After earning recognition as 2023 Chamber of the Year, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce sets ambitious targets to strengthen regional economy, member services and quality of life
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its affiliates have adopted an ambitious three-year strategic plan that builds on recent successes while charting new territory in workforce development, advocacy, and regional competitiveness.
Approved in September 2025, the plan represents the Chamber’s continued commitment to strategic, measurable growth – building on the momentum and achievements of previous strategic plans
“This plan isn’t just about what we’re going to do – it’s about the measurable impact we’re going to have on North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy M. Nascimento, IOM, CCE, President & CEO.
“We’ve proven we can deliver results. Now we’re raising the bar even higher.”
Game-Changing New Initiatives
Manufacturing Council Expansion: Specialized working groups will address sector-specific challenges in advanced manufacturing, food processing, and precision manufacturing.
Transportation Management Association: A new Chamber affiliate will address regional transportation gaps that serve as barriers for workers and residents.
Tourism Destination Marketing District: Partnering with lodging members to leverage resources and dramatically expand destination marketing efforts.
Regional Business Investment Fund: Recapitalization will support priority real estate development projects, including utilizing the newly established North Central Massachusetts Land Bank.
Workforce Development: Enhancing workforce programming to strengthen employer partnerships and increase regional talent pipeline effectiveness
Expanded Inclusion Initiatives: Targeted recruitment and engagement of young professionals, women, Latinos, and underrepresented populations as members and leaders, with a target of 15% increase.
Tony Fields, Chair of the Chamber Board of Directors, emphasized the plan’s measurable approach: “We’re not just setting aspirational goals, we’re committing to specific targets that will hold us accountable. This ensures we’re always focusing our energy where it will have the greatest impact.”
“We’re committed to ensuring that the Chamber reflects the full diversity of North Central Massachusetts,” said Allie Catlin, Vice-Chair of the Board. “These values keep us grounded while we pursue ambitious goals.”
As the Chamber embarks on this three-year journey, success will require continued partnership from the entire regional community.
“With this strategic plan as our roadmap, and with the continued support of our members and regional partners, North Central Massachusetts will continue to strengthen its position as the best region in the state to live, work, raise a family, or build a business,” Nascimento said.
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HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital’s Simon Sinon Cancer Center is pleased to announce a FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING event and invite you to share this opportunity with your clients, patients, and communities.
Screening Details:
For men aged 55 and older at highest risk, including those who:
Are men of color
Have a family history of prostate cancer
Have never had a PSA blood test or it’s been 5 or more years since their last test
Are between 55 – 69 years of age
Important Information:
This is a screening test and not a substitute for a full examination by a personal physician.
Participants will be notified of results by our nurse navigators.
Participants are responsible for arranging follow-up care with their personal physician.
Screening is voluntary and free of charge.
Event Dates & Location:
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 & Thursday, December 18, 2025
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Simonds-Sinon Regional Cancer Center, 275 Nichols Rd, Fitchburg, MA 01420
Together, we can support a healthier community for all.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation is excited to announce that applications for the 2026 Scholarship Program are now being accepted from local high school students in North Central Massachusetts.
Each year, the Chamber Foundation awards approximately 25 college scholarships to support students continuing their education, made possible by contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. In 2025 the Foundation also introduced a new non-traditional scholarship specifically for students pursuing trade programs or vocational training, expanding opportunities for diverse career pathways.
Students interested in applying for a scholarship in 2026 should reach out to their high school guidance department. Each school in the Chamber’s service area can submit a limited number of scholarship applicants each year. These applications will be reviewed by a committee of Chamber members. The deadline to apply is Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Since establishing its scholarship program, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation has awarded over one million dollars in scholarships. Many of these awards are made possible through contributions from Chamber members. Scholarships offered through the Chamber Foundation are often named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community, whose philanthropy and commitment have significantly shaped the region, or companies that have sponsored a scholarship.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on improving the area through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Foundation are primarily used for education and workforce development initiatives, as well as charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts. This includes scholarships for eligible applicants pursuing education and grants to support economic and community development projects.
