Gardner Economic & Community Development Meeting May 13 2026 Part 2 of 2

The City of Gardner, Massachusetts Economic & Community Development Committee met on May 13, 2026, to review and discuss the city budget and ongoing community development projects. The meeting focused heavily on budget considerations, including a $7,600 net decrease in the department's budget due to restructuring and cost-saving measures such as combining positions. The committee highlighted the department's success in securing over $2.4 million in grant funding for various projects, including the downtown revitalization, utility infrastructure modernization, and social service programs funded through CDBG grants. Updates were provided on capital improvement projects like the Mackie Park ADA compliance completion and the Rear Main Street infrastructure project, which includes utility upgrades and parking improvements. The committee recommended approval of the budget to the full city council and discussed upcoming procurement activities, including drafting new RFQ documents for engineering contracts to comply with grant requirements. The meeting concluded with positive remarks on the department's effective management during a challenging budget year and a motion to adjourn was passed.