Horse Racetrack Page – Greater Gardner MA – 2024

Gardner Magazine Interviews and Articles 2024

• Commentary 7-21-24

  

  Making Sense of Information Swirling About – Horse Racetrack Commentary

  A Commentary on the Horse Racetrack with Werner Poegel. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Explaining the parties to the proposed transaction of land at 827 Green Street in Gardner. —- Putting Care of Horses Issue in perspective —- Putting watershed issue in perspective —- explaining informal meeting and public hearing scheduled for July 23rd —- Dispelling falsehoods about public hearing being one-sided. Truth: All sides of issue welcome.

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• Blake 7-20-24

  

  Former Mayoral Candidate Kimberly Blake Comments on Proposed Racetrack

  Gardner Magazine received the following AUDIO statement from Kimberly Blake on July 20, 2024. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

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• Racing 7-15-24

  

  A Candid Interview with John Stefanini of BayState Racing LLC

  We go round the track with John Stefanini on July 15, 2024 and cover all the bases regarding the proposed facility at 827 Green Street, Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Sometimes through ridiculous analogies we reveal just how hyperbolic and misleading some opposition statements have been about this proposed project. We thank John Stefanini for being a good sport as we asked him some silly questions along the way. But, the result was that we cut through the clutter regarding the environmental concerns, speak of animal safety, and get real on traffic and other issues. It’s a good interview to help you assess what your actual, valid concerns are and what items are non-issues or have already been addressed. The Gardner City Council will hear a presentation from BayState Racing LLC on July 23, 2024 and hold a public hearing the same evening.

  Some key takeaway quotes from this interview:
  We would instantly be the largest taxpayer in Gardner, paying $500,000 approximately a year. The next closest taxpayer pays $173,000. And to put that in perspective, the site, if it were to pay taxes today because it’s by a not-for-profit, would pay $15,000.
  Whether you think we’re doing it because it’s the right thing to do, which I hope you do, or whether we’re required to do it, it matters not. We are going to do what we say we’re going to do.
  We will improve the manure management on this site because we will collect the manure, we will store it properly, and then we will truck it off of and dispose of it off-site. We will be required to do that.
  We have some of the best engineers in the state who’ve done large and small projects for the state and municipalities, and we will have a system designed that directs and improves the storm water management on this site
  Massachusetts horse owners and horse breeders have been leaders in the nation for decades in terms of care and treatment of animals. Massachusetts was among the first to have anti-slaughter, anti-doping regulations, which Congress has now adopted in something called the Horse Integrity Security Authority, HISA, which we will have to follow their strict adherence to.
  You can expect one, two, three weekends a year, but never more than 20 days a year. We don’t think we have the purse money or the horses to do more than one or two weekends a year, and that’s what we’ve said. And we’ll work with the community on a traffic plan.
  The wagering on this site will happen one, two, three weekends a year and we will have all kinds of safeguards put in because the gaming commission will require us to do that. In addition to that, we will be required to fund local addiction and other prevention related measures. We’ll do self-exclusion lists on the site. We’ll monitor if there’s a problem or someone has an issue. We’re aware of the concerns just like a tavern that sells alcohol. You need to be a responsible server and you need to understand the rules and you need to be trained.
  We also know we know how to care for horses. Our owners, our 350 horse farms from around the Commonwealth love their horses, just as you love your pet.
  We’re going to renovate one or both of the barns. Maybe, I don’t know if there’s a need for that addition or not, we’re going to renovate and improve the houses there, we’re going to build a pad for food trucks and other temporary facilities, we’re going to build a gazebo. So the only new structure we’re really talking about building is a gazebo and we’re talking about constructing a track, which is a one mile strip that’s 70 feet wide. So that would go through the woods around that hill that’s there and we would construct into the hill, we would terrace it, which takes advantage of the natural topography
  You don’t need to take my word for any of these things. We need to go before the Conservation Commission and work through the rules and regulations which are considerable for the site, with our engineers, for the waste water management and storm water management of this site and that will take six to nine months to go through a process to figure that out and all those meetings will be in the public and all those meetings will follow rules and regulations. In addition to that, we will go to the planning board with a full traffic study and we’ve agreed to pay for whatever peer review they need to review those traffic studies
  Website: BayStateRacingLLC.com Questions? Call (978) 277-3382

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• Commentary 7-12-24

  

  Common Sense on the Racetrack – Commentary by Werner Poegel

  Putting a little perspective back in to the discussion. Exploring the Emotional, Ideological, and Objective reasons for and against. Encouraging treating all involved with respect. We go over the various particulars with an honest assessment of the road forward. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

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• Poll 7-9-24

  

  Poll Regarding Racetrack Reveals Wide Differences of Opinion

  A poll on Gardner Facebook Group “Gardner MA: Uncensored” received responses from 68 members, or 1 percent of membership in about a day. As most Facebook Groups are visited by about 3 percent of members in a day, it is reasonable to state about 1/3 of those who saw the poll actually had interest in it. Therefore, the results must be used with caution. Poll results: YES, I support the proposal 30%, NO I oppose the proposal 43%, and “I have not made a decision as I want more facts” 27%.

