Finance Committee
Regular MeetingGardner, MA · April 10, 2024
Minutes
CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
The Finance Committee meeting was called to order by President Elizabeth Kazinskas at 8:00
AM in the City Council Chamber, Room 219, City Hall.
Finance Committee Members Councillors Aleksander Dernalowicz and Judy Mack were also
present.
Also participating Mayor Michael Nicholson; Building Commissioner Thomas Zuppa; Police
Chief Eric McAvene; Deputy Chief Nicholas Maroni; and City Clerk Titi Siriphan.
Review and Approval of Meeting Minutes
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to waive the reading and to accept the Finance
Committee Meeting Minutes of February 14, 2024.
#11252 – A Communication from the Mayor Regarding the 2024 Capital Improvement Plan.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee that the City Code requires that the
Administration annually submit the City’s capital improvement plan, as created by the
Capital Improvement Planning Committee, to the City Council once completed.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to place on file the 2024 Capital
Improvement Plan.
3 yeas, motion passes.
# 11253 – A Communication from the Mayor Regarding the FY2023 Federal Audit Report.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee that the City is legally obligated to be audited by
an external audit firm on an annual basis. For the fourth year in a row, we received a clean
audit report.
On a motion made by Councillor Judy Mack and seconded by Councillor Aleksander
Dernalowicz, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to place on file the FY2023
Federal Audit Report.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11214 – An Order Transferring $42,000.00 from Building Clerk Salaries and Wages to
Operating Expenditures.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee that City Auditor John Richard, Building
Commissioner Thomas Zuppa and himself are requesting a transfer associated with item
#11214 be amended from $12,000.00 to $42,000.00 to cover additional costs associated with
new building code books, elevator inspections, repairs to the City Hall Flag Poles and
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
additional maintenance to City Hall.
On a motion made by Councillor Judy Mack and seconded by Councillor Aleksander
Dernalowicz, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER
ought to pass:
AN ORDER TRANSFERRING APPROPRIATIONS FROM BUILDING CLERK SALARIES &
WAGES TO OPERATING EXPENDITURES.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby transferred the appropriations sum of Forty-Two
Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($42,000.00) from Building Clerk Salaries & Wages to
Operating Expenditures.
REPAIRS & MAINT $12,000
NEW EQUIPMENT $25,000
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES $5,000
3 yeas, motion passes.
# 11215 – An Order Appropriating $212,510.00 from Free Cash to the Police Department
New Vehicles Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that the Police Department Vehicle Management
Schedule recommends that the City Purchase three new police cruisers on an annual basis.
The appropriation request is being submitted to purchase three hybrid cruisers for the police
department.
Police Chief McAvene mentioned that cruisers are operating 24/7. Cost of maintenance is
going up and they try to reduce wear and tear. The request is for two marked and one
unmarked cruiser.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM FREE CASH TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT NEW
VEHICLE ACCOUNT.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of Two Hundred Twelve
Thousand, Five Hundred Ten Dollars and No Cents ($212,510.00) from Free Cash to the
Police Department New Vehicles Account.
3 yeas, motion passes.
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
#11216 – An Order Appropriating $40,000.00 from Free Cash to Public Works – Tree
Removal Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that this appropriation request is being submitted
to hire a service to perform the trimming and removal work to help the City get caught uup
on this back log.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM FREE CASH TO PUBLIC WORKS – TREE
REMOVAL ACCOUNT.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of Forty Thousand and No
Cents ($40,000.00) from Free Cash to Public Works - Tree Removal Account.
3 yeas, motion passes.
11236 – An Order appropriating $390,000.00 from Water Enterprise Surplus to the Repairs
to Transmission Main Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that this appropriation request is being put
forward to cover the costs above that was received in the grant to fully complete the project.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM WATER SURPLUS TO REPAIRS TO
TRANSMISSION MAIN.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of Three Hundred Ninety
Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($390,000.00) from Water Surplus to Repairs to
Transmission Main.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11237 – An Order appropriating $75,000.00 from Water Enterprise Surplus to the Repairs
to Watermains Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that this appropriation request is being put
forward to cover the costs associated with the recent watermain break that occurred on Leo
Drive.
