The committee is also scheduled to discuss the declaration of surplus equipment.

• Declaration of surplus equipment
• Projects update

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will meet to review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Expense report review
• Projects update
• Vote on gifts and donations

License Commission

The Gardner Board of License Commission is holding a special meeting to conduct a hearing regarding a one-day liquor license application for Wachusett Business Incubator, Inc. scheduled for November 9, 2023.

• Hearing: Wachusett Business Incubator, Inc. — 1-Day Liquor License

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the runway and the Master Plan & CIP. The meeting includes a report from the Airport Manager and a review of business involving Gale Associates, Inc.

• Runway update
• Update of Master Plan & CIP
• Gale Associates, Inc. business
• Airport Manager's Report

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct hearings regarding tobacco violations for two local businesses. The board will also review meeting minutes from August and September 2023.

• Tobacco Violation hearing: Beauregard Liquors
• Tobacco Violation hearing: Honeyland Farms

Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve financial records and payroll warrants. The board will review the September 2023 PRIT investment statement and process retirement approvals.

• Approval of Trial Balance, General Ledger, and City Treasurer’s Bank Reconciliation
• Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #10/23
• September 2023 PRIT Investment Statement review
• Approval of retirements and acknowledgment of deceased members
• Review of disability retirements in process

Development Review Committee

The Development Review Committee is meeting to discuss a preliminary site plan for a new business. The committee will also review minutes from the July 13, 2023 meeting.

• Preliminary site plan for Chipotle Restaurant at 360 Timpany Plaza (former Santander Bank)

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and the Executive Director's report. The board will also review and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of September 28, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a Notice of Intent to extend a storage facility at 143 Colony Road and the addition of two pre-fabricated homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace. The commission will also review requests for certificates of compliance, emergency certificates, and discuss various utility and road projects.

• Public Hearing: Extension of storage facility including 7 containers at 143 Colony Road
• Public Hearing: Addition of two single-family pre-fabricated homes at 54 and 60 Topaz Terrace
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: Geotechnical soil borings for A1/B2 Transmission New England Power Company
• Emergency Certificate: Culvert replacement and road repaving at 12 Keyes Rd
• Public Hearing: Construction of a contractor building at 170 Mill Street

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to review financial statements and approve previous meeting minutes. The agenda consists of standard procedural items.

• Review of financial statements
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee is considering an ordinance to amend the City of Gardner Code regarding vehicles and traffic. The proposal specifically addresses parking restrictions on certain sections of Comee Street.

• Ordinance to amend Chapter 600, Section 24 of the City Code
• Prohibition of parking on the entire length of West Comee Street
• Prohibition of parking on East Comee Street from Pearl Street for 30 feet south

School Building Committee

The Gardner Elementary School Building Committee will meet to approve bills and receive construction and budget updates. The committee is scheduled to vote on a change order following a presentation from architects.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Bacon Construction
• Budget and monthly construction updates from OPM
• Architect presentation and vote on a Change Order

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The board will discuss urban renewal plans for the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor and 140 South Main Street. The meeting includes a review of financial statements for the years ended June 30, 2023 and 2022, and accounts for Summit Industrial Park.

• Urban Renewal Plans: Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• Urban Renewal Plan: 140 South Main Street
• Financial Statements for years ended June 30, 2023 and 2022
• Summit Industrial Park financial statements

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss and vote on a recommendation to the City Council regarding the Residential Factor. The meeting includes an update on FY2024 value submissions and new growth reported to the DOR.

• Vote on Residential Factor recommendation to City Council
• FY2024 submission of values and new growth update
• Review of FY24 exemption applications
• Update on FY23 ATB cases

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct public hearings for several variance and special permit requests. These include proposals for business uses, building renovations, and residential conversions.

• Case #2023/09/04: Proposal by Industrial Tower & Wireless LLC to construct a 190’ telecommunication facility at 827 Green Street
• Case #2023/09/07: Proposal by Sure House Solutions LLC to convert 5 units at 20 Graham Street to condominiums
• Case #2023/10/02: Request by Luis M Frias to convert a 3 Family to a 2 Family dwelling at 99 Washington St.
• Case #2023/08/01: Request by Timothy Slocum for motor vehicle general repairs and other business uses at 400 Matthews Rd.
• Case #2023/10/01: Request by Growing Places Garden for use of the existing Commercial Kitchen at 70 Waterford St.

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review financial reports, including receipts and expenses. The body will also discuss a second 'Notice to Abutters' and receive updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent.

• Review and approval of financials
• Receipts Report
• Expense Report
• Discussion of second 'Notice to Abutters'

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled to conduct a site visit regarding a special permit application. The board will review a proposal to construct a 190-foot telecommunication facility and compound.

• Site visit for Case 2023/09/04: Industrial Tower & Wireless LLC at 827 Green St.

School Committee

The School Committee will consider a second reading of several safety and administrative policies and a vote on an MOA amendment with AFSCME. The body will also review updates on special education, the MSBA new building project, and various coordinator roles.

• Acceptance of $64,500 in grant funds for Investigating History and Innovation Pathways
• Warrant #24-14 for $1,121,818.49
• Warrant #24-13 for $434,006.69
• Warrant #24-10 for $511,267.72
• Vote on MOA Amendment between The School Committee & AFSCME

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public meeting regarding a 52-unit multi-family development at 0 West Broadway. The board will also discuss a definitive site plan for expanding self-storage at 143 Colony Road.

• Expansion of existing self-storage at 143 Colony Road
• 52 Unit Multi-Family Development at 0 West Broadway
• Public Hearing for Rules & Regulations Governing Subdivision of Land

Planning Board

The Gardner Planning Board will conduct a public review meeting regarding a Definitive Plan application from PrivateOversight, LLC. The proposed project consists of 52 multi-family units, with 43 units located within Gardner, situated on 16.69 acres near the Templeton municipal boundary.

• Definitive Plan application for a 52-unit multi-family development
• Proposed construction on 16.69 acres in the GR3 district at the westerly end of West Broadway

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public meeting regarding a 52-unit multi-family development at 0 West Broadway. The board will also discuss a definitive site plan for the expansion of existing self-storage at 143 Colony Road.

• Definitive Site Plan discussion for PrivateOversight, LLC at 0 West Broadway
• Definitive Site Plan discussion for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC at 143 Colony Road
• Public Hearing for Rules & Regulations Governing Subdivision of Land
• Approval of meeting minutes

License Commission

The Commission will review a change of officers for Gardner Fish & Gun Club, Inc. and consider an annual liquor license application from Golf Rx. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the September 12, 2023, meeting.

• Change of Officers/Directors, LLC Managers for Gardner Fish & Gun Club, Inc.
• Annual Liquor License application for Wines/Malt Beverages from Golf Rx
• Approval of September 12, 2023, meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The Gardner Historical Commission will meet to review old business and new business. Discussions include budget items and coordination with the Cemetery Commissioner regarding perpetual care.

• Installation of sign for Lake St. Fire House by DPW
• 2023 budget review
• Repair quote for stone of little boy from Old Burying Ground
• Perpetual care discussion with Cemetery Commissioner Brian LaRouche

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission will meet to review the department's financial statement and continue a study of rates and fees. The body will also receive updates on the conditions of municipal grounds and the cemetery department.

• Financial Statement of Cemetery Department
• Continued study of rates and fees
• Update on conditions of Municipal Grounds
• Update on conditions of Cemetery Department

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review correspondence and financial statements. The agenda does not list specific projects or new proposals for decision.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review of financial statements

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Vote on gifts and donations
• Review of expense reports
• Projects update

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of district policies. These reviews cover staff conduct, security, and leave protocols.

• Review of ECAF - Security Cameras in Schools
• Review of GBEA, GBEB, GBEBC, and GBEBD regarding staff ethics, conduct, and fundraising
• Review of GBEC - Drug-Free Workplace
• Review of GBGB, GBGE, and GBGF regarding staff safety and leave
• Review of GBI, GBJ, and GCA regarding political activities, personnel records, and staff positions

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the runway and the Master Plan & CIP. The meeting includes reports from the Airport Manager and updates from Gale Associates, Inc.

• Update on Runway
• Update of Master Plan & CIP
• Gale Associates, Inc. update
• Airport Managers Report

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several orders to appropriate free cash for city stabilization, infrastructure, and public services. The committee is also reviewing a proposed ordinance to establish wage theft protections for workers on city projects.

• Order 11069: $257,956.00 from Free Cash to DPW Road Resurfacing
• Order 11071: $200,000.00 from Free Cash to Vehicle Stabilization
• Order 11067: $128,978.00 from Free Cash to Stabilization
• Order 11072: $90,072.04 from Free Cash for Opioid Professional Services
• Ordinance 11061: Proposed Chapter 504 regarding Wage Theft Protection

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will consider confirming the Mayor's appointments for a permanent police officer and election officers. The committee will also discuss police officer assignments to polling locations and the status of mayoral appointments.

• Measure 11051: Appointment of Elijah Williams as Police Officer, Permanent
• Measure 11064: Appointment of Election Officers for 2023-2024
• Measure 11065: Police Officer Assignments to Polling Locations
• Discussion on the status of appointments by the Mayor

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review financial reports from June, August, and September 2023. The board is scheduled to discuss grant applications for technology and Walmart, as well as updates on the Waterford St. facility.

• June 30, 2023, Year End Financial Report
• August 30 and September 30, 2023, Financial Reports
• Technology Grant Application
• WalMart Grant Application
• Waterford St. Facility Update

Public Service Committee

The Public Service Committee will discuss utility pole relocations on Park Street and hear water and sewer appeals. The meeting also includes a road opening request and departmental updates from Public Works and Engineering.

• Petition 11052: National Grid request to install and relocate poles on Park Street
• Petition 11053: National Grid and Verizon request to relocate 5 poles on Park Street
• Water/Sewer appeals for 202 Leamy Street and 77 Nichols Street
• Main Street road opening request by Tony Molina

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will review and approve monthly invoices during their regular meeting.

• Review and approve monthly A/P invoices

Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve financial warrants and review the August 2023 PRIT investment statement. The board will also discuss 2023 health insurance rates and process retirement applications.

• Review of August 2023 PRIT Statement
• Health Insurance Rates 2023 memorandum
• Approval of Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #09/23
• Review of Stone Consulting Final Signed Report as of 01/01/2023
• Approval of retirements and acknowledgment of deceased members

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and enter an executive session. During that session, the board will discuss FY24 exemption applications and FY23 ATB cases.

• Review and approval of August 22, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of FY24 exemption applications
• Update and discussion of FY23 ATB cases

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for several property requests. These include building renovations, the construction of a telecommunications tower, and a request to convert a multi-unit building into condominiums.

• Case # 2023/09/04: Proposal by Industrial Tower & Wireless LLC to construct a 190’ telecommunication facility at 827 Green Street
• Case # 2023/09/07: Request by Sure House Solutions LLC to convert 5 units at 20 Graham Street to condominiums
• Case # 2023/09/03: Proposal by Ryan & Amanda Clepper to construct an accessory dwelling unit at 124 Edgell Street
• Case # 2023/08/01: Variance request by Timothy Slocum for motor vehicle general repairs at 400 Matthews Rd
• Case # 07/05/2023: Special permit request for chickens and roosters at 107 Century Way

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold joint public hearings on two wetland projects: a storage facility expansion at 143 Colony Road and a contractor building at 170 Mill Street. The body will also discuss vegetation maintenance plans for the Cowee Pond Dam and approve the minutes from the August 28 meeting. Additionally, the commission will consider a request for Brooks Pharmacy to mow Bailey Brook Park twice a year.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for All Purpose Storage Gardner LLC at 143 Colony Road (Parcel ID# X22-13-16, 8-14, 9-18) involving 7 storage containers, 4 in wetland buffer zones
• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for Mark Harasimowicz for a contractor building at 170 Mill Street within the riverfront area
• Discussion of DPW plans for vegetation maintenance at Cowee Pond Dam
• New business request for Brooks Pharmacy account use for mowing Bailey Brook Park open space twice a year
• Discussion of 529 Timpany Blvd Community Health Connections (Case 160-0647)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review minutes from the August 21, 2023 meeting. The agenda contains placeholders for old and new business but lists no specific topics for decision.

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review correspondence. The body will also examine financial statements and discuss other business.

• Review of financial statements

School Building Financial Sub Committee

The committee will meet to approve bills and orders and receive reports on budget and construction status. The agenda includes voting on change orders from architects.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Beacon Construction
• Budget status and construction updates from OPM
• Vote on architect change orders

Planning Board

The Gardner Planning Board will conduct a public review meeting regarding a Definitive Plan application from All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC. The proposal involves expanding the existing site to include six new buildings and enlarging one existing building.

• Proposed construction of 25,050 square feet of new storage space
• Expansion of property at 143 Colony Road (Parcels X22-13-16, X22-8-17, and X22-9-18)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is presenting the final draft of the City of Gardner Rules & Regulations Governing the Subdivision of Land. These amendments are intended to bring the 2005 rules into compliance with updated state and local regulations.

• Public hearing for the final draft of subdivision rules and regulations

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on updated subdivision rules and a public meeting regarding an expansion for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC. The board will also discuss ordinances to amend the city's zoning code regarding marijuana establishments and sports betting.

• Public hearing on final draft of Updated Rules & Regulations Governing the Subdivision of Land
• Definitive Plan for All Purpose Storage Gardner, LLC expansion at 143 Colony Road
• Ordinance to amend zoning section 1070 regarding marijuana establishment quotas
• Ordinance to add 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review financial reports. The agenda includes updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent, as well as a review of the budget, receipts, and expenses.

• Approval of August 28, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of financials
• Receipts Report
• Expense Report
• Budget review

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority will meet to review urban renewal plans and financial statements. The board will discuss specific sites including the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor and Summit Industrial Park.

• Urban Renewal Plans for Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• Discussion regarding 140 South Main Street
• Summit Industrial Park
• Mass Development Loan
• Commercial Realtor Service

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will review department updates and a proposed ordinance to amend the city code regarding marijuana retail establishment quotas. The meeting also includes the review of previous meeting minutes.

• Ordinance 11044: Proposed amendment to Chapter 306 to add 'Marijuana Retail Establishments' and change quota methods
• Department updates from Police, Building, Public Health, and Fire Departments
• Review of meeting minutes from January 26, 2023, and March 6, 2023

License Commission

The Board of License Commission will review several one-day license applications for the Oktoberfest event on September 30, 2023. The meeting also includes a request from Golf Rx for an annual wines and malt beverages license.

• One-day licenses for Moon Hill Brewing, Decanted Wine Truck, Acadian Club, River Styx Brewing, Tavern 13, and Red Apple Farm Cidery
• One-day license request from Fitness Concepts
• One-day license request from Annunciation Parish
• Annual liquor license request from Golf Rx for general on-premises wines and malt beverages
• Approval of June 13, 2023, meeting minutes

The Commission approved one-day licenses for Oktoberfest, a fitness event, and a parish bazaar. It also granted an annual malt and wine license to a new virtual golf business. The board denied a request to extend the alcohol-permitted area for Oktoberfest due to police staffing limits.

• Approved 1-Day Oktoberfest licenses for MoonHill Brewing, Red Apple Farm Cidery, Decanted Wine Truck, River Styx Brewing, Tavern 13, and Acadian Club
• Denied request to extend 'No Alcohol Beyond This Point' boundary to the end of Parker Street
• Approved 1-Day beer/cider license for Fitness Concepts Fall Fitness Fusion event (Oct 5)
• Approved 1-Day license for Annunciation Parish Fall Bazaar and Turkey Raffle (Oct 15)
• Approved Annual Malt & Wine license for GolfRx at 109 Main Street, Unit #2
• Approved June 13, 2023 meeting minutes

School Committee

The School Committee is meeting to vote on the acceptance of over $2.3 million in grant funds and multiple payment warrants. The body will also discuss the first reading of several school policies and the removal of redundant policies.

• Acceptance of grant funds totaling $2,377,335.00
• Approval of 11 payment warrants ranging from $24,167.71 to $768,817.22
• Vote on the 2023-2024 school calendar update
• Donation of two benches to Gardner Elementary School
• Donation of 100 backpacks with school supplies

The School Committee approved a consent agenda including $2,377,335.00 in grant funds and 10 payment warrants. The board also removed three redundant policies and accepted the updated 2023-2024 school calendar.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $2,377,335.00 in grant funds
• Approved 10 payment warrants totaling $3,724,134.32
• Removed policies DE (Private Funding), EA (Support Services Goals and Objectives), and EBCE (School Closings and Cancellations)
• Accepted updated 2023-2024 School Calendar
• Accepted donation of two benches for Gardner Elementary School from GHS Class of 1970
• Accepted donation of 100 backpacks with school supplies from Seaman Paper Co.
• Appointed Robert Swartz as MASC delegate for November 2023 meeting

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board will meet to accept previous minutes and review financial reports from June and August 2023. The board will discuss updates on the Waterford St. facility and the Age Friendly Designation.

• June 30, 2023, Year End Financial Report
• August 30, 2023, Financial Report
• Waterford St. Facility Update
• Meal Manager Memorandum of Understanding
• Gift Fund Request

The Board approved using Gift Fund money to match City contributions for painting the new senior center space. The Board also accepted the FY2023 year-end financial report but tabled the August 2023 report due to balance discrepancies.

• Approved using up to $25,000 from the Gift Fund for painting at Waterford Street School (unanimous)
• Accepted FY2023 Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Tabled August 30, 2023 Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from June 4, 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from July 12, 2023 Special Meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from July 12, 2023 Orientation and Board Training (unanimous)

School Subcommittees

The Facilities Sub-Committee will meet to discuss old business and provide updates on projects. The agenda does not list specific projects or new business items for decision.

• Projects update

The committee approved the minutes from the June 8, 2023 meeting. Director of Facilities Wayne Anderson presented a list of completed summer projects across the High School, Middle School, and Central Office. No new policy or funding decisions were made.

• Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Vote on gifts and donations
• Review of expense reports
• Projects update

The Finance Subcommittee approved the minutes from the June 8, 2023 meeting and accepted a donation of two benches for GES. The committee reviewed the expense report and discussed the start of the school year.

• Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved donation of two benches for GES from GHS Class of 1970

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee will meet to review a series of district policies. The discussion focuses on school security, student transportation, and personnel guidelines.

• Review of ECAF - Security Cameras in Schools
• Review of transportation policies including bus safety and student conduct
• Review of EEAJ - Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
• Review of EFC - Free and Reduced Price Food Services
• Review of GBA - Equal Employment Opportunity

The subcommittee reviewed multiple district policies, determining that some require no changes while others should be removed or updated. Several revised policies were recommended for a first read at the October full School Committee meeting.

• Approved June 22, 2023 meeting minutes
• Determined no changes needed for policies EEAG and FF
• Recommended against adoption of MASC policies EEAA, EEAE, EEAEB, and EFC
• Recommended removal of Policy GA Personnel Policies Goals for October vote
• Recommended Policy EEA (Transportation) for October first read
• Recommended Policy EEAEC (Student Conduct on School Buses) for October first read
• Recommended Policy EEAJ (Motor Vehicle Idling) for October first read
• Recommended Policy GBA (Equal Employment Opportunity) for October first read

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to receive updates on the runway project and the Master Plan & CIP from Gales Associates, Inc. The body will also discuss the use of large rocks removed from the runway.

