Gardner City Council confirms four mayoral appointments to planning, zoning, conservation and health boards

The Gardner City Council on April 7 confirmed four mayoral appointments recommended for local boards and commissions.

The council unanimously confirmed Nicholas Summerhays to the Conservation Commission for a term expiring Feb. 13, 2028. Councilor Hegland said Summerhays had served previously in a temporary appointment and praised his Army National Guard experience and familiarity with regulated sites including the Huachusa Reservoir.

The council next confirmed Emma Chaitin to the Board of Health for a term expiring Feb. 27, 2028. Councilor Haglund noted Chaitin’s background working at Haywood Healthcare and her current role as practice manager of the cancer center at MGH Brigham, saying she brings “a good new perspective” on where policy meets delivery and accessibility.

Later in the meeting the council confirmed Lori Vita to a zoning board seat with a term expiring Jan. 22, 2028. Councilor Heath said Vita is completing her first year on the Zoning Board of Appeals and that, under the city law department’s guidance, an early reappointment restarts the appointed term to the newest appointment date.

The council also confirmed Eric Flint to the Planning Board for a term expiring Jan. 7, 2028. Heath said Flint is a Gardner resident who currently serves as conservation planner for the city of Worcester and previously worked as a conservation agent for Marshfield; the committee described him as bringing substantial land‑use experience. Committee members said the planning board’s membership had fallen following resignations and that Flint’s appointment would help meet quorum requirements.

After votes on the initial appointments the council recessed briefly so the clerk could administer oaths; Summerhays and another appointee were sworn in during that recess.

All confirmations were adopted by voice vote when presented and affirmed by the council without recorded opposition.