The Gardner Finance Committee convened on December 2, 2024, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing local business support and addressing food insecurity in the community.

A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing installation of new parking meters in downtown Gardner, with approximately 70% of the project completed. The city aims to have all new meters operational by December 13, coinciding with the busy holiday shopping season. This initiative is designed to accommodate longer shopping times as residents support local businesses during the festive period. To facilitate this transition, the committee proposed waiving parking meter fees for the entire month of December. This move, which has precedent in previous years, would alleviate potential confusion and ensure a smoother enforcement process once all meters are functional in January.

The committee emphasized the importance of clear communication with the public regarding the operational status of the new meters to avoid any surprises for customers and business owners alike. The recommendation to waive fees was passed unanimously, pending final approval from the full council.

In addition to the parking meter discussion, the committee reviewed a lease agreement with Growing Places, a nonprofit organization focused on food insecurity and agricultural initiatives. The proposed lease would allow Growing Places to utilize kitchen space at the Waterford Community Center for their food manufacturing operations. This partnership aims to source produce from local farmers and provide fresh, locally-produced food items to school districts, enhancing the nutritional offerings in local cafeterias.

The discussions at the Gardner Finance Committee highlight the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses during the holiday season while also addressing critical food security issues through community partnerships. As these initiatives move forward, the council's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the local economic landscape and community welfare in the coming months.