• Update on Runway Project from Gales Associates, Inc.
• Update on Master Plan & CIP from Gales Associates, Inc.
• Discussion on use of large rocks removed from runway

The Commission received a status update on the runway project, which is currently on schedule for completion by November 11, 2023. Members reviewed the structure and goals of the airport's Master Plan and the associated grant funding.

• Noted Change order #1 to remove side runway drainage system (approved by FAA & MDOT)
• Reviewed Master Plan project team and 7-chapter planning process
• Confirmed DBE Plan submission is in compliance for the next 3 years

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss a request to authorize payments for FY2023 salary expenditures. These payments are for retro pay due to step increases for employees in three departments.

• Order 11050: Authorization of $4,420.57 for prior year salary expenditures
• FY2023 Building Dept Salary: $96.57
• FY2023 Golf Dept Salary: $3,783.73
• FY2023 Veterans Dept Salary: $540.27

The Finance Committee recommended that the City Council approve a payment of $4,420.57 for prior year salary expenditures. The funds cover missed step increases for employees in the Building, Golf, and Veteran's departments.

• Recommended approval of $4,420.57 prior year salary payment (2-0-1)

Public Service Committee

The committee will hear water and sewer billing appeals for three properties and discuss a petition by National Grid and Verizon to relocate utility poles on Elm Street. The meeting also includes department updates from Public Works, Engineering, and the Conservation Commission.

• Water/Sewer appeals for 65 Waterford Street, 101 Pelley Street, and 184 Connors Street
• Petition 10993: National Grid and Verizon New England Inc. proposal to install, remove, and relocate poles on Elm Street
• Discussion regarding Main Street road opening with Tony Molina
• Department updates from DPW Director Dane Arnold, City Engineer Rob Oliva, and Conservation Agent Sophie Dorow

The Committee approved three separate requests to reduce water and sewer charges for residents. Additionally, the Committee requested the withdrawal of a utility pole petition on Elm Street.

• Approved $100 sewer charge abatement and one-year interest waiver for 65 Waterford Street (unanimous)
• Approved $75 charge abatement for 101 Pelley Street (unanimous)
• Approved $503 water bill abatement for 184 Connors Street (unanimous)
• Approved request for City Engineer to ask National Grid to withdraw pole petition on Elm Street (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve financial records and payroll warrants. The board will discuss a draft actuarial valuation and a member's request for membership make-up time. The meeting includes the approval of retirements and acknowledgment of deceased members.

• Actuarial Valuation Draft as of 01/01/2023
• Member request for make-up for erroneous exclusion from membership
• Approval of Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #08/23
• PRIT Statement for July 2023
• Approval of retirements

The Board approved the August 2023 payment warrant and the 2023 Draft Actuarial Valuation Report. It also granted superannuation retirement benefits to one individual and approved a service credit make-up for another member.

• Approved August 31, 2023 Warrant #08/23 totaling $625,615.86 (unanimous)
• Approved Actuarial Valuation as of 01/01/2023 Draft Report (unanimous)
• Approved 10 months of creditable service make-up for Herbert Rice (unanimous)
• Granted superannuation retirement benefits to John A. Olivari, Option C (unanimous)
• Approved July 25, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 2023 Trial Balances, General Ledger Histories, and bank reconciliations (unanimous)

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to review financial reports and the budget. The body is scheduled to vote on a tee time survey and a membership credit refund for T. Sbrega.

• Vote on Tee Time Survey
• Refund dues/membership credit for T. Sbrega
• Review and approval of financials, receipts, and expense reports
• Budget review

The Golf Commission approved the creation of Fall Specials and set the start time for several tournament qualifying rounds. The commission also approved the financial report and a membership credit for T. Sbrega.

• Approved June 12, June 26, and July 31 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved creation of Fall Specials (4-0)
• Approved membership credit for T. Sbrega (4-0)
• Rejected 08:30 am start time for Club Championship, Delay Memorial, and Commissioners Cup (2-3)
• Approved 10:00 am start time for Club Championship, Delay Memorial, and Commissioners Cup (3-2)
• Approved financial report showing $80,000 surplus (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold a joint public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for a new home, septic system, and driveway at 623 West Street. The meeting also includes continued discussions on several existing wetland projects and a request from the DPW for vegetation maintenance at Cowee Pond Dam.

• Public Hearing: New home, septic, and driveway construction at 623 West Street
• Continued discussion: 170 Mill St (DEP#160-0658)
• Continued discussion: 529 Timpany Blvd Community Health Connections (DEP#160-0647)
• Continued discussion: Wetland replication at Elementary School, 278 Pearl St (DEP#160-0636)
• DPW request for vegetation maintenance at Cowee Pond Dam

The Commission approved a revised design for a new home, septic system, and driveway at 623 West Street. Three other projects were continued to future meetings. The Commission also discussed vegetation maintenance at Bailey Brook Park and Cowee Pond Dam.

• Approved revised design and order of conditions for 623 West Street (unanimous)
• Approved continuance for 170 Mill St (unanimous)
• Approved continuance for 529 Timpany Blvd to September 11 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved continuance for Elementary School 278 Pearl St wetland replication (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 14, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee is meeting to consider confirming several mayoral and city clerk appointments. These roles include positions on the Disability Commission and key city technical and administrative staff.

• Appointment of Jane Clabaugh and Francine Pera to the Disability Commission
• Appointment of Stephen Hirons as Sealer of Weights and Measures
• Appointment of Robert O’Keefe as Information Technology Director
• Appointment of Darrell Sweeney as Electrical Inspector
• Appointment of Elizabeth Doiron as Assistant City Clerk

The committee voted to recommend the confirmation of six mayoral and city clerk appointments. These include positions on the Disability Commission, the IT Director, and the Assistant City Clerk.

• Recommended confirmation of Jane Clabaugh to Disability Commission (term expires July 6, 2026)
• Recommended confirmation of Francine Pera to Disability Commission (term expires July 6, 2026)
• Recommended confirmation of Stephen Hirons as Sealer of Weights and Measures (term expires July 11, 2024)
• Recommended confirmation of Robert O’Keefe as Information Technology Director (term expires July 11, 2026)
• Recommended confirmation of Darrell Sweeney as Electrical Inspector (term expires August 6, 2026)
• Recommended confirmation of Elizabeth Doiron as Assistant City Clerk (term expires July 25, 2026)

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and the Executive Director's report. The board will also review invoice history and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of July 27, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review recommendations for three ordinances to amend the City of Gardner Zoning Code. These include changes to land classification along Route 140, adjustments to the quota for marijuana establishments, and adding sports betting to the table of uses.

• Ordinance 11043: Change land classification for certain parcels along Route 140
• Ordinance 11045: Amend method to increase marijuana establishment quota
• Ordinance 11046: Add sports betting to the Zoning Table of Uses

The Planning Board requested legal determinations on spot zoning and Article 97 regarding a proposed zoning change along Route 140. Two other zoning amendments concerning marijuana establishments and sports betting were postponed to the September meeting.

• Approved July 18, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Requested City law department determination on Spot Zoning and Article 97 for Route 140 zoning amendment (5-0)
• Postponed zoning amendment 11045 regarding marijuana establishment quotas to September meeting (5-0)
• Moved zoning amendment 11046 regarding sports betting to September meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and discuss FY24 exemption applications and FY23 Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases. The meeting includes an executive session to comply with general law G.L. c. 59 § 60.

• Review of FY24 exemption applications
• Review of FY23 ATB cases
• Approval of July 18, 2023 meeting minutes

The Board of Assessors met in executive session to review property tax exemption requests. The board approved 23 applications across various categories, including veteran and elderly exemptions.

• Approved July 18, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved 11 22E Veteran exemption applications
• Approved 4 37 Blind exemption applications
• Approved 3 17D Surviving Spouse exemption applications
• Approved 2 41C Elderly exemption applications
• Approved 1 22A-F Veteran exemption application
• Approved 1 22D Veteran exemption application
• Approved 1 22F Veteran exemption application

Board of Health

The Gardner Board of Health will meet to review minutes from July 17, 2023, and conduct two hearings. The session includes a tobacco violation hearing and a hearing regarding Eldorado Canyon Properties.

• Hearing: Eldorado Canyon Properties (39 Graham St)
• Tobacco Violation Hearing: A-1 Mart

The Board approved a city-led cleanup and lien for a property at 39 Graham St due to trash and overgrowth. The Board also issued a fine and reduced permit suspension for A-1 Mart following a tobacco violation hearing.

• Approved motion for City of Gardner to clean 39 Graham St and attach a lien for abatement costs
• Upheld $2,000 fine for A-1 Mart tobacco violation
• Reduced A-1 Mart permit suspension from 7 days to 1 day (effective August 25, 2023)
• Approved appointment of Micah Blondeau as Agent of the Board
• Approved minutes from 7/17/23 and 9/26/22

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for a retail project. The board will also address previous meeting minutes and general correspondence.

• Public hearing for Case # 07/03/2023: ALDI retail project at 360 Timpany Blvd. (PID # R17-21-9)

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a special permit for ALDI LLC to occupy approximately 20,000 square feet of space at 360 Timpany Blvd. The space was previously occupied by Stop & Shop and had been vacant for more than two years.

• Approved special permit for ALDI LLC at 360 Timpany Blvd (Unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Gardner Historical Commission will meet to review old business and new business. Discussions include the installation of a sign for the Lake St. Fire House and the 2023 budget.

• Installation of Lake St. Fire House sign made by DPW
• 2023 budget
• Repair quote for a stone from the Old Burying Ground

The Commission approved the use of reserved funds to pay Family Memorial $195 to upright a damaged gravestone at the Old Burying Ground. Members also reviewed a cell tower proposal at 827 Green Street and determined no response was necessary. Other items regarding municipal building inventories and the Greenwood Memorial Pool were referred for discussion with the Mayor.

• Approved minutes of March 23, 2023 meeting
• Determined no response needed for proposed cell tower at 827 Green Street
• Approved $195 for Family Memorial to upright a stone at Old Burying Ground
• Tabled discussion on new commission members

School Building Financial Sub Committee

The committee will meet to approve bills and orders and review budget and construction status reports. The session includes voting on change orders presented by architects.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Beacon Construction
• Budget status and construction updates from OPM
• Vote on change orders from architects

The subcommittee approved two change orders for canopy modifications, grading, and mulch removal. The committee also approved four invoices for project services totaling $435,515.20.

• Approved minutes from July 19, 2023 (so voted)
• Approved Colliers International invoice #0000869808 for $5,212.06 (so voted)
• Approved Jones-Whitsett Architects invoice #2023077 for $4,616.55 (so voted)
• Approved Bacon Construction Co, Inc. invoice #32 for $420,686.19 (so voted)
• Approved Allied Testing Laboratories, Inc. invoice #26642 for $500.00 (so voted)
• Recommended approval of Change Order #30 for $17,165.00 (so voted)
• Recommended approval of Change Order #31 for $12,043.00 (so voted)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct public hearings regarding variance requests for retail, agricultural, and automotive uses. The board will also consider a request for a driveway extension.

• ALDI, LLC request for ALDI retail at 360 Timpany Blvd
• David & Linda Page request regarding chickens and roosters at 107 Century Way
• Timothy Slocum request for motor vehicle general repairs and other business uses at 400 Matthews Rd
• Douglas & Nicole Hutt request for a driveway extension at 191 Sand Street

The Board approved a variance for a driveway extension at 191 Sand St with the condition that it not exceed the recently constructed dimensions. Two other cases were continued to the September meeting, and a special permit for ALDI was closed pending a final decision hearing.

• Approved driveway extension variance for 191 Sand St with condition not to exceed recently constructed driveway
• Continued special permit for ALDI (360 Timpany Blvd) to final decision hearing
• Continued variance request for chickens and roosters at 107 Century Way to September meeting
• Continued variance request for motor vehicle repair expansion at 400 Matthews Rd to September meeting

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold a joint public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent filed by Kathleen Fiorentino. The proposed project involves constructing a new home, septic system, and driveway on Parcel ID# H32-19-16A.

• Approval of July 10 and July 24, 2023, meeting minutes
• Public hearing for construction at 623 West Street involving riverfront and Bordering Vegetated Wetland areas

The Conservation Commission approved the meeting minutes from July 10 and July 24, 2023. A public hearing regarding a proposed home, septic system, and driveway at 623 West Street was continued to August 28, 2023, after members requested plan alterations to comply with wetland buffer zones.

• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved July 24, 2023 meeting minutes
• Continued Notice of Intent for 623 West Street to August 28, 2023

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission is meeting to discuss parking designations and pedestrian safety measures. The body will review citizen recommendations for speed and parking changes on Catherine St and Central St.

• Request by Gardner Ale House to rent one parking spot on Parker St for pick-up parking
• Pedestrian signs and crosswalks for the new Tap House in Bull nose Park
• Proposal to reduce speed and eliminate eastbound parking on Catherine St for school traffic
• Proposal to eliminate a parking spot at Central St and Lake St for pedestrian visibility
• Discussion of new handicap parking spots on Central St at Memorial Park

The Commission voted to prohibit pick-up parking for all downtown businesses. It also approved the removal of several parking spots to improve pedestrian visibility and proposed new no-parking zones on Comee Street.

• Denied pick-up parking for all of downtown (Unanimous)
• Approved eliminating parking spot on Central St near Lake St crosswalk (Unanimous)
• Approved removing handicap spot at 144 Central St and recommending new spots at Monument Park (Unanimous)
• Approved eliminating parking spot on west bound side of East Broadway at Prospect St (Unanimous)
• Approved making west side of Comee St no parking and 30 ft no parking from stop sign on east side (Unanimous)
• Tabled Catherine St school traffic and speeding item until start of school

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority has called a special meeting to discuss moving into executive session. The purpose of the closed session is to conduct strategy sessions for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining.

• Motion to enter Executive Session for contract negotiations

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to receive updates on the runway project and the Master Plan and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting includes a report from the Airport Manager regarding maintenance and projects.

• Update on Runway Project from Gale Associates, Inc.
• Update on Master Plan & CIP
• Airport Manager's report on maintenance and projects

The Commission approved repairs to the airport lounge building and noted the closure of the airport from August 14 to November 8, 2023, for a runway project. The Manager will also pursue small claims court actions against owners of abandoned aircraft to recover back rent and removal costs.

• Approved repair of airport lounge building
• Closed airport from 8/14/2023 to 11/8/2023 for runway project
• Approved pursuit of small claims court for two abandoned airplanes
• Approved July 5, 2023, meeting minutes

Public Service Committee

The Public Service Committee will discuss utility pole installations on Elm Street and Manca Drive. The body will also review water and sewer appeals for three properties and discuss DPW staffing.

• Water/Sewer appeals for 185 Woodland Avenue, 16 Woodland Avenue, and 65 Waterford Street
• Petition 10993: National Grid and Verizon to install, remove, and relocate poles on Elm Street
• Petition 11026: National Grid to install one pole on Manca Drive for EV charging stations
• Sump pump discharge letter for 152 Pearl Street
• Review of DPW staffing letter to City Council

The committee approved a water bill reduction for one resident and endorsed a revised pole relocation plan for Elm Street. Members also voted to notify the Mayor of their support for increasing DPW and Municipal Grounds pay scales to remain competitive.

• Approved $250 billing reduction and one-year interest waiver for 185 Woodland Avenue
• Tabled water bill appeals for 16 Woodland Avenue and 65 Waterford Street
• Endorsed alternate pole and overhead wire plan for Elm Street
• Approved petition for new National Grid pole on Manca Drive for EV charging stations
• Endorsed increasing DPW and Municipal Grounds pay scales to the Mayor
• Accepted minutes from June 15 and June 29, 2023

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several measures regarding the acceptance of donations for the Mayor's Department and the Waterford Street Building. The body is also discussing fund transfers for DPW expenditures and appropriations for the GRA Rear Main Street Capital Project.

• Order 11039: Borrowing $550,000.00 for Waterford Street School Renovations
• Order 11040: Appropriating $115,000.00 from Sale of City Property Reserved to GRA Rear Main Street Capital Project
• Order 11037: Transferring $39,643.48 from DPW Salaries and Wages to Operating Expenditures
• Measures 11033-11036: Acceptance of donations for Summer Celebration sponsorships and signs
• Measure 11038: Acceptance of donations for Gardner Waterford Street Building

The Finance Committee recommended several funding measures to the City Council, including a property purchase for the Rear Main Street Capital Project and a transfer of DPW funds. The committee also recommended the acceptance of various donations for the Mayor's Department and the Waterford Street Building.

• Recommended appropriation of $115,000 from Sale of City Property Reserved for GRA Rear Main Street Capital Project
• Recommended transfer of $39,643.48 from DPW Salaries and Wages to Operating Expenditures
• Recommended acceptance of donations for Mayor's Dept. Summer Celebration (Banners, Flowerpots, and Kick Off Sponsorships)
• Recommended acceptance of 'Welcome to Gardner' sign donation valued at $8,600
• Recommended authorization to accept donations for Waterford Street Building renovation
• Recommended placing $550,000 borrowing request for Waterford Street School renovations on the City Council Calendar for executive session
• Approved meeting minutes from June 2, 2023 and July 3, 2023

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review financial reports, including receipts, expenses, and the budget. The commission will also receive updates from Pro Manager Dan Berry and Superintendent William Frank.

• Review and approval of financials, receipts, expenses, and budget
• Updates from Pro Manager Dan Berry
• Updates from Superintendent William Frank
• Discussion of a Tee Time Survey

The Golf Commission approved the June 12 meeting minutes and the current financial reports. A request for a membership refund due to injury was granted. The commission tabled a motion regarding Tee Time Survey results until the next meeting.

• Approved June 12, 2023, meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved membership refund for B. Curtis (4-0)
• Approved financial reports with $93,450 in deposits and $40,000 in expenses (4-0)
• Tabled Tee Time Survey motion until next meeting

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission will meet to review the department's financial statement and continue a study on rates and fees. The commission will also receive updates on the conditions of municipal grounds and the cemetery department.

• Financial Statement of Cemetery Department
• Continued Study of Rates & Fees
• Department Head update on conditions of Municipal Grounds
• Department Head update on conditions of Cemetery Department

The Commission approved the financial statement and previous meeting minutes. Discussion regarding cemetery rates and fees was tabled due to a lack of funding for the Columbarium project.

• Accepted minutes of April 27 and July 6, 2023 meetings
• Accepted financial statement
• Tabled discussion of cemetery rates and fees

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to accept minutes from the June 20, 2023, meeting and review the Executive Director's report. The board will also review and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of June 20, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices
• Potential executive session regarding negotiations with nonunion personnel

Retirement Board

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board will meet to review the June 2023 PRIT statement and a draft actuarial valuation as of January 1, 2023. The board will also review final audited information for the year ending December 31, 2022.

• Review of PRIT Statement, June 2023
• Stone Consulting Actuarial Valuation Draft as of 01/01/2023
• MARCUM (Melanson) Final Audited Information and Governance Letter for year ended December 31, 2022
• Approval of retirement(s) and acknowledgment of deceased member(s)
• Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #07/23

The Board approved a funding schedule to reach full funding by 2034 and authorized a July warrant. Members also approved financial reports from May 2023 and the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved 9-year funding schedule to reach full funding in 2034 with 7.00% discount rate and 7.00% contribution increases (Unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #07/23 dated July 31, 2023, totaling $694,781.92 (Unanimous)
• Approved May 2023 Trial Balances, General Ledger Histories, and bank reconciliations (Unanimous)
• Approved June 27, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Authorized Board Chairperson and Administrator to attend MACRS Fall Conference

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review minutes from previous meetings and consider an endorsement vote for the 2022 Open Space and Recreation Plan. The agenda also includes a request for a Certificate of Compliance regarding Wilder Brook Estates.

