Leominster City Council approves local meals tax to fund Fallbrook School project

In a recent Leominster City Council meeting held on March 10, 2025, significant discussions centered around the proposed implementation of a local meals tax aimed at funding the Fallbrook Elementary School project. The meeting highlighted the city's financial status and the necessity for innovative revenue streams to support essential projects.

The financial report presented at the meeting revealed that Leominster has earned interest amounting to $343,294.67, with a total balance of $2,193,191.62. Additionally, the opioid stabilization fund showed a balance of $558,447.10 after accounting for expenditures and proceeds. These figures set the stage for the council's discussions on future funding strategies.

Mayor Dean J. Mazurla's request to adopt a local meals tax under General Law Chapter 64L, Section 2A, was a focal point of the meeting. If approved, the tax would add 0.75% to the cost of meals, translating to an additional 75 cents on a $100 meal. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue estimates that this measure could generate between $800,000 and $1,400,000 annually for the city. The funds would specifically support the Fallbrook Elementary School project, helping to reduce the overall cost and debt service associated with its financing.

Council members expressed support for the tax, emphasizing its potential to alleviate financial burdens on residents while also attracting revenue from visitors. Councilor Angelini noted that a significant portion of the anticipated revenue would likely come from non-residents, thereby distributing the financial impact more evenly.

However, the discussion was not without controversy. Councilor Frieden raised concerns about the process leading to the vote, suggesting that the presentation of the meals tax proposal lacked adequate public notice and transparency. He argued that residents, particularly those without children in the school system, may not be fully informed about the implications of the tax and the school project itself. Despite these concerns, the council ultimately voted unanimously in favor of the meals tax, passing it with a 9-0 vote.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in securing funding for essential services and infrastructure. As Leominster moves forward with the implementation of the meals tax, the city will need to ensure that residents remain informed and engaged in discussions about significant financial decisions that impact their community.