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WGAW Hotline Radio 9-19-26
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WGAW’s Hotline Radio broadcast of September 19th focused on municipal infrastructure, public safety initiatives, and fiscal management in the Gardner and Westminster areas. Central themes include a “proactive planning” philosophy regarding city budgets and infrastructure, significant state grant acquisitions for local projects, and the expansion of public safety technology.
Critical takeaways include:
- Infrastructure Revitalization: Gardner is completing major upgrades to City Hall and the Perry Auditorium while advancing the Rear Main Street development project.
- Public Safety Expansion: Westminster is launching new drone and motorcycle programs to enhance search-and-rescue and traffic enforcement capabilities.
- Fiscal Oversight: Gardner officials are implementing a “Noah’s Ark” approach—tightening budgets and planning five years out to prevent “draconian” cuts later.
- Environmental & Utility Management: Gardner is conducting a city-wide water system “chlorine refresh” and installing new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
- Community Heritage: Preparation is underway for the 21st annual Gardner October Fest and Chair Luge, as well as the Westminster Cracker Festival.
Gardner Municipal Operations and Infrastructure
City Hall and Public Facilities
The City of Gardner is in the final phases of several facility improvement projects designed to preserve historic assets and improve energy efficiency.
- City Hall Upgrades: The entrance project is nearly complete. Recent work includes repointing stairs, finishing new sidewalks, and repainting pillars. Starting September 21, 2021 (noted as the final phase), the front portico will be painted, requiring temporary closure of the front entrance.
- Perry Auditorium: New windows are being installed to replace outdated single-pane units. This project aims to reduce heating costs and improve acoustics by minimizing reverberation. Work on the Knowlton Street side is finished, with the Post Office and Connor Street sides to follow. Completion is targeted for mid-October.
- Electrical Infrastructure: A $750,000 grant from the Department of Public Utilities is funding a new electrical transformer for City Hall. This will support the installation of five new public EV charging stations behind the MA Annex, scheduled for completion by the end of November.
Water System Management
Despite recent rainfall, Gardner remains in a “semi-drought” state, necessitating continued water restrictions.
- Chlorine Refresh: The city is undergoing a three-week “chlorine refresh,” transitioning temporarily from chloramines to chlorine. This biennial process is intended to flush the system and address recent taste and odor issues caused by algae blooms.
- Timing Strategy: The refresh is conducted during cooler weather to manage chemical absorption rates, which accelerate in high heat.
Rear Main Street Development
The Rear Main Street complex project is nearing completion, pending the installation of a transformer by National Grid to allow for the removal of above-ground utility poles.
- Project Features: The development will add 100 parking spots to the downtown area and include an event plaza, a water feature, a small stage, and a food truck court. A fall opening is projected.
Fiscal Policy and Grant Strategy
The “Noah’s Ark” Approach
Mayor Mike Nicholson emphasized a proactive fiscal strategy, likening budget management to “building the ark before the rain came.”
- Oversight and Sustainability: The city is currently “tightening its belt” and developing a five-year financial plan to avoid the “draconian cuts” or tax increases facing other Massachusetts communities.
- Operational Efficiency: The administration is conducting a comprehensive review of city practices to ensure tax dollars are utilized effectively without long-term burdens on taxpayers.
Regional Grant Leadership
Gardner has seen a significant return on investment through its grant-writing program.
- Success Metrics: The city pays approximately $7,000 per month ($85,000 annually) for professional grant-writing services and has received $52 million in return.
- Inter-Municipal Consulting: The Mayor recently advised the Templeton Board on establishing similar programs, highlighting that while grants require matching costs and staff time, they are essential for completing capital projects that operating budgets cannot cover.
Westminster Municipal and Public Safety Updates
Police Department Initiatives
Chief Matt Lemay, approaching his first anniversary, is focusing on transparency and technological advancement.
- Drone Program: The department received a $12,000 donation from the Tom Fors Memorial Fund for a DJI Matrice 4T drone. Primarily a search-and-rescue tool, it features thermal imaging to locate missing persons or assist in remote areas like Crow Hill.
- Motorcycle Program: A new, cost-effective motorcycle lease program is launching to address traffic complaints and facilitate community engagement at local events.
- Behavioral Health: The department has expanded its behavioral health services to provide better crisis intervention and direct dialogue with the community.
- Clarification on “Flock” Cameras: Chief Lay confirmed that Westminster does not have “Flock” (automated license plate reader) cameras and is not currently seeking them, citing concerns regarding privacy and the need for clear oversight.
Public Safety Building Project
The Public Safety Building Committee has recommended Vertex as the Owner Project Manager (OPM) for the new facility project.
- Funding: The work is supported by a $750,000 earmark from Senator Peter Durant.
- Necessity: Officials noted that the current 75-year-old building has been “outgrown two times over” and lacks the infrastructure to support modern 911 dispatch and technology requirements.