• Endorsement vote for the 2022 Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Certificate of Compliance for DEP#160-566, 314 Brookside Drive (Lot 54&55 combined)
• Certificate of Compliance for DEP#160-0400 and #160-0393 Wilder Brook Estates
• Approval of minutes from June 12, May 22, and July 10, 2023
• MSMCP membership fee of $20.00 for FY2024

The Commission voted to send a letter of support for the OSRP 2022 to the mayor. The board also approved a certificate of compliance for a property at 314 Brookside Drive and allocated funds for trail supplies and professional memberships.

• Approved meeting minutes from May 22 and June 12
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 314 Brookside Drive (Lot 54&55 combined)
• Approved endorsement and letter of support for OSRP 2022
• Appropriated $100.00 from Wetland funds for city trail flagging tape
• Approved $20.00 fee for Massachusetts Society for Municipal Conservation Professionals membership

School Building Financial Sub Committee

The committee will meet to approve bills and review budget and construction status reports. The meeting includes reports from the Owner's Project Manager and architects regarding change orders.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Beacon Construction
• Budget status and construction updates from OPM
• Review and vote on change orders from architects

The committee approved a payment to Colliers International and recommended approval for Change Order #30 to cover canopy modifications, grading, and sensors. The meeting included a budget update on site work and landscaping concerns from a community member.

• Approved Invoice #0000862279 from Colliers International for $8,430.12
• Recommended approval of Change Order #30 for $42,715.00

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review the Open Space Recreation Plan and continue discussion regarding the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from June 13, 2023.

• Open Space Recreation Plan
• Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development

The Planning Board approved the updated Open Space Recreation Plan to allow the City to apply for grant funding for conservation and recreation projects. The Board also discussed a proposed residential development at Concord Crossing, though no final decision was reached on the site plan.

• Approved June 13, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Accepted and endorsed the Open Space Recreation Plan (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and hold an executive session. The primary focus of the executive session is to review and discuss tax exemption applications received for fiscal year 2024.

• Review of FY24 exemption applications

The Board of Assessors met in executive session to review property tax exemptions. The board approved 64 total exemption applications across several categories, including veteran and elderly status.

• Approved June 27, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved 32 Veteran 22A-F exemptions
• Approved 18 Veteran 22E exemptions
• Approved 4 Veteran 22D exemptions
• Approved 4 Elderly 41C exemptions
• Approved 3 Surviving Spouse 17D exemptions
• Approved 2 Blind 37 exemptions
• Approved 1 Line of Duty 42 exemption

Board of Health

The Gardner Board of Health is meeting to review previous minutes and conduct two public hearings. The board will address matters regarding Eldorado Canyon Properties and a tobacco violation.

• Hearing for Eldorado Canyon Properties (39 Graham St)
• Tobacco Violation Hearing (A-1Mart)

The Board approved meeting minutes from September 2022 and June 2023. Two violation hearings were postponed to August, and the board noted the appointment of a new Director starting July 24, 2023.

• Approved minutes from 9/26/22 with one date correction
• Approved minutes from 6/12/23
• Postponed Eldorado Canyon Properties Violation Hearing (39 Graham St)
• Postponed Tobacco Violation Hearing (A-1 Mart)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to conduct a site visit. The session focuses on a single case regarding a special permit.

• Site visit for Case #07-05-2023 (Special Permit) for David & Linda Page at 107 Century Way

The Zoning Board visited the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Page to inspect a chicken coop, chicken run, and related structures. No formal decisions were made during the visit; the Board requested that Mr. Page submit dimensions for the structures.

• Requested dimensions for all chicken structures from Mr. Page

Development Review Committee

The Development Review Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review new business. The primary item for discussion is a preliminary site plan for a property at 0 West Broadway.

• Review of preliminary site plans for 0 West Broadway submitted by PRIVATEOVERSIGHT, LLC
• Approval of February 15, 2023 meeting minutes

The committee reviewed preliminary plans for a 52-unit rental and condominium project at 0 West Broadway. No formal vote was taken on the project; members provided feedback on parking, fire safety, and infrastructure requirements for the developer to address in future submittals.

• Approved minutes of February 15, 2023 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review the Open Space Recreation Plan as new business. The board will also revisit the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development.

• Open Space Recreation Plan discussion
• Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development update
• Approval of June 13, 2023 minutes

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for several variance and special permit requests. These include requests for business operations, residential modifications, and a request to keep chickens and roosters.

• Case #05/04/2023: Millennium Holding Group 3 Fund, LLC at 163-165 Pine Street to amend parking plan
• Case #06/01/2023: Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc. at 354 Main Street for a medical clinic
• Case #07/03/2023: ALDI LLC at 360 Timpany Blvd for retail
• Case #07/04/2023: David & Jennifer Jensen at 486 Chestnut Street for a training gym
• Case #07/05/2023: David & Linda Page at 107 Century Way for chickens and roosters

The Board approved a variance for a training gym at 486 Chestnut Street and a special permit to enclose a porch at 92 Chestnut Street. A request for a variance extension at 0 Century Way was denied, and an application for a retail renovation at 360 Timpany Blvd was tabled.

• Approved interpretation of Medical Clinic definition for 354 Main Street (Unanimous)
• Denied 6-month variance extension for 0 Century Way (Unanimous)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice for fence application at 231 West Street (Unanimous)
• Granted Special Permit to enclose porch at 92 Chestnut Street (Unanimous)
• Approved variance to open a training gym at 486 Chestnut Street (Unanimous)
• Tabled Special Permit for ALDI retail renovation at 360 Timpany Blvd
• Scheduled site visit for July 14 regarding chicken/rooster permit at 107 Century Way

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review a replication plan for elementary school wetlands and discuss parking extensions. The meeting also includes an endorsement vote for the 2022 Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Discussion of elementary school wetland replication and revised parking extension plan
• Endorsement vote and signatures for Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) 2022
• Certificate of Compliance for Wilder Brook Estates (DEP#160-0400 and #160-0393)
• Partial Certificate of Compliance for 330 Brookside Drive
• Site inspection discussion for Community Health connections at 0 Timpany Blvd

The Commission approved a second extension of the Order of Conditions for the elementary school wetland replication and parking extension. Members discussed requirements for reseeding the wetland area, including a request for a watering plan and specific preparation steps. The Commission determined that the parking lot extension is outside its jurisdiction.

• Approved second extension order of conditions for elementary school (unanimous)
• Determined parking lot extension is outside Commission jurisdiction (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of May 22 and June 12, 2023 minutes to July 24, 2023 (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission is meeting to discuss a complaint regarding the Open Meeting Law. The complaint alleges the commission failed to post meeting minutes from April 27, 2023.

• Discussion of Open Meeting Law complaint regarding missing April 27, 2023 meeting minutes

The Commission voted to change the wording and structure of its meeting agendas following a review of an Open Meeting Law complaint by the City Solicitor. The changes aim to better distinguish between Municipal Grounds and Cemetery department updates and correspondence.

• Approved modification of agenda wording per City Solicitor request (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Gardner Municipal Airport Commission will meet to receive updates on the runway project and the Master Plan and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting also includes reports from the Airport Manager and updates on airport maintenance.

• Update on Runway Project
• Update on Master Plan & CIP
• Gales Associates, Inc. discussion
• Airport Manager's Report
• Airport Maintenance & Projects update

The Commission established a start date for the runway project and noted that grant applications for the Master Plan and CIP have been submitted. The board discussed the requirement of a Disadvantage Business Enterprise Plan for 2024-2026 funding. No formal votes were recorded for new business items.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Set runway project start date for Aug. 14, 2023
• Submitted Master Plan & CIP grant applications to FAA & MASSDOT

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from three previous meetings. The committee will also address an Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Paul DeMeo regarding the committee's meeting minutes.

• Open Meeting Law Complaint filed by Paul DeMeo regarding Finance Committee Meeting Minutes

The committee approved the minutes from three previous meetings. It also voted to allow Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas to respond to an open meeting law complaint filed by Paul DeMeo regarding the posting and detail of meeting minutes.

• Accepted meeting minutes from April 26, May 10, and May 31, 2023
• Approved allowing Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas to respond to Paul DeMeo's open meeting law complaint

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will meet to discuss the confirmation of a mayoral appointment and review the status of unfilled or expired positions. The body will also review minutes from three previous meetings held in early 2023.

• Confirmation of Paul Crowley to the Council on Aging for a term expiring June 7, 2023
• Discussion regarding lapsed, unfilled, vacant, or expired appointments

The committee voted to recommend the Mayor's appointment of Paul Crowley to the Council on Aging. Members also discussed a list of lapsed and vacant appointments but deferred further action to the next meeting.

• Recommended confirmation of Paul Crowley to the Council on Aging (term expires June 7, 2026)
• Accepted minutes from February 21, March 6, and March 31, 2023
• Tabled discussion on lapsed, vacant, or expired appointments to the next meeting

Public Service Committee

The committee will discuss a utility pole petition on Elm Street and an appeal for 49 West Broadway. The meeting also includes department updates and the approval of minutes from a June 1 budget meeting.

• Appeal for 49 West Broadway
• Petition 10993: National Grid and Verizon New England Inc. proposal to install 1, remove 1, and relocate 1 pole on Elm Street
• Review and approval of June 1, 2023, FY24 Budget meeting minutes
• Department updates from Public Works/Sewer/Water, Survey/Engineering, and Conservation Commission

The Committee approved a billing reduction and interest waiver for a resident at 49 West Broadway following a pipe leak. A pole petition for Elm Street was deferred to the next meeting due to ongoing questions. DPW reported on various paving and sidewalk projects and potential grants for a playground and traffic safety.

• Approved water/sewer bill abatement of $906.50 and one-year interest waiver for 49 West Broadway
• Tabled Council recommendation for pole petition 10993 on Elm Street
• Approved minutes of the June 1, 2023 meeting

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will review the May 2023 PRIT statement and an actuarial valuation draft from Stone Consulting. The body is managing elections for two members to serve three-year terms starting July 1, 2023. The board will also address the FY24 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) notice for retirees and survivors.

• Election of two board members for three-year terms (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026)
• Review of Stone Consulting Actuarial Valuation Draft as of 01/01/2023
• FY24 COLA Notice for Retirees & Survivors
• Review of May 2023 PRIT Statement
• Approval of retirement(s) and acknowledgement of deceased member(s)

The Board approved a payment warrant for June 30, 2023, and the draft financial audit report as of December 31, 2022. Members also approved the FY 2024 COLA notice and confirmed the re-election of Denise M. Merriam and Robert W. Newton to three-year terms.

• Approved Warrant #06/23 totaling $725,060.90 (unanimous)
• Approved Draft Financial Statements and Audit Report as of December 31, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Actuarial Valuation Draft Report as of January 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2024 COLA Notice for July 2023 mailings (unanimous)
• Approved Board Members list for July 2023 mailings (unanimous)
• Tabled setting the actuarial rate and funding schedule until next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved April 2023 Trial Balances, General Ledger Histories, and bank reconciliations (unanimous)
• Approved May 25, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive an assessor update. The board will enter an executive session to review and discuss FY23 ATB filings.

• Approval of April 4, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review and discussion of FY23 ATB Filing(s)

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from April 4, 2023, and accepted the Assessor’s update report. The board entered executive session to discuss a future RE ATB hearing notice.

• Approved April 4, 2023 minutes (3-0)
• Accepted Assessor’s update report (3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss RE ATB hearing notice (3-0)

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission is meeting to discuss old business and review financial reports. The body will address lease bids for golf carts and a survey regarding golf tournament start times.

• Golf cart lease bids
• Golf tournament start time change survey
• Review and approval of financials, receipts, expenses, and budget

The Golf Commission voted to select Yamaha for the golf cart lease. The commission also accepted the financial reports, noting that the fiscal year 2023 will end in a surplus.

• Approved Yamaha golf cart lease (3-0)
• Accepted financials (3-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission will meet to review financial statements and the status of facilities. The agenda includes standard reports from the department head and a review of previous meeting minutes.

• Review of financial statement
• Status of facilities report
• Department head report

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of district policies. The agenda focuses on safety programs, emergency plans, and buildings and grounds management.

• Review of Safety Program (EB) and Emergency Plans (EBC)
• Review of School Closings and Cancellations (EBCE/EBCD)
• Review of Buildings and Grounds Management (EC) and Security (ECA)
• Review of Public Gifts to the Schools (KCD)
• Review of Private Funding (DE) and Audits (DIE)

The Policy Subcommittee reviewed multiple district policies, determining that three require no changes. The committee recommended the removal of three redundant policies and the update or adoption of seven others, all of which were sent to the full School Committee for September action.

• Approved April 4, 2023 meeting minutes
• Updated EBCD, EBCFA, and ECABA policies as 'Reviewed June, 2023'
• Recommended removal of policies DE, EA, and EBCE
• Recommended updates to policies KCD, DIE, EB, EBAB, and EBB
• Recommended adoption of policy EBC (Emergency Plans)
• Recommended adoption of policy ECA (Buildings and Grounds Security)
• Decided not to adopt policy EC (Buildings and Grounds Management)

School Building Committee

The Gardner Elementary School Building Committee will meet to review construction and budget updates. The committee is scheduled to vote on Change Order #28 and approve bills for several vendors.

• Vote on Change Order #28
• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Bacon Construction
• Budget and monthly construction updates from OPM

The committee approved several invoices totaling $337,454.56 and a change order for $388,802.00. Members also formally voted to approve a previous change order for $256,638.00. The project is awaiting a final MSBA audit in the fall.

• Approved $337,454.56 in invoices from Colliers International, Jones-Whitsett Architects, Bacon Construction Co, Inc., SHI International Corp., Red Thread, and Pro AV Systems, Inc.
• Approved Change Order #29 for $388,802.00
• Approved Change Order #28 as a formal vote for $256,638.00
• Approved minutes from May 17, 2023 meeting

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority will meet to review urban renewal plans and specific property sites. The board will discuss the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor, 140 South Main Street, and the Summit Industrial Park.

• Urban Renewal Plans for Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• Discussion regarding 140 South Main Street
• Discussion regarding Summit Industrial Park
• Review of monthly financial statements for accounts and investments

The Authority approved the financial reports and the minutes from April 19, 2023. The board also voted to participate in the Chamber Annual Robert Langlois Memorial Golf Tournament as a hole sponsor. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of April 19, 2023 (5-0)
• Accepted financial reports as presented (5-0)
• Approved participation in Chamber Annual Robert Langlois Memorial Golf Tournament (5-0)
• Approved $200.00 payment for 'Hole Sponsor' option for Chamber Golf (5-0)

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and reports. The agenda includes a review of monthly accounts payable invoices and a motion to enter executive session.

• Acceptance of May 24, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices
• Motion to enter executive session for personnel contract negotiations

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several orders regarding the appropriation and transfer of city funds. These items include allocations for golf supplies, fire department overtime, and water fund salaries.

• Order 11018: $150,000.00 from Golf Surplus Retained Earnings Enterprise Fund to Golf Supplies Expense
• Order 11019: $89,547.00 from Free Cash to Fire Department Overtime Salary Expense
• Order 11020: $31,408.47 from Available Water Funds-Various Receipts Reserved to Salary Account
• Order 11021: Transfer of $14,000.00 from City Hall Custodian Salaries & Wages to Operating Expenditures ($8,000 for repairs & maintenance and $6,000 for energy & utilities)

The Finance Committee voted to recommend four separate appropriation and transfer orders to the City Council. These actions address funding gaps for the Fire Department, Golf Department, Water Department, and City Hall utilities.

• Recommended $150,000 from Golf Surplus Retained Earnings to Golf Supplies Expense
• Recommended $89,547 from Free Cash to Fire Department Overtime Salary Expense
• Recommended $31,408.47 from Available Water Funds to Water Dept Clerk Salary & Wages
• Recommended transfer of $14,000 from City Hall Custodian Salaries to Operating Expenditures ($8,000 for repairs/maintenance, $6,000 for energy/utilities)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits and variances for residential and commercial properties. The board will also address the election of officers and previous meeting minutes.

• Case # 04/01/2023: Special Permit for two-family condo at 20 Rock Street
• Case # 05/01/2023: Special Permit for two-family dwelling at Lot 1 Green Street
• Case # 05/02/2023: Special Permit for auto detailing and pressure washing at 437 Main Street
• Case # 05/04/2023: Variance to amend parking relief at 163-165 Pine Street
• Case # 06/01/2023: Application for medical clinic at 354 Main Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits for two residential projects. Both approvals included specific conditions regarding driveways and site management.

• Granted special permit for two-family condo at 20 Rock Street with four conditions regarding driveway, grandfathered lot status, water drainage, and snow storage easement
• Granted special permit for two-family dwelling at Lot 1 Green Street with four conditions regarding driveway location, building code approval, apron length, and exit safety

Public Service Committee

The committee will discuss a petition from National Grid and Verizon New England Inc. to install, remove, and relocate utility poles on Elm Street. The meeting also includes department updates and the approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Petition 10993: Install 1, remove 1, and relocate 1 jointly owned pole on Elm Street
• Review and approval of minutes from March 30 and April 27, 2023
• Department updates from Public Works, Survey/Engineering, and Conservation Commission

The committee deferred a recommendation on a pole petition for Elm Street pending clarification of conflicting information and revised plans from National Grid. The committee also accepted minutes from March 30 and April 27, 2023.

• Accepted minutes of March 30 and April 27, 2023 (unanimous)
• Deferred recommendation on National Grid/Verizon pole petition (10993) for Elm Street pending revised plans and clarification

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to review old business regarding the 1 Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. The agenda also includes the appointment of a Planning Board representative for the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee.

• 1 Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development

The board approved the re-appointment of Robert J. Swartz as the Planning Board representative to the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee. The board also reviewed conceptual plans for the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development, though no vote was taken on the project.

• Approved May 23, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Re-appointed Robert J. Swartz to the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee (4-0)

License Commission

The Gardner Board of License Commission will review several one-day permit requests for upcoming local events. The meeting also includes a request for a change of manager at 99 Restaurant.

• Change of Manager for 99 Restaurant
• Tavern 13: 1-Day permits for City Concert (June 29) and Food Truck Festival (July 8)
• Moon Hill Brewing: 1-Day permits for City Concert (June 29) and Food Truck Festival (July 8)
• Fitness Concepts: 1-Day permits for Summer Solstice (July 8) and Sunset Wine, Barre, & Yoga Night (August 17)

The Board approved several one-day liquor licenses for the City Concert and Food Truck Festival, as well as private events hosted by Fitness Concepts. The Board also acknowledged a change in corporate management for 99 Restaurant.

• Approved May 9, 2023 meeting minutes
• Acknowledged corporate management change for 99 Restaurant
• Approved Tavern 13 one-day full liquor license for City Concert (June 29, 2023, 5:30pm-9:00pm)
• Approved Tavern 13 one-day full liquor license for Food Truck Festival (July 8, 2023, 1:00pm-8:00pm)
• Approved Moon Kill Brewing one-day beer/wine licenses for City Concert and Food Truck Festival (unanimous)
• Approved Fitness Concepts one-day beer license for Summer Solstice (July 8, 2023, 11:00am-6:00pm)
• Approved Fitness Concepts one-day wine license for Sunset Wine, Barre, & Yoga Night (August 17, 2023, 5:00pm-9:00pm)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to decide on the purchase of the Joslin Street property and the declaration of surplus property for HMS, Stone Field, and the ESS Playground. The body will also consider FY24 contract amendments and the Superintendent's evaluation.

