Leominster Planning Board reviews petitions to prohibit and permit horse racing

The Leominster Planning Board convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss two significant petitions concerning local zoning regulations. The meeting focused on proposals that could reshape the city's approach to horse and dog racing, as well as the establishment of a new overlay district.

The first petition aims to prohibit all horse and dog racing, along with any associated betting or wagering within the city limits. The proposal includes a definition of "race track" and seeks to amend the table of uses to clearly indicate that such activities are not allowed in any zoning district. Legal opinions from attorneys Amy Quessel and Brian Riley confirmed that the proposed amendment is legally valid and that any use not explicitly listed in the zoning tables is currently prohibited. The board emphasized its role in overseeing permitted uses and noted that public comments would be welcomed during the meeting.

The second petition proposes the creation of a new overlay district titled the Fairgrounds Overlay District (FGO). This initiative seeks to amend the zoning map and introduce a new section in the zoning ordinance that would allow horse racing and related activities within this district. The proposal outlines specific requirements, including minimum lot area and setbacks, but does not specify maximum density, raising concerns about potential overdevelopment. The board discussed the need for landscape buffers to mitigate impacts on neighboring properties and highlighted the importance of correcting numbering issues in the petition to avoid conflicts with existing regulations.

Supporters of the FGO argue that allowing horse racing could generate revenue and create jobs, while also attracting tourism. However, the board noted that any similar initiatives in other municipalities, such as Plainville, involved more extensive regulations and requirements.

The planning board will consider public feedback before making a recommendation on both petitions. If no recommendation is submitted within 21 days, the city council retains the authority to act on the proposed ordinances independently. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the implications of these proposals for the community.