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM WATER SURPLUS TO REPAIRS TO MAIN.
ORDERED:
That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars and No
Cents ($75,000.00) from Water Surplus to Repairs to Main.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11238 – An Order appropriating $140,000.00 from Sewer Enterprise Surplus to Chemical
Treatment Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that this appropriation request is being put
forward to purchase chemicals used in the treatment process at the City’s wastewater
treatment plant.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM SEWER SURPLUS TO REPAIRS TO CHEMICAL
TREATMENT.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of One Hundred Forty
Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($140,000.00) from Sewer Surplus to Repairs to Chemical
Treatment.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11239 – An Order appropriating $75,000.00 from Free Cash to Energy and Utilities City
Owned Properties Account.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that this appropriation request is being put
forward to cover the cost overages and get us through the end of the fiscal year for energy
and utilities for city owned properties.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the following ORDER ought to
pass:
AN ORDER APPROPRIATING FROM FREE CASH TO THE MAYOR’S UNCLASSIFIED -
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
ENERGY AND UTILITIES CITY OWNED PROPERTIES EXPENSE ACCOUNT.
ORDERED: That there be and is hereby appropriated the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand
Dollars and No Cents ($75,000.00) from free cash to The Mayor’s Unclassified -Energy and
Utilities City Owned Properties Expense Account.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11217 – A Measure to Establish a Special Reserve Fund for the Opioid Settlement under
MGL Ch. 44, §53.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that an account needs to be established in order
to receive opioid settlement funds.
On a motion made by Councillor Judy Mack and seconded by Councillor Aleksander
Dernalowicz, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to pass the measure:
ESTABLISHING A OPIOID SETTLEMENT SPECIAL RESERVE FUND UNDER M.G.L.
CHAPTER 44, SEC 53
VOTED: To establish an Opioid Settlement Reserve Fund, Pursuant to Section 53 of
Chapter 44 of the Mass. General Laws, for the purpose of establishing an Opioid Settlement
Special Reserve Fund.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11218 – A Measure to approve an easement from Christof Chartier to the City of Gardner
for the purpose of snow storage on Rock Street.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that the City negotiated an easement with
Christof Chartier, owner of the property located at 20 Rock Street, for the storage of snow
from plowing operations over public ways.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the following measure:
AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF GARDNER TO APPROVE AN EASEMENT DEED
VOTED: To authorize the Mayor to enter into a snow storage easement from Christof
Chartier, owner of the property located at 20 Rock Street, as further described in a proposed
Easement Deed, for the consideration of less than $100.00, and upon such terms as the Mayor
shall consider proper in accordance with this Vote.
3 yeas, motion passes.
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
11219 – A Measure to rescind the acceptance of Civil Service for the Members of the
Gardner Police Department, as adopted by the town of Gardner on March 4, 1912.
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee to rescind a vote as amended.
On a motion made by Councillor Judy Mack and seconded by Councillor Aleksander
Dernalowicz, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the following measure:
CITY OF GARDNER CITY COUNCIL
WHEREAS, the City of Gardner, by and through its legislative body, accepted the provisions
of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Civil Service system as then codified as section 37 of
chapter 19, of the Revised Laws of Massachusetts, currently being codified in M.G.L. c. 31;
and
WHEREAS, the City of Gardner has relied on said Civil Service system for the employment
of police officers since its adoption by the City of Gardner since 1912; and
WHEREAS, the Patrol Officers Union and the Superior Officers Union, both represented by
Massachusetts Coalition of Police, AFL-CIO, Local 400, of the Gardner Police Department
have jointly requested that all police officers employed by the City of Gardner Police
Department be removed from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Civil Service system as
codified in M.G.L. c. 31; and
WHEREAS, the City of Gardner and said Unions have negotiated in good faith and agreed to
remove the Gardner Police Department Patrol Officers and Superior Officers from the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Civil Service system as codified in M.G.L. c. 31; and
NOW THEREFORE, in furtherance of the foregoing, it being the desire of the City of
Gardner together with
the City of Gardner Police Department Patrol, Officers and Superior Officers, the City
Council of the City of Gardner ORDAINS as follows:
To rescind the acceptance of M.G.L. c. 31 by vote taken at the Annual Town Meeting on
March 4, 1912, under Article #24, ordering that the Town of Gardner accept Section 37 of
Chapter 19, of the Revised Laws of Massachusetts limiting the application of the Provisions
of said Chapter and of the rules made thereunder to its police force. One Hundred and Forty-
Nine voted in the affirmative and Twenty-Five in the negative.