• Vote on Keystone Educational Collaborative-Joslin Street purchase
• Vote on declaring HMS, Stone Field, and ESS Playground as surplus property
• Vote on FY24 Contract Amendments for AFSCME, Unit A, and Unit B
• Warrant #23-45: $327,891.86
• Warrant #23-46: $430,279.98

The Committee declared the Helen Mae Sauter Building, Stone Field, and a playground area as surplus property. Other actions included approving contract amendments for school personnel and granting a 5% salary increase to the Superintendent.

• Declared Helen Mae Sauter Building, Stone Field, and playground area behind Elm Street School as surplus property (6-0)
• Approved Keystone Educational Collaborative's proposed purchase and construction at 143 Joslin Street, Leominster (Vote: so voted)
• Approved FY24 contract amendments for AFSCME Local 1717 (Vote: so voted)
• Approved FY24 contract amendments for Gardner Education Association Unit A and Unit B (5-1)
• Accepted Superintendent Mark Pellegrino's End-of-Cycle Summative Evaluation Report (Vote: so voted)
• Granted 5% salary increase to Superintendent Mark Pellegrino (Vote: so voted)
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes from May 8 and May 23, and four warrants totaling $1,551,830.00 (Vote: so voted)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review previous minutes and conduct interviews for the Health Director position. No other specific business items were listed on the agenda.

• Health Director interviews

The Board of Health appointed Angela DiPrima as Temporary Agent of the Board following the resignation of the previous Director. The Board also voted to offer the Director of Public Health position to Matthew Fortier. Additionally, the May 8, 2023 meeting minutes were approved.

• Approved May 8, 2023 meeting minutes
• Unanimously appointed Angela DiPrima as Temporary Agent of the Board
• Approved motion to offer Director of Board of Health position to Matthew Fortier

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to review financial reports and discuss operational updates. The agenda includes discussions on golf cart lease bids and changes to tournament start times.

• Golf cart lease bids
• Tournament start time changes
• Employee playing privileges
• Review and approval of financials, receipts, and expense reports
• Raffle item request for Chamber of Commerce

The Commission tabled a vote on changing course member tournament tee times to gather member feedback via a survey. A decision on five-year golf cart lease bids was also tabled until the following week. The Commission approved a donation to the Chamber of Commerce and accepted the financial reports.

• Approved May 22nd meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled vote on moving course member tournament tee times to start no later than 8:30
• Tabled vote on five-year golf cart lease bids from New England Golf Cars Yamaha, Club Car, and Fire Star Golf Cars
• Approved donation of a foursome with golf carts to the Chamber of Commerce (3-0)
• Approved financial reports (3-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging is meeting to discuss comprehensive revisions to its bylaws, including membership rules and officer roles. The body will also conduct board training and discuss a board vacancy.

• Proposed amendments to bylaws regarding membership, voting rights, and officer roles
• Open Meeting Law, Board Member, and Ethics training
• CMAA MOU update for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
• Discussion of board vacancy

The Council on Aging approved recommended changes to its by-laws with two specific modifications regarding member terminology and the CEO's advisory role. The board also appointed two new associate members.

• Approved recommended By-Law changes with modifications to member terminology and CEO voting status (4-0)
• Appointed Denise Whitney as an Associate Member (4-0)
• Appointed Julie Meehan as an Associate Member (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review minutes from the May 22, 2023 meeting and continue discussions regarding dam safety at 170 Mill St. The agenda also includes a discussion on an elementary school wetland replication plan.

• Dam safety discussion for Ramsdall pond dam at 170 Mill St.
• Certificate of Compliance for DEP#160-566, 314 Brookside Drive
• Certificate of Compliance for Wilder Brook Estates (DEP#160-0400 and #160-0393)
• Discussion of elementary school wetland replication plan
• $15.00 MACC updated handbook professional development

The Commission continued the case regarding the elementary school wetland replication plan after discussing contractor failures to maintain the site. The board requested project schedules, retainage records, and reports to determine why maintenance and planting were not completed.

• Approved motion to continue May 22, 2023 meeting minutes to the next meeting
• Continued Notice of Intent for Rams dall P ond Dam Safety at 170 Mill Street
• Continued Certificate of Compliance request for 314 Brookside Drive (Lot 53, 54 & 55)
• Approved continuance of the elementary school wetland replication case

School Subcommittees

The Facilities Sub-Committee will meet to receive project updates and discuss the declaration of surplus property. The meeting focuses on school facility management and property status.

• Declaration of Surplus Property for HMS, Stone Field, and ESS Playground

The Facilities Sub-Committee recommended that the school committee declare the Helen Mae Sauter Building, Stone field, and the playground area behind Elm Street school as surplus. The committee also noted that district administration is expected to move to the second floor of Elm Street school on July 10.

• Approved April 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended declaring Helen Mae Sauter Building, Stone field, and playground behind Elm Street school as surplus on or about July 14, 2023

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Vote on gifts and donations
• Expense report review
• Projects update

The committee approved the minutes from the May 2, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed the Expense Report and the status of Revolving Funds. No new business was introduced.

• Approved May 2, 2023 meeting minutes

Charter Review Committee

The committee is meeting to accept previous minutes and provide final approval of recommendations regarding changes to the City Charter for the City Council.

• Final approval of recommendations to the City Council regarding City Charter changes

The Committee approved a final report containing recommendations for changes to the City Charter after making minor textual amendments. The meeting also focused on the review and approval of minutes from February, May, and June meetings.

• Approved final report of recommendations to Mayor and City Council (unanimous)
• Accepted February 16 minutes as presented (2-1, 1 abstention)
• Accepted February 23 minutes with one word substitution (unanimous)
• Accepted May 11 minutes with six amendments (unanimous)
• Accepted May 22 minutes as presented (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Gardner Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive updates on the runway project, master plan, and capital improvement plan from Gale Associates. They will also hear the airport manager's report and discuss maintenance, alarms, and FAA-related items. The meeting is primarily informational with no votes on specific contracts or ordinances.

• Update on Runway Project by Gale Associates
• Update on Master Plan & CIP
• Airport Manager's Report
• Alarm Central Update
• FAA Advisory Circular - AFS-400 and FAA-Recognized Identification Areas

The Commission received updates on the runway project and grant applications for the Master Plan and Capital Improvement Plan. The Airport Manager reported on facility repairs, hangar tenancy, and the process for handling abandoned aircraft.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Selected color for Electrical Vault
• Determined abandoned aircraft must be taken to Small Claims court for rent and title

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging recommended Gloria Tarpey and Paul Crowley for three-year regular appointed memberships. The board also recommended revisions to its by-laws and accepted the Treasurer's report. A special meeting is scheduled for July 12 to finalize by-law changes and conduct board training.

• Recommended Gloria Tarpey for a three-year regular appointed membership (Unanimous)
• Recommended Paul Crowley for a three-year regular appointed membership (Unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (Unanimous)
• Recommended by-law revisions and scheduled special meeting for July 12 (Unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of May 1, 2023 Special Meeting (Unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of May 1, 2023 Regular Meeting as amended (Unanimous)

Open Space and Recreation Plan Steering Committee

The committee will discuss the planning process and the role of the OSRP. Members will review survey results, outreach outcomes, and progress on actions from previous plans.

• Review of survey and outreach results
• Review of progress on actions in previous plans
• Review of Action Plan

The committee reviewed the 2022 draft Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) and gathered public input on maps and action goals. No formal votes were taken; the plan now awaits endorsement from the planning board, city council, conservation commission, and the mayor before state submission.

• Agreed to add further verbiage to the landfill environmental challenges section
• Agreed to add GIS Storymap and continuous updates to action plan goals
• Added Ebenezer Keyes to table 5-4

Public Service Committee

The committee will review the Mayor's proposed FY2024 budget for departments under its jurisdiction. The agenda includes a review of various departmental allocations including City Council, City Clerk, and Mayor expenses.

• Review of the Mayor’s proposed FY2024 budget
• City Council salary and wages allocation
• City Clerk salary and wages allocation
• Election & Registration department budget review
• Mayor's unclassified budget items

The Public Service Committee reviewed the budgets for Public Works, Survey, Conservation, Airport, Water, Sewer, Recreation, and Municipal Recreation. After discussing specific line items and equipment needs with department heads, the committee recommended no changes to any of the budgets at this time.

• Recommended no changes to Public Works budget
• Recommended no changes to Survey budget
• Recommended no changes to Conservation budget
• Recommended no changes to Airport budget
• Recommended no changes to Water budget
• Recommended no changes to Sewer budget
• Recommended no changes to Recreation budget
• Recommended no changes to Municipal Recreation budget

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet at the DPW Office to conduct business. The agenda includes approving previous minutes, reviewing correspondence, and discussing financial statements.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review of correspondence
• Review of financial statements

The committee accepted the May 18, 2023 minutes and approved the financial statement. Members coordinated the collection of W9 forms and contracts from performers and sponsors. The committee finalized concert attendance and determined there will be no food trucks during events.

• Accepted May 18, 2023 minutes
• Approved financial statement
• Finalized attendance for each bandstand concert
• Decided no food trucks will be present during events

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several money order transfers across various city departments. The meeting also includes the start of FY2024 budget hearings for multiple municipal offices.

• Transfer $307,000.00 from Sewer Surplus/Retained Earnings to Sewer Department Operating Expenditures
• Transfer $39,348.00 from Sewer Surplus/Retained Earnings to DPW Department New Equipment
• Transfer $10,500.00 from Building Inspector Department, Department Head Salaries to Professional Services Expenditures
• Transfer $5,000.00 from Human Resource Department, Department Head Salaries to Pool Department Professional Services Expenditure
• Appropriate $14,925.00 from Free Cash to the IT Department City Hall Copy Machine Account

The Finance Committee voted to recommend several appropriation orders and one resolution to the City Council. These include funding for sewer expenses, DPW equipment, and a housing rehabilitation loan. The committee also received the FY2024 Budget from Mayor Nicholson.

• Recommended $300.09 payment for prior year police salary expenditure
• Recommended transfer of $10,500 from Building Inspector salaries to Professional Services
• Recommended transfer of $5,000 from HR salaries to Pool Department Professional Services
• Recommended appropriation of $307,000 from Sewer Surplus to Sludge Landfill Expense
• Recommended transfer of $39,348 from Sewer Surplus to DPW New Equipment
• Recommended authorizing Mayor to execute $26,000 subordination for housing rehab case #11-293
• Recommended appropriation of $14,925 from Free Cash for IT Department copy machine

Public Safety Committee

The committee voted to recommend two ordinances to the City Council for final approval. The meeting also included budget reviews for several city departments.

• Recommended ordinance to increase marijuana retail establishment quota to City Council
• Recommended approval of bowling alley license for Gardner Ten Pins, Inc. at 560 West Broadway to City Council

Retirement Board

The Board will review meeting minutes and payroll warrants. Discussion includes an investment review presentation and a draft actuarial valuation report from Stone Consulting. The Board is also tasked with reviewing annual retiree affidavits and retirement approvals.

• Review of April 25, 2023, and March 28, 2023, meeting minutes
• Investment review presentation by Laura Strickland
• Stone Consulting Actuarial Valuation Draft Report
• 2023 Retiree/Survivor Annual Affidavits
• Retirement Board Election for two members (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026)

The Board approved a $582,200 operating budget for Fiscal Year 2024 and authorized an 'Election by Declaration' for two board seats. The Board also approved the May 2023 payment warrant and the 2023 retiree annual affidavits. A decision on the 2023 Actuarial Valuation funding schedules was tabled.

• Approved FY2024 Operating Budget of $582,200.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved 'Election by Declaration' for Denise M. Merriam and Robert W. Newton to three-year terms (Unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #05/23 totaling $745,862.58 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Retiree/Survivor Annual Affidavits (Unanimous)
• Approved April 25, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved March 2023 Trial Balances, General Ledger Histories, and bank reconciliations (Unanimous)
• Tabled decision on Actuarial Valuation funding schedules

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will conduct a regular meeting to review the April 27, 2023, minutes and the Executive Director's report. The agenda includes a review of monthly accounts payable invoices and a motion to enter executive session for contract negotiations.

• Acceptance of April 27, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices
• Executive session regarding negotiations with nonunion personnel

Public Welfare Committee

The Public Welfare Committee will hold budget hearings for several city departments, including Golf, Council on Aging, Library, Airport, Cable TV, Zoning Board of Appeals, Greenwood Pool, Disability Commission, Veterans Service, and Planning Board. They will also consider a resolution to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. The agenda includes detailed FY2024 budget figures for various city offices.

• FY2024 budget hearings for Golf, Council on Aging, Library, Airport, Cable TV, Zoning Board of Appeals, Greenwood Pool, Disability Commission, Veterans Service, Planning Board
• Resolution 11010 to seek membership in AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities
• City Council budget: $114,009 for FY2024
• Mayor's Office budget: $244,296 for FY2024
• Debt service budget: $4,661,106 for FY2024

The Public Welfare Committee voted to recommend that the City Council approve a resolution to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. The committee also received FY2024 budget hearing documents for several city departments.

• Recommended City Council approve resolution to seek AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities membership

Planning Board

The Gardner Planning Board will meet to review new business regarding the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the May 09, 2023 meeting.

• Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development review

The Planning Board reviewed several conceptual layouts for the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. Harbor Classic Homes presented various options for single-family and duplex units, including different buffer zones and lot sizes. No formal application has been submitted yet.

• Approved May 09, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board performed site visits at 437 Main Street, Lot 1 Green Street, and 150 Washington Street. These visits were for the purpose of reviewing business operations, a proposed duplex, and parking locations. No formal decisions were recorded in these minutes.

School Committee

The School Committee will hold a special meeting via Zoom to discuss new business. The primary item for discussion is the Food Service Management Company Contract, which requires a vote.

• Food Service Management Company Contract (Vote Required)

The School Committee approved awarding the food service management contract to Fresh Picks. The new contract begins on July 1, 2023, following a bid process and review by school principals.

• Approved awarding Food Service Contract to Fresh Picks beginning July 1, 2023 (unanimous)

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will review meeting minutes from April and receive updates from Dan Berry and William Frank. The commission is also scheduled to review financial reports, including receipts, expenses, and the budget.

• Approval of April 3 and April 23, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of financials
• Receipts Report
• Expense Report
• Budget review

The commission approved the meeting minutes from April and the year-to-date financial reports. Members voted to change the start time for course-sponsored tournaments to 9:00 AM to address pace-of-play concerns. Staff provided updates on membership numbers, new POS hardware, and a potential $30,000 pump house pipe project.

• Approved April 3 and April 23 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved 9:00 AM tee times for course-sponsored tournaments (3-0)
• Accepted YTD financial reports (3-0)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee met to perform a final review of proposed amendments and recommendations intended for the City Council. The meeting agenda focused on concluding this review process.

• Final review of proposed charter amendments and recommendations to the City Council

The committee reviewed and edited a draft letter outlining proposed charter changes. Members modified wording regarding the Law Department, public posting requirements, and the sequence of election and appointment terms. The committee voted to accept the letter with these edits.

• Approved draft letter to Mayor and City Council with edits

Conservation Commission

The Commission denied a request for an Order of Conditions regarding the construction of a single-family home, driveway, and septic system at Lot 8A Green Street. The decision followed a review of the site's narrow dimensions and the project's proximity to a 60ft no-build zone and vegetated wetland.

• Approved April 24, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied Order of Conditions for APK Real Estate, LLC project at Lot 8A Green Street (unanimous)
• Required resume from candidate interested in joining the Conservation Commission Board

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet at the DPW Office to conduct regular business. The agenda includes reviewing previous minutes, correspondence, and financial statements.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review of financial statements

The committee accepted the minutes from the May 4, 2023 meeting. Members discussed pending W9 forms and contracts for performers and sponsors. Financial updates included a processed refund for a duplicate SESAC license payment.

• Accepted minutes from 5/4/2023

School Building Committee

The committee approved several construction invoices and a change order for the Gardner Elementary School project. It also authorized a budget for additional architectural services billed hourly. Members discussed site issues regarding landscaping and signage.

• Approved minutes from April 26, 2023
• Approved Colliers International invoice for $13,758.03
• Approved Allied Testing Laboratories, Inc. invoice for $300.00
• Approved Bacon Construction Co, Inc. invoice for $317,327.19
• Approved SHI International Corp. invoice for $7,306.92
• Approved Krueger International, Inc. invoice for $10,012.20
• Approved Change Order #28 totaling $100,717.00
• Approved up to $41,620.00 for additional architectural services

Zoning Board

The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals is holding public hearings on six special permit (SP) and variance (Vv) cases. These include converting an office building to residential units, building new homes, an auto detailing business, and a request for density relief. The board will also handle announcements and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Convert office building to 7 residential units at 63 Walnut Street (Case #11/01/2022(con))
• Build two-unit condo with separate driveway at 20 Rock Street (Case #04/01/2023(con))
• Construct two-family home at Lot 1 Green Street (Case #05/01/2023)
• Auto detailing business at 437 Main Street (Case #05/02/2023)
• Density relief for 7 dwelling units at 73 Stuart Street (Case #05/03/2023) and parking plan amendment at 163-165 Pine Street (Case #05/04/2023)

The Board granted a special permit to convert an office building into seven residential units with specific drainage and construction conditions. One application for density relief was withdrawn, and a request for a two-unit condo was continued.

• Approved special permit for 63 Walnut Street office-to-residential conversion (Unanimous)
• Approved withdrawal of density relief application for 73 Stuart Street (Unanimous)
• Continued case for 20 Rock Street two-unit condo for 2 weeks (Unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee met to review proposed amendments and recommendations intended for the City Council. The meeting focused on continuing the review of existing proposals.

• Review of proposed charter amendments and recommendations to the City Council

The committee reviewed the city charter section by section and voted to endorse several of the Mayor's proposed changes. The group also voted to delete specific sections and modify language regarding elections, appointments, and public notices.

• Approved Mayor's proposed changes for Section 6 (unanimous)
• Approved Mayor's proposed changes for Section 12 (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Section 18 regarding City Clerk canvassing of returns (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Section 29 to allow summaries of notices in any manner (unanimous)
• Approved Mayor's changes to Section 32 paragraph 1 and amended paragraph 4 regarding Acting Mayor pay (unanimous)
• Deleted Section 34 and 35 in their entirety (unanimous)
• Changed Section 38 wording from 'elect' to 'appoint' (unanimous)
• Deleted Section 51 in its entirety (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing several orders to appropriate funds from Free Cash to various municipal accounts. These items include funding for snow and ice removal, school utilities, and legal expenses.

• $701,700.00 appropriation for DPW Snow and Ice Removal
• $99,000.00 appropriation for Personnel Employee Benefits- Workers Compensation Audit
• $45,000.00 appropriation for Waterford Street School and Prospect Street School energy/utilities
• $32,000.00 appropriation for Greenwood Pool filtration system
• $25,000.00 appropriation for S. Graves vs City Lawsuit

The Finance Committee voted to recommend that the City Council approve 15 separate orders to appropriate funds from free cash. These funds are intended to cover budget deficits across various departments, including public works, legal services, and personnel.

