Gardner Public Service Committee Meeting Aug 6 2026

The City of Gardner, Massachusetts Public Service Committee met on August 6, 2026, to discuss several infrastructure and utility-related items. Key procurement-related discussions included National Grid's petition to install new utility poles on Park Street and Betty Spring Road to support new building services and improve power reliability. These petitions require public hearings and subsequent city council approval before proceeding. The committee also received updates from the Department of Public Works on ongoing paving projects estimated at $1.6 million, including sidewalk improvements and road repaving in various neighborhoods. Additionally, a loan request for $1.3 million was noted to cover a funding shortfall for wastewater plant upgrades, supplementing $4.6 million in grants already secured. The meeting addressed water billing system issues caused by software upgrades, with plans to correct billing errors internally and communicate transparently with residents. Other updates included ADA-compliant sidewalk improvements and environmental concerns such as drought conditions and water quality. No final votes on procurement contracts were taken, but motions were passed to refer National Grid petitions to the city council for public hearings and votes.