Leominster City Council denies landfill development proposal amid public opposition

In the heart of Leominster's city hall, council members gathered on July 14, 2025, to address pressing concerns surrounding the future of a local landfill. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as councilors prepared to deliberate on a proposal that had drawn significant public attention and concern.

The discussion centered on the landfill's potential redevelopment, with councilors expressing a mix of caution and determination. One councilor emphasized the need for transparency, stating, "If those questions... are gonna come up, we owe those people an answer." This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, highlighting the community's demand for clarity regarding the landfill's safety and future use.

Councilor Shalfoza, who had conducted extensive research on the landfill's history, shared insights from exceedance reports indicating elevated levels of methane and benzene. "I feel like I am perfectly comfortable... I dug around to find out what I could find out about the landfill," she stated, reflecting her commitment to informed decision-making. Her confidence was bolstered by the overwhelming feedback from constituents, with many expressing strong opposition to any development on the site.

The councilors acknowledged the volume of correspondence received from residents—nearly 800 emails, calls, and letters—most of which voiced concerns about the landfill's safety and the appropriateness of potential projects, including a racetrack. "The vast majority of people that contacted me were opposed vehemently," Councilor Shalfoza noted, underscoring the community's unified stance against the proposal.

As the meeting progressed, the council ultimately voted to deny the proposal, with a unanimous 9-0 decision. The outcome was met with a sense of relief among council members, who recognized the importance of listening to their constituents. "It really makes us all proud of Leominster," one councilor remarked, appreciating the respectful discourse that characterized the meeting.

With the landfill's future still uncertain, councilors acknowledged that this issue would likely resurface. "I think we need to get that information," one member stated, emphasizing the necessity of ongoing dialogue and investigation into the landfill's potential uses. As the meeting adjourned, the council left with a commitment to continue engaging with the community, ensuring that the voices of Leominster residents remain at the forefront of future discussions.