• Recommended $701,700 for DPW Snow and Ice Removal
• Recommended $99,000 for Personnel Employee Benefits (Workers Compensation Audit)
• Recommended $45,000 for Mayor’s Unclassified Energy and Utilities
• Recommended $32,000 for Greenwood Pool Filtration System
• Recommended $25,000 for Mayor’s Unclassified S. Graves vs City Lawsuit
• Recommended $25,000 for DPW Street Lights
• Recommended $15,000 for Personnel Department Medical Exams
• Recommended $10,000 for Treasurer Department Tax Title Foreclosure

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss an amendment request regarding additional parking at Gardner Elementary School. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from April 11 and April 20, 2023.

• Gardner Elementary School amendment for additional parking

The Planning Board approved a request to add 22 parking spaces to the Gardner Elementary School site plan. The board classified the addition as a minor modification, meaning it did not require a full public meeting process.

• Approved minutes from April 11, 2023 and April 20, 2023 (4-0)
• Classified addition of 22 parking spaces at Gardner Elementary School as a minor modification to the Site Plan Approval (3-0)

License Commission

The Board of License Commission will consider an amendment for a change of manager at Hannaford Supermarket. The board will also review a one-day license request from the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce.

• Change of Manager amendment for Victory Distributors, LLC dba Hannaford Supermarket
• One-day license request for Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce at Mack Prototype, Inc. on June 7, 2023
• Approval of April 11, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of 2023 seasonal renewals
• Pending change of manager for PACC

The Board approved a request to change the manager at Hannaford Supermarket to Jason E. Smith. A one-day liquor license for a Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce event was also granted. The Board noted that the ABCC approved a manager amendment for PACC.

• Approved April 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved manager change to Jason E. Smith for Hannaford Supermarket
• Approved 1-Day Liquor License for Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce event at Mack Prototype, Inc. on June 7, 2023
• Confirmed ABCC approval of PACC manager amendment for David Melill

Board of Health

The Gardner Board of Health is meeting to review minutes from prior meetings and receive COVID updates. The agenda includes old and new business items, but no specific topics are listed. This is largely a procedural meeting with no substantive decisions detailed.

• Review minutes from February 6, 2023 and March 27, 2023
• COVID updates
• Old business
• New business

The Board of Health approved a variance for 400 Matthews St with stipulations, and the health director inspected the tanks, finding them satisfactory. COVID-19 positivity in Gardner was reported at 5.69%, higher than the state's 2.63%. The board noted that a restaurant with repeated violations has permanently closed after fines were paid. Three major housing cases may go to housing court, and the Gardner Police were notified about alcohol on premises at an establishment without a liquor license.

• Approved variance for 400 Matthews St with stipulations
• Approved February 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved March 27, 2023 meeting minutes
• Signed annual funeral director licenses
• Hired Brian for 26-hour transfer station position
• Notified Gardner Police about alcohol at establishment without liquor license

School Committee

The School Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the FY24 school budget before a required vote. The agenda also includes several policy second readings, a surplus of mats at GHS, and various administrative updates.

• FY24 School Budget presentation and vote
• Second reading of policies (BGD, CFA, CHCA, DJE)
• Surplus of mats at GHS
• Appointment to Keystone & CAPS Collaborative
• Approval of warrants totaling $1,516,454.56

The School Committee unanimously approved the FY2024 School Budget, which was presented as a balanced budget with no deficit. The committee also approved several school policies, financial warrants, and the appointment of the Superintendent to two boards.

• Approved FY 2024 School Budget of $31,316,678 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including April 10 minutes and five warrants totaling $2,208,133.27
• Approved second reading of policies BGD, CFA, CHCA, and DJE
• Declared old high jump and pole vault mats at GHS as surplus
• Appointed Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino to Keystone Educational Board of Directors
• Appointed Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino to CAPS Collaborative Board of Directors

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold a joint public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for construction at 8A Green Street. The project includes building a single-family dwelling, driveway, artesian well, and septic system within a wetland buffer.

• Public Hearing for Notice of Intent (#160-0662) at 8A Green Street (Rte. 140)
• Approval of April 24, 2023, meeting minutes

The Commission approved a $1,680 contract for mowing at the Alisauskas Conservation Area and confirmed compliance with an enforcement order at 114 Topaz Terrace. A public hearing for a project on Green Street was continued to May 8, 2023, due to missing abutter notifications.

• Approved $1,680.00 for Alisauskas Conservation Area mowing (unanimous)
• Approved compliance with enforcement order for 114 Topaz Terrace (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Intent for Lot 8A Green Street to May 8, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved March 27, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Bandstand Committee

The Bandstand Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review financial statements. The agenda consists of standard procedural items.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review of financial statements

The committee reviewed correspondence from food truck vendors, accepted a price increase from Traveling Jones from $500 to $600, and discussed attendance for upcoming concerts. No formal votes were taken on these items; decisions will be finalized at the next meeting on May 18, 2023.

• Accepted Traveling Jones price increase from $500 to $600 (no vote recorded)
• Will update flyers by June 1, with a draft expected by May 18 meeting
• Will remove Rotary Club from flyers due to disbandment
• Will finalize concert attendance numbers at May 18 meeting

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee will meet to review a series of district policies. These reviews cover areas including school safety, emergency plans, and buildings and grounds management.

• Review of Safety Program (EB) and Emergency Plans (EBC)
• Review of School Closings and Cancellations (EBCE)
• Review of Buildings and Grounds Security (ECA)
• Review of Staff & Visitor Identification (ECABA)
• Review of Private Funding (DE) and Public Gifts to the Schools (KCD)

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations and discuss the declaration of surplus property at HMS.

• Vote on Gifts & Donations
• Discussion on Declaration of Surplus Property (HMS)
• Expense Report Review
• Projects Update

The committee approved the minutes from the April 4, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed expense reports showing budget deficits in substitute pay, utilities, and out-of-district tuition. The committee discussed the future declaration of surplus property for HMS and surrounding land.

• Approved April 4, 2023 meeting minutes

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will hold a special meeting regarding an Age Friendly Designation. The session includes a presentation by Antron Watson, the Age Friendly Director from AARP Massachusetts, followed by discussion.

• Presentation by Antron Watson of AARP Massachusetts
• Discussion regarding Age Friendly Designation

The Council on Aging held a special meeting to receive a presentation from Antrone Watson of AARP’s Age Friendly Communities. The presentation covered the process, benefits, responsibilities, and statistics regarding the age friendly community designation. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adjourned special meeting (5-0)

Council on Aging

The Gardner Council on Aging is holding its annual meeting, which includes electing officers and nominating board members, accepting prior minutes, and receiving the treasurer's report. Updates will be given on the Age Friendly designation and the Waterford St. facility, along with the director's report and summer schedule. The meeting is largely procedural with routine business and open discussion.

• Election of officers and nomination of board members
• Treasurer's report
• Update on Age Friendly designation
• Update on Waterford St. facility
• Summer schedule discussion

The Board approved the city's application to join the Age-Friendly Community Network to improve funding and grant opportunities. The meeting also included the election of officers and several changes to Board membership.

• Approved application to join Age-Friendly Community Network (unanimous)
• Elected Ronald Darmetkas (Chair), Paul Leone (Vice Chair), Terri Hillman (Treasurer), and Kathy O’Brien (Secretary) (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Ellis as Chief Executive Officer (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Pat Jandris (unanimous)
• Removed Evelyn McCarthy as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Accepted Barbara LeBlanc as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Accepted Kristy Livingston as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report as of April 30, 2023 (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss several license applications, including a bowling alley and multiple second-hand article dealers. The meeting also includes updates from the Public Health, Police, and Fire departments.

• Bowling Alley License application for Brian’s Bowlaway at 123 Main Street
• Fortune Teller License application for The Witched Wardrobe at 314 Central Street
• Second-hand Articles License application for GameStop, Inc. #3725 at 376 Timpany Blvd
• Second-hand Articles License application for Gardner Coins & Cards, Inc. at 18 Parker Street
• Second-hand Articles License application for HOPEful Boutique at 29 Pleasant Street

The committee voted to recommend the approval of several business licenses to the City Council, including a bowling alley, a fortune teller, and four second-hand article dealers. The Police Department provided updates on staffing, equipment, and budget constraints due to officer shortages.

• Recommended approval of Bowling Alley License for Brian’s Bowlaway at 123 Main Street
• Recommended approval of Fortune Tellers License for The Witches Wardrobe at 314 Central Street
• Recommended approval of Second-hand Articles License for GameStop, Inc. #3725 at 376 Timpany Blvd.
• Recommended approval of Second-hand Articles License for Gardner Coins & Cards, Inc. at 18 Parker Street
• Recommended approval of Second-hand Articles License for House of Peace and Education, Inc. (HOPEful Boutique) at 29 Pleasant Street
• Recommended approval of Second-hand Articles License for EcoATM LLC at 677 Timpany Plaza
• Approved minutes from September 28, October 26, November 17, and December 16, 2022 (viva voce)

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and the Executive Director's report. The board will also review invoice history and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of March 23, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission will meet to discuss various administrative and operational matters. The agenda includes reviewing previous minutes, financial statements, and the status of facilities.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Review of financial statement
• Status of facilities report

The Commission approved the March 9, 2023, meeting minutes and the auditor's financial statement. Members discussed potential fee increases for non-residents and crematoriums, but deferred action pending further information.

• Accepted March 9, 2023, meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Accepted financial statement from auditor (All in favor)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled to meet for a site visit regarding a special permit case. The meeting consists of a single listed item.

• Site visit for Case #04/01/2023 regarding Christine M Tree at 20 Rock Street

The Zoning Board toured a lot between Rock Street and Water Street to review a proposal for a two-unit condominium. No formal decisions were made during this site visit.

Historical Commission

The Gardner Historical Commission will meet to review previous minutes and discuss several local historical preservation items. The body will address a sign for the Lake St. Fire House and a stone repair from the Old Burying Ground.

• Exception for Lake St. Fire House sign
• Repair of stone from Old Burying Ground
• Crystal Lake Chapel Survey

Public Service Committee

The committee will consider a dedication vote for the Uptown Rotary Reconstruction Project and a pole petition for Cross Street. The meeting also includes department updates from Public Works, Engineering, and the Conservation Commission.

• Vote on 10965: Measure for Dedication for the Uptown Rotary Reconstruction Project
• Petition 10909: National Grid and Verizon New England request to install 4 poles on Cross Street
• Review and approval of March 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• Department updates from DPW Director Dane Arnold and City Engineer Rob Oliva

The Public Service Committee approved a measure for the dedication of easements and layout alterations for the Uptown Rotary reconstruction project. The committee also recommended the approval of a pole petition for National Grid and Verizon on Cross Street. Additionally, the committee accepted the minutes from the March 2, 2023, meeting.

• Approved dedication of 4 easements and layout alterations for Uptown Rotary reconstruction (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of National Grid and Verizon pole petition for Cross Street (unanimous)
• Accepted March 2, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous)

School Building Committee

The Gardner Elementary School Building Committee will meet to approve bills and vote on change orders. The committee will receive budget and construction updates from OPM and a presentation from architects.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Bacon Construction
• Vote on architect change orders
• OPM budget and monthly construction updates
• Discussion of proposed additional work
• Planning for ribbon cutting and time capsule

The committee approved 13 invoices totaling $311,304.75 for various contractors and suppliers. Members also approved two change orders for the Gardner Elementary School project. Project management reported that materials are on track for a September completion.

• Approved 13 invoices totaling $311,304.75 (so voted)
• Approved Change Order #28 for $73,548.00 (so voted)
• Approved Change Order #27 for $207,242.00 (so voted)
• Approved minutes from March 15, 2023 meeting (so voted)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss several new items, including a funding appropriation for downtown improvements and an agreement with the Town of Templeton. The body will also review notifications from the Mayor regarding city property sales and a district improvement financing study.

• Order 10969: Appropriating $350,000.00 for Downtown Improvement Capital Project
• Measure 10966: Intermunicipal Agreement with Town of Templeton for Veterans Services
• Order 10958: $5,109.19 payment for prior year operating expenditures
• Notification 10967: Sale of City Properties authorized since 2020
• Notification 10968: District Improvement Financing Study information

The Finance Committee recommended several funding measures and agreements to the City Council, including downtown capital projects and veterans services. The committee also processed notifications regarding city property sales and a financing study.

• Recommended approval of intermunicipal agreement with Town of Templeton for veterans services through FY2026
• Recommended appropriating $350,000 from bond proceeds for Downtown Improvement Capital Project (Phase III)
• Recommended authorizing $5,109.19 for FY2022 energy and utility operating expenditures
• Recommended placing notification on city property sales since 2020 on file
• Recommended placing notification on District Improvement Financing Study on file
• Approved meeting minutes from April 3, 2023

Retirement Board

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board will meet to review investments and address member retirements. The board is scheduled to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment and hold elections for two board members.

• Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for FY2024 using a base amount of $14,000.00
• Election of two members for three-year terms (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026)
• Stone Consulting GASB 67 & 68 Draft Report FY23
• Request from a member to make up for time excluded from COVID Relief Stipend
• Approval of retirements and acknowledgment of deceased members

The Board approved a payment warrant totaling $969,438.55 and the GASB 67 and 68 draft reports for Fiscal Year 2023. It also granted a service credit make-up for an employee and a COVID-19 relief vacation stipend for the Board Administrator.

• Approved minutes of March 28, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved January and February 2023 Trial Balances, General Ledger Histories, and bank reconciliations (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #04/23 totaling $969,438.55 (unanimous)
• Approved GASB 67 & GASB 68 Draft Report for Fiscal year 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Kay Calawa's request to make-up 11 months of creditable service (unanimous)
• Approved one-week extra paid vacation for Board Administrator Cheryl Bosse as a COVID Relief Stipend (unanimous)

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to discuss new business and receive updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent. The body is scheduled to review a golf cart lease agreement and approve financial reports.

• Review of Golf Cart Lease Agreement
• Approval of financials
• Review of Receipts Report
• Review of Expense Report
• Budget review

The Golf Commission accepted the current financial reports. Members discussed equipment failures requiring $16,700 in repairs and the transition of the Men’s and Women’s Association leadership.

• Accepted financials with $835,000 in receipts and $728,000 in expenses (4-0)
• Tabled April 3rd meeting minutes until next meeting

Traffic Commission

The Commission decided against installing a stop sign at Comee and Edgell. Members tabled a discussion on school zone ordinances pending further information. Several parking concerns at various city intersections were noted for review or police monitoring.

• Voted against installing stop sign at Comee and Edgell (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on school zone ordinances pending further information
• Approved minutes from February 2, 2023 (Unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold a joint public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for construction at 8A Green Street. The project includes a single-family dwelling, driveway, well, and septic system near a vegetated wetland.

• Public Hearing: Construction of single-family dwelling at 8A Green Street (Parcel ID# M47-22-17)
• Approval of March 27, 2023, meeting minutes
• Enforcement Order update for 114 Topaz Terrace fencing
• Contract for Alisauskas Conservation Area mowing

The Commission approved a $1,680 contract for mowing at the Alisauskas Conservation Area and confirmed compliance for an enforcement order at 114 Topaz Terrace. A public hearing for a project at Lot 8A Green Street was continued to May 8, 2023.

• Approved March 27, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Intent for Lot 8A Green Street to May 8, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved compliance with enforcement order for 114 Topaz Terrace (unanimous)
• Approved $1,680.00 for Alisauskas Conservation Area mowing (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a pre-application site walk near Clark Street and Century Way. The meeting also includes a pre-application discussion regarding design criteria for the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development.

• Site walk off Clark Street and Century Way
• Pre-application discussion of design criteria for Concord Crossing

The Planning Board held a pre-application discussion and site walk for the proposed Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development. The board reviewed a concept plan for 76 single-family lots and provided feedback on traffic, lot size, and site mapping requirements.

• Approved meeting minutes from March 22, 2023 and March 29, 2023 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a pre-application site walk near Clark Street and Century Way. The meeting also includes a pre-application discussion regarding design criteria for the Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development.

• Site walk off Clark Street and Century Way
• Pre-application discussion of design criteria for Concord Crossing

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss urban renewal plans. The agenda focuses on the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor, specifically addressing 140 South Main Street and Summit.

• Approval of March 22, 2023 minutes
• Urban Renewal Plans for Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• Discussion regarding 140 South Main Street
• Discussion regarding Summit

The Authority approved financial reports and the minutes from the March 22, 2023 meeting. The board also voted to attend the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and sponsor a half-page advertisement.

• Approved March 22, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Accepted financial reports as presented (4-0)
• Approved attendance and payment for attendees/spouses at Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting (4-0)
• Approved $300.00 sponsorship for a half-page ad in the Chamber Annual Meeting (4-0)
• Voted to enter Executive Session to discuss real estate transactions and legal issues (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss a cost-of-living adjustment for the retirement board and the acceptance of donations for the Council on Aging. The body is also considering two specific fund transfers and payments for city expenditures.

• Gardner Contributory Retirement Board Notice of FY2024 COLA
• Measure authorizing acceptance of donations and gifts for Gardner Council on Aging
• Order authorizing $5,109.19 payment for prior year energy and utility expenditures
• Order transferring $3,530.00 from Building Inspector Department head salaries to professional services

The Finance Committee recommended that the City Council approve a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase for the Retirement Board. The committee also recommended accepting donations for the Council on Aging and a budget transfer for the Building Inspector Department. One request for utility payments was referred back to the committee for further review.

• Recommended City Council approve increasing Retirement Board COLA from $13,000 to $14,000
• Recommended City Council authorize acceptance of donations and gifts for the Council on Aging
• Recommended City Council transfer $3,530.00 from Building Inspector Department Head Salaries to Professional Services Expenditures
• Voted to refer back to Finance Committee the $5,109.19 payment for FY2022 energy and utility expenditures
• Approved March 20, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Zoning Board

The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three special permit requests: converting an office building at 63 Walnut Street into seven residential units, an Airbnb short-term rental at 48 Chapel Street, and building a two-unit condominium at 20 Rock Street. The board will also handle announcements, correspondence, and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Case #11/01/2022(con): Jonathan Bombachi, 63 Walnut Street, PID#R27/22/20 – convert office building to seven residential units
• Case #03/02/2023(con): Christine M Tree, 48 Chapel Street, PID #W27/4/4 – Airbnb short-term rental
• Case #04/01/2023: Christine M Tree, 20 Rock Street, PID M22/1/21 – build two-unit condominium with separate driveway entrance

The Board approved a special permit for a non-owner-occupied short-term rental at 48 Chapel Street. Two other cases regarding a residential conversion and a two-unit condominium were continued to future meetings pending further documentation and site visits.

• Approved Special Permit for Airbnb at 48 Chapel Street (Unanimous)
• Conditioned 48 Chapel Street approval on removal of metal pile and documented Rules of Stay
• Continued case for two-unit condominium at 20 Rock Street
• Continued case for seven-unit residential conversion at 63 Walnut Street
• Approved minutes for Jan 21, 2023 site visit at 163-163 Pine Street (Unanimous)

School Subcommittees

The committee toured the Elm Street School to review the current use of space for GALT, the Boys and Girls Club, the District Lead Nurse, and Student Services. The committee also reviewed the status of old athletic mats located at GHS.

• Approved minutes from February 9, 2023
• Recommended to the school committee to declare old athletic mats at GHS as surplus

Planning Board

The Planning Board will provide final recommendations on three ordinances to amend the City of Gardner Zoning Code. These items include land classification changes along Route 140, adding sports betting to the use table, and increasing the quota for marijuana establishments.

