Leominster puts the kibosh on horse racing plan

Leominster City Council voted 8 to 1 on July 14 to ban horse and dog racing, effectively halting plans for a proposed track named “The Fairgrounds. ” This facility would have included amenities such as a restaurant, sports bar, and event space on a defunct landfill. Strong opposition from residents influenced the council's decision; many argued that the track would negatively impact the community. Ward 2 Councilor Pauline Cormier noted the clear lack of local appetite for horse racing. Resident Lisa Nugent, who led a Facebook group against the proposal, expressed relief at the outcome.

The council's unanimous rejection of a zoning overlay district for the track further solidified their stance. The landfill, closed since 1982, now raises questions about its future use. Supporters of the track claimed it could have bolstered the state’s equine industry and provided financial benefits to the city.