Said recission to be effective t midnight July 1, 2024.
It being further voted to authorize the Mayor to take any other action necessary or
convenient to carry out this vote.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11243 – A Measure confirming the Order of Taking for 94 Pleasant Street as voted on by
the City Council on August 1, 2022.
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
Mayor Nicholson informed the Committee that the Administration is requesting that the
City Council vote to confirm the Order of Taking so that the Administration may begin the
process of evaluating the next steps for the property.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
11244 – A Measure declaring the air rights of the Knowlton Street Parking Lot as surplus
for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic canopy array.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the following measure:
DECLARATION OF AIR RIGHTS SURPLUS FOR THE PURPOSE OF LEASING SPACE
FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR CANOPY ARRAY AT 95 PLEASANT STREET-
KNOWLTON STREET PARKING LOT
VOTED: To declare surplus for the purpose of leasing space for a photovoltaic solar
canopy array with prevailing General Laws, the Knowlton Street Public Parking Lot of
Gardner City Hall, located at 95 Pleasant Street, further identified on the City of Gardner
Assessor’s Map as M22-10-10; with an approximate area of 0.65 acres, to establish as a
minimum amount $20,000.00 per acre to be paid for any lease payment of said property, to
authorize the Mayor to negotiate the lease agreement, subject to approval by the City
Council of the City of Gardner, of part thereof, for such amount or a larger amount, and
upon such other terms as the Mayor shall consider proper in accordance with this Vote.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11245 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Administration
Building, located at 50 Manca Drive, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar
photovoltaic array.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11246 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Cold Storage
Building, located at 50 Manca Drive, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar
photovoltaic array
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11247 – A Measure declaring the roof of Gardner City Hall, located at 95 Pleasant Street,
as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11248 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Waterford Community Center, located at 62
Waterford Street, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11249 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Garage Buildings,
located at 416 West Broadway, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic
array
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
#11250 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Gardner Fire Department Headquarters,
located at 70 City Hall Avenue, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic
array
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council to grant the measure.
3 yeas, motion passes.
11212 – Election of the City Clerk.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by Councillor Judy
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2024
Mack, it was voted to recommend to the City Council grant the measure.
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Councillor Judy Mack and seconded by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz,
it was voted to adjourn at 9:20 a.m.
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Agenda
PRESIDENT
Elizabeth J. Kazinskas
CITY OF GARDNER
COUNCILLORS AT LARGE MASSACHUSETTS 01440-2630
Calvin D. Brooks
Craig R. Cormier OFFICE OF THE
Brad E. Heglin CITY COUNCIL
Judy A. Mack
George C. Tyros
WARD 1 COUNCILLOR
David Thibault-Muñoz
WARD 2 COUNCILLOR
Dana M. Heath
WARD 3 COUNCILLOR
Paul G. Tassone FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE
*AMENDED
WARD 4 COUNCILLOR
Karen G. Hardern Date: Wednesday, April 10, 2024
WARD u5 COUNCILLOR Time: 8:00 A.M.
