The board dedicated attention to the expansion of Elliot Farm, located on Main Street. The project, presented by D. Elliott and supported by Riverhawk Engineering, proposes the demolition of an existing barn to construct a new 40×40-foot barn with two 18×40-foot overhangs, expanding parking from ten to nineteen spaces. A new farmstand facility is planned, driven by a COVID-19 grant with a completion deadline of June 30, 2021. Vice Chair Barbara Manovski took over the proceedings after the chair recused himself due to a conflict of interest. Elliott articulated the farm’s role in combatting local food insecurity and emphasized the importance of meeting the tight construction timeline.

Questions arose about logistical elements, such as truck access for deliveries, which Elliott clarified would involve a 14-foot box truck, primarily sourcing produce from local farms. The board expressed a strong desire to avoid delaying the project, given its community significance. However, procedural compliance issues prompted a suggestion to hold a special meeting to address outstanding concerns, particularly those from the police and fire departments, to ensure a review. The hearing was rescheduled for the following Thursday.

Simultaneously, the board reviewed a development proposal on Bedford Street, presented by Zenith Consulting Engineers. The plan includes erecting a 1,482-square-foot office building set back at least 15.1 feet from the roadway, despite zoning requirements for a minimum 40-foot setback in a business district. The developers intend to address the board again on the next Thursday.

Safety and compliance were focal points during the discussion. Concerns were raised about the emergency exit potentially being misused as a shortcut, a risk heightened by its proximity to a traffic light. The board discussed the possibility of using an electronically activated gate to restrict access. Additionally, compliance with the Lakeville lighting bylaw was emphasized to mitigate light pollution impacting nearby residences.

The board examined feedback from the fire department, which necessitated modifications to the site layout, including a gravel extension for emergency access and improved parking arrangements. The landscaping plan, which includes shrubbery and trees for erosion control, was scrutinized for its ability to integrate aesthetic appeal with functional stormwater management. Concerns over the proposed retention ponds were addressed, with assurances that they would feature grass slopes and sand bottoms for visual and functional effectiveness.

Zoning challenges extended to a proposed digital sign for the new business on Bedford Street. The sign, featuring a static upper portion and a digital lower display, raised questions about compliance with local bylaws prohibiting animated signs near traffic intersections. Although the sign would not flash, board members expressed concerns about its impact on traffic safety. The matter was deferred to the zoning board of appeals for a final decision, with a suggestion for additional privacy buffers along the property line to maintain the area’s rural character.

Further deliberations addressed zoning and development opportunities across Lakeville, particularly along major routes such as Route 18. The board discussed potential commercial uses for undeveloped parcels. Future zoning amendments were considered to streamline development opportunities in designated expansion sites, with a public hearing required for any bylaw changes.

In addition to development matters, the board addressed procedural issues, including the management of meeting minutes and public hearing schedules. Updates on the Lakeville Hospital project highlighted the need for thorough environmental reviews and architectural plans, with a 180-day review period initiated for the project.