City Council - Regular Meeting

I now call to order the Monday, October 6th meeting of the Gardener City Council. The clerk will now please call the role. Councelor Brooks, present. Councelor Craig, present. Councelor Dawitz, present. Councelor Harder, present. Council Heath, present. Council Heg, present. Councelor Kazinscus, present. Council Matt present. Council Tony present. Council Tibo present. And President Tyrus present. Those who wish may now rise for the pledge of allegiance and open prayer.

Almighty God, we thank thee for bringing us together this evening. Inspire us to worthy deeds and sound decisions and direct us towards the attainment of good government. We pray thee to bless and protect all people of our city and to so guide and inspire us that we may liberate in unity and harmony. Amen. I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

Announcement of open meeting recordings. Any person may make a video or audio recording of an open session of a meeting or may transmit the meeting through any medium subject to reasonable requirements of the chair as to the number, placement, and operation of the equipment used so as to not interfere with the conduct of the meeting. Any person intending to make such a recording shall notify the chair forth with all documents and exhibits used or referenced at the meeting must be provided in duplicate to the city clerk as it become part of the meeting minutes pursuant to MGL chapter 30A subsection 20. Is anyone recording tonight's meetings? Reading of minutes of prior meetings June 6, 2025 informal meeting.

Councelor Kazinskus. Mr. President, I'd like to make a motion to wave the reading of the minutes and accept them as presented. Second. Motion by councelor Kazinskus, second by councelor Tone to wave the reading of the minutes and accept them as presented. Is there discussion? All those in favor? I. I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. There are no public hearings. Communications from the mayor. Item 11709. A communication from the mayor regarding the youth center. Councelor Mack. I'd like to make a motion to place the communication on file. Second. Motion made by councelor Mack, second by councelor Dur allowance to place the communication on file. Is there discussion? Councelor Mac.

Uh, thank you, council president. I'd like to take a minute to thank you center director Brandon Hwie for the update which reflects the first month of the new program. The teens in our community are enjoying all of the pro all the program has to offer and the different aspects of the youth center with at least 22 members attending a day and a total of 46 registered in September. The attendance increased 46% in the first three weeks. This is exciting news. If an individual or business would like to support the youth center with a donation of materials, school supplies, and snacks, please contact the director. Thank you. Thank you, councelor Mack. Further discussion.

Motion to place communication on file. All those in favor? I. I. All those posted, no. Motion passes. There are no petitions, applications, communications, etc. Reports of standing committees. At this time being no objection, I'd like to begin with appointments committee. Item 11705, [Applause] a measure confirming the fire chief's appointment of Timothy Frank to the position of firefighter of the Gardener Fire Department. Council Heath.

Thank you, Mr. President. Um, if I could take items 11705, 11706, 11707, and 11708. And um bring those all in front. Um, all four of these firefighters, um, Timothy Frank, Brighton, Cormier, Alyssa, and and Morty, and I'm sorry, Anna, Morty, and Brett Nifford have completed and graduated from their 10-week recruit training program along with their in-house training. I would like to thank the chief for the communication and ask that these four items are placed on file.

Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegelund to place communications on file for item 11 1705. Item 11706, a measure confirming the fire chief's appointment of Brighton Cormier to the position of firefighter the Garden Fire Department permanent. Item 11707, a measure confirming the fire chief's appointment of Alyssa A. Marty to the position of firefighter in the Gardener Fire Department permanent. and 71708, a measure confirming the fire chief's appointment of Brett Knifford to the position of firefighter of the Garter Fire Department, Herman. Is there discussion? All those in favor? I I. All those against? No.

At this time, we'll take a brief recess so that the city clerk may swear in the appointees. Hold on. Tiffany Frank. Raise your right hand and then repeat after me. I state your name.

I, Timothy Frank, do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of firefighter perform the duties of firefighter according to the law and the best of my abilities

according to the law to the best of my abilities. [Applause] Thank you. Raise your hand and look after me. I state your name.

I, Elsa and Marati, do soly swear Do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of firefighter perform the duties of firefighter according to the law of the best of my abilities.

according to the law of the best of my abilities. [Applause] You raise your hand. Repeat after me. I state your name. I pray

do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of firefighter perform the duties of firefighter according to the law and the best of my abilities according to the law and to the best of my ABILITIES [Applause] WELCOME.

OKAY, WAIT. Repeat after me. I state your name. I, Brett Knifford, do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of firefighter perform the duties of firefighter according to the law and the best of my abilities. according to the law and the best of my abilities.

CONGRATULATIONS. [Applause] THANKS. THANKS, SIR.