  What is clear is the future of the Racetrack at 827 Green Street in Gardner is far from decided. A public hearing is likely to attract more opposition than proponents as is the norm. It appears getting more factual information out to the public about all factors involved in the project would be a sensible choice. Given differences in public opinion, the Gardner City Council’s decision on July 1st to have a public hearing and gather more information for all concerned appears to be a very helpful development and displays fairness to all.

  UPDATE July 10, 2024: On Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s going on Page! – 194 votes were cast in the same poll with the following results: YES: 20%, NO: 72%, UNDECIDED: 8%

  Update July 13, 2024 12:06AM – On Gardner, Ma – #1 What’s going on Page! – 270 votes have been cast in the same poll with the following results: YES: 22%, NO: 67%, UNDECIDED: 11%

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• Kamuda 6-28-24

  

  Carolyn Kamuda says City Council should give more study to the proposal.

  An Interview with Carolyn Kamuda regarding the proposed Racetrack in Gardner MA

  We spoke with Carolyn Kamuda on June 28, 2024 about the proposed Racetrack in Gardner. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Carolyn Kamuda is opposed to the proposed racetrack at 827 Green Street in Gardner. Kamuda is concerned about the Water Protection Overlay District. Kamuda is concerned about the revenue estimates in the host agreement and outlines why.

  Carolyn Kamuda suggests that more industry should be found to come in to the City. “I think industry is much better than a racetrack, which in my opinion would drain the community.”

  With respect to the City Council, “What I’m hoping is our City Council will take more time, will, you know, create a subcommittee to get more information. I think it would be irresponsible of them to move this forward, even to a public hearing. I believe that they should give more study to this, create a subcommittee, and really do their homework. I think they really need to do that..”

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• Racing Yes or No

  

  Yes or No to Horse Racing? A Check of Facts

  Which poster will reflect the decision of the Gardner City Council who decides on July 1st whether or not to schedule a public hearing regarding the possibility of horse racing at 827 Green Street in Gardner?

  Our Chart Lists the publicized positives from proponents and negatives from opponents and a corresponding Fact Check.

  Review Proposed Host Agreement. Review additional info on proposal from packet.

  

  Positives

  Negatives

  Statement	Fact Check
  Sale of Land Benefits GAAMA	TRUE. GAAMHA would receive $1.6 million for the land at 827 Green Street in the transaction, plus an additional unspecified multi-million dollar donation.
  City of Gardner to receive $500,000+ annually	Possibly TRUE. As City of Gardner would receive a percentage of revenues, exact annual amount would depend on success of the business. Clarification 6-26: BayState Racing LLC states to us, “The approximate $500,000 is calculated as the PILOT payment, revenue from simulcasting, meal and hotel tax. It may be more than $500,000 some years..”
  Can benefit other local businesses	TRUE. Increased people traffic to Gardner could mean additional customers for existing businesses.
  Next Step is City Council 7-1-24	TRUE. City Council will vote on whether to schedule a public hearing.
  Mayor Michael Nicholson is in favor of the project	TRUE. He was skeptical at first, had Assistant City Solicitor negotiate Host Agreement to make sure all concerns and impacts adequately addressed. Mayor has stated he is in favor of proposal.
  After Public Hearing, City Council can vote to approve Racetrack	FALSE. City Council can only approve that 827 Green Street is suitable for a Racetrack. Mayor must also approve. Thereafter, anyone owning that land could apply for license with Gaming Commission.
  If City Council and Mayor approve of land use, item goes forward to Gaming Commission	FALSE. City Council and Mayor must first approve a Community Host Agreement. CLICK HERE TO REVIEW AGREEMENT
  Next Step is approval from Gaming Commission	FALSE. Massachusetts Gaming Commission will first schedule a public hearing prior to granting a gaming license.
  Gardner completely loses control once license is granted	FALSE. Gaming Commission holds a hearing every year on renewal of the license Additionally, the Mayor will appoint a Gardner resident to serve as a member on BayState’s Oversight Committee which will report yearly to Mayor and Council.
  Manure from Race Horse a positive for environment	Possibly TRUE. Each horse produces about 9 tons of manure each year. Off-site companies can process this into safe and clean fertilizer
  Comprehensive Proposal Provided by Bay State Racing LLC.	TRUE – Here is the 187 pages of information on the proposal included in the City Council packet, CLICK HERE.
  BayState Racing LLC claims site has a history of breeding, training, and racing of horses	TRUE – BayState Racing LLC has launched a website providing their view of the project. Website, CLICK HERE

