Gardner City Council elects new Ward 3 councilor
GARDNER – Paul Tassone will represent the residents of Ward 3 after the City Council voted 9-to-1 on Monday to appoint him to fill the vacancy left when Nathan Boudreau resigned from the position.
Tassone, who previously served as councilor for Ward 2 from 2014 to 2018, will serve out the remainder of Boudreau’s term until the next municipal election, which is scheduled to take place in November 2023.
“I’m looking forward to continue to improve the city and listen to the residents in Ward 3 and be a voice for them,” Tassone said following the vote. “When I was Ward 2 City Councilor, I never turned away a call, and I always listened with an open mind to any concerns people may have had.”
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Tassone, who also served for several years on the School Committee, said he had learned a lot about how city government operates during his time in political office.
“It’s been very rewarding,” he said.
Tassone was nominated for the Ward 3 seat by Councilor James Boone, who said in his remarks that Tassone had the experience necessary for the job.
“I’ve known and worked with this candidate for many years – he is thoughtful, carefully evaluates the facts before making decisions, (and) he works well with others,” Boone said. “(Tassone) is very passionate about the needs of the people he serves in the city of Gardner.”
More:Gardner City Councilor Nathan Boudreau to step down
In addition to Tassone, three other Ward 3 candidates filed paperwork with the City Clerk’s office to become eligible to fill the vacancy.
Tassone was welcomed back to the City Council by his fellow councilors, who also shared their appreciation for all of the candidates who applied for the position.
“Thanks to all who showed interest in serving their city,” said City Councilor George Tyros.
“It was nice to see five individuals apply for this position – one was withdrawn – but that was a great choice to have so many individuals in the ward (wanting) to represent their community,” said City Councilor Craig Cormier.
“It takes a lot of courage to step out, and no one knows that better than those that have sat here (on the City Council),” said City Councilor Karen Hardern.
“Congratulations and welcome back, Paul,” said City Councilor James Walsh. “I want to commend all those who sought the office and remind them, as well as the public, that this is a short-term appointment to fill an unexpired term, (and) I’m familiar with that, that’s how I first got on the council back in 1981. I encourage those that sought this position tonight, as well as anybody else…to seriously consider seeking election or appointment in our next election.”
“Thank you to everyone who did show interest in the position,” said City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas. “It does take a lot of courage to put your name out there.”
Councilor Judy Mack, who cast the sole vote against Tassone, nominated Anthony Richard to the seat. Jeffrey Palmieri and Michael Cormier were the other candidates for the position.
Tassone said he intends to run for the Ward 3 seat during the November election.
This article originally appeared on Gardner News: Gardner City Council Paul Tassone Ward 3