The order of our agenda, reports of standing committees, welfare committee, item 1104, an ordinance to amend chapter 675 of the code of the city of gardener thereof entitled zoning to promote housing growth and production in the city. Councelor Mack. Thank you, council president. I make a motion to refer this item to the public welfare committee and the planning board and to schedule a joint public hearing of the city council and the planning board. Second. Second. Motion made by councelor Max, second by councelor TBO Munos to refer the to defer this item to the planning board and welfare committee and schedule a joint public hearing. Is there discussion? All those in favor? I.

All those against? No. Motion passes. Finance Committee. Item 11683, a measure authorizing the mayor to enter into an intermunicipal agreement for veterans services with the town of Hbertston from a period beginning on January 1st, 2026 through January 30th, 2028. Councelor Mack.

Thank you, Council President. Uh this is a request from the town of Herson to enter into inter an inter municipal agreement as we do with every uh a lot of other local uh towns for veteran services beginning on January 1st through 2026 through June 30th 2028. Both the public welfare committee and the finance committee are in favoring adop adopting this item. So I make a motion to adopt the measure. Second motion made by councelor Max, second by councelor Durowitz to adopt the measure. Is there discussion? All those in favor? I I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes.

Item 11695, an order transferring $5,795 from building department salary and wages account to operating expense account professional services. Councelor Hegel.

Thank you, Mr. President. Leading to a motion, the finance committee met on this item last week. We were unanimously in favor of it. Essentially what this is is for interim commissioner Jeff Cook. Uh for the remainder of his time with the city serving in that capacity, there was an additional amount uh beyond the 10,000 that we had previously approved of $5,795. So essentially, this is just a bill that we have to pay from the time uh that he was wrapping up through a little bit of onboarding with our newly hired uh commissioner, Melissa McDonald, who we want to welcome to the city as well. I'll be supporting that this evening. And with that, I move the order be adopted. Second. Motion made by councelor Hegland, second by councelor Durawitz to adopt the order. Is there discussion? This will be a roll call vote. Clerk may know. Please call the vote. Councelor Brooks,

yes. Councelor Craig Cormier, yes. Councelor Dawitz, yes. Council Hardurn, yes. Council Heath, yes. Council Heglland, yes. Council Kazinskus, yes. Council Mack, yes. Councelor Tone, yes. Council Tunz, yes. And President Tyrus, yes. 11 years. The motion passes. Item 11696, a communication from the mayor regarding the request for proposal RFP review committee for 130 Elm Street Helma Solder School. Council Hegel.

Thank you again, Mr. President. The finance committee met on this item as well last week. We were unanimously in favor of it. The communications really just outlining that the mayor, as he so often does and is required with public land that's going out for proposal, uh has set up an ad hoc committee to review those proposals. It'll be comprised of myself uh having initiated the process through a resolution that this council passed previously. Uh doc Dr. Stephanie Marquetti from Montichus Veterans Outreach Center. She's overseeing a really large um construction project involving two previously used schools in Winston. So her experience with that I think will be helpful and the mayor thought so as well and George who many of us know from the city as a contractor and builder. So with that I move the communication be placed on file.

Second motion made by councelor hein second by councelor gllowitz to place the communication on file. Is there discussion? All those in favor I. All those opposed no. Motion passes. Item 11697, a communication from the mayor regarding a request for a proposal RFP review committee for 53 school street school street school. Councelor Hegel. Thank you, Mr. President. Uh, this similarly was met on by the finance committee last week. We're unanimously in favor of it. Really, the only difference here is that this will have counselor Kazinskis on it uh as the council appointee. It'll have Dr. MarQuetti as well and uh Mr. Olette reviewing those proposals as well. So, I move the communication be placed on file. Second

motion made by councelor Hegel, second by councelor Dowz to place the communication on file. Is there discussion? All those in favor I. I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11699. in order to raise and appropriate an additional sum of $183,17162 for various operational expenditure budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1st 2025 and ending June 30th 2026 general fund supplemental budget council journal outs.

Thank you, Mr. President. This is the annual supplemental budget um submission. Uh originally we budgeted in our um budget for $200,000 surplus um was over um by about $144,000 and these monies need to be appropriated by the time the tax rate is set in order to u make appropriate revenue projections for fiscal year 2027. Um in addition in this uh order is the school department received their rate payment from Comcast which similarly needs to be appropriated to prevent the monies from falling to free cash. Uh these funds have to be tracked um for and have to use for technology products or services. Um this the 144,000 though is going to be used to fund uh the body cameras for the police department. Uh grant the grant writing services. We currently contract out um the tree removal expenses. We're hiring an outside company to catch up on some of the uh trees that have already gone through the process um and the hearings to be removed. um as well as uh the purchase of a backup uh ambulance for the fire department. Bindance committee met and discussed each of these items with department heads uh and was unanimous in support and I therefore move the order.