Legislative and Policy Perspectives
State Representative Platform
Mayor Nicholson, running for State Representative, identified municipal aid as a critical failure in current state policy.
- Local Aid Reform: He argues the state system is “broken,” noting that 50% of Massachusetts municipalities have faced tax overrides or major budget cuts.
- Housing and Transportation: His platform emphasizes local control over housing character and improved access to transportation and education funding.
- AI Data Centers: The Mayor supports Governor Healey’s executive order requiring local municipal approval for AI data centers, citing significant ecological and infrastructure costs (e.g., water supply) associated with such facilities.
Gardner October Fest (September 26)
| Time | Event | Location/Details |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Run For A Beer | Starts/ends at Graham and Connors St. |
| 11:00 AM | Festival Opening | German Beer Garden opens; Gardner Ale House opens. |
| 11:30 AM | Tapping of the Keg | Formal opening ceremony featuring the song “Ein Prosit.” |
| 1:00 PM | Steinholding Competition | Masskrugstemmen; sanctioned state qualifying event. |
| 2:00 PM | Gardner Chair Luge | Downhill race towards Beauregard Liquors. |
| 3:00 PM | Live Music Begins | Stage in the parking lot across from the Ale House. |
| 8:00 PM | Street Party Conclusion | Street festivities end; the pub remains open later. |
Additional Regional Events
- Ashburnham Street Fair: Held Sunday (Sept 20), featuring music, crafts, and a pie-eating contest.
- Westminster Fall Lineup:
- Singing Trooper: Performance on Academy Hill, Sept 19 at 4:00 PM.
- 11th Annual Cracker Festival: Scheduled for October 17, celebrating the history of the local cracker factory.
- Gardner City Takeover: A community outing at the Worcester Railers hockey game on November 7.
Key Quotes and Insights
- On Planning: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” (Mayor Mike Nicholson, quoting a college professor).
- On Public Safety Transparency: “Ultimately we work for the community and it’s important that they have a say in how we do things.” (Chief Matt Lemay).
- On Local Government Importance: “If you go to brush your teeth in the morning and the water doesn’t come out… the first thing you’re going to be doing is calling your city or town hall.” (Mayor Mike Nicholson).
- On the Chair Luge: “Nobody has died through an accident with the Chair Luge… some of those vehicles are kind of put together with some gum and some tape.” (Host Steve Wendell).
WGAW Hotline Radio 9-12-26
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This special broadcast of WGAW Hotline Radio on September 12, 2026 covers the 9-11 Ceremonies at Monument Park in Gardner and features a special report on 9-11 hosted by Brian Kilmeade.
WGAW Hotline Radio 9-5-26
First up on Hotline Radio: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – A discussion with the Mayor about Willow Street with construction beginning within the week and lasting about one month. —- Elsewhere in the City, Certain maple trees need to be cut down — Gardner is still in a drought with outside water use banned from 9am to 5pm. — A discussion of the budget and revenues and oversight. — City new hire including a new Assistant Clerk, — a discussion of upcoming snow plowing RFPs to be posted within next couple of weeks – campaign signs are going up for State Rep 2nd Worcester District with the election being November 3rd. – A discussion of various programs in the schools.
More Segments on the show: ML Altobelli of the Good Earth Farm and Garden Center with advice on the drought – Day of Charity Commentary with Werner Poegel – Ways to give and get involved in the community – International Overdose Awareness Day – Gardner Ceremony with featured speakers: Shawn Hayden of GAMMHA, a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, Josh Cormier, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, City Councilor Elizabeth Kazinskas, Terry and Terry, Individual Stories of Loss, Inspiring Stories of Recovery
WGAW Hotline Radio 8-29-26
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First up on WGAW Hotline Radio: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Emails were sent out pretending to be a teacher and some individuals lost money through a scam. Vulnerability was found and has been fixed. Mayor Nicholson related a separate incident in which someone created a fake email address for him and asked for gift cards. People actually showed up at Gardner City Hall with gift cards and of course the Mayor told them about the scam. — Nicholson spoke about the recent firearms incident on South Main Street “handled so well by the Gardner PD.” — A discussion about the value of the Domestic Violence Advocate “make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep people safe.” — International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31st at Monument Park — –
on Politics: Nicholson for State Rep signs are out there, website is being updated. — State Primary is Tuesday, September 1st 7am to 8pm. — “Respecting people is how you get the better ideas.” — Nicholson said the key issue is working better with our cities and towns. — The Mayor wished everyone well who are returning to school this coming week.
Other Show segments: Politics behind the politics – Steve Wendell spoke about the Facebook nonsense.
The Governor’s race – interview with Brian Shortsleeve, Republican Candidate for MA Governor.
Commentary with Werner Poegel – What I Think is a Lemon.
