Finance Committee amends Executive Department budget, advances Chief of Staff
The Gardner Finance Committee recommended the Mayor's FY2027 budget to the full City Council on May 26, 2026, with Executive Department amendments. By unanimous vote, the Committee reduced the Executive Aide salary to the prior-year level and zeroed the Executive Department's professional
Finance Committee · Meeting of May 26, 2026
GARDNER — The Gardner Finance Committee recommended the Mayor's FY2027 budget to the full City Council on May 26, 2026, with Executive Department amendments. By unanimous vote, the Committee reduced the Executive Aide salary to the prior-year level and zeroed the Executive Department's professional development line item pending creation of a city-wide consolidated professional development account. By a 2-1 vote, with Councillor Judy A.
Mack dissenting, the Committee advanced a proposed Chief of Staff position to the full Council at a $70,000 starting salary, reduced from the administration's recommendation. Chair Aleksander H. Dernalowicz supported the position to improve professional management and executive flexibility; Mack opposed it, arguing resources should instead fund a dedicated facilities management role.
In the full story:
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Source: the Finance Committee meeting of May 26, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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