Second. Motion made by councelor Dowat. Second by councelor Mack to move the order. Is there discussion? This will be a roll call vote. Cler may now please call the councelor Brooks. Yes. Councelor Craig Cormier. Yes. Councelor Jawitz. Yes. Councelor Harder. Yes. Council Heath. Yes. Council Heg. Yes. Council Kazinskus. Yes. Councelor Mack. Yes. Council Tisone. Yes. Council Tunos. Yes. And President Tyrus. Yes. Leven. The motion passes.

Item 11700. a measure authorizing the city to borrow $6,911,028 for the Gardener Middle School Massachusetts School Building Authority Accelerated Roof Repair Roof Replacement Project at 297 Katherine Street. Council General.

Thank you, Mr. President. Finance Committee also on this item. Uh, this authorization allows the city to get funding through the MSBA's roof repair program. Uh, that program allows for eligible costs to be up reimburseed up to 80%. This authorization is required. We do have to authorize the full loan amount with the uh wording that is part of our packet um for the um for our vote in order to be eligible for these the reimbursements alone. Um the loan is restricted to roof repairs at the middle school. They can't be used for anything else. Um HVAC repairs there as well, but those are part of the roof repairs. Um, as you're aware, we had utilized uh elementary school loan to help fund this project. The goal is for that loan to pay the city's portion. Um, and this this loan to not actually be uh utilized once we get the reimbursement. Um, but it as I said is needed in order to start the uh the process with the MSBA finance committee was in favor and I move the order.

Second.

Motion made by councelor journal. Second by councelor Mack to move the order. Is there discussion? Councelors. Thank you, President Tyros. Um, I I do appreciate that the finance committee um had brought this forward to the full council. It is a $7 million order and I just I do think I have a couple of questions. I do think maybe we should take a little bit more time on this. Um, what I don't want to run into is there being an an issue with us being eligible for anything having to do with the MSBA because it is a huge reimbursement. Uh so I I don't know if you know if maybe through the chair to the committee but my my question really becomes is what is is there a deadline on this that we need to pass this by or is there

does anyone know? I chair I am not aware of a of a hard deadline. Um I don't know if the mayor is aware of any deadlines related to applications. I think it's December. I want to answer correctly, but I have to.

So, well, I do think I also think this is something that Thank you. Thank you. And I do think this is something that maybe shouldn't stay in committee. Um, I do think I'm glad that it came to the full council because again, I do I appreciate the the study in committee, but I just think that this is this is just this is $7 million. It's something that um maybe we should talk about a little bit more before we move forward, especially since there isn't some type of deadline that we're up against for this. Um so I you know I might I might amend the motion and just ask for more time instead. If anyone is willing to entertain that, that would be my thought on the matter. Thank you. Thank you, Councelor Kazinskus.

There's a request for more time. Is there any objection to granting committee more time? I have no objection. No objection. Then the committee will be granted more time on item 11700. [Applause] Item 11703, an ordinance to amend attachment E of chapter 8 of the code of the city of Gardner. thereof entitled non-union compensation schedule to add position of assistant youth center director council journal allowance make a motion to send the ordinance amendment to first printing second

motion made by councelor journal allowance second by councelor mack to send this item to its first printing is there discussion council journal allowance

thank you president tyrros um this item didn't go through at least our current normal process of where it ends up with the finance committee um it came up there is a need for um this position to be filled in order to um handle the volume of kids that are coming to the program as was outlined earlier. Um there needs to be a second body there for the um assistant director. Um so the decision was made to get it to the council. Now this is going to take two votes. We're not then going to have to go through the hiring process. We're not going to be able to get someone in this role um for some time if it does pass. Um so I felt it was necessary to skip um that the finance committee and come here. Um we re as we said received the update about the youth center, how many students are going there. Um the director did make the decision to forego having um an assistant director even though it was part of the budget in order to see what the needs were going to be and has now determined there is a need there for that part-time role as outlined here. Um it is built into state funding um that we got through the work of Representative Slottnik. Um and I will be in favor of this ordinance amendment. Uh, one other note, the um I did verify the letter from the mayor uh says that the rate of $15 an hour. That was a typographical error um in the order is $20 an hour which is the correct amount and it is what is budgeted for. Thank you.

Thank you councelor Dance. Is there further discussion? Councelor Hart. Yes. I had the opportunity to visit the Ga Youth Center last week was thrilled with the what director Huey has established. The space is inviting and offers various activities for the teens who visit, something to do. There are great options for all from art and music to computers and gaming. I'm glad we have something like this program in our city of Gardner. Thinking of my own grandson, he would have really benefited from something like this. I hope any families watching this meeting will consider registering their teens. Thank you again to Director Huey for his hard work and I will be supporting this.

Thank you, Councelor Harter. Further discussion. Council Heath.