  Statement	Fact Check
  Manure from Race Horses an environmental concern	FALSE, manure would be collected, kept on a concrete slab, and disposed of properly off site. Horse Manure itself contains a high amount of phosphorus which would contribute to excess nitrates in the environment. However, concern is addressed upfront.
  Shady Business Going on Behind the Scenes	FALSE, Agreement with GAAMHA disclosed, proposed agreement between Bay State Racing LLC and Gardner disclosed.
  BayState Racing LLC turned down for similar project elsewhere	TRUE. Town of Hardwick voters voted NO in January 2023 on having a racetrack in their community.
  Majority of Gardner Against Racetrack	Probably FALSE. A meeting of those opposed was held on Sunday, June 23, 2024 and less than 100 people attended. This represents under 1 percent of Gardner’s approximately 14,000 registered voters.
  Lack of Oversight	FALSE, if this moves forward, the MA Gaming Commission would hold public hearings every year prior to license renewal.
  No oversight re Surface Water Protection	FALSE. Conservation Commission will review site for buffer zones and surface water protection. BayState Racing LLC claims project improves stormwater management and environmental concerns.
  Site Plan can be whatever Bay State Racing LLC wants	FALSE. Gardner Planning Board will have final site plan approval.
  A court could override a decision of the Planning Board	TRUE. Any applicant not satisfied with a decision of the Planning Board can appeal the ruling in court where both sides would be represented.
  Racing is Cruel	Partially TRUE – Anecdotal reports in recorded history exists of horses mistreated elsewhere in the industry. However strict regulations and laws now on the books would make animal cruelty unlikely here. BayState Racing LLC publicly states its love for horses. MSPCA oversight is mandated by regulation.
  Gambling to Take Place	TRUE – Part of the Appeal of the venture to BayState Racing LLC is the revenue to be derived from wagers from online gambling. Clarification from BayState LLC: Gambling only takes place on festival race days in temporary kiosks. There is no wagering on site beyond those days. Overwhelmingly amount of wagering will take place on cellphones. There will be no expanded gaming on site.
  Proposed Racetrack would have additional costs to the City	PARTIALLY TRUE – Proposed host agreement mandates BayState Racing LLC pay for all police, fire and EMS details on festival days, and any other impacts on the city

  BayState Racing LLC stated the following: “What you see today from Route 140 is what you will see as Bay State Park. —- Renovate: the barns and the current house —– Build: gazabo and pads for food trucks—- Grandstands for the track will be built into a hill, as a natural seating —- Event parking will be off-site to remediate traffic issues on Route 140.”

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• Fiduciary Responsibility

  

  Fiduciary Responsibility – An Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson – The Challenges of Waterford, the Whole Story and Racetrack Details

  Gardner Magazine Publisher Werner Poegel spoke with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson about various efforts on behalf of the public. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Text of the entire interview and some supporting documents provided at this page, CLICK HERE.

  The Interview is about making decisions which look out for the residents of Gardner such as doing something about blighted buildings including unused City Buildings, taking bold steps like Park Street Park and Maki Park, the challenges of Waterford and details on the Horse Racing proposal.

  Re blighted buildings “The blighted building ordinance that we put together, and I co-proposed with Councilor George Tyros, really, you know, set the standard…” Mayor Nicholson detailed progress with various City Buildings. Re Park Street Park, “a lot of people are quite in favor of it now and actually once you can actually see it, it becomes a tangible item that people are, you know, really excited about” Re Maki Park, “for every person who may criticize that project or call or email or mainly Facebook posts, we probably had two for every one also say that it was a good idea and they’re actually looking forward to seeing it in the city”. Re Waterford “The product that’s going to be in there I think is probably one of the best things that we’re going to see in the city for quite some time. There’s, you know, it increases capacity for so many important groups that we have in the city” Re challenges at Waterford, “We found out that there was a problem that happened in the way that certain bills were getting paid to certain people and we immediately corrected it.” Re Horse Racing Proposal for 827 Green Street, “I am in favor of the project, and I would urge the city council to vote to approve the aspects before them of the project, both in approving me to sign into the host community agreement and to allow racing to occur on this parcel.” In the full text of the interview, Mayor Nicholson gives a lengthy explanation of various possible concerns and the various protections which would be in place. The mayor explains how he at first was very skeptical. The Mayor believes the project would be a benefit to the City and he explains why.

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• Race Track Item

  

  Horse Racing Track a Possibility Again in Gardner MA

  Bay State Racing LLC has entered into a contingent Purchase and Sale Agreement with GAAMHA, Inc. for 114.7 acres of land at 827 Green Street in Gardner. “Baystate wishes to locate and operate an Equine Center providing for the breeding, housing, riding, showing, studying, treatment, training, retirement, and racing of horses and other equestrian and agricultural related uses, which also includes wagering on live and simulcast horse racing as authorized by Massachusetts General Laws…” In other words, it would be a horse racing track. An extensive amount of information is provided in the packet and agenda for the Gardner City Council meeting on June 17, 2024. CLICK HERE for 472 page pdf..

