Gardner Lake has been a cherished part of our community for nearly a century. It is more than just a body of water; it’s a historical landmark, a recreational haven, and a place where families create lifelong memories. As someone who has called Gardner home for years, I am deeply concerned about the city council's plans to sell Gardner Lake to a private entity for a mere dollar. This sale threatens to eliminate public access to a cornerstone of our community.

The residents of Gardner have recently invested $800,000 in repairing the dam and spillway of Gardner Lake. This significant expenditure was made with the understanding that the community would continue to enjoy this resource for at least the next 30 years. Yet, the city council, under the guise of "saving money," is moving to transfer ownership now that repairs are completed, pushing a narrative that lacks transparency and honesty.

For the past 30 years, the city has not had to spend any significant funds on the lake,. The proposed sale is not about saving money; it's about punishing a group of lake residents for failing to annex into the city.   

We must stand together to stop this sale. Losing Gardner Lake as a public space would not only rob us of a communal asset but also disrespect the history and contributions of generations who have cared for it. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to protect Gardner Lake from becoming privatized for the benefit of a few.

Therefore, I urge you to join me in signing this petition to the Gardner City Council. Let them know that we value Gardner Lake’s role in our community and are committed to keeping it accessible for everyone. Sign now to preserve our shared heritage and ensure Gardner Lake remains a public space.