Donations to support the Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program are greatly appreciated. Contributions can be mailed to the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation at 860 South St., Fitchburg, MA 01420, or made securely online at www.northcentralmass.com/donate.
For those interested in sponsoring or endowing a named scholarship in honor of a prominent business or community leader, please contact Teresa Roberts, Director of Finance, or Roy Nascimento, President, at 978.353.7600 ext. 227 or 225.
For more information on the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program or to view a list of the named scholarships, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600 ext. 222.
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Taravista Behavioral Health Center is hosting a Holiday Hiring Event on December 10 from 4-6:30pm. Join us to explore meaningful careers rooted in hope, healing, and helping people discover their strength and resilience. Bring your resume and your energy — we are offering on-the-spot interviews and same-day offers for qualified candidates. No waiting. No wondering. Just real opportunities. We’re hiring:
– Nurses (LPN & RN)
– Mental Health Counselors
– Social Workers
– Accounting & Operations Professionals
Last month, the Clinton Select Board held their annual tax classification hearing to set residential and commercial property tax rates for FY26. The North Central Massachusetts Chamber’s Director of Public Affairs Travis Condon testified on behalf of businesses, urging the Board to work toward a more competitive tax structure that would help Clinton attract business investment and create local jobs.
Following discussion, the Select Board voted unanimously in favor of maintaining Clinton’s current tax shift at 1.5 or 150 percent. The vote came after two separate motions for alternative shifts failed: one to increase the shift to 155 percent, supported by Vice-Chair Matthew Kobus and member Mary Dickhaut; and another to reduce the shift to 148 percent, supported by Select Board Clerk Sean Kerrigan and member William Connolly. Chair Julie Perusse served as the tiebreaking vote in both votes before the unanimous decision. At the 150 percent, the residential tax rate will be $12.98 per thousand and the commercial and industrial will be $21.58 per thousand.
Understanding Tax Classification in Massachusetts
Tax classification often causes confusion among residents and business owners alike. Here’s how it actually works:
Massachusetts allows municipalities to choose between two property tax systems: a single rate or a dual rate (also called a “split rate”). Under a single rate system, both residential and commercial properties are taxed at the same rate per thousand dollars of assessed value. Under a dual rate system, first allowed in the state in 1979, commercial and industrial properties are taxed at a higher rate than residential properties, meaning businesses pay significantly more in taxes on the same property value.
The “shift” percentage refers to how much of the tax burden is moved from residential properties onto commercial and industrial properties. When Clinton maintains a 150 percent shift, it’s shifting a substantial portion of the tax burden onto the business community. Massachusetts law allows municipalities to shift up to 175 percent of the burden onto commercial and industrial properties.
In Clinton, at the current 150 percent shift, the residential tax rate is $12.98 per thousand dollars of assessed value, while commercial and industrial properties pay $21.58 per thousand – a significant premium that applies before a business owner invests a single dollar in improvements or hires a single employee.
Why Balance Matters for Everyone
The question isn’t whether to shift a few dollars between property classes in any given year. The question is: What tax policy will help Clinton grow its commercial tax base, attract investment, and create jobs?
Communities with more competitive tax rates attract more business investment. More businesses mean more jobs for Clinton residents, more customers for other local businesses, and ultimately a larger commercial tax base. When the commercial tax base grows, it generates more total revenue for the town – which benefits everyone, including residential taxpayers.
Right now, Clinton’s split rate puts businesses at an immediate competitive disadvantage. A commercial property owner in Clinton pays higher property taxes than they would for the same property in a neighboring community with a lower shift or single tax rate – before making any improvements, before hiring any employees, before generating any economic activity. That higher tax burden exists simply because of the property’s classification, making Clinton less attractive for business investment compared to surrounding communities.