  The Purchase

  GAAMHA would receive payment of $1,675,000 plus a multi-million dollar donation to their organization to facilitate the construction of a larger farm program. The agreement with Bay State Racing LLC would also lease back the current facilities to GAAMHA for free for an initial 12 month period. Transaction is subject to layout approvals from Conservation Commission and the Planning Board on the local level and the Massachusetts Gaming Commission with regard to the gaming license.

  According to Mayor Nicholson, “Since the General Laws of the Commonwealth exempt this use from Zoning – negating any requirements for special permits, zoning relief, approval hearings before the Planning Board of Zoning Board of Appeals, etc. – the only real authority that the Executive Branch agencies, departments, or commissions can do is regulate the layout of the facility, but not its existence in the City.” The Mayor also stated, “while the General Laws prohibit the City from placing any conditions on the approval to race at the site, the Gaming Commission has full authority to issue any conditions, regulations, restrictions, etc. that they choose to, based on the input and evidence received at their public hearing.”

  Projected Revenue

  Bay State Park Projected revenue to the City would be about a half million dollars per year. According to Bay State, approximately 25 full-time jobs would be created. The City Council will initially take up the matter at its June 17, 2024 meeting and may choose to schedule a public hearing which possibly may be June 27, 2024.

  Public Outcry Last Year – Will it Affect Decision of City Council?

  Last year when a parcel of land was identified by Bay State Racing LLC as being of interest if it was suitable for a commercial purpose, there was substantial public outcry. It is possible that if the matter was put to a vote it would be defeated resoundingly, although such a vote is not contemplated. It is unclear if the Gardner City Council will summarily vote down the proposal based on the previous perception and/or knowledge of overwhelming public opposition, or if it will vote in favor placing heavy consideration on the large amount of revenue potential for the City and the current desire for new revenue sources to keep property taxes as low as possible. The City Council Packet contains an extensive marketing pitch by Bay State Racing LLC.

  Opposition in 1950’s Overwhelming

  In the 1950’s, the issue was opposed by 67% of voters who cast ballots in a November 1955 election, even though according to the law just like today, the will of the voters would not come in to play. The Gardner City Council and Mayor make the decision. More detail is below on what happened at the time.

  This has Happened Before in 1950s

  According to current City Solicitor John Flick, a racetrack was proposed on the identical site by Gardner Raceway Inc. in December 1954. The Mayor did not approve the City Council vote at the time. The City Solicitor at the time wrote an opinion to the City Council that only the City Council and Mayor could make the decision and could not pass it on to the voters. However, in spite of this opinion, The Gardner City Council at the time voted 8 to 2 to place the question on the ballot at the next regular City election. Of 10,082 registered voters, 2,185 voted in favor of the measure and 5,609 voted against. 587 people did not vote either way. A total of 8381 people appeared at the election to cast ballots. Opposition was 67%.

  Specifics on Opposition at the Time – 70 years ago

  At the time only 1 out of 18 members of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce were in favor of the track. 15 were opposed. 2 had no opinion. A survey was conducted by Forrest C. Knight of the Mercantile Division in the square, “and they certainly do not want a race track here.” Chris Watkins, the Chairman of Simplex Time Recorder at the time “pointed all fully to you all the sordid evils that will come with a race track in Gardner. Let us face our facts honestly, raise our money legitimately. Let us have a good clean community in Gardner now and in the future.” Richard N. Greenwood, President of the Heywood-Wakefield Company stated he was against it and that it was unfortunate form the view of the welfare of the City of Gardner to have a race track located in the City of Gardner. Howard Ferguson, Chairman of the Mayor’s Industrial Committee and President of the Gardner Trust Company stated he knew about horse racing and dog racing, it was a lot of grief and we want no part of it.

  John Flick: The Past Has No Bearing on Current Options

  City Solicitor Flick states that the vote of November 8, 1955 has no binding effect on the current Council and Mayor. He also indicated that it is within the jurisdiction of the City Council to vote on whether or not there would be a public hearing on the matter and whether 827 Green Street is an appropriate location for horse racing. Gardner Magazine will update you as we have more information on the issue.

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WGAW Hotline Radio Interviews 2024

• Hotline Radio 7-13-24

  

  WGAW Radio Focuses on Racetrack Proposal on Saturday, July 13, 2024

  Listen to the entire program on any device. It will stream instantly from the WGAW website. CLICK PLAY

  Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke LIVE from the Gardner Food Truck Festival and also on the subject of proposed Racetrack. Host Steve Wendell spoke with John Stefanini of BayState Racing LLC. Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas spoke about the upcoming informal meeting featuring a presentation by Baystate and the Public Hearing on July 23rd. Carolyn Kamuda spoke about the Racetrack proposal. Werner Poegel provided a commentary on the Racetrack proposal. Hotline ran overtime because the show was so busy and ended with an interview with Candy Graves regarding the Wildcat 5K.

