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Select Board directs town administrator to seek state bond funding for municipal complex, sandpit cleanup and town-center redevelopment
Summary
The board voted to ask the Massachusetts economic development bond bill to fund three top priorities—48 Gardner Road municipal complex, the Pitcherville Road sandpit, and redevelopment of 21 Gardner Road—and discussed financing, tax impacts and public outreach.
The Select Board unanimously directed the interim town administrator to request inclusion of three top priorities in the Massachusetts economic development bond bill: a new municipal complex at 48 Gardner Road, remediation and redevelopment of the sandpit near Pitcherville/Gardner Road, and a redevelopment plan for the town center at 21 Gardner Road.
Select Board member Peter moved the directive and the vice chair seconded. Peter described the three priorities as the town's top candidates for state bonding assistance and said the municipal complex and town-center initiatives could leverage public–private partnerships. "Number 1, Municipal Complex, 48 Gardner Road. Number 2, sandpit, Pitcherville Road, and Gardner Road. And number 3, redevelopment of the town center, 21 Gardner Road," Peter said while making the motion.
Town Administrator Sean said the town has received initial cost numbers for the proposed safety complex and is modeling the fiscal impact on average and median single-family households under multiple bond scenarios. Sean outlined two early cost options: a single-floor building estimated at $8.9 million and a two-floor option at $10.2 million, and said bond counsel is reviewing 20-, 30- and 40-year financing models.
Board members discussed how to present costs to voters and stressed clear tax-impact figures by valuation bands rather than relying only on averages. Terry noted the likely financing vehicle: "We're not we're not gonna suggest a a 2 and a half override, but it's gonna be a debt exclusion," and said to voters “your taxes will go up, but only for the length of this loan.” Members emphasized the need for public information sessions, site tours and materials so residents can weigh the proposal ahead of Town Meeting and any debt-exclusion vote.
The motion passed by roll call with all present voting yes. Sean said staff will package designs, existing studies and cost models for state submission and follow up with the board on timelines.
