Leominster City Council reviews community concerns on horse racing and landfill development

The Leominster City Council convened on June 23, 2025, to address various community concerns, particularly regarding the proposed horse racing project at the local fairgrounds. The meeting featured public comments from residents and representatives, highlighting differing perspectives on the potential impacts of the project.

The session began with public participation, where Loretta Denken opted not to speak, followed by Lisa Nugent, who briefly addressed the council. The discussion then shifted to the implications of horse racing in Leominster. A resident noted that current regulations prohibit horse racing within the city, suggesting that adding further language to reinforce this could provide additional protection against future proposals.

Michael Caputo, a local resident, expressed his appreciation for community engagement and emphasized the city's growth potential, citing its affordability and proximity to Boston. He argued against the notion that horse racing would negatively impact the city, suggesting that historical examples of cities benefiting from similar projects were rare.

Amanda Smart, another resident, voiced her confusion regarding concerns about horse racing, asserting that there are no plans for dog racing and that federal laws protect animal welfare. She highlighted the potential revenue the project could generate for the city.

Several union representatives, including Jorge Rivera and Fernando Lemus, spoke in favor of the project, emphasizing the job opportunities it would create for local residents. They argued that the construction and operational phases of the project would provide sustainable, unionized employment.

Conversely, some residents raised concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding the landfill site where the fairgrounds are located. Lawrence Ford urged the council to conduct a thorough study and cost-benefit analysis before making any decisions, citing potential risks associated with emissions from the landfill.

Jennifer Flanagan Long, a former state representative, called for a comprehensive evaluation of the project, stressing the importance of considering the broader community benefits, including job creation and local events.

The meeting concluded with additional public comments, including a cautionary tale from Ralph Crowley, who referenced the Love Canal disaster as a warning against potential environmental hazards. Other residents echoed similar sentiments, advocating for careful consideration of the project's implications.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's divided opinions on the proposed horse racing project, balancing economic opportunities against environmental and public health concerns. The council is expected to continue discussions and consider the feedback received from residents in future sessions.