  WGAW’s Hotline Radio is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and Streaming Everywhere. To access the 24/7 Live Stream, CLICK HERE.

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• Hotline 7-6-24

  

  WGAW Hotline Radio Delayed for a Day by Power Outage

  A power outage disrupted equipment at the WGAW Studios so Hotline Radio did not make its usual airing on Saturday, July 6th. However the show is available on the WGAW website, CLICK HERE. (Past shows also available) You can also play it seamlessly here on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  Hotline Radio Show of July 6, 2024: Interviews with Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, Mayor Michael Nicholson, GAAMHA President/CEO Shawn Hayden, Highlights of Bay State Racing June 27th Presentation, and highlights of July 1st City Council meeting.

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• Hotline 6-29-24

  

  WGAW Radio is heard on AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and streaming to anywhere in the world. Stream is available 24/7. LISTEN LIVE NOW. Hotline Radio airs Saturdays noon to 2pm.

  Hotline Radio Featuring Discussions About Funding, Racetrack Topic, and City Council Procedures

  The WGAW Radio program aired Saturday, June 29, 2024. Will play seamlessly from WGAW website. Just CLICK PLAY.

  Mayor Nicholson: On speaking about Gardner in Washington D.C. — Additional Grant Funding for the City of Gardner — Uptown Rotary Ahead of Schedule —- Racetrack Topic —- WooSox Takeover Day

  GAAMHA President CEO Shawn Hayden – Regarding false statements made on Facebook about the organization and speaking about some work on the property. The Baystate Proposal and GAAMHA programs

  John Stefanini and others in portions of the BayState Racing LLC presentation made this week in Gardner.

  City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas on the procedures involved with the BayState Racing LLC proposal and a comprehensive explanation of how to get your views to Council members.

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• Hotline 6-22-24

  

  WGAW’s Hit Show “Hotline Radio” with Great Guests on 6-22-24

  Hotline Radio Show of June 22, 2024 features Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson speaking from Small Business Saturday in Downtown Gardner, sound from the Downtown Gardner Festival, City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, a commentary by Werner Poegel, and an update with Civil Defense Director Paul Topolski. Kazinskas gives a comprehensive explanation of the procedures required of the Council regarding the proposed Racetrack.

  Listen to the entire Hotline Show from the WGAW and learn more about the radio station and its programming on its website, CLICK HERE.

  For your convenience, the AUDIO is embedded here and plays from WGAW website. CLICK PLAY.

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• Hotline 6-15-24

  

  WGAW’s Hit Show “Hotline Radio” Hits It “Out of the Park” on Saturday, June 15, 2024

  So you’re wondering what’s up with the possible Horse Racing Track. You want to know what’s going on with various City projects. Host Steve Wendell of WGAW’s Hotline Radio had a hugely informative program on Saturday, June 15, 2024 featuring Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on a range of issues including the Waterford Community Center and the possible Horse Racing Track, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas on the procedures with the City Council, and Shawn Hayden of GAMMHA explaining how, GAAMHA, not the City of Gardner, originated this process. GAAMHA was approached multiple times and Hayden states GAAMHA believes the current proposed agreement will help GAAMHA and the City of Gardner. Listen to the entire Hotline Show from the WGAW and learn more about the radio station and its programming on its website, CLICK HERE.

  For your convenience, the AUDIO is embedded here and plays from WGAW website. CLICK PLAY.

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• Hotline 6-8-24

  

  Council President Kazinskas with Valuable Information on Citizen Participation – Hotline Radio Interview

  Gardner MA City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas appeared on WGAW Hotline Radio with host Steve Wendell on Saturday, June 8, 2024. We thank WGAW for making it available to Gardner Magazine. Listen to the interview on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  Kazinskas explained that each City Council meeting has a section for Public Hearings with public input when required stating, “We do have public hearings built right into our City Council meeting regular meeting agenda, and so if there is a public hearing on a particular item, it will fall under that section. I entertain the public hearing. We open it. We have the hearing. We close it, and then we continue through the next item on our agenda.”

  Some meetings don’t have hearings, “if I should announce that there are no public hearings, it simply means that there are no public hearings at that particular meeting because there was nothing scheduled, there was no reason to have a hearing, there was no item that needed a hearing, and so then I move on to the next item..”

  Contact: Council President Kazinskas spoke about how easily it is to get in contact with each of the City Councilors via email or phone and that the contact information is posted on the City Council page on the website, CLICK HERE.

