Council confirms Eric Mabey to Leominster Planning Board after interview

Eric Mabey was confirmed to the Leominster Planning Board on a 7–1 roll-call vote at the city council meeting on July 27, 2026, after an evening interview with the Ways and Means committee. Chair Dave Cormier presented the mayor’s nomination and said he believed Mabey would be “a great asset to our planning board” after reviewing his resume and observing his commitment.

Mabey introduced himself to the committee as a Leominster resident of 25 years with a professional background supporting research and lab IT in the biotech sector, and with extensive volunteer service in scouting and local organizations. “I really love Leominster,” Mabey said during his opening remarks. He told councilors he has reviewed the city’s subdivision regulations, is relying on materials from Planning Director Elizabeth Wood, and plans to attend trainings offered by the American Planning Association to build zoning expertise.

Several councilors commended Mabey’s civic involvement and technical skills but raised questions about a recent planning-board action on MU-2 zoning petitions. Councilor Schaufuseppe said she would not support the appointment because residents who petitioned on MU-2 were not returned to the council for further review; Mabey said he believed the issue had been discussed previously and voted based on what he thought was an efficient use of the board’s time. The council proceeded to a roll-call vote and recorded seven votes in favor and one opposed, confirming the appointment for a term to expire April 15, 2031.

The council noted Mabey’s willingness to learn zoning law and attend training; the appointment will be effective per the city’s usual procedures. No motion text or mover/second was recorded in the interview segment; the vote tally was announced by roll call.