Council liaison says Waterford community center progress slow; recommends subcommittee oversight

Councilor Hegman gave an extended update on the Waterford community center at the Nov. 17 Gardner City Council meeting, highlighting a successful ribbon cutting for Growing Places and a $100,000 legislative earmark secured by State Representative John Slotnick to support the organization's move into the new center.

Hegman said nonprofit tenants are largely operational while municipal-led finishing work has progressed more slowly, with outstanding items including two renovated bathrooms, senior-center storefront doors (expected in six to eight weeks), and HVAC final hookups. He recommended that future updates be routed through a standing subcommittee and acknowledged he will step down as the council liaison for the project so a staff or committee lead can drive day-to-day progress.

Multiple councilors praised the liaison's work, urged appointment of a facilities manager or clerk of the works to keep the project on schedule, and asked for clearer timelines and prioritization to avoid cost increases from delays.

Council placed the update on file after the motion and discussion.