AFFORDABLE
HOUSING
Mayor Nicholson is dedicated to expanding affordable, accessible housing for Gardner’s residents and families. Through thoughtful planning, reducing development barriers, and partnering with state and local organizations, he is working to ensure that everyone — from young professionals to growing families and seniors — can find a home right here in Gardner.
Building Housing for Gardner’s Future
We are addressing these pressures through smart planning and proactive policies by partnering with Barrett Planning Group to develop Gardner’s first-ever Master Plan, featuring a housing production plan to:
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Identify areas for residential growth
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Eliminate unnecessary red tape for multifamily housing, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and tiny homes
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Address housing insecurity and homelessness
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Define the types of housing most needed for Gardner’s current and future population
Collaborating with Community Partners
Through the Community Preservation Act (CPA), Gardner has established a dedicated local fund to support the creation of affordable housing. In addition, we partner with GEHM (Gardner Emergency Housing Mission) to provide short-term transitional housing for families with children in Gardner Public Schools, helping them stay connected to the community while finding long-term housing.
Working with the Commonwealth
Mayor Nicholson was a strong support of the Affordable Homes Act (signed August 2024), which allows homeowners to build ADUs up to 900 square feet on single-family lots without special permits — a key step toward expanding affordable housing options in our city.
In addition, Gardner has been collaborating with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to access state resources, aligning with larger efforts to expand housing and invest in sustainable, livable communities.
Supporting Veterans and Gold Star Families
In addition to addressing housing needs, Mayor Nicholson is committed to honoring and supporting our veterans and military families.
In recognition of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, the City Council unanimously approved his administration’s proposal to waive 100% of property taxes for Gold Star Families. These families have given far too much, and we owe them not just our gratitude, but meaningful support.
Mayor Nicholson has also expanded the Volunteer Incentive Program — a long-standing success for senior citizens — to include veterans of all ages.
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This program allows veterans to reduce their property taxes in exchange for volunteer work across city departments, including clerical work, technical support, groundskeeping, and more.
Looking Ahead
By prioritizing affordable housing, cutting red tape for development, and expanding services for veterans and military families, we are building a stronger, more inclusive Gardner for everyone who calls this city home.