Alek Dernalowicz, Esq. Location: City Council Chambers, Room 219, City Hall
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
ANNOUNCEMENT OF OPEN MEETING RECORDINGS
Any person may make a video or audio recording of an open session of a meeting, or may transmit the meeting through any medium, subject to reasonable
requirements of the chair as to the number, placement and operation of equipment used so as not to interfere with the conduct of the meeting. Any person
intending to make such recording shall notify the Chair forthwith. All Documents and exhibits used or referenced at the meeting must be submitted in
duplicate to the City Clerk, as they become part of the Meeting Minutes.
I. Review and Approval of Meeting Minutes
• February 14, 2024
II. First Time on the Agenda
11252 – A Communication from the Mayor Regarding the 2024 Capital Improvement Plan.
11253 – A Communication from the Mayor Regarding the FY2023 Federal Audit Report.
III. Referred to Finance.
*11214 – An Order Transferring $42,000.00 from Building Clerk Salaries and Wages to
Operating Expenditures. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11215 – An Order Appropriating $212,510.00 from Free Cash to the Police Department New
Vehicles Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11216 – An Order Appropriating $40,000.00 from Free Cash to Public Works – Tree Removal
Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11236 – An Order appropriating $390,000.00 from Water Enterprise Surplus to the Repairs
to Transmission Main Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee
4/1/2024)
1
11237 – An Order appropriating $75,000.00 from Water Enterprise Surplus to the Repairs to
Watermains Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11238 – An Order appropriating $140,000.00 from Sewer Enterprise Surplus to Chemical
Treatment Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11239 – An Order appropriating $75,000.00 from Free Cash to Energy and Utilities City
Owned Properties Account. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11217 – A Measure to Establish a Special Reserve Fund for the Opioid Settlement under
MGL Ch. 44, §53. (In the City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11218 – A Measure to approve an easement from Christof Chartier to the City of Gardner
for the purpose of snow storage on Rock Street. (In the City Council and Referred Finance
Committee 4/1/2024)
11219 – A Measure to rescind the acceptance of Civil Service for the Members of the
Gardner Police Department, as adopted by the town of Gardner on March 4, 1912. (In the
City Council and Referred Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11243 – A Measure confirming the Order of Taking for 94 Pleasant Street as voted on by
the City Council on August 1, 2022 (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee
4/1/2024)
*11244 – A Measure declaring the air rights of the Knowlton Street Parking Lot as surplus
for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic canopy array. (In the City Council and
Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11245 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Administration
Building, located at 50 Manca Drive, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar
photovoltaic array. (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11246 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Cold Storage
Building, located at 50 Manca Drive, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar
photovoltaic array. (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11247 – A Measure declaring the roof of Gardner City Hall, located at 95 Pleasant Street,
as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array. (In the City Council and
Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11248 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Waterford Community Center, located at 62
Waterford Street, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic array. (In the
City Council and Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
*11249 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Department of Public Works Garage
Buildings, located at 416 West Broadway, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar
photovoltaic array. (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
2
*11250 – A Measure declaring the roof of the Gardner Fire Department Headquarters,
located at 70 City Hall Avenue, as surplus for the purpose of leasing to a solar photovoltaic
array. (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee 4/1/2024)
11212 – Election of the City Clerk. (In the City Council and Referred to Finance Committee
3/18/2024; More Time 4/1/2024)
ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE: The listing of Agenda items are those reasonably anticipated by the Chairman which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items
listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.
CITY COUNCIL OF GARDNER
Elizabeth J. Kazinskas
ELIZABETH J. KAZINSKAS
Chair, Finance Committee
*AMENDED – Item #11214, the appropriation changed from $12,000.00 to $42,000.00.
Items #11243, 11244, 11245, 11246, 11247, 11248, 11249 and 11250 were added to the
agenda.
3
CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF FEBRUARY 14, 2024
The Finance Committee meeting was called to order by Council President Elizabeth
Kazinskas at 8:00 AM in the City Council Chamber, Room 219, City Hall.
Finance Committee Member Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz was also present.
Also participating Mayor Michael Nicholson; City Auditor John Richard; and City Clerk Titi
Siriphan.
I. Review and Approval of the Meeting Minutes
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to waive the reading and to accept the Finance
Committee Meeting Minutes of December 4, 2023.
II. Referred to Finance.
# 11118 - An Order Authorizing $106.24 Payment of Prior Year Salary Expenditure.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee that a request for authorization for a
previous year salary expense that need to be paid for an employee whose step increase
was missed before the end of the last fiscal year.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the
following ORDER ought to pass:
AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF PRIOR YEAR SALARY EXPENDITURE
ORDERED: To authorize payment of prior year DPW salary expenditure account for
prior year, as follows:
FY2023 DPW SALARY ACCOUNT 106.24
#11172 – A Measure to Establish a Special Revenue Fund under the provisions of
Section 53K of Chapter 44 of the General Laws of the Commonwealth for the
Waterford Street Community Center Project.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee that the City Council vote is needed to
create a separate revenue account as allowed by General Laws for the rent payments
given to the City by entities who will be using the former Waterford Street School
facility.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the
following MEASURE ought to pass:
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF FEBRUARY 14, 2024
ESTABLISHING A
SEPARATE REVENUE FUND
M.G.L. CH.44, S.53K
VOTED: To authorize and direct the City Treasurer to establish a separate
revenue fund in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 44, section 53K for associated costs
imposed upon the city by the operation or location of the party in the city.
Monies in such account shall be expended for the purposes for which the monies
were received.
#11173 – A Measure Authorizing an Intermunicipal Agreement between the City of
Gardner and Town of Westminster for Veteran’s Services.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee of the proposed new Intermunicipal
Agreement between the City of Gardner and the Town of Westminster for a renewal
of the services for the Fiscal Years 2025, 2026 and 2027.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the
following MEASURE ought to pass, A Measure Authorizing an Intermunicipal
Agreement between the City of Gardner and Town of Westminster for Veteran’s
Services.
#11174 – A Measure Authorizing an Intermunicipal Agreement between the City of
Gardner and Town of Ashburnham for Veteran’s Services.
Mayor Nicholson informed the committee of the proposed new Intermunicipal
Agreement between the City of Gardner and the Town of Ashburnham for a renewal
of the services for the Fiscal Years 2025, 2026 and 2027.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the
following MEASURE ought to pass, A Measure Authorizing an Intermunicipal
Agreement between the City of Gardner and Town of Ashburnham for Veteran’s
Services.
#11187 – A Measure Relative to the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election
Order.
On a motion made by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President
Elizabeth Kazinskas, it was voted to recommend to the City Council that the
following ORDER ought to pass:
CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
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CITY OF GARDNER, MASSACHUSETTS
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE
MINUTES OF MEETING OF FEBRUARY 14, 2024
PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ORDER
TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2024
VOTED: It is ordered that meetings of the citizens of this City qualified to vote
in the Presidential Primaries shall be held on TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2024 for the
purpose of casting their votes in the Presidential Primaries for the candidates of
political parties for the following offices:
PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE...…..………...FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
STATE COMMITTEE MAN…….....WORCESTER & MIDDLESEX DISTRICT
STATE COMMITTEE WOMAN…..WORCESTER & MIDDLESEX DISTRICT
WARD COMMITTEE …..……………………………..…..CITY OF GARDNER
It is further ordered that the polls shall open at 7:00 o'clock in the morning and close
at 8:00 o'clock in the evening and that the following polling places are designated by
this Council:
WARD 1, PRECINCT A – Elk’s Home, 31 Park Street
WARD 1, PRECINCT B – Elk’s Home, 31 Park Street
WARD 2, PRECINCT A – Levi Heywood Memorial Library, 55 West Lynde Street
WARD 2, PRECINCT B – Levi Heywood Memorial Library, 55 West Lynde Street
WARD 3, PRECINCT A – City Hall, Perry Auditorium, 95 Pleasant Street
WARD 3, PRECINCT B – City Hall, Perry Auditorium, 95 Pleasant Street
WARD 4, PRECINCT A – Gardner Police Headquarters, 200 Main Street
WARD 4, PRECINCT B – Gardner Police Headquarters, 200 Main Street
WARD 5, PRECINCT A – Polish American Club, 171 Kendall Pond Rd W
WARD 5, PRECINCT B – Polish American Club, 171 Kendall Pond Rd W
ORDER posted in public places as follows: Elm Street School, Gardner Visiting
Nursing Association, Gardner High School, Gardner Fish & Gun Club, Holy Family
Academy, High Rise Lounge, Heywood Place (Boland Room), Gardner City Hall,
Heywood Library, and DPW Office.