Over time, maintaining a high split rate creates a troubling cycle: the higher tax rate discourages commercial property owners from investing in improvements or expansions to their properties, knowing any increase in value will be taxed at the premium rate. Meanwhile, businesses choose to locate or expand elsewhere, existing businesses leave or close, and new investment goes to more competitive communities. As the commercial and industrial tax base shrinks, the town must either cut services or shift even more burden onto remaining taxpayers – including residents. This is exactly why other North Central Massachusetts communities have been moving toward single tax rates or more balanced splits: they recognize that attracting and retaining businesses ultimately eases the tax burden for everyone.
Moving toward a single tax rate isn’t about giving businesses a break – it’s about creating a level playing field that helps Clinton compete for the investment and economic growth that strengthens the entire community. A growing commercial base means a more stable revenue source for the town and less pressure on residential taxpayers to make up shortfalls.
Why Tax Competitiveness Matters
In his testimony, Condon emphasized that Clinton’s tax structure directly impacts the town’s ability to compete for business investment. The economic landscape has become increasingly challenging for local businesses, with rising costs, tight labor markets, and competition from other states making it harder to attract and retain businesses.
The Chamber has consistently advocated for Clinton to narrow the gap between commercial and residential tax rates over time. In 2018, a special tax classification task force recommended that Clinton gradually reduce the split with the long-term goal of reaching a single tax rate to make the town more competitive for business investment.
Several years ago, the Select Board had been moving in that direction, gradually reducing the shift. However, recent votes over the past several years have maintained the gap rather than continuing progress toward greater tax competitiveness.
The Path Forward
The Chamber recognizes the difficult decisions facing Clinton’s elected officials and appreciates the town’s ongoing efforts to support economic development. While we appreciate the Select Board’s decision to maintain the current split for FY26 rather than to adopt the earlier motion to increase the rate, we believe that narrowing the commercial/industrial tax gap is essential for Clinton’s economic future.
A more competitive tax structure helps attract business investment, creates employment opportunities for Clinton families, grows the commercial tax base, and ultimately provides a more stable financial foundation for the entire community. As Condon emphasized in his testimony, “This isn’t just about businesses—it’s about employment opportunities for Clinton families, growing the commercial tax base through new development, and easing the tax burden on residents.”
The Chamber was the only business and economic development organization to testify at the hearing, ensuring that businesses had a voice in this critical conversation about Clinton’s economic competitiveness. We will continue to advocate for policies that position Clinton—and all communities in North Central Massachusetts—to compete for the investment and jobs that strengthen our regional economy.
The Chamber would like to thank Select Board Clerk Sean Kerrigan and member William Connolly for their support of working toward a more competitive tax structure.
For more information, please contact Travis Condon, Public Affairs Director at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or via email at .
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Tough Stuff Recycling, the leading provider of environmentally responsible mattress recycling services in Massachusetts, is pleased to share its successful participation in Boston Children’s Hospital’s employee led Sustainability Fair.
“It was an honor to be included in this small but mighty event,” said Mary Horsman, Northeast Manager of Sales and Marketing of Tough Stuff Recycling. “This gathering was a fantastic example of the difference a small group of committed individuals can make. Participating was a perfect opportunity to let people who care know that Tough Stuff is a resource for mattress and box spring recycling, for both individuals and institutions.”
Every Choice Matters
The Sustainability Fair provided Boston Children’s employees an opportunity to learn about sustainability initiatives, discover eco-friendly products and services and connect with others who are making strides on issues that matter to them.
This unique event empowered employees with knowledge and connections that can help them make earth-friendly decisions both at work and at home.
Many attendees were glad to learn how to recycle their mattresses and box springs, in keeping with the Massachusetts Waste Ban of these items.
Tough Stuff Recycling in Good Company
In addition to interacting with Sustainability Fair attendees, exhibitors were able to connect with each other and encourage the good work that each group is contributing to a more sustainable world.
Fellow participants included Boston Children’s Hospital Green Labs, Boston Children’s Hospital Blood Donor Center, Partners for World Health, Longwood Collective, Boston Climate Action Network, Medline, Medzah Industries, Mothers Out Front, Mass Save, Neeeco, Polycarbin and Brookline Pollinator Pathway.