  Gardner gets compliments on how it does business. “We get complimented all the time from other cities and towns, other elected officials, other people working in other departments of the state and city all the time who are aware of Gardner, who are aware of what we do here, or have worked with us. And you know, we get their hats off to us often about the work that we do. And it really takes a whole team, takes a whole city, takes all the employees, it takes all the elected officials, it takes all the department heads to get on the same page to realize that transparency is required, it is important, and it is something that is a regular practice here in the city, not to mention a best practice here in the city.”

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Mayor’s Updates 2024

• Mayor- Racetrack

  

  Mayor Nicholson, “I do think this is a benefit to the City.”

  The Gardner City Council will meet on July 1st to decide whether or not to schedule a public hearing. If they vote No, the matter and transaction effectively ends. If the vote is yes, a public hearing will be held.

  Mayor Michael Nicholson Issues Statement Regarding Racetrack Proposal

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson has issued a complete statement regarding the Racetrack Proposal. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  This statement was also included in the Mayor’s Weekly Update of June 28, 2024. Mayor Nicholson explained that the proposal started out as a private transaction between GAAMHA Inc. and BayState Racing LLC for the land at 827 Green Street in Gardner. The Mayor stated, “There’s a lot of misinformation that’s out there.”

  With respect to the transaction, “This is not something the city went out and recruited, this is not something the city went out and started. This is something that under state law, two private business entities can certainly enter into an agreement to sell and purchase whatever they’d like, and that’s exactly what happened. However, under state law, Chapter 128A of the General Laws of the Commonwealth say that in order for a horse track to be put here in Gardner, the City Council has to have a public hearing, and then from that public hearing, vote whether or not to allow racing to take place on this parcel of land or not.”

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City Council Meetings 2024

• Council 7-23-24

  

  Gardner City Council Schedules Public Hearing on Bay State Racing LLC Proposal

  The Public Hearing regarding whether 827 Green Street can be used as a horse racing track will be held on July 23, 2024 at 7:30pm. Overflow if the City Hall Chamber reaches capacity will be Perry Auditorium. Speakers will be limited to 3 minutes. Notice contains other parameters. For the hearing notice, CLICK HERE.

  Prior to the public hearing, an informal meeting of the Gardner City Council will take place at 6pm. Information is contained in the complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

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• Council Meeting 7-1-24

  

  Every City Councilor Speaks on Racetrack Proposal – Public Hearing to be Held

  There was significant discussion at the Gardner City Council meeting of July 1, 2024 with most councilors stating they felt an obligation to hold a public hearing so that both further information and public views could be obtained. No date was selected, but the vote to schedule a public hearing was 9 to 2 on an amended motion to also have a pre-permitting meeting with the Department of Environmental Protection.

  A few councilors expressed irritation with Councilor Thibeault-Munoz who effectively silenced the rest of the Councilors at the last meeting in June by raising an objection to the item, thus tabling it to the July 1st meeting, but also ending discussion. Munoz apologized to his fellow councilors at this meeting.

  Chief concerns of Councilors: Traffic, water supply, wetlands, and the amount Gardner would actually receive. Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  In other matters, the City Council voted to respond to Paul DeMeo’s latest open meeting law complaint with a response stating there was no violation. —- The increase in sewer rates was approved for 2nd and final printing.

  View of the each of the City Councilors on this matter – (For their complete remarks, listen to the AUDIO.)

  George Tyros: “I also want to be clear that I am opposed to this as it stands. However, I think it’s extremely important that we go through the process properly, to be in compliance with state law, and to give everyone who wants the opportunity to participate and vote through all the questions and concerns. I want to add to those who are opposed, do not fall for the misinformation that is, that this item is over should the public hearing go to fail. All that would do is prevent the public hearing. It would not remove the item from consideration, and it would not make a final determination concerning racing on this parcel. Without that vote, this could potentially come up again, and again, and again.” Tyros then spoke at length about his concerns.

  Brad Heglin: “I support holding an informal meeting and public hearing as is required. This will allow us to formally hear from the public and raise important questions we have and get more information on all aspects of this proposal. I also want to note that a public hearing is only the next step and as a city council can take as much time as we need after that. There is nothing to rush this process and we have no deadline. And we shouldn’t rush it.” Heglin then spoke at length about his concerns.

  Karen Harden: “I want to start by saying that I used to own horses that were stables on this property, so I’m very familiar with the property and the steering for horses. Just so everyone is on the same page, as I have seen a lot of misinformation, tonight’s vote is not a final vote. Last meeting, as tonight, all we are being asked to do is hold a public hearing and another public meeting to discuss this in more detail. This is all standard. I really cannot think of any reason not to do this. We should get more information, ask more questions. I hope that for anyone who supports or who opposes this, you wouldn’t want the council to accept or dismiss anything that comes before us without doing our homework. Having a public hearing is an important part of this process.:

  Dana Heath: “Before we say yes or no to this proposal, we certainly have to get more information and make sure our questions are answered. But I think it’s important that this business, like any business when it comes to Gardner, is treated fairly and given a fair process. I believe this Council and this community is more than capable of engaging in a mature, reasonable, and rational discussion without personal attack or rumor spread. I want to add my chief concern is the residents in my neighborhood and the impact that this could have on them and on that area of the city. One thing I haven’t really seen in the information we have been given so far is what steps in the proposal are there to lessen those impacts. What those are and if that is even possible will weigh heavily on my decision. I’m specifically concerned with traffic.”

