The meeting began with a public hearing on a definitive plan application for a property on Main Street, submitted by Lakeville Owner LLC. The proposal aimed to consolidate several existing parcels into two buildable lots and a roadway. A representative for the applicant clarified that the subdivision would reset property lines to streamline future development, without altering previous intentions. The plan included provisions to “freeze the zoning,” ensuring that any potential regulatory changes would not impact the proposal. Additionally, the plan intended to create a distinct lot for a wastewater treatment plant, facilitating the management of multiple projects on the property.

Concerns were raised by the fire chief regarding unpermitted commercial trash operations and oversized dumpsters on the property, prompting a request for their immediate removal. The applicant’s representative acknowledged the issue and assured that corrective measures were underway. The board considered making the removal of dumpsters a condition of approval. A property owner voiced concerns about the Bridge Street entrance and related light installations, though the board noted that these fell outside their jurisdiction as they involved state road oversight.

The board also reviewed an ANR plan for a family land swap between 80 Southworth Street and Fairview Drive. Brad Fitzgerald from SFG Engineering explained that the swap involved equal-sized parcels, with a slight change in frontage for both properties. The board discussed the impact of the swap on neighboring properties and considered the proximity of an accessory building on Fairway Drive to the adjusted property line.

Attention then shifted to budgetary matters, with the Town Administrator highlighting the challenging fiscal landscape for the upcoming fiscal year. The original budget for 2025 was set at $144,886, with a standard increase of 2.5% anticipated. Board members expressed concerns about reallocating excess funds from previous years and underscored the importance of mapping buildable land areas to comply with affordable housing regulations. The necessity of securing funds for consulting services to pursue this mapping initiative was emphasized.

Further discussions centered on zoning updates, with the board expressing a strong desire to ensure zoning maps accurately reflect the current landscape. The creation of a senior housing overlay district was considered, though concerns about the timeline for moving forward emerged. The board also addressed compliance with 40R, 40B, and 3A zoning requirements, with updates indicating progress in these areas.

The board examined potential amendments to site plan review bylaws, particularly concerning ground disturbances that do not require a building permit. There was a call to clarify the bylaws to ensure significant land disturbances trigger a site plan review regardless of building permit applications. Architectural standards within the bylaws were also scrutinized, with suggestions to establish clearer language to ensure compliance with the intended standards.

The conversation transitioned to the need for a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) consultant, as the town lacks the necessary expertise and resources. The cost of purchasing GIS software was prohibitive, prompting the board to explore alternative funding opportunities. Updates to the zoning map were also discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining clear definitions for the Water Resource Protection District and the Marijuana Overlay District.

Finally, the board addressed the permitting construction process and proposed creating a Technical Review Committee to provide staff with an opportunity to review plans before they reach the final stages. The need for transparency in planning processes was repeatedly stressed, with proposals for public access to meetings and enhanced communication channels.