About Tough Stuff Recycling
Tough Stuff Recycling helps Massachusetts residents, businesses, and municipalities responsibly dispose of old mattresses in compliance with the state’s Mattress Waste Ban. We specialize in efficient mattress pickups, drop-off locations, and municipal partnerships that promote landfill diversion and material recovery. Find out more at Tough Stuff Recycling
LUK Inc.’s Advocacy and Advisory Board (LAAB) and Beth Barto, President & CEO, hosted a Legislative Breakfast on the morning of Friday, November 7th to introduce local and state representatives to LUK’s policy standpoints and to discuss pressing local matters. In attendance were Representative Natalie Higgins, Representative Michael Kushmerek, Senator John Cronin, Representative Meghan Kilcoyne, a representative of Senator Robyn Kennedy, and others involved in local and state politics.
Through questions posed by LUK’s Youth Leaders and references to current happenings, the legislators and LAAB members had thoughtful discussions about community access to resources, the voices of young people in policy making, and education accessibility. Legislators carefully considered every aspect of these broad topics to deliver insightful perspectives on how the Massachusetts State government is handling the issues presented. They gave information on timelines, specific budget numbers, and legislative bills that are being processed that align with the Leaders’ questions, providing a glimpse into how legislation is considered and discussed. The breakfast was a productive, informative, and worthwhile event for all and LUK is grateful for the opportunity to discuss the LAAB’s priorities.
The LAAB serves as LUK’s key resource to guide the agency’s values in action regarding social issues and to promote public policy advocacy to advance and uphold the agency’s sense of Mission.
“It felt empowering to have my voice heard, especially knowing that the people in the room were genuinely listening and interested in what youth had to say. It made me feel like my opinions mattered and that I was contributing to something bigger,” said Youth Leader, Alicia Hernandez.
Sarah Gregory, LUK’s Career Development and Event Coordinator, added “I am incredibly proud of the youth Leaders and all of the work and research they have done for this event. I am glad that they were able to have their voices heard and ask about current issues that were important to them.”
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
For more information about LUK, Inc., visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find us on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC). Join us in building stronger communities, family by family!
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The Town of Ayer received a huge treat from the Healey-Driscoll Administration. Through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ FY26 Community One Stop Grant, Ayer’s Fitchburg Road Sewer Main Extension project received $500,000. This investment will allow the town to bring its existing sewer main further down Fitchburg Road, opening up not only future economic development opportunities but brand-new affordable housing options for Ayer via one particular project: Ayer Commons.
Massachusetts-based nonprofit and community development corporation Neighborhood of Affordable Housing (NOAH) owns a parcel of land along Fitchburg Road planned to be developed under the direction of MA Chapter 40B into 106 affordable housing units bearing the name Ayer Commons. Previously, NOAH’s site had no access to town wastewater service. As a result, NOAH would have been required to install an expensive onsite wastewater treatment system, which ultimately could have impacted the success and outcomes of the project.
“Ayer Commons will serve as a model of Passive House Design principles and traditional neighborhood design while being multi-modal transit-oriented,” shared NOAH Executive Director Phil Giffee. “Through the housing we build, NOAH increases access to affordable housing, creates social and economic opportunities, and empowers residents to be leaders of change. This could not be truer for Ayer.”
For major employers like Catania Oils, brand new affordable housing options in Ayer may greatly impact the quality of life for their employees and stability of business operations.
“Our hourly employees, particularly those working in manufacturing and in the warehouse, are essential to our operations,” Catania President Joseph Basile said. “They face unique challenges, including the physical demands of their roles and the need for affordable housing close to their workplace. These factors underscore the urgent need for affordable housing options in Ayer to support our workforce and ensure the sustainability of our business.”
A fourth-generation family-run business, Catania Oils employees close to 300 people with many travelling significant distances to come to work each day – for some this commute is over an hour each way.