  Judy Mack: “Supporting this item for a public hearing doesn’t mean that I support the proposal. These are separate items. Make no mistake, I have raised concerns about this proposal. Many raised by Councilor Tyros that I would not repeat them over again. But most importantly, the water supply. The purpose of a public hearing is to allow all stakeholders and citizens to speak about an issue that is in front of this Council for a vote. This vote is for the city. As much as someone may be opposed to any issue, without allowing the public and all stakeholders an opportunity to speak and be heard, in my opinion, it is wrong and not how we as a legislative body should conduct business on any issue that affects our citizens and cities.”

  Calvin Brooks: “We should also have a discussion about the financial ramifications of this project. How much money is promised? How much of that promise is realistic? What are the fiscal or financial gains to the city of approving this project, or, conversely, the fiscal or financial costs of not approving it? You can tell my background here is financial. I also think that the public, the citizens of this city, should have an opportunity to express their views.”

  Paul Tassone: “As far as this proposal, I will not be supporting a public hearing for the high parks in the city of Gardner. I feel as though Gardner does not want racing and the impact that it will have on the people who built their homes in that particular area, the people who live in that particular area, the water in the watershed. I will not support it. Moving forward, I’ve heard enough. I’ve answered several phone calls. I’ve listened. I have not had one person come to me and state that they were for racing or they were for this project.”

  Craig Cormier: “I think a public hearing is great in most instances. I do believe that there’s not many things we shouldn’t be talking about before we vote on them. I do have an issue with trust in this particular proposal. They’ve been before us before, and the way they approached it the last time is leaving me with a real issue trusting on this proposal that we’re going to get the information that we need. So I hope if we do move forward with a public hearing that we do have answers to all these questions that we need to make a proper vote.”

  David Thibeault-Munoz: “…my reservation surrounding the proposed racetrack grew. I found myself particularly triggered by the rendering of the proposed racetrack which was surrounded by water on all three sides, located less than one mile upstream from Pearly Brook Reservoir, which feeds Crystal Lake, our primary drinking water supply.: He also stated “This is a bad deal for the city. Bay State and their investors’ interest is solely financial and for their gain, not ours. Simply put, their primary goal is to obtain a gaming license to be able to manage online betting, but at what cost and whose expense? As you are aware, my primary concern is the proposed racetrack’s potential long-term impact on our drinking water, the destruction of wetlands, and in turn the negative impact that this would have on Gardner’s future and present residents.”

  Alek Dernalowicz: “I do have major reservations about this project as currently constituted. Many of the issues have been brought up, but traffic, the environmental concerns, and the actual economic benefits that the HCA reportedly provides, I think is lacking. But to change our process and do a different process for this project than we would do for anyone else, I don’t think we have a great precedent to set. We need to go through the process outlined….. take the steps, be willing to hear both sides at a public hearing where members of the crowd hear and others come to make their case. The proponents can come to make their presentation. I think that’s only fair. I think it’s our job to be fair. So I will be supporting the motion to have a public hearing and schedule an informal meeting“

  Elizabeth Kazinskas: “I want to explain a few things. There is nothing unusual, rough, or unique about this process. Many, many times a year we receive petitions from businesses or other entities seeking permission to do something in the city. Different licenses, permits, zoning changes, and others. The process is always the same. It gets added to our agenda. In many cases, it is referred to a committee. In many cases, a public hearing is held. We follow the Gardner City Charter, city ordinances, city council rules, and Massachusetts state law. Every process we go through is mandated by the rules, ordinances, and laws, and then you vote. I’ve seen many claims that this is being rushed. That is not so. I’ve seen many claims that council is not listening to the public. That is not so. I’ve seen the claim that the council is not responding to residents. That is not so. I’ve seen the claim that I am, quote, pushing this through, and that is not so. I am deviating slightly in making this statement, but I think it is important to do so to correct the rampant misinformation and speculation. Normally, as council president, as most of you know, I would give my opinion at the informal meeting as the council president does not engage in the floor debate. Again, this is how the process is designed to work. The council repeats petitions, councilors debate the items, excuse me, when they’re not prevented from speaking by an objection. We work through the process. This is the best way that has been worked out over many, many years to make sure the council can get through the city’s business and those appearing before us can get a fair and consistent process. I am not supportive of this proposal. After carefully considering all the information we have been given, nothing has changed in my past and initial hesitancy on this project. However, I think we need to hold the public hearing to give everyone the opportunity to have their questions answered, have a discussion, and make sure everyone has the information they need to make an informed and educated vote. That is our responsibility. .“

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• Council 6-29-24

  

  View the complete agenda and packet, CLICK HERE.

