The Leominster City Council convened on July 14, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a significant petition regarding horse and dog racing within the city. The meeting began with a discussion on Petition 41-25, submitted by Lisa Nugent, which requests the prohibition of all horse and dog racing and associated betting or wagering in Leominster.

Council President and legal counsel agreed to waive the full reading of the petition, as it had been previously discussed in a public hearing. The council's legal affairs committee unanimously recommended granting the petition, emphasizing the importance of clarity in the city’s zoning ordinance. The council was reminded of a prior vote on short-term rentals, which had included specific language in the zoning ordinance to ensure clarity on what is permitted.

During the discussion, several council members expressed their support for the petition, citing the need for clear regulations. Councilor David Cormier noted that while he supported the clarification of the ordinance, he acknowledged that the city’s ordinance is a fluid document that could be changed in the future if proposals arise. Councilor Harringer raised concerns about the petition being a distraction from broader gambling issues, while Councilor Robbins and Councilor Pauline Cormier highlighted the strong opposition from constituents against horse and dog racing in the city.

The council engaged in a thorough debate, with some members advocating for individual consideration of issues rather than blanket decisions. However, the majority expressed a desire to support the petition as a reflection of community sentiment. Ultimately, the council voted on Petition 41-25, which passed with a vote of 8 to 1.

Following this, the council moved on to discuss Petition 52-25, a protest petition that met the necessary requirements for consideration. The city clerk confirmed that the petition did not require a supermajority vote due to the support of 20% of abutters.

The meeting concluded with a clear direction for the council to continue addressing community concerns and ensuring that local regulations reflect the values and desires of Leominster residents.