“Ayer is proud to be a community that many people can call home,” Town Manager Robert Pontbriand said. “We consider ourselves a leader in creating and developing opportunities to increase affordable housing options so that our community remains accessible to all. We applaud the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for making this investment, and are encouraged by the public-public partnerships involved in this project to make it a success.”
The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s funding for the Fitchburg Road Utility Project compliments another major investment made by the Commonwealth this year to preserve over 100 existing affordable homes in Ayer at Devenscrest Village; 34 units will be at 60% AMI (area median income) and the remaining 79 units will be at 80% AMI. Along with the over $10 million in funding invested by the state towards Devenscrest, the Town of Ayer’s Affordable Housing Trust contributed $170,000 while the Ayer Voters approved committing $400,000 from the Community Preservation Fund at the 2025 Fall Town Meeting.
Construction of Phase I of the Ayer Commons project is anticipated to begin in 2027. More information can be found by visiting www.ayercommons.org.
Executive Office Suites & Virtual Offices Available
The Dickinson Business Center is proud to offer flexible, professional workspace solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s businesses. Located at 344 Main Street in Fitchburg, within the beautifully restored and historic Dickinson Building, the Center provides both Executive Office Suites and Virtual Offices that combine convenience, functionality, and style. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching your first venture, a growing company expanding your footprint, or a national firm establishing a regional presence, the Dickinson Business Center offers the ideal setting for your success.
Our Executive Office Suites are available furnished or unfurnished, allowing you to personalize your space to fit your brand and workflow. Each office includes access to shared amenities and professional services that make day-to-day operations seamless. For those who don’t require a physical office but want to maintain a professional image, our Virtual Office options offer a prestigious Main Street business address, mail handling, and on-demand meeting space.
The Dickinson Business Center is strategically positioned just steps from the newly constructed Fitchburg Boston Commuter Rail station, making travel to and from the Boston area convenient for both you and your clients. Tenants also enjoy ample free parking, ensuring easy access for visitors and staff alike. Our all-inclusive rent model covers utilities and high-speed internet, helping you manage costs with confidence and clarity. With no long-term commitments and next-day move-in options, you can scale your workspace as your business evolves—without the stress of lengthy leases or hidden fees.
Since its founding in 2004, the Dickinson Business Center has supported a wide range of professionals and organizations, from small startups to well-established corporations. Over the years, it has earned a strong reputation for its commitment to accessibility, responsiveness, and personalized service. The Center’s staff takes pride in maintaining a welcoming, professional environment that helps businesses thrive.
Beyond offices, the Dickinson Building itself is home to exciting initiatives like “Creative Cities” and “Brazilian Kingdom,” which add to the property’s dynamic atmosphere. Together, these enterprises contribute to a vibrant, collaborative community that encourages creativity, innovation, and local engagement.
As one of the newest members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, the Dickinson Business Center looks forward to strengthening connections within the region’s business community. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more vibrant downtown Fitchburg—where businesses grow and ideas flourish.
If you’re looking for the perfect workspace—one that’s inspiring, convenient, and community-oriented—discover what’s waiting for you at the Dickinson Business Center. Schedule a tour and see firsthand how this revitalized Main Street landmark blends historic charm with modern efficiency.
Take a tour today! Call 978-582-1013 to schedule your walkthrough and explore your next great business address at The Dickinson Business Center.
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the participants selected for the 2026 Community Leadership Institute (CLI). This prestigious nine-month program equips future leaders with essential skills and deep regional knowledge, focusing on key sectors and topics including media and crisis communications; non-profit governance and volunteerism; healthcare; arts and culture; government and the legislative process; manufacturing; economic development; and the legal system.
Established in 1989, CLI has graduated more than 300 community leaders over its 37-year history, with over 100 alumni in the past five years alone. The program identifies and develops emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds who will shape our region’s future.
The Community Leadership Institute delivers its comprehensive curriculum through monthly sessions from October through June. Each participant, sponsored by their respective business organization, gains extensive exposure to regional challenges and opportunities. The Chamber accepts applications annually during July and August, selecting participants who demonstrate strong leadership potential and commitment to community service.