  The Gardner City Council to Meet July 1st

  The Gardner City Council will meet in the Ronald F. Cormier Council Chamber on Monday, July 1, 2024. It is expected to decide whether or not to schedule a public hearing regarding the use of land at 827 Green Street which is proposed to be sold to BayState Racing LLC to be used as a horse racing track. The complete agenda and packet contains a large amount of information including NEW information since the June 2024 agenda and packet was released last month.

  Here we go again: A couple of days ago Paul DeMeo filed another Open Meeting law complaint alleging this time that the Gardner City Council went in to Executive Session improperly to discuss a matter relating to the Waterford Street School project, stating that the City didn’t discuss possible legal action against the City. Ironically, it was for that very purpose that the Executive Session was entered so that a matter discovered by the City could be handled properly in accordance with the law so that the City’s legal exposure was minimized or avoided all together. Based on this fact, it is likely the complaint will be seen as meritless by the AG’;s office.

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• City Council 6-17-24

  

  Gardner City Council Meets at What is now the “Ronald F. Cormier City Council Chamber”

  By objection of City Councilor David Thibeault-Munoz, consideration of the Racetrack matter was put off to the next meeting in July. According to the City Charter, if a single Councilor objects, the item is put off to the following meeting. The Council could then decide to schedule a public hearing regarding whether 827 Green Street is suitable for a Racetrack facility. If the Council ultimately decides yes after the hearing and the Mayor also says yes, the private transaction between Bay State Racing LLC and GAMMHA Inc. could proceed. The Council could also say no to a hearing which could effectively kill the sale. The City Council would also have to approve a Community Host Agreement and the State Gaming Commission must also give its approval. GAAMHA’s contract with Bay State Racing LLC is also contingent on its finding a location for a larger facility, if they don’t, they could pull out of the transaction and also end the deal.

  Listen to the meeting on any device. CLICK PLAY.

  City Council Chamber: A councilor objected to more time being given to the City Council naming measure, so it came up for a vote. An amendment was debated and defeated. In the end, the Gardner City Council voted 6 to 4 with 1 abstention to name the City Council Chamber “Ronald F. Cormier City Council Chamber.”

  Parking Meters: Councilor Karen Hardern spoke against the parking meters, stating that other cities have successfully done away with them. Hardern stated, “we have a foot problem everyone likes to park right in front of where they work or where they own” referring to the ongoing issue of people either parking in front of their own stores or people simply not wanting to walk very far. Hardern also expressed concerns about the cost of monitoring the meters. However, after stating her objections, Hardern said she would support the item because business owners in her ward have expressed support for the meters. The City Council unanimously approved $55,000 for new parking meters.

  Disruptive Crowd: During the meeting, Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas had to admonish members of the public who were disrupting the meeting with excess noise.

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Committee and Board Meetings 2024

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Supporting Resource Materials

House Bill Regarding Horse Safety

PETA page regarding Animals in Entertainment.

Horseracing Wrongs Facebook page

Colby’s Crew Rescue

Progress on Racehorse Safety

Perfect Safety Record

Fatalities Down by a Third

Regarding the Land at 827 Green Street

Zoning Map link goes to full interactive map

MA GIS Data – link goes to a full explanation on the MA.gov site of Water Protection areas

What is a Surface Water Protection Area (SWPA)?

A surface water protection area (SWPA), also known as a zone of concern, is the land area within a watershed that contributes water to a drinking water supply. It’s where pollution from human activities or natural sources poses the greatest threat to source water quality. For surface water sources, the SWPA boundary is typically described using a topographic map connecting the highest points uphill of the drinking water intake, from which overland flow drains to the intake12. In other words, it’s the area upstream of a water intake where potential contaminants could flow into the water supply.

Information from BayState Racing LLC’s website Website, CLICK HERE.

Preliminary Traffic Assessment

Wetland Permitting Process

Feasibility Study: Horse Park

Documents page, CLICK HERE.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers at BayState Racing LLC website page, CLICK HERE.

Mayor’s Update on last day of March 2023 packed with Important Information

Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY

Zoning and Properties

Zoning Items include matters coming before the City Council at a Public Hearing Monday April 3, 2023 at 6:30pm involving Regulating Sports Betting, More Cannabis Establishments, and Changing the Route 140 Zoning. See Editorial. See Article re City Council.

Mayor Nicholson separately wrote to the City Council for Monday’s meeting, ““If we as a City want to revitalize our economy, grow our tax base, lessen the tax burden on our residents, provide jobs for those who live here, and provide resources to meet our growing population, then something like this must be done or the City will soon be left behind without reaching its true and full potential” – Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson