Hardwick Board of Selectmen want referendum on thoroughbred horse racing

Board of Selectmen wants a town-wide referendum on thoroughbred horse racing and sports betting establishment at the Great Meadowbrook Farm. Commonwealth Equine and Agricultural Center filed an application with the state Gaming Commission for a $20 million facility with a horse farm, grandstand and one-mile track. The Gaming commission has 45 days to make its own decision. Board of selectmen will meet on November 1 to vote up or down on the race track proposal. If the board votes for the track, 12% of voters can petition the town clerk to challenge their decision, which is the only way to change the law.