• Ordinance 10891: Reclassifying parcels of land along Route 140
• Ordinance 109892: Adding 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses
• Ordinance 19893: Increasing the quota for marijuana establishments

The Planning Board issued final recommendations to the City Council on three zoning amendments. It voted to oppose rezoning land along Route 140 but supported adding sports betting to the Zoning Table of Uses and increasing the marijuana establishment quota.

• Recommended NOT approving zoning amendment #10891 to change Route 140 parcels from Rural Residential 2 to Commercial 2 (3-2)
• Recommended approval of ordinance #10892 to add 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses, subject to a Special Permit (5-0)
• Recommended approval of ordinance #10893 to increase the marijuana establishment quota (5-0)

License Commission

The License Commission will meet to approve the March 21, 2023, meeting minutes and consider several one-day license hearings. The commission will also vote on the approval of 2023 seasonal liquor license renewals.

• One-day license hearing for Elks Club (multiple dates)
• One-day license hearing for Fitness Concepts (May 20, 2023)
• Approval of 2023 seasonal liquor license renewals
• Review of PACC manager change request

The Board approved six one-day event requests for the Elks Club and one request for Fitness Concepts. Seasonal liquor license renewals for Zoe’s On The Green were approved, while renewals for the Lithuanian Club and PACC remain pending specific conditions.

• Approved Elks Club one-day requests for 4/29/23, 6/4/23, 7/15/23, 8/12/23, 9/2/23, and 10/14/23
• Approved Fitness Concepts one-day request for 5/20/23
• Approved 2023 Seasonal Liquor License renewal for Zoe’s On The Green
• Approved 2023 Seasonal Liquor License renewal for Lithuanian Club pending 304 Inspection certificate
• Approved 2023 Seasonal Liquor License renewal for PACC pending ABCC approval

School Committee

The Gardner School Committee is holding its regular meeting on April 10, 2023. The agenda includes votes on second-reading policies, a field trip for GHS cheerleaders to Florida, 2023-2024 preschool tuition rates, and surplus furniture. There are also informational updates on kindergarten registration, health services, curriculum, grants, special education, and the MSBA building project.

• Accept grant funds totaling $22,000
• Warrants totaling $1,335,416.59
• Vote on 2023-2024 Pre-School Tuition Rates & Payment Schedule
• Vote on GHS Cheerleaders field trip to Florida for Nationals, April 15-18, 2023
• First and second readings of multiple school policies

The School Committee approved the 2023-2024 pre-school tuition rates and payment schedule. Members also voted to approve six policies on second reading and declared GHS woodworking shop furniture as surplus. Additionally, the committee authorized travel for the high school cheerleading team to compete in Florida.

• Approved 2023-2024 Pre-School Tuition Rates & Payment Schedule
• Approved six policies on second reading (BEDH, BID, CA, CE, DH, DI)
• Approved travel for GHS Cheerleaders to Florida (April 15-18, 2023)
• Approved declaring GHS woodworking shop furniture as surplus
• Approved Consent Agenda including $22,000 in grant funds
• Approved Warrant #23-36 for $322,877.96
• Approved Warrant #23-37 for $465,313.79
• Approved Warrant #23-38 for $547,224.84

Bandstand Committee

The Gardner Bandstand Committee is holding a routine meeting to approve previous meeting minutes, review correspondence, and examine financial statements. The agenda contains only standard procedural items with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

• Approve minutes of previous meeting
• Review correspondence
• Review financial statements

The committee approved the financial statement and the minutes from December 1, 2022, and January 4, 2023. Members assigned specific local businesses and organizations to contact for sponsorships. The committee established a May 1 deadline for sponsor donations and a June 1 date for ordering performance flyers.

• Approved minutes from 12/1/2022
• Approved minutes from 1/4/2023
• Approved financial statement

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to review updates on the runway project, the Master Plan, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The body will also discuss alarm response volunteers and maintenance projects.

• Update on Runway Project
• Update on Master Plan & CIP
• Gale Associates, Inc. business
• Alarm Central volunteer response
• Airport Maintenance Project and volunteers

The Commission received updates on the runway project and master plan, noting that the runway project remains on time. Members volunteered to respond to alarms and discussed spring cleanup efforts. No new ordinances or contracts were voted upon during the meeting.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (JM, RS)
• Volunteered Jim Wood, Robert Swartz, and Andy Guertin to respond to alarms

School Subcommittees

The Gardner Public Schools Finance Sub-Committee is meeting to review expense reports and project updates, and to vote on gifts and donations. The committee will also discuss declaring surplus property. This is a routine administrative meeting focused on financial oversight.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Expense report review
• Projects update
• Vote on gifts and donations
• Declaration of surplus property

The committee approved the minutes from the March 7, 2023 meeting and declared several pieces of woodshop and classroom equipment as surplus. Members reviewed the current expense report and FY24 budget sheets.

• Approved March 7, 2023 meeting minutes
• Declared 6 woodshop tables, 26 computer/drafting desks, and 50 chairs/stools as surplus

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of district policies and the MASC Policy Newsletter. The session focuses on administrative procedures, fiscal management, and facility use.

• Review of School Committee Procedures (BGD)
• Review of School Building Administrative Coverage (CFA)
• Review of Fiscal Year (DCB) and Private Funding (DE) policies
• Review of Purchasing (DJ) and Procurement Requirements (DJE) policies
• Review of Use of School Facilities and Equipment (DFG)

The subcommittee reviewed several policies, determining that seven required no changes. Three policies were tabled for May, and three others were approved to be sent to the full School Committee for a first read.

• Approved March 2, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Determined no changes needed for policies CHD, CL, DCB, DFG, DJ, DJEIA, and DK
• Tabled policies DE, DIE, and KCD until May
• Approved sending Policy CFA (School Building Administrative Coverage) to full School Committee for first read (unanimous)
• Approved sending Policy CHCA (Approval of Handbooks and Directives) and MASC model Policy BGD to full School Committee for first read (unanimous)
• Approved sending Policy DJE (Bidding Requirements) with title change to 'Procurement Requirements' to full School Committee for first read (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Gardner Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes from February 14, 2023, and then enter executive session to review and discuss FY23 exemption and abatement applications, with the filing deadline having passed on April 1st. The meeting is open to the public and will be recorded.

• Review and approve meeting minutes from February 14, 2023
• Executive session under purpose 7 (G.L. c. 59 § 60) to review FY23 exemption applications
• Review and discuss FY23 abatement applications

The Board of Assessors reviewed exemption and real estate abatement applications during an executive session. Two exemptions were approved, while nine real estate abatements were either denied or deemed denied.

• Approved minutes from February 14, 2023 (2-0)
• Approved (1) Exemption - Clause 17D
• Approved (1) Exemption - Clause 22
• Deemed Denied (8) RE Abatements
• Denied (1) RE Abatement

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review updated policies. The body will also examine financial reports, including receipts, expenses, and the budget.

• Review and approval of financials
• Review of updated policies
• Receipts report
• Expense report
• Budget review

The commission approved the previous meeting minutes and the financial reports for expenditures through March. Members discussed updates to course policies and the upcoming opening of the golf range and course. No new policies were voted on during the meeting.

• Approved March 20 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Accepted financial reports showing $556,000 in receipts and $711,000 in expenditures (4-0)

Council on Aging

The Gardner Council on Aging board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes accepting prior meeting minutes, a treasurer's report, an update on the Age Friendly Designation, and the director's report, followed by open discussion. This is a routine business meeting with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Acceptance of minutes from March 6, 2023 meeting
• Treasurer's report
• Update on Age Friendly Designation
• Director's report
• Next meeting scheduled for May 1, 2023 at 2:00 PM

The Board of Directors accepted the minutes from the March 6 meeting and the March financial reports. Members discussed the Director's performance evaluation process and upcoming center events.

• Approved March 6, 2023 meeting minutes (Board 5/0, Associate Board 6/0)
• Approved March Finance Report (Board 5/0, Associate Board 6/0)

Finance Committee

The Gardner Finance Committee will review and vote on several appropriations, including funds for IT software licenses, water main repairs, sewer main relining, and new manhole frames. They will also consider an intermunicipal agreement with Ashburnham for wastewater services. The meeting includes approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Appropriation of $23,091 from Free Cash for IT software license renewal
• Appropriation of $30,000 from Water Surplus for repairs to water mains
• Appropriation of $50,000 from Sewer Surplus for relining sewer mains
• Appropriation of $150,000 from Sewer Surplus for new manhole frames and covers
• Intermunicipal agreement with Town of Ashburnham for wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal

The Finance Committee voted to recommend several funding orders to the City Council for sewer, water, and IT software updates. The committee also recommended authorizing an intermunicipal agreement with the Town of Ashburnham for wastewater services.

• Recommended appropriation of $23,091.00 from Free Cash for IT Software Service License Renewal
• Recommended appropriation of $30,000.00 from Water Surplus for Repairs to Mains
• Recommended appropriation of $50,000.00 from Sewer Surplus for Repairs to Main (Manhole Frames and Covers)
• Recommended appropriation of $150,000.00 from Sewer Surplus for Repairs to Main (Relining)
• Recommended granting authorization for an intermunicipal agreement with the Town of Ashburnham for wastewater collection, treatment and disposal
• Approved meeting minutes from February 21, 2023 and March 1, 2023 (3-0)

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will meet to consider confirming the Mayor's appointments of two individuals to the police department. The committee will also review and approve minutes from January 2023 meetings.

• Measure 10949: Appointment of Bryant Powlowski as Permanent Police Officer
• Measure 10950: Appointment of Angel Estrada as Permanent Police Officer

The committee voted to recommend the confirmation of two permanent police officers to the City Council. Both candidates were supported by the Mayor and Police Chief.

• Recommended confirmation of Bryant Powlowski as Permanent Police Officer
• Recommended confirmation of Angel Espada as Permanent Police Officer
• Accepted minutes of January 6, 2023 and January 17, 2023

Public Service Committee

The Public Service Committee will consider an appeal for 20 Graham Street, a National Grid/Verizon pole petition on Cross Street, and an intermunicipal agreement for wastewater services with Ashburnham. They will also review prior meeting minutes and receive updates from department heads.

• Appeal – 20 Graham Street
• Pole petition 10909: National Grid and Verizon to install 4 jointly owned poles on Cross Street, starting 15 feet north of Lawrence Street intersection, extending 800 feet west
• Measure 10946: Intermunicipal agreement with Town of Ashburnham for wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal
• Review and approval of minutes from February 2, 2023 meeting
• Department updates from DPW, Engineering, and Conservation Commission

The Public Service Committee granted a moratorium waiver for street excavation at 20 Graham Street and recommended the passage of a wastewater agreement with Ashburnham. The committee also recommended the approval of a pole installation petition on Cross Street subject to further inquiry.

• Approved waiver of 5-year moratorium for street excavation at 20 Graham Street (unanimous)
• Recommended passage of National Grid and Verizon pole petition for Cross Street subject to property owner inquiry (unanimous)
• Recommended passage to City Council of Intermunicipal Agreement with Town of Ashburnham for Wastewater Collection, Treatment and Disposal (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 2, 2023 (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to conduct a site visit for a special permit case. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Site visit for Case # 03/02/2023 (Special Permit) regarding Christine M Tree at 48 Chapel Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals toured the former Hunter Farm and Ice Cream stand to evaluate its conversion into an AirB&B. No formal votes were taken; the Board provided recommendations regarding safety lighting and debris removal.

• Recommended lighting and reflective tape for facility entry/exit steps
• Recommended removal of debris and litter from the rear of the house prior to occupancy

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss an ordinance to amend the City of Gardner Zoning Code. The proposal involves changing the classification of specific parcels of land located along Route 140.

• Ordinance to amend Chapter 675 (Zoning) regarding land along Route 140

The Planning Board voted to recommend that the City Council not approve a zoning amendment to change specific parcels of land along Route 140 from Rural Residential 2 to Commercial 2. The decision followed a presentation by Mayor Nicholson regarding watershed boundaries and the status of the City's Open Space Recreation Plan.

• Recommended NOT approving zoning amendment #10891 to change Route 140 parcels from Rural Residential 2 to Commercial 2 (4-0)

Open Space and Recreation Plan Steering Committee

The Steering Committee is meeting to review sections 1-10, appendices, and recent changes to the draft Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The committee will also discuss requirements for the final draft and the upcoming schedule.

• Review of draft OSRP sections 1-10
• Review of plan appendices
• Vote to approve December 8, 2022, meeting minutes

The committee discussed updates to the 2022 OSRP inventory and action plan maps, including changes to Parkers Pond and Bailey Brook Park. Members proposed a timeline to present the draft plan to the Conservation Commission, City Council, and Planning Board by the end of May.

• Updated action plan map to include Parkers Pond public access point
• Updated action plan map to include Bailey Brook Park improvements on Leo Drive
• Changed map tag from 'outdoor pool renovations' to 'plans for outdoor pool improvements'
• Resolved request to move 'newly protected lands' pointer on the northeast map

Retirement Board

The Board approved a 3% Cost-of-Living-Adjustment for FY2024 and increased the COLA base from $13,000 to $14,000. The Board also approved a payment warrant totaling $694,398.83 and accepted the 2022 annual reports.

• Approved 3.00% COLA for FY2024 (unanimous)
• Increased COLA base from $13,000.00 to $14,000.00 effective July 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #03/23 totaling $694,398.83 (unanimous)
• Accepted PERAC Annual Statement for December 31, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted Gardner Contributory Retirement Board Annual Report for December 31, 2022 (unanimous)
• Granted superannuation retirement benefits to Police Officer John E. Lawrence effective February 3, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Neil Janssens as Election Officer for upcoming Board election
• Approved attendance at MACRS Annual Spring Conference for Chairperson and Administrator

School Subcommittees

The subcommittee reviewed a presentation from Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino regarding his goals and compiled evidence. The committee decided the provided information was sufficient to complete the evaluation. The Chair recommended distributing the data to the full committee in May for a June presentation.

• Determined provided evidence was sufficient to complete Superintendent evaluation
• Recommended distribution of evaluation information to full committee in May

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and sign the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 2 Warrant. The board will also meet in executive session to discuss FY23 exemption and abatement applications.

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (Commitment 2) Warrant and Commitment
• FY23 exemption applications
• FY23 abatement applications

Board of Health

The Gardner Board of Health will meet to discuss a variance request for a new construction project. The board will also receive updates regarding Covid.

• Variance request for new construction project at 400 Matthews St
• Covid updates

The Board approved a temporary Title 5 variance for a commercial project at 400 Matthews St to allow the use of a tight tank for sewage disposal. The variance is limited to the first two buildings of the project and expires at the end of 2023.

• Approved temporary Title 5 variance for tight tank use at 400 Matthews St (2-0)
• Accepted December 12, 2022 meeting minutes
• Postponed review of February 6, 2023 meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold a joint public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for mobile storage pod installation at Manca Drive. The agenda also includes discussion of a mowing contract for the Alisauskas Conservation Area and a rezoning request for Rt. 140 Green Street.

• Public Hearing: Mobile storage pods, landscaping, and drainage at Manca Drive
• Discussion of Alisauskas Conservation Area mowing contract (<$10,000)
• Rezoning request: Rt. 140 Green Street from residential to commercial/industrial
• Enforcement Order: 114 Topaz Terrace silt fence
• Approval request: Boots (<$130)

The commission approved a $150 expenditure for boots. A public hearing regarding mobile storage pods at Manca Drive was postponed to April 10, 2023.

• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed Notice of Intent public hearing for Manca Drive project to April 10, 2023
• Approved $150.00 for boots (unanimous)

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to review previous minutes and the Executive Director's report. The board will also review and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Acceptance of February 16, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices

Historical Commission

The Gardner Historical Commission will meet to discuss old and new business. The body will review the 2023 budget and historical markers installed as part of an Eagle Project.

• Review of historical markers placed by Caleb Pera (Eagle Project)
• Sign for Lake St. Fire House
• Budget for 2023
• Repair of stone from Old Burying Ground

The commission discussed the restoration of stones in the Old Burying Ground and the placement of a sign at the Lake Street Fire Station. Members proposed taking inventories of historic resources in public buildings and at the new elementary school. No formal votes were recorded.

• Approved placement of Lake Street Fire Station sign in the flower bed
• Proposed obtaining restoration bids for Old Burying Ground stones
• Proposed documenting the old stone foundation at the new elementary school
• Proposed completing the inventory form for the demolished Crystal Lake Cemetery Building

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review several proposed ordinances regarding city zoning changes. These include land classification along Route 140, the addition of sports betting to the table of uses, and increasing the quota for marijuana establishments.

• Ordinance to change land classification along Route 140
• Ordinance to add 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses
• Ordinance to increase the quota for Marijuana Establishments
• Special Permit Modification Request: Seven Point / Cannapreneur Partners
• Concord Crossing — Open Space Residential Development discussion

The Planning Board recommended two zoning amendments to the City Council regarding sports betting and marijuana establishment quotas. A proposed rezoning of land along Route 140 was tabled due to conflicting watershed data. The Board also approved a special permit name transfer for a retail project.

• Recommended adding 'Sports Betting' to the Zoning Table of Uses (5-0)
• Recommended increasing marijuana establishment quota from two to four (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning of Route 140 parcels pending watershed clarification
• Approved Special Permit transfer from Seven Point to Cannapreneur Partners, LLC (5-0)
• Approved January 11, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Board will review Urban Renewal Plans for the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor. Discussion items include 140 South Main Street, Lewis Property Care 2023 Contract, and Summit Industrial Park.

• Urban Renewal Plans: Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• 140 South Main Street
• Lewis Property Care 2023 Contract
• Summit Industrial Park
• Monthly Financial Statements for Accounts and Investments

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority approved a 2023 contract for Lewis Property Care and authorized several community sponsorships. The board also approved the hiring of a structural engineer for a cell tower and accepted current financial reports.

• Approved 2023 contract for Lewis Property Care (5-0)
• Approved $3,900 to hire a structural engineer for the cell tower (4-0)
• Approved financial reports, including a $15,000 CD and $15,000 Mutual Fund Money Market investment (5-0)
• Approved sponsorship of two flowerpots (5-0)
• Approved renewal of two banners for $200 (5-0)
• Approved $2,500 'Wildcat Sponsor' contribution for Centennial Parade (5-0)
• Approved February 22, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

License Commission

The Commission will review meeting minutes from February 14, 2023, and hold a hearing for Gardner Ale House regarding a Flashback Dance event. The agenda also includes an update on the VFW application amendment and notice of Gardner Spirits' new location.

• Hearing: Gardner Ale House — Day for Flashback Dance at Perry Auditorium on April 22, 2023
• Old Business: VFW Application for Amendment (Approved by ABCC)
• New Business: Gardner Spirits operating out of 5 E Broadway

The Board of License Commission approved the February 14, 2023, meeting minutes and granted a one-day liquor permit for an event in Perry Auditorium. The commission also noted a location change for Gardner Spirits.

• Approved February 14, 2023, meeting minutes
• Approved Moon Hill Brewing 1-day liquor permit for Flashback Dance on 04/22/23 in Perry Auditorium
• Approved VFW request for amendment of manager/officers approved by ABCC

Zoning Board

The Board approved a special permit to convert an accessory building into a dwelling unit at 20 Graham Street. Two other applications were withdrawn without prejudice, and two cases were continued for further review.

• Approved special permit for accessory building conversion to dwelling unit at 20 Graham St (Unanimous)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice and fee waiver for parking variance at 163-165 Pine St (Unanimous)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice for storage pod facility at 0 Manca Drive (Unanimous)
• Continued hearing for AirBnB special permit at 48 Chapel St pending site visit
• Continued hearing for residential conversion at 63 Walnut St to next meeting
• Approved minutes from Dec 20, 2022, July 19, 2022, Oct 18, 2022, Oct 20, 2022, Nov 15, 2022, Jan 17, 2023, Sept 17, 2022, and Oct 29, 2022 (Unanimous)

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet via Zoom to approve previous meeting minutes and review financial reports, including receipts, expenses, and the budget. The body will also receive updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent.

• Review and approval of financials, receipts, expenses, and budget
• Update from Pro Manager Dan Berry
• Update from Superintendent Bill Frank
• Correspondence from James LeBlanc requesting a tribute

The Commission approved the financial reports through March 9. The board agreed to pay for AED training for pro shop employees. Members discussed a proposal to name the Grass Center after Mike Hermanson.

• Approved January 30 meeting minutes with vote revisions (4-0)
• Approved February 27 meeting minutes with vote revisions (4-0)
• Approved payment for employee AED training
• Approved financial reports showing $566,000 in receipts and $689,584 in expenses (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several items including notifications regarding FY2024 Chapter 90 funding and preliminary Cherry Sheet figures. The agenda also includes proposed intermunicipal agreements for wastewater collection and animal control services.

• Notification regarding FY2024 Chapter 90 Funding
• Notification regarding Preliminary Cherry Sheet Figures for FY2024
• Intermunicipal Agreement between City of Gardner and Town of Ashburnham for wastewater collection, treatment and disposal
• Intermunicipal Agreement between City of Gardner and Town of Hubbardston for Animal Control Services
• Open Meeting Law Complaint filed by Paul DeMeo

The Finance Committee recommended approving an intermunicipal agreement with the Town of Hubbardston for animal control services. The committee also recommended placing notifications regarding FY2024 Chapter 90 funding and Cherry Sheet figures on file. A wastewater agreement with Ashburnham was referred back for further study.

• Approved animal control intermunicipal agreement with Town of Hubbardston
• Recommended placing FY2024 Chapter 90 funding notification on file
• Recommended placing FY2024 Preliminary Cherry Sheet figures notification on file
• Referred wastewater agreement with Town of Ashburnham back to Finance Committee for further study
• Accepted City Solicitor's draft response to Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Paul DeMeo
• Approved meeting minutes from Oct 3, Oct 12, Nov 17, Nov 30, Dec 14 (2022) and Jan 30 (2023) (3-0)

School Building Committee

The Gardner School Building Committee will meet to approve bills and review construction and budget updates. The committee is scheduled to vote on change orders presented by the architects.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Bacon Construction
• Budget and monthly construction updates from OPM
• Vote on architect change orders

The committee approved 16 invoices totaling $483,228.30 for various vendors, including a $305,317.16 payment to Bacon Construction Co, Inc. Members also approved Change Order #27 for $93,104.00 to cover items including elevator operators and faucet replacements.

• Approved 16 invoices totaling $483,228.30 (so voted)
• Approved Change Order #27 for $93,104.00 (so voted)
• Approved minutes from February 15, 2023 meeting (so voted)

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority is meeting to approve the February 22, 2023 minutes and discuss a banner renewal and Centennial Parade sponsorship. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with the next meeting scheduled for April 19, 2023.

• Approve February 22, 2023 minutes
• Banner renewal
• Centennial Parade sponsorship

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review minutes from January 11, 2023, and hold a public hearing regarding marijuana establishment ordinances. The board will also conduct an informal discussion regarding Concord Crossing Open Space Residential Development.

• Public Hearing: Ordinance to amend Chapter 675 (Zoning) and Chapter 1070 (Marijuana Establishments)
• Public Hearing request by Seven Point / Cannapreneur Partners
• Informal Discussion: Concord Crossing — Open Space Residential Development

Board of Assessors

The meeting scheduled for March 14, 2023, was cancelled. The agenda had listed the review of FY23 exemption and abatement applications.

• Review of FY23 exemption applications
• Review of FY23 abatement applications

School Committee

The School Committee will consider several policy updates and vote on the GHS senior class trip to Hershey, PA. The body will also discuss the MSBA new building project and the Monty Tech After Dark Program MOU.

• Acceptance of $45,000.00 in grant funds
• Warrants for payment totaling $2,334,371.53 (Warrants #23-32 through #23-35)
• Vote on GHS Senior Class Trip to Hershey, PA, April 28 & 29, 2023
• Second reading and vote on policies for Vice-Chairperson duties, School Council business, and budget planning
• Vote on Program of Studies and Monty Tech After Dark Program MOU

The committee approved a Chapter 74 Partnership Program agreement with Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District. Members also approved the 2023-2024 Gardner High School Program of Studies and a senior class trip to Hershey Park. Several district policies were approved on second reading.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $45,000 in grant funds and four warrants totaling $2,433,371.45
• Approved Chapter 74 Partnership Program MOU with Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District
• Approved Gardner High School Program of Studies for 2023-2024
• Approved GH Senior Class trip to Hershey Park (April 28-29, 2023)
• Approved second reading of policies BDBB, BDFA-E-3, and DBD
• Referred Policy DIE back to the Policy Subcommittee for review

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for mobile storage pods at Manca Drive, continued from February. They will also vote on minutes, discuss a mowing contract under $10,000, and consider approval for boots under $130.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for mobile storage pods at Manca Drive (M17-19-1) within wetland buffer
• Vote to approve February 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of contract renewal for Alisauskas Conservation Area mowing, under $10,000
• Request for approval of boots under $130 for professional development

Cemetery Commission

The Municipal Grounds/Cemetery Commission will meet to review financial statements and facility status. The agenda includes reports from the department head and a review of previous meeting minutes.

• Review of financial statement
• Status of facilities report
• Report from Department Head

The Commission accepted the December 8, 2022 meeting minutes and the current financial statement. Members agreed to review the department fee schedule at home to propose updates for offsetting expenses. The board also discussed potential cemetery expansions and the impact of a proposed bike path.

• Accepted December 8, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted financial statement (unanimous)
• Decided to review fee schedule independently and revisit once Director provides new numbers

Public Welfare Committee

The Public Welfare Committee will meet to receive updates from various city departments and boards. No specific new business items are listed for decision.

• Department updates for Cable TV, Golf, Council on Aging, Library, Airport, and Greenwood Pool
• Updates from the Disability Commission and Veterans Services
• Updates from the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals

The committee received status reports from various city departments, including the library, airport, and veterans services. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made during the meeting.

• Voted to adjourn the meeting at 5:14 p.m.

Capital Improvement Committee

The committee will meet to discuss and comment on the Capital Project/Item List. Members will also discuss the FY24 CIP Report.

• Discussion of Capital Project/Item List
• Discussion of FY24 CIP Report

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Expense report review
• Projects update
• Vote on gifts and donations

The Finance Subcommittee approved the minutes from the January 26, 2023 meeting and voted to keep pre-school tuition rates the same. Members reviewed expense reports and revolving funds, noting negative balances in substitute teacher and special education legal lines. The committee discussed upcoming bids for cleaning and food service contracts.

• Approved January 26, 2023 meeting minutes
• Voted to keep pre-school tuition rates the same

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss two proposed ordinances: one to designate a one-way street and another to create new regulations for mobile food operations (food trucks) in Gardner. The committee will also review and approve minutes from three prior meetings and receive updates from the Public Health, Police, and Fire Departments.

• Ordinance 10861 to amend Chapter 600 (Vehicles and Traffic) to designate a one-way street
• Ordinance 10906 to add a new Chapter 502 regulating mobile food operations (food trucks)
• Review and approval of minutes from May 26, June 17, and July 29, 2022 meetings
• Department updates from Public Health, Police, and Fire Departments

The Public Safety Committee recommended a new ordinance to regulate mobile food operations and a temporary one-way traffic change for Regan Street. The committee also received personnel and equipment updates from the police, fire, and health departments.

• Recommended new 'Mobile Food Operations' ordinance to regulate food truck registration and zoning (Approved)
• Recommended temporary 60-day one-way traffic change on Regan Street with permanent no-parking zones (Approved)
• Accepted minutes from May 26, June 17, and July 29, 2022 (Approved)

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will meet to discuss the confirmation of a mayoral appointment. The session focuses on a specific legal position within the city government.

• Confirmation of Robert Charland, Esq. as Assistant City Solicitor for a term expiring January 1, 2024

The Appointments Committee voted to recommend that the City Council confirm the Mayor's appointment of Robert Charland, Esq. as Assistant City Solicitor. The appointment is for a term expiring January 1, 2024.

• Recommended to City Council the confirmation of Robert Charland, Esq. as Assistant City Solicitor

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging accepted the February meeting minutes and the Treasurer's report. The board approved the appointment of Stanley Ludzco as an Associate Member. Director Michael Ellis provided updates on senior programs, personnel changes, and the projected move to a new center by the end of the year.

• Accepted February 6, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (5-0)
• Approved Stanley Ludzco as an Associate Member (5-0)

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of school district policies. These reviews cover areas ranging from public participation and staff communications to fiscal accounting and audits.

• Review of BEDH: Public Participation at School Committee Meetings
• Review of BHC: School Committee Staff Communications
• Review of BID: School Committee Member Compensation
• Review of DI: Fiscal Accounting and Reporting
• Review of DIE: Audits

The subcommittee reviewed several policies and determined that four required no changes. Eight other policies were updated and recommended for a first read at the March full School Committee Meeting.

• Approved February 2, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Updated policies BHC, BIBA, CH, and DGA as 'Reviewed March, 2023' with no changes
• Recommended Policy BEDH title change to 'Public Comment at School Committee Meetings' for first read (unanimous)
• Recommended Policy BID updates regarding member compensation for first read (unanimous)
• Recommended Policy CA title and language updates for first read (unanimous)
• Recommended Policy CE be renamed to 'CB' and updated for first read (unanimous)
• Recommended Policy DH legal reference updates for first read (unanimous)
• Recommended Policy DI and Policy DIE updates regarding funds and audits for first read (unanimous)

Public Service Committee

The committee will discuss three petitions from National Grid and Verizon New England regarding utility infrastructure. The meeting includes department updates from Public Works, Engineering, and the Conservation Commission.

• Petition 10907: Install new hand hole and 2-3” conduit at 69 Edgell Street
• Petition 10908: Relocate pole #8 on Edgell Street approximately 45 feet east
• Petition 10909: Install 4 new poles on Cross Street
• Discussion regarding College Greenhouse Meter

The Committee recommended three National Grid and Verizon pole petitions for approval. Members also agreed that the MWCC Greenhouse should be billed for metered water usage.

• Recommended pole petition 10907 for new hand hole on Edgell Street (unanimous)
• Recommended pole petition 10908 to relocate pole on Edgell Street (unanimous)
• Recommended pole petition 10909 for 4 new poles on Cross Street subject to property owner inquiry (unanimous)
• Agreed to bill MWCC for metered water usage at the Greenhouse

Finance Committee

The committee will review notifications regarding opioid lawsuit settlement payments and several orders to rescind previous loan orders. The agenda also includes requests for fund appropriations and discussions on personnel compensation changes.

• Notification of opioid settlement funds from Allergan ($60,547.58), CVS ($134,435.79), Walgreens ($146,184.84), Teva ($101,632.12), and Walmart ($76,128.90)
• Appropriation of $33,139.00 from Free Cash to Health Department Vehicle Expense Account
• Appropriation of $8,900 from Free Cash to FAA Airport Master Plan Professional Services Account
• Rescinding of multiple loan orders including Elm Street School Repairs and Watkins Field Renovations
• Ordinance to amend City Personnel Code regarding compensation for Mayor, Councillors, and School Committee

The Finance Committee voted to recommend the rescission of numerous loan orders for past projects to free up bonding capacity. The committee also recommended several appropriations from free cash for city departments and authorized five-year contract periods for specific services.

• Recommended appropriating $28,039.00 from free cash for a Health Department vehicle
• Recommended appropriating $3,690.00 from free cash for City Clerk dog licensing software
• Recommended appropriating $8,900.00 from free cash as a match for an FAA Airport Master Plan grant
• Recommended rescinding 16 loan orders including Elm Street School repairs ($4,158,176) and Water Treatment Facility upgrades ($14,000,000)
• Recommended approving five-year contract periods for school food services, school custodial services, and golf cart rentals
• Recommended electing John Richard as City Auditor for a term expiring February 23, 2026
• Recommended adopting an ordinance for a 2% salary increase for Mayor, City Council, and School Committee effective 2024
• Recommended adopting a measure to close public office operations on Saturdays

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission is meeting to review updates on the runway project and the airport's master and 5-year plans. The body will also discuss airport maintenance, beacon lights, and operating procedures.

• Update on Runway Project
• Update on Master Plan & 5-year Plan
• Discussion on Beacon Lights
• Review of Airport Operating Procedures
• Knox Box Contents

The Commission approved the minutes from the February 1 and February 8 meetings. Discussions were held regarding pilot lounge refurbishment, the Policies & Procedures Manual, and delayed Mass DOT paperwork. The Council Sub Committee has approved funding for the Master Plan, though work awaits the arrival of the grant.

• Approved 2/1/2023 Commission Meeting minutes
• Approved 2/8/2023 Special Commission Meeting minutes

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and review financial reports, including receipts, expenses, and the budget. The meeting also includes updates from the Pro Manager and Superintendent.

• Approval of January 30, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of financials
• Receipts Report
• Expense Report
• Budget review

The commission approved financial reports as of February 24, noting a slight deficit and the need for fund transfers to cover specific negative items. Discussion of updated policies was deferred to the next meeting. January meeting minutes were tabled.

• Approved financial reports as of February 24
• Tabled January meeting minutes
• Deferred policy discussion to March 20 meeting

Retirement Board

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board will meet to review investments and approve payroll warrants. The board is scheduled to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and process retirements.

• Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2024
• Investment Review
• Accounts Payable & Payroll Warrants #02/23
• Approval of retirements
• December 31, 2022, Pre-Close Trial Balance & General Ledger City Treasurer’s Bank Reconciliation

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board approved the February 2023 warrant and December 2022 financial records. The Board reviewed investment values and noted that a vote on the FY2024 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is scheduled for March 28, 2023.

• Approved minutes of January 26, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved December 2022 Pre-close Trial Balance and Pre-close General Ledger History (unanimous)
• Accepted City Treasurer’s bank reconciliation for December 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #02/23 totaling $669,997.23 (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Gardner Historical Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including reviewing minutes, a historical marker placed by Caleb Pera's Eagle Project, a sign for the Lake St. Fire House, the 2023 budget, and repair of a little boy's stone from the Old Burying Ground.

• Review historical markers placed by Caleb Pera, Eagle Project
• Sign for Lake St. Fire House
• Budget for 2023
• Repair of little boy's stone from Old Burying Ground

Charter Review Committee

The Gardner City Charter Review Committee will hold a public hearing to receive testimony on potential amendments to the city charter. The hearing is open to the public, with written testimony also accepted.

• Public hearing on potential amendments to the Gardner City Charter
• Testimony limited to 3 minutes per speaker from the general public
• Written testimony may be submitted to the Mayor's office

The Committee held a public hearing to receive testimony on proposed updates to the city charter. Mayor Nicholson and Council President Kazinskas proposed various changes to align the document with state law and modern practices. No votes were taken on the proposals during this meeting.

Gardner Redevelopment Authority

The Gardner Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review urban renewal plans and specific property matters. The body will discuss the Downtown and Mill Street Corridor as well as 140 South Main Street.

• Urban Renewal Plans for Downtown and Mill Street Corridor
• Discussion regarding 140 South Main Street
• Gardner Square Two 2022 Annual Meeting

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will review a measure to confirm the Mayor's appointment of Leonette Roy to the Gardner Housing Authority Board of Directors. The term for this position expires December 27, 2027.

• Confirmation of Leonette Roy as a Housing Authority Member

The Appointments Committee voted to recommend that the City Council confirm the Mayor's appointment of Leonette Roy as a Housing Authority Member. The term for this position expires December 27, 2027.

• Approved minutes of December 19, 2022 meeting
• Recommended confirmation of Leonette Roy to Housing Authority Member (term expires Dec 27, 2027)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is discussing several orders to take easements by eminent domain for the Uptown Rotary construction project. The body is also considering appropriations from free cash for the Mayor's Department and the Fire Department.

• Appropriating $60,000 from Free Cash to the Mayor’s Department Professional Services Account
• Appropriating $150,000 from Free Cash to the Fire Department New Equipment for Truck Account
• Eminent domain orders for easements at 28 Central Street, 13 Elm Street, 22 Elm Street, 23 Elms Street, 9 Green Street, 15 Green Street, 12 Pearl Street, and 16 Woodland Avenue
• Ordinance to amend the Code of the City of Gardner, Chapter 22 (Assessing Department)

The committee recommended several appropriations from free cash for a grant consultant and fire truck equipment. It also recommended an ordinance to make the City Assessor a department head and several orders of taking for the Uptown Rotary Construction project.

• Recommended appropriating $60,000 from free cash for a grant consultant (10894)
• Recommended appropriating $150,000 from free cash for fire truck equipment (10895)
• Recommended ordinance to make City Assessor a department head (10896)
• Recommended Order of Taking for easements at 28 Central Street (10897)
• Recommended Order of Taking for easements at 13 Elm Street (10898)
• Recommended Order of Taking for easements at 22 Elm Street (10899)
• Recommended Order of Taking for easements at 23 Elms Street (10900)
• Recommended Order of Taking for easements at 9 Green, 15 Green, 12 Pearl, and 16 Woodland Ave (10901-10904)

Charter Review Committee

The Gardner Charter Review Committee is meeting to review the current city charter and proposed amendments from the mayor, city council, and a previous charter committee. They will also schedule a public hearing on the matter. The agenda is focused on discussion and planning, with no final decisions expected at this meeting.

• Review of current City Charter as amended through November 7, 1989
• Discussion of 2022 Mayor Suggestions for charter amendments
• Review of 2015 City Council Proposed Amendments
• Review of 2015 Charter Committee Proposed Amendments
• Scheduling of a public hearing on charter amendments

The committee discussed reviewing the city charter and proposed amendments to align the 100-year-old document with current state law. The committee decided to hold a public hearing in one week at the City Council Chambers. Mayor Nicholson expressed a goal of having final recommendations ready for the November ballot if changes are approved by the council.

• Approved motion to schedule a public hearing in one week at City Council Chambers

Gardner Housing Authority

The Gardner Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to conduct routine business. The body is scheduled to review and approve monthly accounts payable invoices.

• Review and approval of monthly A/P invoices
• Acceptance of January 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Executive Director's report

Development Review Committee

The Development Review Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review two preliminary site plans. The meeting focuses on a revitalization project and a facility expansion.

• Rear Main Street Revitalization Project Phase II preliminary site plan
• 143 Colony Road self-storage facility expansion preliminary site plan

The committee reviewed design plans for the Rear Main Street Revitalization Phase II and a proposed self-storage expansion at 143 Colony Road. No votes were taken on the project proposals; the only formal action was the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes of December 01, 2022 (All in favor)

School Building Committee

The Gardner Elementary School Building Committee will review budget and construction updates. The body is scheduled to vote on change orders and approve bills for several vendors.

• Approval of bills for Colliers, Jones Whitsett, and Bacon Construction
• Vote on change orders presented by architects
• Budget and monthly construction updates from OPM

The committee approved several vendor invoices and Change Order #26 for $4,357.00. Project managers reported that the building is nearly complete, with punch list items and lighting work ongoing. Final completion and MSBA audit will follow a commissioning agent's review this summer.

• Approved Creative Office Resources Invoice #196553 ($302,688.85)
• Approved Creative Office Resources Invoice #196554 ($107,654.78)
• Approved W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Invoice #233809353 ($2,861.00)
• Approved W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Invoice #232077300 ($1,090.00)
• Approved Red Thread Invoice #897357 ($1,187.56)
• Approved Moura’s Cleaning Service Inc. Invoice #52541 ($13,567.50)
• Approved W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Invoice #234389541 ($3,277.50)
• Approved W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Invoice #233843990 ($82,140.00)

Public Welfare Committee

The Public Welfare Committee met to conduct budget hearings for several city departments. The Mayor submitted budget proposals for oversight, and the committee approved the minutes from the April 27, 2021 meeting.

• FY2022 Mayor's budget proposal for Golf Course Fund: $839,162.50
• FY2022 Mayor's budget proposal for Council on Aging: $185,364.86
• FY2022 Mayor's budget proposal for Library: $798,409.72
• FY2022 Mayor's budget proposal for Airport: $16,000.00
• Budget reviews for Cable Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Greenwood Memorial Pool, Disabilities Commission, Veterans, and Planning Board

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to elect a Board Chairperson. The body will also enter an executive session to review FY23 exemption and abatement applications.

• Election of Board Chairperson
• Review of FY23 exemption applications
• Review of FY23 abatement applications

The Board of Assessors approved three applications during an executive session. These included two tax exemptions and one personal property abatement. The Board also elected Charles LeBlanc as Chairman.

• Approved minutes from January 17, 2023 (3-0)
• Elected Charles LeBlanc as Chairman (2-0)
• Approved one Exemption - Clause 22E
• Approved one Exemption - Clause 22
• Approved one Personal Property Abatement

License Commission

The Gardner Board of License Commission will hold a regular meeting on February 14, 2023, at 4:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The agenda includes approval of January 10 meeting minutes, a hearing for a GEHM 1-day license, and old business regarding a VFW application for amendment still pending ABCC approval. No new business is listed.

• Hearing: GEHM 1-Day license
• Old Business: VFW Application for Amendment (pending ABCC approval)
• Approval of January 10, 2023 meeting minutes

The License Commission approved the January 10, 2023, meeting minutes. A one-day liquor permit for a bingo event on March 3, 2023, was granted. A request from the VFW regarding manager/officer amendments remains pending with the ABCC.

• Approved January 10, 2023, meeting minutes
• Approved one-day liquor permit for bingo event on 03/03/23
• VFW manager/officers amendment request remains pending ABCC approval

School Committee

The Gardner School Committee will vote on several items including a request to the state delegation for stop-arm cameras on school buses, the 2023-2024 school choice acceptance, the annual school calendar, and the schedule of meetings. The committee will also receive informational updates on policies, the program of studies, and various coordinator reports.

• Vote on requesting stop-arm cameras on buses from state delegation (Item #3482)
• Vote on 2023-2024 School Choice Acceptance (Item #3478)
• Vote on 2023-2024 Annual School Calendar (Item #3481)
• First reading of policies including Budget Planning (Item #3475)
• Acceptance of $35,000 in grant funds (Consent Agenda)

The School Committee approved the 2023-2024 annual school calendar and capped virtual school enrollment at 1%. The board also authorized participation in the "After Dark" vocational training pilot and requested state advocacy for stop-arm bus cameras.

• Approved 2023-2024 Annual School Calendar Option #2 (so voted)
• Capped 2023-2024 Virtual School enrollment at 1% (so voted)
• Approved participation in "After Dark" vocational training program (so voted)
• Voted to ask State Delegation to advocate for stop-arm bus camera legislation (so voted)
• Approved acceptance of School Choice students for 2023-2024 (so voted)
• Approved amended 2022-2023 and new 2023-2024 meeting schedules (so voted)
• Approved Consent Agenda including warrants totaling $3,266,311.47 (so voted)
• First reading of policies BDBB, BDFA-E-3, and DBD completed

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent for projects in wetland buffer zones: single-family homes at 114 Topaz Terrace and storage pods with drainage improvements on Manca Drive. The commission will also vote on January meeting minutes and discuss funding for culvert replacement on Keyes Road and baseball field improvements using a Brooks Pharmacy balance.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent by Conrad Donell for single-family homes at 114 Topaz Terrace (continued from Jan. 9)
• Public hearing on Notice of Intent by Alan Belanger for mobile storage pods on Manca Drive
• Vote to approve January 30, 2023 meeting minutes
• Brooks Pharmacy balance of $2,890 proposed for baseball field improvements near Snow St. and Crawford St.
• Request for funding from conservation account for culvert replacement on Keyes Road

The Commission approved a Notice of Intent for a single-family home at 114 Topaz Terrace subject to specific material and fencing conditions. A hearing for a mobile storage pod project at Manca Drive was continued to February 27, 2023.

• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved Notice of Intent for 114 Topaz Terrace with conditions (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Manca Drive mobile storage pods to February 27, 2023

School Subcommittees

The Facilities Sub-Committee will meet to discuss old business and receive updates on projects. The agenda consists of procedural items and general updates.

• Projects update

The committee reviewed progress on the Watkins Field concession building and the GES electronic sign. A contract was awarded to study HVAC upgrades for the Landry Auditorium. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Awarded contract to study GHS Landry Auditorium HVAC upgrade

Airport Commission

The Gardner Municipal Airport Commission is meeting to review correspondence. The primary focus of the meeting is the bylaws regarding the hiring of a new airport manager.

• Bylaws involving the hiring of a new airport manager

The Commission reviewed the timeline for hiring a part-time Airport Manager and discussed the process for approving Commission-sponsored business. The body also discussed the role of the Public Service and Community Development Committees in handling FAA and Mass DOT requirements.

• Requested that the Commission create and file an Annual Report with the City

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review minutes from December 12, 2022, and receive updates regarding COVID-19. The agenda also includes time for old and new business.

• Review of December 12, 2022 meeting minutes
• COVID-19 updates

The Board of Health provided updates on COVID-19 statistics and upcoming clinics. Staff reported on landfill pump bid progress and the completion of annual recycle grant reports. No formal votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Postponed review of December 12, 2022 meeting minutes
• Confirmed upcoming COVID, shingles, and pneumonia clinic for 3/13/23

Council on Aging

The Gardner Council on Aging Board will meet on February 6, 2023, at the Senior Center. They will vote on minutes from January 9, hear the Treasurer's Report, and discuss updates on old business. New business includes a Covid Clinic and the Director's Report.

• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2023 meeting
• Treasurer's Report
• Update on New Business from prior meeting
• Discussion of a Covid Clinic
• Director's Report

The board voted to support a request to the Mayor and City Council to eliminate dedicated AARP and Golden Age seats in favor of general three-year appointments. The board also accepted the January meeting minutes and the Treasurer's report.

• Approved request to eliminate dedicated AARP and Golden Age seats and replace them with general 3-year appointments (5-0)
• Accepted January 9, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (5-0)

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission will vote on approving December 2022 meeting minutes and consider designating specific downtown parking spots for handicap parking on Main, Pleasant, and Parker Streets. They will also discuss restricting parking near the Greenwood and Baker Street intersection, legal issues with limiting truck traffic on Stephanie Drive, and safety concerns about new residential driveways on Route 140.

• Approval of December 19, 2022 meeting minutes
• Designating handicap parking at Main St (Pricilla's), Pleasant St (Turk's), and Parker St (Ale House)
• No parking signs at Greenwood St and Baker St intersection due to MV parking too close
• Limiting truck traffic on Stephanie Dr. and other areas (legal issue noted)
• Safety concerns about adding residential driveways on Rt. 140 from Green St to Winchendon line

The Commission voted to recommend that the Mayor require an in-depth traffic and safety study for any further residential development along Rt 140 from Green St to the Winchendon town line. The board also tabled a discussion on handicapped parking spots in downtown Gardner. DPW will install no-parking signage at the intersections of Regan and Parker Streets and Parker and Greenwood.

• Approved recommendation to Mayor for traffic and safety study on Rt 140 residential development (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on handicapped parking at Pricilla’s Candy, Turks Barber, and Ale House (Unanimous)
• DPW to install 'No Parking 15 Ft to the corner' signs at Regan & Parker and Parker & Greenwood
• Approved meeting minutes from December 19, 2022 (Unanimous)

School Subcommittees

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review a series of district policies. These reviews cover administrative duties, budget planning, and the relationship between the School Committee and the Superintendent.

• Review of policies regarding Duties of Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and Finance Officer
• Review of School Committee-Superintendent Relationship policy
• Review of School Improvement Plan and School Council Business policies
• Review of Rules of Order and Minutes policies
• Review of Budget Deadlines, Budget Planning, and Transfer Authority policies

The subcommittee reviewed nine policies and determined no changes were required for those items. Three specific policies were updated and recommended for a first read by the full School Committee in February.

• Approved November 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed and maintained without changes: BDBC, BDBD, BDD, BDF, BDFA-E-1, BEDD, BEDG, DBC, and DBJ
• Recommended removal of vice-chairperson pronouns in Policy BDBB for full Committee first read (unanimous)
• Recommended updating Policy BDFA-E-3 to match MASC recommended policy BDFA for full Committee first read (unanimous)
• Recommended removing specific procedural language from Policy DBD for full Committee first read (unanimous)

Public Service Committee

The committee reviewed water and sewer bill appeals and approved a National Grid pole petition for Coleman Street. Members also discussed sludge landfill expansion appeals and the installation of sensor-based street lights.

• Approved National Grid petition to install one pole and one stub pole on Coleman Street
• Approved a payment plan for water/sewer charges at 95 Crestwood Drive
• Approved a $150 abatement and one-year payment plan for 53 Vaughn Street
• Finance approved funding for new sensor-based lights at Timpany, Main, Willow, and Dyer
• Discussed a sludge landfill expansion appeal currently with the DEP

The Committee tabled a water abatement request for 25 Main Street pending the completion of a meter replacement. The board also accepted the minutes from December 1 and 15, 2022. DPW and Engineering provided updates on various infrastructure projects and budget deficits.

• Tabled water/sewer abatement for 25 Main Street until meter replacement is complete
• Approved minutes of meetings dated December 1 & 15, 2022

Williams-Rockwell

The Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Foundation Committee will meet to discuss investment updates and grant applications. The body is tasked with voting on the 2022-2023 school year grants and a Raymond James investment update.

• Vote on 2022-2023 School Year Grant Applications
• Vote on Raymond James Investment update

The committee approved the financial report for the managed account as of January 31, 2023. Members reviewed the distribution of $40,110.00 awarded to 20 applications for the 2022/2023 period.

• Approved minutes from January 25, 2022 (All in favor)
• Accepted Financial Report as presented (All in favor)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission is meeting to review updates on the runway project and the Master Plan and 5-year Plan provided by Gale Associates, Inc. The body will also discuss airport management, maintenance, and beacon lights.

• Update on Runway Project from Gale Associates, Inc.
• Update on Master Plan & 5-year Plan from Gale Associates, Inc.
• Volunteer search for Alarm Central call response
• Discussion on Beacon Lights
• Discussion on Airport Manager and Airport Maintenance

The Commission approved the minutes from the January 4, 2022 meeting. Gale Associates provided updates on the Runway Project and Master Plan, though no formal votes were taken on these items. The Commission discussed airport maintenance and the introduction of Airport Manager Isabelle Davis.

• Approved January 4, 2022 meeting minutes

Open Space and Recreation Plan Steering Committee

The Open Space and Recreation Plan Steering Committee will meet to review the previous plan and discuss tables, maps, priority lands, and an action plan. The meeting is a discussion session with no votes or decisions listed.

• Review of previous Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Tables and Maps Discussion
• Priority lands and Action plan discussion
• Other input and suggestions

The committee discussed updates to the priority ranking map, recreation facility map, and Chapter 61 land tables. Members coordinated timelines for GIS work and the eventual public review process. No formal votes were recorded.

• Assigned priority ranking map updates to Trevor and Sophie
• Assigned recreation facility map (#15) and table updates to Jon
• Agreed to include Natural Heritage and Endangered Species and Bio map link in draft report
• Decided to label green dots on the priority ranking map with Map/lot/parcel IDs

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet via Zoom to elect new officers and approve meeting minutes from December 19, 2022. The agenda includes reviews of financial reports, a code of conduct, and tournament date requests.

• Election of Officers
• Review of Code of Conduct
• Stephen Smith request for additional membership category
• Review of tournament date requests including Holy Family Academy
• Review and approval of financials, receipts, and expense reports

The commission elected its officers and approved the transition to the 'Golf Now' POS system. Members approved a total budget of $986,000.04 and a $5.00 per head seasonal fee for league tee times. A request for a veterans' membership discount was tabled until September.

• Elected Jeff Gallant (Chair), David Noyes (Financial Assistant), and Mike Budwick (Secretary) (4-0)
• Approved transition to 'Golf Now' POS system (4-0)
• Approved $5.00 per head one-time seasonal fee for leagues (discussed/decided)
• Approved Holy Family Academy tournament for June 2, 2023 (4-0)
• Tabled veterans' membership discount request until September
• Accepted financial reports (4-0)
• Approved total budget of $986,000.04, including a $10,000 increase for electricity (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss several financial items, including a $5.38 million borrowing order for the Airport Runway Improvement Project and a $134,500 appropriation from Free Cash for the FAA Airport Runway and Taxiway System. The committee will also review a proposed ordinance to change compensation schedules for the Mayor and City Councillors.

• Order to borrow $5,380,000 for the Airport Runway Improvement Project
• Order appropriating $134,500 from Free Cash for FAA Airport Runway and Taxiway System
• Ordinance to amend Chapter 171 (Personnel) changing compensation for Mayor and City Councillors
• Order appropriating $4,040 from Free Cash to Engineering Dept. for Uptown Rotary capital improvement
• Notification from Mayor regarding Free Cash appropriation proposals

The Finance Committee recommended several appropriations from free cash and a large bond for airport projects. A proposal to change Mayor and City Councilor compensation was referred to the full Council.

• Recommended passage of $134,500 appropriation from free cash for FAA Airport Runway and Taxiway System
• Recommended passage of $4,040 appropriation from free cash for Engineering Dept. Uptown Rotary easements
• Recommended passage of $5,380,000 borrowing for Airport Runway Improvement Project
• Referred Mayor and City Councilor compensation ordinance to the Council as a whole
• Voted to place Mayor's notification regarding Free Cash Appropriation Proposals on file

Retirement Board

The Gardner Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve the trial balance, general ledger, and bank reconciliation, as well as accounts payable and payroll warrants. They will also discuss a cost-of-living adjustment for fiscal year 2023, nominate and elect a board chairperson, approve retirements, and acknowledge deceased members.

• Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2023
• Nominations & Election of Board Chairperson
• Approve Retirement(s)
• Acknowledge deceased member(s)
• Investment Review

The Board elected a Chairperson and approved a 3.0% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for FY2024. Members also voted to increase the COLA base from $13,000 to $14,000 and approved a payment warrant totaling $626,772.36.

• Approved 3.0% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for FY2024 (unanimous)
• Increased Board COLA Base from $13,000.00 to $14,000.00 for FY2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #01/23 totaling $626,772.36 (unanimous)
• Elected Denise Merriam as Board Chairperson for term Feb 1, 2023 – Jan 31, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved superannuation retirement benefits for Eugene W. Kolimaga (unanimous)
• Reapproved superannuation retirement for Steven J. Roy (unanimous)
• Approved November 2022 Trial Balance, General Ledger History, and bank reconciliation (unanimous)
• Approved December 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

School Subcommittees

The Finance Sub-Committee will review expense reports and project updates. The body is scheduled to vote on gifts and donations.

• Expense report review
• Projects update
• Vote on gifts and donations

The Finance Subcommittee approved the minutes from the November 17, 2022 meeting. Members reviewed expense reports regarding substitute teachers, electricity costs at GES, and out-of-district tuition. No new business was introduced.

• Approved November 17, 2022 meeting minutes

Williams-Rockwell

The Williams-Rockwell Educational Gift Foundation committee will vote on a Raymond James investment update and review 2022-2023 school year grant applications. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• Raymond James Investment update (vote required)
• Review of 2022-2023 School Year Grant Applications (vote required)
• Approval of Minutes (vote required)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing and then vote on an ordinance to amend the city's one-way street designations. The committee will also consider three applications for motor vehicle dealer licenses: two for Gardner Five Star Auto Sales and one for Riverside Auto.

• Public hearing on ordinance to amend one-way street designations (Item #10861)
• Vote on ordinance to amend one-way street designations (Item #10861)
• Motor Vehicle Dealers License, Class II, for Gardner Five Star Auto Sales at 407 Chestnut Street (Item #10882)
• Motor Vehicle Dealers License, Class II, for Riverside Auto at 65 Riverside Road (Item #10883)
• Motor Vehicle Dealers License, Class III, for Riverside Auto at 65 Riverside Road (Item #10884)

The Public Safety Committee recommended an ordinance to make Regan Street one-way from Baker Street to Parker Street. The committee also recommended approving three motor vehicle dealer licenses and requested a security camera investigation for City Hall.

• Recommended approval of ordinance to make Regan Street one-way (Northerly from Baker Street to Parker Street)
• Recommended approval of Class II Motor Vehicle Dealers License for Gardner Five Star Auto Sales, 407 Chestnut Street
• Recommended approval of Class II Motor Vehicle Dealers License for Riverside Auto, 65 Riverside Road
• Recommended approval of Class III Motor Vehicle Dealers License for Riverside Auto, 65 Riverside Road
• Recommended that the Mayor investigate placing security cameras on the City Hall drop box

Conservation Commission

The Gardner Conservation Commission will hold a joint public hearing on a Notice of Intent for construction of single-family homes and utilities at 114 Topaz Terrace, within a wetland buffer zone. The hearing was continued from January 9. The commission will also vote on minutes and discuss a baseball field improvement project, an urban forest grant, and a culvert replacement funding request.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent DEP# 160-0659 for single-family homes at 114 Topaz Terrace
• Vote to approve minutes from January 9 meeting
• Discussion of Brooks Pharmacy baseball field improvements near Snow and Crawford streets
• DCR Urban Forest grant expenditure of remaining balance
• Request for culvert replacement funding for Keyes Road via MVP grant from conservation account

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review minutes from December 12, 2022, and receive updates regarding COVID-19. The agenda also includes time for old and new business.

• Review of December 12, 2022 minutes
• Covid Updates

Golf Commission

The Golf Commission will meet to elect officers and review financial reports, including the budget, receipts, and expenses. The body will also discuss a request for a new membership category and tournament date requests.

• Election of Officers
• Stephen Smith request for additional membership category
• Tournament date requests, including Holy Family Academy
• Code of Conduct review
• Review and approval of financials, receipts, expenses, and budget

Open Space and Recreation Plan Steering Committee

The committee will review the previous Open Space and Recreation Plan and discuss appendices C and E, as well as the Greener Gardner initiative. No votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is focused on discussion and input.

• Review of previous Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Discussion of Appendix C
• Discussion of Appendix E
• Greener Gardner Ta discussion

The committee discussed updates to the draft Open Space and Recreation Plan, which is reported as 90% complete. Members reviewed GIS map coordination, land prioritization ranking, and the inclusion of community survey feedback. No formal votes were taken.

• Agreed to include community survey feedback in the draft plan

Gardner Housing Authority