Thank you, Council I President Tyros. Um I I actually got to stop in there. I think it was last week. Um for you guys, I know on my personal job, I worked for Fredo for years. I've always donated chips to the kids over there and everything else. So I um I brought over like 10 cases of chips. Um and I tell you, the amount of kids that were there, it was insane. And they weren't young ones, they were all ages and everything else. they were actually able to help get him out my car. Um, and I got another tour for sister tour that we had when we had the um, event, the pre-soft opening of it. And I'm watching the kids on the computer screens and I was like, "Oh, that's awesome." Then I took two more steps. There's more kids on another computer screen. Show me the Tik Tok room. That place is amazing. Um, it's up todate. It's something that the kids of Gardener should want to go to, something that they should definitely participate in. And um you know I I thought the director was like just messing with me when he made a comment like, "Man, I need another person here." And I looked around while he was getting pulled left and right and he was showing me around, but he kept getting pulled left and right. So you know, a lot of the tour I had to do on my own and everything else. So I think this right here is actually great considering the amount of kids that I've seen there personally. Um, and you know, I've I've been going there before this was the youth center and it was a Boys and Girls Club and the amount of kids it seems like it has doubled. So I I think that this is actually great. So I will definitely be in full support of it.

Thank you councelor Heath. Further discussion. All those in favor I. I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11711, council liaison, October Waterford Community Center update. Councelor Hegman.

Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to give you all another update from our last meeting in September when I gave you my first update. Uh our efforts in September really focused around improving communication uh awareness and gathering feedback particularly on the senior center move to the community center. The mayor, council president, and I held an information session and gave a presentation at the senior center, speaking with residents and patrons about the eventual move over to the community center where the senior center will be located, uh, visions for the space, safety, and any questions and concerns that the attendees had. I, uh, from my perspective, it was very well attended. It had a pretty full room there, the senior center for those familiar with the space. Uh and there was a bit of angst I think mostly from the combination of time from the move being originally announced in 22 to now. I think people are eager to get over there. Uh but frankly from some of the information being spread online uh causing confusion as well. So it was a long and thorough presentation that was given. Uh it covered the project history, the federal, state, and nonprofit investment made and some idea about what the space could look like when finished. We ended with a Q&A session that lasted well over half an hour with the residents. Uh some of us even lingered further to talk more. There were great questions asked, very good suggestions made from our seniors, which was really exciting to hear directly from them about the things uh that they're most looking forward to enjoying about the new space. And we took a lot of good notes uh and we'll definitely consider that feedback and where we can apply those suggestions as the project moves forward. So because that meeting was so successful, we then uh decided to take a focused group of senior center employees and volunteers to tour the space for even more feedback. The three who were with us who had not yet seen the space were very excited about the move and the potential that the new location holds for the senior center. It was a really great visit and walkthrough. I think the amount of space that they have to move into is really what's impressing everyone the most. As for the CAC, Director Julie Mian, uh the mayor, the new building commissioner, and myself

met earlier today to discuss the next phase of the buildout for the CAC. And again, if you haven't seen pictures from what they've already accomplished, I would encourage you to take a look. The CAC, I know Facebook page has some of those photos up. Uh they've done a great job there so far, and their staff is incredibly excited to get going as well and move in there. Historical Commission member Alan McNelli and I met a week or so ago to talk more thoroughly about his vision for the archive space. He expressed his interest in some additional classrooms near the back that would be alongside where the locker rooms that they're using um or planning to use for the storage of their items. He's really seeing a need for better and separate space between where storage is happening and to have some sort of viewing area and display area. Uh so that's his interest in those additional rooms. He's also hoping to research potential professional help and consultation related to proper display cases, shelving, climate control, and anything else that might be needed to ensure proper storage of historical items. I've also had the chance to check in and talk with director Ann Eagle of Growing Places. Uh she's reported continued satisfaction with their space and the desire to expand into the former teachers lounge area to establish offices for her and her staff. Right now, they have two locations they're paying rent on. She's really hoping to consolidate everyone over here um because they're just so pleased with the space they have uh and the location. So, the mayor will eventually be bringing something to the council for us to consider with that lease amendment. And then most recently, I had the chance to sit down with our new commissioner, building commissioner uh Melissa McDonald, uh to bring her up to speed on the project. We had a great discussion uh and again, we met again today. She and the mayor have of course met about the project as well. And so I'm hoping she and I will be able to uh tour the space soon so she can start to see the space that she's looking at plans right now and through all the old reports. Uh but I know she's eager to get in there and take a further look at things. So it's not an understatement to say that

this is a big project. A lot of work is being done uh and is being done correctly and with safety of all in mind. That's the reason for my appointment by the council president and the mayor to help increase the communication, awareness, and transparency about this project because it is such a big initiative uh and change for us here in the city of Gardener between the numerous contractors, local, state, and federal departments that have thoroughly uh worked in, inspected, and tested the building when appropriate and that will continue. So again, despite the rumors and rhetoric that's out there, work is being done properly. our building is safe because the end goal is clear to be responsible stewards of our municipal buildings and put the Waterford Street School back into public service as the first community sitter in our city's history. I just want to really emphasize and end on that note. Thank you. With that, I move the communication be placed on file.

Second. Motion made by councelor Hagglin, second by councelor Cormier to place the communication on file. The update on file, sorry. Is there discussion? Councelor Kazinskus. Thank you, uh, Councelor Hagland for that update and for, um, you know, holding the meeting and and entertaining all of the information that you have. I'm glad that there's good information there about the Waterford Community Center, uh, that is being shared and, uh, you know, I think it's really important to um that the oversight of the council has is able to be reported at a meeting where again, it's it's good, correct, and updated information. So, I appreciate that. Thank you. Thank you, Councelor Kazinskus. Councelor Mac,

I just want to echo um councelor Kazinskus' comments that um the council president appointing uh councelor Hegland as a liaison. Um you know was a great move to increase the transparency and the communication because this is is a very exciting project but it's a long project and it has to be done correctly and it's going to be you know positive for for a lot of different agencies including the senior center when it's complete. But any um you know rumors or incorrect information is is just um counterproductive to this process. And I appreciate councelor Hegeland for um for his involvement in keeping everybody update and holding meetings and if anybody has questions that they should reach out to councelor Hegeland or to the mayor's office um and get the truth. Thank you.

Thank you councelor Mack. Any further discussion? Council Heath. Uh thank you president Tyros. Um I actually got to go step um stop in I think it was last week and I spoke with the uh director um of growing places is Ann. Yeah.

Ann and um her energy is insane. It's through the roof. She loves being there and like if you're in a bad day, you're having a bad mood, go talk to her because she'll bring you right up. She has so much energy. She told me some of the exciting things they're doing and um I'm trying to remember off the top of my head. I think they're at like 300 plates a week that they're doing. And she showed me the process. It doesn't even look the same in that building. It looks It's beautiful. It's very clean, you know, despite what everyone's It is. You can eat off the floors of that place. It's that clean inside of there. Um, but again, I I just I wish that her energy was seen by everybody and everything that's being done over there at growing places because it's it's going to become a gem of gardener. That is all. Thank you.

Thank you, Council Heath. Further discussion. The motion's to place the update on file. All those in favor? I I. All those opposed? No. Motion passes. Appointments committee. Uh we have already taken up this evening evening item 11705 1176 11 1707 and 11708. Next will be 11629. A measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Andre Girtton to the position of airport commission member for term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. Uh the committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified.

Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegland to confirm the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. Uh Mr. Girtton brings over two decades of experience in aviation logistics and has been a vocal advocate for regional airport development. His leadership is um his leadership in coordinating emergency response drills has strengthened Gardner's airport safety protocols. Thank you, Councelor Heath. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes.

Item 11630, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of David Urkhart to the position of airport commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath. Uh, thank you, Mr. President. The committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegund to confirm the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath. Thank you. Um, Mr. Urkhart, he's a retired Air Force pilot and a long-term resident of Gardner. He has served as a mentor for young aviation programs and is committed to expanding educational outreach through the commission.

Thank you, Council Heath. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11631, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of James Woods to the position of airport commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. The committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Eglund to certifi to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Yes.

Councelor Heath. Mr. Woods is a licensed aircraft mechanic and owner of the local aviation service business. His technical expertise and dedication to infrastructure improvements have made him a valuable contributor to airport operations. Thank you, Councelor Heath. Are there further discussions? All those in favor I. I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11632, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Alan Constantino to the position of airport commission member for a term expiring 821 2028. Councelor Heath.

Thank you, President Tyrros. Um, the committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegund to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. Uh, Mr. Constantino is a former commercial pilot and aviation safety consultant. He has advised on runway um I'm sorry, he has experience on runway uh maintenance and airfield lightning upgrades ensuring compliance with FAA standards. Thank you very much. Are there further discussions?

All those in favor? I. I. All those no. Motion passes. Item 11633, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of John Adeki to the position of cemetery commission member for a term expiring 821 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you. Uh Mr. President, uh this item and the next item um is the same person, John um Adiki. Um I the committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Second.

Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Heglin to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. Adiki is a landscape architect with a passion for civic beautifification. He has led volunteer cleanup efforts and designed memorial spaces that honor gardeners, veterans, and public servants. The last comment is towards the next um upcoming item. Any further discussion? All those in favor I

I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11634, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of John Adeki to the position of municipal grounds commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. Um, again, the committee met with the mayor and the appointee. We voted to recommend. Therefore, I move this appointment to be certified. Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegland to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? All those in favor? I. I.

All those opposed? No. Motion passes. Item 11635, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Denise Mariam to the position of cemetery commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Council Heath. Thank you, Mr. President. The committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Heglin to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath.

Thank you. this item, like the last item, um Miss uh Miriam is on um two appointments and uh Miss Miriam has volunteered with the city's parks department for over 15 years. Her work in organizing seasonal planting and historical tours, have enriched gardens, public space, and community engagement. Thank you, Council Heath. Is there further discussion? Oh, council sir Kazinskus and um Miss Mariam also worked for the city for 45 years as well. Thank you, Council Kazinskus. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I. All those opposed? No.

Motion passes. Item 11636, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Denise Mariam to the position of municipal grounds commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you, President Tyros. Committee met with the mayor and the appointee unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Heglin to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Mack.

Um thank you. Just with the experience um which is is great that the appointments committee gets additional information. I think um a as part of the flower pot program, it would be important to have members of the municipal grounds commission with their landscape architect and seasonal planting experience to contribute to that um program through the economic development um uh department in the future. Thank you. Thank you, Council Mack. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I

I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11637, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Chuck Lehei to the position of cemetery commission member for term expiring 821 2028. Councelor Heath. Thank you, President Tyrros. Committee met with Mr. Lehei and the mayor and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegund to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath.

Thank you, Mr. President. Uh Mr. Lehei is a local historian and author who has documented gardener's in industrial heritage. His efforts in preserving archive um archival materials and restoring historic landmarks have earned him statewide recognition. Thank you, Councelor Heath. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11638, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Chuck Lehei to the position of historic commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath.

Thank you, Mr. President. Um, like the last item, the uh committee met with uh Mr. Lee and the mayor and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Second. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor Hegland to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? All those in favor I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Item 11639, a measure confirming the mayor's appointment of Jeffrey Galant to the position of golf commission member for a term expiring 8:21 2028. Councelor Heath.

Thank you, Mr. President. The committee met with the mayor and the appointee and unanimously voted to recommend. Therefore, I move the appointment to be certified. Motion made by councelor Heath, second by councelor hegland to certify the mayor's appointment. Is there discussion? Councelor Heath. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Uh, I mean, Mr. President. Um, Mr. Galant is a professional golf instructor and former tournament organizer. He has worked he had worked to make Gardner's municipal golf course more accessible and inclusive, especially for youth and senior players.

Thank you, counselor. Um that right there was our last appointment. So in closing, I just want to go ahead and go say with all of the appointees that we just went ahead and went through. Um collectively that brings over 150 years of combined professional and civic experience to the gardener commissions. Um their diverse backgrounds in aviation, public service, historical preservation, landscaping, and recreation reflect a deep commitment to the city's growth and well-being. So I just like to say thank you mayor for recommending these um appointees. Thank you counselor. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I I. All those opposed? No. Motion passes.

Economic and community development committee item 1179 September economic and community development update. Councelor Kazinskus.

Thank you. President Tyros. The committee met uh this past Friday with director Stevens and he gave the following updates. This is leading up to a motion. On the rear main street project, there was progress delayed due to nearly a two-month wait on National Grid's approval for underground wire relocation and conduit placement. Uh but the contractor who Fessent O'Neal is pushing for approvals to avoid further delays. and they were also able to um complete other work around that time during that um during this wait time. They were finding other things that they could do um that had nothing to do with the approval that they were waiting for. Um the water line was installed to the sidewalk and there was change orders approved for winterizing the splash pad feature. So that project is moving along. the master plan uh the uh there was a public open house that's going to be planned for late October early November at Perry Auditorium for feedback on the inventory and assessment reports that the master plan steering committees put together I am on that committee as well and there have been sections reviewed internally they um director Stevens and um the firm putting it together had sought out input from city officials and community leaders on different aspects of the inventory and the report and they still want to emphasize that public feedback is critical and encouraged. So when there is another um public openhouse, they want to be sure that uh people are aware of it. They did have one earlier in the year as well and uh they've had a number of um items that have been online off the city's website to also contribute to the master plan, the hazard mitigation plan. Um they reviewed the risk assessment chapters. Um there was comments that were sent to their planning group which is Weston Samson and they had a public info session on September 18th that didn't have any attendees at it unfortunately but they

do plan to hold another session to get uh better public input because the hazard and mitigation plan like the master plan for the city is um is driven by public feedback and um it is very critical. So they will be trying to get more public input in the future. The property sales for the Garbos and 205213 Main Street properties are uh progressing. The development of these uh of these properties must comply with modern city codes and address any prior public safety concerns. So um while the properties are both in ur urban renewal zones, they require approval from the executive office of housing and livable communities from the state. And so while the sales are prog progressing, they remain in executive session because there are legal approvals and city approvals that are ongoing there. Um so they're rounding out those details in executive session. The Greenwood Pool, uh the road had been closed October 1st for utility disconnections. Um the asbestous abatement was completed. They are waiting on mass D right now to review this site um related to waste oil disposal before any above ground demolition can start. I'm sure people have seen the um the fencing and all the enclosments around the uh Greenwood pool, the outdoor Greenwood pool. Uh it is expected to begin in mid-occtober, but it is dependent on Mass D's timing. So, um that is what they're waiting for, but they still expect it um to begin in mid-occtober and they director Stevens did emphasize that they um his department is on top of um getting that review back from mass EP and following up with them. He's been very diligent about that. The complete streets grant program, the city was awarded $100,000

for 2025. Um previous awards leave about $11,000 available. Um, and so that's that's ins that's insufficient for any major projects that are happening now. Um, is that accurate, Mr. Okay. Just want to make sure I got the $11,000 correct. Thank you. Uh, the reestimations will be done for current projects and then that will give them they'll look for a stronger grant application for 2026 um to fill out those projects. And then we also got an update on Mackie Park. That item has remained on our calendar um for several weeks and we will we've decided in committee for the last few meetings that it will remain on the calendar until the project is complete. Uh there was a change order that was approved recently to make the park accessible and the uh the manufacturer indicated to Busybe Nursery they had previously done to work they're doing the work in the future as well that it would be a 6 to 8 week material lead time starting September 19th which means that the materials should arrive by late October to early November. This is actually on plan with Mackie Park getting refurbished to become accessible for all. So this stays directly on the timeline uh that they had told the city previously. This construction is minor and it is expected to meet the mid- November completion target. The city does continue to follow up with Busybe for the exact construction start date, but Visyb has been very compliant and very helpful to the city in letting us know when that's going to be completed. Um so there is no changes to the timeline or the scope of the project since they gave us that in November date. And also on that uh at our September 19th meeting of the committee, we um President Tyrros as a member of the committee had motion for information through two questions that the committee voted to submit to the mayor. The mayor provided answers to those questions and all of the information was in our

committee's packet from this past October 3rd's uh meeting. The first question, the committee requested a written explanation as to why excess funds from the downtown phase 3 project had now become available to complete Mackie Park, even though the double pull work on Park Street had not been completed, which is what we had been waiting on that funding um to be able to get that to complete the project, hoping we could do it for this season of Mackie Park throughout the summer and early fall. Weren't able to get it. So in mid August um so the mayor provided an answer to us and in his response was in mid August director Stevens city auditor John Richard and the mayor met to address how to fund the remaining work at Mackie Park um just because the followup with Verizon and then Comcast on the double polls just had taken so long and director Stevens had put a lot of energy into that at that point director Stevens had received updated quotes from both contractors so busy who had who's been handling Mackie Park um and estimated that the remaining work was about 58,000 and eh Perkins who was working on downtown phase 3 um provided a final estimate of about 15,000 to finish their portion of that project. So once these numbers were confirmed and keeping in mind um the December 2025 ARPA deadline for spending um those obligated funds, the auditor determined that it was okay to reclassify the remaining downtown phase 3 ARPA funds. And so that could be above what was needed for EH Perkins's work and then we could redirect them to cover Mackie Park. So that was really kind of what springboarded us to be able to get this project done by mid- November. And um it happened in two stages. So August 22nd and September 5th. So the funding became available because the city was able to have accurate cost estimates and that allowed the excess funds to be reallocated um responsibly to the project. And the second question we asked for, and again uh this was voted by the committee and it was proposed by President Tyrros in

committee to um that the year-to-ate quarterly departmental updates that the mayor received from all departments involved in the Mackie Park project be provided to the committee for review. And we specifically asked for community development, auditing, purchasing, and engineering. But if there were any other departments involved, we would have asked for those updates as well. uh the mayor uh provided them and he um responded that the requested reports were compiled and he attached them to the response that is in the packet of our meeting from October 3rd. You'll be able to see all of the reports there. Um the mayor and director Stevens have been meeting monthly and those meetings informed the monthly updates that we were getting within our committee about Mackie Park and uh there is a running document that they had kept and that is one of the attachments in the in the packet. Um same with auditor Richard uh the purchasing purchasing director Cormier from the purchasing department they also provided um their uh department updates that are relevant to Mackie Park engineering also provided uh their reports but they're not really directly involved in this stage of Mackie Park. So because we requested them they were provided but you won't see much of an update in there because there isn't much for them to update on on their department's part as they weren't as involved in it. Um and then in the end we were able to discuss you know some concerns that were raised just kind of looking at the answers to these questions and the reports that we got. Um there was a bit of a lack of timely communication and clarity in some of these reports. Uh there you know really Mackie Park missed the summer to be able to be used in the fall but it is notable now that it is going to be completed. There is a there is a solid timeline. We do have all the paperwork that is provided. it has been provided by the department. The mayor provided answers to the questions. So while um you know there could have been um some improved kind of structure and clarity to the process and reporting and the ways these