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Councillor Aleksander Dernalowicz and seconded by President Elizabeth
Kazinskas, it was voted to adjourn at 8:14 a.m.
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From: Mayor
To: Elizabeth Kazinskas
Cc: Titi Siriphan; Byron Woodman
Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: [EXTERNAL] Re: Gardner Solar
Date: Monday, April 8, 2024 4:48:19 PM
Attachments: image.png
image.png
24.03.27 Gardner Solar Presentation.pdf
Good Afternoon Madam President and Finance Committee Members,
The attached and below presentations have been put together by the City’s Solar consultant, Byron Woodman, with regard to the items that are before the Committee for
review and recommendation to the City Council at this Wednesday morning’s meeting.
While the majority of this information is included in your packets, I wanted to be sure to include all of it for your review and consideration before this meeting.
See you Wednesday at 8am.
Best,
Mike Nicholson
From: Byron Woodman <bwoodman@solect.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2024 8:04 AM
To: Mayor <Mayor@gardner-ma.gov>
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Re: Gardner Solar
Hi Mike,
Good morning. Please note the approximate square footage for each of the roofs, below. I have included the overall area of the roof and the specific
measurements for the solar footprint as well.
In terms of the roof protection, Solect is required to maintain the roof warranty throughout the term. Please note the specific language from the lease below.
Regarding the roof upgrades, Solect has previously provided upgrades to roofs to enable solar to proceed. The price over the roof would be included in the
project capital cost. Once the work is complete, the system will be installed, and the additional cost will be included in the PPA rate. This option will be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis. We would also need to coordinate with the City regarding the timeline for the payment to the City and installation etc.
I am also updating the slides this morning for inclusion in the packet. If you have any questions, I can be contacted by cell: 339-203-5530.
Best,
Byron
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City of Gardner
Solar Energy Presentation
March 28, 2023
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Agenda
o The PowerOptions and Solect Solar & Storage Program
o The Massachusetts SMART incentive program
o City of Gardner Solar Locations for Review
o Overview of Due Diligence & Engineering
o Next Steps
o Questions and next steps
PowerOptions 11244; 11245;11246; 11247; 11248; 11249; 11250
o PowerOptions is a nonprofit energy buying consortium that delivers cost savings and predictability to
nonprofits and the public sector in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
o PowerOptions performs competitive RFPs on behalf of its members, to provide energy solutions.
Solect has been awarded the solar and storage program. Public entities can leverage the
PowerOptions RFP in lieu of conducting individual solicitations, and comply with state regulations
(M.G.L. Ch. 164 S. 137).
o Solect develops, finances, installs and manages solar and storage PPAs for municipalities, schools,
state agencies and nonprofits using pre-negotiated contract templates. Pricing reflects the
purchasing power of the consortium.
o PowerOptions serves as the member advocate and advisor to support members decisions on
contracting with providers under its programs.