“CLI continues to be our flagship leadership development program, preparing the next generation of regional leaders,” says Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s class represents the diverse talent and potential within North Central Massachusetts.”
“The caliber of this year’s class is exceptional,” notes Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Community Leadership Institute Program. “These emerging leaders bring fresh perspectives and energy that will undoubtedly strengthen our region’s future economic and social fabric.”
CLI Class of 2026 Participants:
Alicia Favreau, Empower Collective
Amanda Salmons, Cleartech Group
Andy Skoog, Fitchburg Housing Authority
Ben Shipp, All One Credit Union
Brittany Zorn, Mount Wachusett Community College
Caitlyn Falzone, Fitchburg Art Museum
Chayanis Hauswirth, Workers Credit Union
David Hinckley, Jr., DMH Electric, Inc.
Eric Chouinard, Edward Jones
Erica Halloran, MassHire North Central Career Center
Joseph Flanagan, Fitchburg State University
Joseph Madden, Bemis Associates
Julie McNamara, Workers Credit Union
Katie Sullivan, Guild of St. Agnes
Laura Pearsall, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Lynsay Radzewicz, Work Opportunities Inc
Magnus Carlberg, Wachusett Business Incubator
Maria Quaglia, Franklin Professional Associates
Michelle Haggstrom, Keller Williams North Central
Stacie Dolan, Work Opportunities, Inc.
Susan Beddes, Fitchburg State University
Teresa Roberts, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Terrance McCormack, IC Credit Union
Towma Rastad, Fidelity Bank
Valerie Bruno, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Zach Rocheleau, Rocheleau Tool and Die Co, Inc.
For more information on the Community Leadership Institute, please visit www.northcentralmass.com/overview/cli or contact Maureen Babcock at or 978.353.7600 ext. 222.
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The City of Gardner has been awarded $365,000 through the Federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program to purchasenew fire-rated radio systems for all 42 members of the Gardner Fire Department. The grant will replace the Department’s 15-year-old portable radios, which are beyond their life expectancy and no longer supported by the manufacturer. Parts for the current models are often unavailable, and the units do not meet modern fire service standards for heat and water resistance.
Mayor Michael J. Nicholson expressed his gratitude for the support of federal partners and the continued investment in Gardner’s public safety infrastructure.
“This grant is another great example of how federal, state, and local partnerships work together to strengthen our communities,” said Mayor Mike Nicholson. “By investing in the safety of our first responders, we’re also investing in the safety of our residents. These new radios will ensure that our firefighters can communicate clearly and effectively during emergencies, helping them protect the people of Gardner while also keeping each other safe.”
Portable radios are among the most critical pieces of safety equipment for firefighters. They provide a vital communication link during emergencies—especially when operating in immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) environments—ensuring that firefighters can stay connected toeach other and to command staff while working to protect residents.
“Gardner’s firefighters represent the best of what it means to serve: courage, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to protecting others,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “Securing this federal investment through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is exactly why I fight to strengthen and expand these initiatives in Congress, because they deliver real results for communities like Gardner. These new, state-of-the-art radios will enhance communication, improve safety, and ensure that our firefighters have the reliable tools they need to do their jobs effectively and return home safely after every call.”
“This investment in the Gardner Fire Department is an investment in its firefighters and the whole community,” said US Senator Edward J. Markey. “Communication is key when responding to emergencies, and I was proud to fight for this funding alongside Mayor Nicholson, Chief Lagoy, and our partners at the federal, state, and local level. I will continue toadvocate with Senator Warren and Representative Trahan to expand funding for FEMA’s AFG program and other firefighting grant programs so that every department gets the federal support they need.”
“It’s about time we upgrade our firefighters’ 15-year-old communication systems,” said US Senator Elizabeth Warren. “Modern equipment is an investment in Gardner families’ safety, so I’m going to keep fighting hard toprotect the Assistance to Firefighters Grants and Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response programs.”