decisions were made from the very beginning. Um it has been significantly improved since uh director Stevens has been in the department overseeing this project. Little bit of a bump as we said in in the funding um but that got worked out. we got explanations and answers in full transparency as to how and why that happened. And I think that everyone's taking note of um where the where the progress um really was shining and where um maybe it could have been done a little bit differently. Uh but it is safe to say that Mackie Park is on is on um schedule to be completed, you know, by the date that we were first told in a couple meetings ago. So, it is on track for that. Um, so I really appreciate the mayor providing answers to the questions as well as uh all of the departments and director Stevens really being on top of this and um continuing to see it through as well as all of the other updates that he provided to us. But now that he has a full staff in his department, I mean, it's unbelievable if this much work's been able to get done in the past nine months what he's going to be able to do moving forward now fully staffed. So that is the update from the economic development department. Thank you. And I move to place the item on file. Second. Motion made by councelor Kazinskus, second by councelor Cormier to place the update on file. Is there discussion? Councelor Mack.

Um, thank you for the update, councelor Kazinskus, and uh when Mackie Park is totally completed, I'd appreciate in the next monthly update we get the total cost of of what it costs to bring Mackie Park up to accessibility. Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Any further discussion? All those in favor? I I. All those opposed? No. Motion passes. There is no unfinished business and there's no new business this evening. Councelor comments and remarks. Are there any council comments or remarks? Councilman,

just a few things. Uh, at least as of our last safety meeting, committee meeting, uh, those four firefighters sworn in tonight bring our fire department up to being fully staffed for the first time in a very long time. So, we're happy for them for that. Uh, and if anyone is looking for things to do in the next coming weekends, uh, this Friday and Saturday, Theater at the Mount is presenting Anything Goes. Uh, it's full of fun songs and dances, and we're very lucky to have such high caliber theater in our community. Um, and then the following weekend, uh, Annunciation Parish is having their annual fall bazaar, which raises money for H uh, Holy Family Academy. Uh, there's a lot of good food, Canadian food, Irish food, Spanish food. Um, lots of food, lots of raffles. It's a good time and is a worthwhile fundraiser. Thank you.

Thank you, Council Corner. Any further council comments? Council Mack. Thank you, Council President. Um, I just want to point out that uh before this meeting this evening, eight of us attended the domestic violence task force um program in Perry Auditorium. You will see many of us here in different shades of purple. The theme was be the light is to help others out of the darkness of domestic violence. The mayor proclaimed October domestic awareness month. Um we are very fortunate to have the task force and voices of truth and I just want to reinforce to the public to be there, believe them and reach out to the wonderful resources we have in gardener to help those that need it. Thank you.

Thank you councelor Mac. Any further council comments? Councelor Heg. Thank you Mr. President. Uh in addition to the wonderful show that's going to be at theater at the mount, it's also homecoming week in Gardner. So I want to wish all of our athletes the best of luck. Uh not only will the AA ball be back in Perry Auditorium on Friday night as it has been the last couple of years for Gardenner Academy and Gardener High School students, but then again sports activities all week and weekend. So go Wildcats. Thank you. Thank you, Council Hegman. Any further council comments?

I have something this evening that I'm excited to share. Uh, and I thank councelor Kazinskus for her update about the economic uh, development community development committee update. And I thank the mayor for his letter uh, about the department updates that he'd received year to date because it gave me an idea uh, something that grasped me all weekend on things that we could do better. I believe it's our job as city councilors to ask questions and be curious about ways we can uh, make the city better. And it could be something simple. Uh so for example in reviewing the monthly updates that the mayor provided which I thank him again. I think it's amazing and uh you know it's really uh a good management practice to have. We as a council are also increasing the frequency that we're asking uh departments to come in and give updates. Uh and when I looked at the mayor's template that's provided to him by the department heads and when I thought about the things that I would want to see as a council chair of a subcommittee uh I developed a standardized template form that I think will not only provide efficiencies for our department heads to be updating the same form and information. and uh love the mayor to also adopt this this form if it's suits him. But things like top accomplishments, significant issues or challenges, key operational metrics, project and initiative status, budget and financial updates, personnel and resources updates, and requests to subcommittees. Uh I'll be sharing this template with the clerk. It'll be made available to all subcommittee chairs. uh with hope that with a standardized way for department heads to communicate with us, we'll get not only better information, more frequent information, but also help us get to the meat of issues before they linger. Uh so it's my hope and something I'm excited about, uh just a simple change that we might be able to help run this city better. With that, I'll entertain a motion to adjurnn after the closing prayer.

So move second. Motion made by councelor Tony, second by councelor Tibo Munos to adjourn after the closing prayer. All in favor I I. All those opposed, no. Motion passes. Father overall as we adjourn, we thank you for the opportunity to join deliberation and actions witnessed during the course of this meeting. Bless all who are gathered here and the people as represent as we are and do attend to our common welfare until our next meeting. Amen. We stand.