2nd Hour: Mike Urban interview with Michael Minogue, Republican Candidate for MA Governor.
Westminster Town Crier Episode 32
Steve Wendell presented a short segment on Time Traveling to the 1950’s.
WGAW Hotline Radio 8-22-26
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First up on the program: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson — Host Steve Wendell asked the Mayor about funding formulas and the Mayor explained that the legislature is looking at school funding in an upcoming bill. Nicholson spoke about local government aid. — A discussion of how budgets are set in the State of MA and the definition of a gateway city. — Nicholson spoke about local street paving. Local businesses which have opened recently. —Discussion on projects and construction in Gardner. — Campaign for State Rep.
Podcast: Massachusetts Murders – the Pennington Murder
The Murder of Brianne Pennington, Part 1.
Also covered: The SK Victorian Mansion
Templeton Override: Commentary with Werner Poegel.
The Murder of Brianne Pennington, Part 2.
WGAW Hotline Radio 8-15-26
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Municipal transparency is the primary mechanism for maintaining public trust during periods of environmental and economic transition. The Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson served as a strategic update on the city’s ability to maintain continuity of service despite drought conditions and aging infrastructure. As Gardner navigates these challenges, the emphasis remains on proactive investment rather than reactive crisis management.
Environmental Crisis Management Gardner is currently under a drought advisory. Despite sporadic torrential rainfall, water levels at Crystal Lake and Pearly Brook remain critically low. While a mechanical failure in the line connecting Pearly Brook to Crystal Lake is being addressed, the primary driver of the depletion is a historically dry summer season.
| Measure | Current Restrictions | Potential Stringent Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Watering Hours | Prohibited between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. | Total bans during peak evaporation hours. |
| Residential Scheduling | Voluntary compliance based on time of day. | Mandatory Odd/Even watering based on house number. |
| Status Basis | Triggered by Miller’s River water marks. | Triggered by emergency reservoir depletion levels. |
Infrastructure Investment The administration has executed a $13 million strategic pipe replacement project over the last six years. By replacing infrastructure that, in some cases, dated back to the Civil War (1863), the city has achieved a documented savings of 93 million gallons of water annually. This modernization effectively adds 45 days of supply to the reservoir by eliminating systemic leakage.
Public Utility Safety The Mayor addressed recent water billing anomalies, citing input errors following a transition to a new billing system. Corrections and credits will be processed in the upcoming cycle. Regarding water quality, an algae bloom in Crystal Lake—exacerbated by heat and carbon dioxide from regional wildfires—has caused “pondy” odors. The city is utilizing permanganate treatments, a chemical common in dental hygiene, to neutralize the bloom. Both the DEP and DPH have cleared the water for consumption, confirming the absence of PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in the system.
Energy and Market Regulation Municipal electricity aggregation has yielded $4.6 million in community savings since 2020. The Mayor cautioned against “predatory” third-party suppliers who utilize deceptive marketing to lure residents into sub-optimal rates, advocating for state-level legislative reform to protect consumers.
Economic Development On the industrial front, the transition toward nuclear fusion energy at Devens (Commonwealth Fusion) is characterized as a safer, hydrogen-based alternative to traditional fission. Locally, the marijuana market has reached a point of “free market” stabilization; despite zoning that allows for more expansion, the market currently sustains three retail locations, preventing the oversaturation often seen in other municipalities.
Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) Status
WGAW serves as a critical node in regional safety. Following two recent instances of signal sabotage, federal and local authorities, including the FBI, have launched a formal investigation. WGAW is a designated EBS entity for North Central Massachusetts, and any interference with its broadcast signal constitutes a direct threat to public safety during regional emergencies.
Another Bathroom Incident
Mike Urban, a frequent commentator featured on Hotline Radio analyzed a Title IX civil rights complaint originating from Rochester Memorial School. The incident involving a third-grade student has exposed a “democratic deficit” regarding how educational policy is established in the Commonwealth.
- The DESE Directive: In February 2013, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) issued an 11-page administrative directive regarding bathroom access and gender identity. This was an administrative action that bypassed the traditional legislative process and public vote.
- Legislative Excision: While Chapter 76, Section 5 of state law covers non-discrimination, the legislature explicitly engaged in the “legislative excision” of specific language regarding bathrooms to avoid radioactive public debate, leaving the policy to be defined by unelected bureaucrats.
New MA Abortion Law
Host Steve Wendell criticized Governor Maura Healey’s signature of a expansive abortion bill, noting a perceived absence of religious and political opposition. He characterized the lack of public dissent from the Commonwealth’s religious leadership—including bishops and pastors—as a significant shift in the region’s political landscape.
National Relaxation Day – Commentary and Report by Werner Poegel
In recognition of “National Relaxation Day,” founded by nine-year-old Shaun Mueller in 1985, the segment detailed a protocol for a strategic reset. Mueller’s vision—that excessive labor is a biological deficit—highlights the need for intentional recuperation to avoid immune suppression and chronic stress.
