In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the emergency response to a water leak in Gardner, highlighting the need for improved communication and emergency planning at both the county and town levels. A local resident, who has worked in hospitals for a decade, emphasized that each town should have its own emergency plan to address potential crises effectively.

The resident noted that the leak was identified on Tuesday, but residents were not informed until late Wednesday, raising questions about the timeliness of the response. They expressed concern that the leak occurred over a holiday weekend, which may have delayed necessary repairs. The lack of communication from local government was particularly troubling, as the resident learned about the issue through their school rather than official channels.

The resident suggested that the county implement a notification system similar to those used by schools, which provide timely updates via phone calls, emails, and texts. They criticized the existing Code Red system for being difficult to access and suggested that important information should be prominently displayed on the county's website.

Additionally, the resident pointed out the inadequacy of the water distribution efforts during the crisis. They mentioned that while there was a single Facebook post about water availability at the firehouse, many residents, including themselves, missed it. The resident highlighted the need for bulk water distribution, as cases of bottled water were insufficient for their household's needs.

The meeting underscored the critical importance of effective communication and preparedness in emergency situations, with calls for the county to enhance its response strategies to better serve the community in times of need.