o Poweroptions.org
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o Founded in 2009, Headquarters in Hopkinton, MA
o Develop, Finance, Design, Build, Operate, Service Solar and Energy
Storage in MA, RI, CT
o 95+ MA employees
o 700+ commercial projects, 130+MW to date
o Solect Services manages 700+ projects in MA, RI, CT
o 100+ PPAs completed with Public and Not for Profit clients under the
PowerOptions RFP Award and Standard Contracts
o DCAMM Certified
o Solect.com
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The PowerOptions Solect Solar Program
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o No upfront cost & no maintenance responsibilities
o Solect to install, finance, operate, maintain system
o 20-Year Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
o Fixed per-kWh price for 20 years
• Monetizes federal and state incentives
• Savings plus hedge against volatile electricity market
o PPA Pricing pre-negotiated with strength of PowerOptions consortium
o Contract templates (PPA, Lease) negotiated under the RFP
o PowerOptions as advisor, advocate, facilitator
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Gardner Solar – Installation11244;
& PPA Process
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o Solect will develop, install and service the projects
o Solect will perform all of the solar work, including electric and
structural engineering, utility applications and interconnections,
construction drawings, permitting, provide all materials, installations,
system Q/A and commissioning, inspections, and turn the system on.
o Operations period will commence – 20 years for roofs, 25 for canopies
o Solect Services will provide a safety walk through and provide a
convenient project reference guide for the City of Salem. Solect will
monitor and service all systems from the Hopkinton operations center.
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Gardner Solar11244;
Overview
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Power Purchase Agreement Options – Preliminary Pricing
PPA Rate PPA Rate Total Savings Total Savings
Location System Size Block 10 Block 11 Block 10 Block 11 Notes / Actions Required
New Community - Needs New Roof &
Center 373.9 .14 .144 $646,000 $613,000 Structural
- Confirm specs re: existing
City Hall - Roof 100.8 .18 .187 $208,375 $193,000 system
- Confirm Incentives &
City Hall - Canopy 249.6 .22 .225 $265,000 $231,000 Feasibility
Gardner - School Committee for
Elementary School 372 .122 .126 $836,000 $803,000 Approval
- Confirm RPT
DPW – 50 Manca 159.8 .145 .18 $262,000 $244,000 - Incentives & Feasibility
- Confirm Incentives &
Fire Station 61.4 .172 .177 $46,000 $39,000 Feasibility
Capital Purchase Option
Federal
Location System Size Total Price Credit Total Savings - Block 11 Notes / Actions Required
- Needs New Roof & Structural
- 30% Credit Pending Regulatory
New Community approval & project qualification
Center 373.9 $856,000 $256,800 $1,569,000 - Assumes Zero interest – Cash on Cash
Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering. Additional sites
may also be considered.
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City of Gardner - Solar11244;
Rooftop Locations
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Gardner New Community Center – 373.9kW City Hall – 100.8kW
Note: Assumes new roof
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City of Gardner - Solar11244;
Rooftop Locations
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Gardner DPW (North) – 91.2kW Gardner DPW (South) – 68.6kW
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City of Gardner - Solar11244;
Rooftop Locations
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City Hall Canopy – 249.6kW 416 W. Broadway – 270.2kW
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City of Gardner - Solar11244;
Rooftop Locations
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Gardner Elementary School Gardner Elementary School – 372kW
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City of Gardner – Phase 2 - Locations
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Gardner Middle School Crystal Lake Water Treatment Facility
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City of Gardner - Solar11244;
Rooftop Locations
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DPW – 416 Broadway St. WWTP - Templeton
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New Community Center - PPA
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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Community Center - Capital 11244;
Purchase Savings
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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City Hall Roof – 11244;
Annual Savings11247; 11248; 11249; 11250
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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City Hall - Canopy –11244;
Annual Savings
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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Gardner Elementary School -11244;
Roof – Annual
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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DPW – 50 Manca – Roof – Annual
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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Fire Station – Roof –11244;
Annual Savings
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Note: Final locations and prices are subject to final feasibility studies and engineering.
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Project Development Due Diligence & Engineering
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Upon execution of Agreements, Solect performs all development activities as outlined below. During
the development phase, Solect will provide Host with status updates, including any impacts to the
project feasibility, schedules, and rates.
o INTERCONNECTION AND INCENTIVE PROCESS
- Prepare electric engineering, submit SMART incentive applications and interconnection
applications for each site. Utility response may require engineering studies.
o STRUCTURAL AND SITE FEASIBILITY AND PERMITTING
- Confirm structural feasibility & weight-loading capacity for each building based on the systems
ballast plan.