Strategic Reset Checklist
- [ ] Digital Detox: Sever ties with electronic devices and social media algorithms to reclaim cognitive bandwidth.
- [ ] Nature Immersion: Spend 30–60 minutes in a quiet park or by a lake to lower baseline stress.
- [ ] Passive Hobbies: Engage in activities with zero “material value,” such as reading or a warm bath, to clear internal “cache.”
- [ ] Strict Boundaries: Actively block the calendar to prevent goal-oriented analytical thinking.
Public Health Warnings
The program issued a warning regarding chemical exposures: thermal receipts from retailers utilize a heat-based printing process that produces BPA/BP, a cancer-causing chemical absorbed through the skin. Furthermore, the use of plastic cutting boards was discouraged due to microplastic shedding. The broadcast recommended titanium or bamboo alternatives for food preparation.
Massachusetts Historical Foundation
Before the arrival of Europeans, Massachusetts was home to organized indigenous societies with sophisticated political leadership and trade routes. These nations maintained a deep ecological balance with the environment that was fundamentally disrupted by European disease and expansion. Listen to the show for this expansive segment on the history of the Commonwealth.
Starting off the program: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Mayor Nicholson spoke about the cost of employee health insurance which is $12 million out of the total budget of $98 million. — A discussion revolved around Gardner empolyee compensaton. — Gardner is still in a drought — Gardner projects — The CodeRed program – residents can sign up via the City of Gardner website. — The Mayor says his campaign for State Rep is going well. nicholsonforrep@gmail.com. Website: MichaelNicholsonMA.com
WGAW Hotline Radio 8-8-26
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This WGAW Hotline Radio broadcast presents a multifaceted discussion on current events and local issues impacting Gardner, Massachusetts, and the broader Commonwealth. The program features an interview with Mayor Mike Nicholson, who addresses city challenges such as rising employee insurance costs, drought conditions, and various municipal infrastructure projects. Listeners also hear political commentary regarding immigrant protection laws, state spending on undocumented individuals, and controversial government contracts in Springfield. Significant time is dedicated to community resources, including a report on the National Night Out event and a medical segment exploring the immune system’s role in cancer treatment. WGAW Hotline Radio of 8-8-26 further provides an extensive historical overview of Cape Cod, tracing its evolution from a maritime economy to a prominent vacation destination. Finally, the broadcast includes a tongue-in-check political endorsement and station updates, reinforcing the host’s role as a local information hub for North Central Massachusetts.
Steve Wendell emphasized that any official political candidate can get FREE airtime. Just contact him at (978) 632-1340.
National Night Out was a great success. Steve Wendell interviewed Veronica Patty at the National Night Out which took place on August 6th. Wendell noted that the National Anthem was wonderful.
Report on the Protect Act. Governor Maura Healey signed the Protect Act to shield illegals from ICE. Wendell commented on illegals having grocery carts filled to the brim in contrast to local seniors who are struggling.
Commentary – Werner Poegel – Tongue-in-cheek commentary on Wendell’s candidacy for Benevolent Dictator of the Commonwealth where everything is FREE and everyone gets taxed to the max.
Mike Urban – Jillian Michaels on American Muslims in Massachusetts. About a commission built around a single religion.
Steve Wendell stated that we should have a block on immigration for about 40 years so people can actually assimilate.
Dr. William Li with an update on Curing Cancer
Mike Urban interview with candidate for Governor Michael Minogue. MonogueforMA.com
A Extensive Hotline Special Report on Cape Cod covering the land and its history.
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Upcoming Meetings in the City of Gardner
Community Events in the City of Gardner
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City of Gardner News Flashes
Gardner MA - News Flash Gardner MA - Get the latest news
- Greater Gardner Community Domestic Violence Vigil
on September 15, 2026 at 4:00 pmThe Gardner Domestic Violence Task Force and the Gardner Community Action Team invite you to a vigil to remember those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. Monday, October 5th @ 6:00 pm Monument Park, 1 Cottage Street, Gardner
- Regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection Dayon September 14, 2026 at 5:18 pm
Gardner Landfill, 744 West St., Saturday, November 7, 2026 from 9 a.m. - noon. Registration no longer required. See flyer for more details. (Shredding available.)
- Water System Treatment Updateon September 11, 2026 at 5:03 pm
Beginning September 21, 2026, the City of Gardner Water Department will be conducting a temporary change in its disinfectant from chloramines to free chlorine. Please click the link for more information.
- Friends of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Book Saleon September 10, 2026 at 3:40 pm
Levi Heywood Memorial Library 55 West Lynde Street, Gardner, MA Friday, Sept. 25, 9 am-4:30 pm Saturdaay, Sept. 26, 9 am-4pm
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