Gardner Fire Chief Greg Lagoy emphasized how essential clear communication is in emergency situations.
“The Gardner Fire Department currently uses portable radios that are over 15 years old –well beyond their estimated service life, and do not meet current standards,” said Chief Greg Lagoy. “This much-needed funding from the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant program will be used topurchase new P-25 compliant, fire service-rated portable radios. These new radios are designed to perform under the harsh conditions in burning buildings, including extreme high temperatures and large volumes of water. Firefighters regularly operate in hazardous atmospheres, and having reliable portable radios are a mission-critical lifeline to ensure their safety. The benefits of this grant funding align with FEMA’s goals of improving firefighter and public safety, enhancing the Gardner Fire Department’s daily operations, and addressing equipment failures and service issues. The project addresses a critical gap in communication equipment, replacing outdated and unreliable technology to meet current safety standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association. Without this award, the GFD would face continued challenges, including potential safety risks from communication failures and escalating maintenance costs for obsolete equipment. This also meaningfully helps to alleviate a significant financial burden on the City.”
City Councilor Craig Cormier, who chairs the City Council’s Public Safety Committee also expressed their appreciation for the continued investments in public safety.
“The Assistance To Firefighters Grant will significantly enhance the safety and efficacy of the Gardner Fire Department,” said Councilor Craig Cormier. “The department has encountered challenges with its end-of-life model radios, resulting in a growing number of breakdowns. We are pleased to learn that the grant will enable the department to maintain uninterrupted communication, ensuring the safety of both the firefighters and the individuals they serve.”
State Representative Jon Zlotnik praised the City’s ongoing efforts tomodernize its public safety infrastructure and support its first responders.
“The Gardner Fire Department has consistently demonstrated its commitment to professionalism, preparedness, and public service,” said State Representative Jon Zlotnik. “This grant builds on the City’s ongoing efforts to ensure that our first responders have the modern tools and equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. I’m proud tosee continued investment in the safety of both our firefighters and the residents they protect every day.”
Over the last five years, the City of Gardner has made significant investments in the Fire Department, including the purchase of new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units for all firefighters, two newengine trucks, a new heavy rescue vehicle, a new ambulance, and the necessary equipment to outfit each of these vehicles. Additionally, the City purchased new EMS protective jackets for all firefighters responding to ambulance calls and provided each firefighter with a second set of turnout gear to ensure readiness and safety during back-to-back responses. The City has also recently ordered a new ladder truck set tobegin construction in 2027 and a new backup ambulance expected toarrive in early 2026.
These collective efforts continue to strengthen the Gardner Fire Department’s ability to protect the community with the highest level of service, safety, and professionalism.
“By replacing outdated technology with modern, fire-rated radios that meet today’s safety standards, Gardner is continuing its commitment toinvesting in the safety of both its residents and first responders,” added Mayor Nicholson. “Reliable communication is essential in every emergency, and this investment ensures that the City’s firefighters have the tools they need to serve the community safely and effectively.”
When: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 3PM EST.
Duration: 60-minutes
Cost: Free
Discover SEO for AI — a digital marketing strategy to boost brand visibility, website visitors and increase sales leads.
As AI search becomes the way people find and evaluate companies, products, and services, teams should add SEO for AI (Generative Engine Optimization or GEO).
This free 60-minute session shows how to structure pages, entities, and content so AI systems can understand, index, and present your brand when buyers compare options. You will learn practical steps for schema, internal linking, and on page signals that improve visibility at the moments people search on AI platforms.
Building on the SEO for AI (Generative Engine Optimization or GEO) approach, we will show how AI Search Optimization is reshaping how brands are discovered, evaluated, and recommended across channels, and what signals AI systems prioritize when surfacing credible, trustworthy businesses so you can position your brand to drive potential sales.
You will leave with a clear framework for brand clarity, structured messaging, and data driven consistency that uses agility, focus, and strong content foundations to attract more qualified visitors and convert them into loyal customers.
When: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 3PM EST.