City of Gardner Planning Commission 03/23/2026

The City of Gardner Planning Commission held a meeting on March 23, 2026, addressing several planning and development matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a preliminary plat for Aspen Place, involving the dedication of right-of-way and public utilities, with the city taking over water mains previously managed by New Century. The commission also approved the site plan for the Gardner Edge High School Trails Building Expansion, a 9,300 square-foot addition with conditions related to stormwater management and lighting. Additionally, a conditional use permit for a short-term rental at 642 East Bluebird Street was discussed extensively, with concerns raised about neighborhood compatibility and enforcement of rental conditions; the commission ultimately recommended denial of the permit, which will proceed to the city council for final decision. The meeting concluded with a staff presentation on recent residential and commercial development trends, including significant growth in housing permits, commercial valuations exceeding $100 million, and upcoming infrastructure projects such as road widening on 167th Street, highlighting ongoing capital improvement efforts in the city.