- For canopies, conduct civil engineering and engage the Planning board to gain project approvals.
o PILOT CONFIRMATION
Execute PILOT agreements
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Proposal & Next Steps 11244; 11245;11246; 11247; 11248; 11249; 11250
SIGN LETTER OF INTENT
• Electric engineering, Utility applications, SMART incentive applications
• Receive utility responses, and complete due diligence
• Contracts Process (PPA, Lease & PILOT)
ROOFTOP SOLAR PROJECT STEPS:
• Construction design, building permit applications
• Pre-construction meetings and tight coordination with facility operations
• On-site Development - Installation and Electric tie-in
• Experience with 550+ installations at all types of buildings and properties
• Local inspections
• Closeout paperwork, Utility meter changes & Permission to Operate
• Solect Services monitoring and maintenance – included in PPA rate for entire term
• Educational Programming – monitoring, curriculum support, events
• Marketing / Communications / PR
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Discussion, Questions
Thank you!
Byron Wooodman, Sr. Director Business Development
bwoodman@solect.com
339-203-5530
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CITY of GARDNER
Office of the City Auditor
John Richard, City Auditor
95 Pleasant Street, Room 126
Gardner, MA 01440
Phone: 978-632-1900 ext. 8020 • Fax: 978-630-3778
Email: jrichard@gardner-ma.gov
To: City Council
Re: Money Orders for consideration on April 10, 2024
Listed below are balances in various ledger accounts that pertain to Money Order transfers for your
consideration.
These balances are as of April 6, 2024:
Money
Order Balance
Free Cash 10000-35400 $1,205,418.96
to Police Dept for New Vehcile Expense 12210-55090 $ 212,510.00 $992,908.96
to Public Works Dept for Tree Removal Expense 14421-52190 $ 40,000.00 $952,908.96
to Mayor Unclassifed Dept for Energy& Utilities Expense for
PSS/WSS Building 11199-52110 $ 75,000.00 $877,908.96
$877,908.96
The Snow & Ice account currently has available ($225,092.04)
14421-52210
Sincerely
copies: Mayor John Richard
City Clerk City Auditor
CITY of GARDNER
Office of the City Auditor
John Richard, City Auditor
95 Pleasant Street, Room 126
Gardner, MA 01440
Phone: 978-632-1900 ext. 8020 • Fax: 978-630-3778
Email: jrichard@gardner-ma.gov
To: City Council
Re: Money Orders for consideration on April 1, 2024
Listed below are balances in various ledger accounts that pertain to Money Order transfers for your
consideration.
These balances are as of March 28, 2024:
Money
Order Balance
Water Enterprise Fund
62000-31500 $ 1,858,549
To Water Dept for Repairs to Transmission Mains
Expense 62450-52039 $ 390,000.00 $ 1,468,549
To Water Dept for Repairs to Water Mains
Expense 62450-52031 $ 75,000 $ 1,393,549
$ 1,393,549
Sincerely
copies: Mayor
City Clerk
CITY of GARDNER
Office of the City Auditor
John Richard, City Auditor
95 Pleasant Street, Room 126
Gardner, MA 01440
Phone: 978-632-1900 ext. 8020 • Fax: 978-630-3778
Email: jrichard@gardner-ma.gov
To: City Council
Re: Money Orders for consideration on April 1, 2024
Listed below are balances in various ledger accounts that pertain to Money Order transfers for your
consideration.
These balances are as of March 28, 2024:
Money
Order Balance
Sewer Enterprise Fund
61000-31500 $ 5,603,479
To Sewer Dept for Chemical Treatment
Expense 61440-52231 $ 140,000 $ 5,463,479
$ 5,463,479
Sincerely
copies: Mayor
City Clerk
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