The meeting’s spotlight was on the proposed mixed-use development by CD Danitz Realty Inc. on Main Street. The project involves the transformation of a portion of the former Lakeville Hospital complex into a retail and business hub. The plan includes two buildings with retail spaces and small business areas. During the discussion, a professional engineer from Silver Engineering Associates provided a detailed overview of the project. He outlined the site layout, which utilizes a previously approved driveway from the hospital complex, and highlighted plans for a 24-foot circulation aisle and adequate parking. Fire department access was assured, with fire protection and domestic water to be brought to the site.

The board was keenly interested in addressing traffic concerns. The select board had previously expressed interest in partnering with an adjoining parcel to improve traffic flow. There was a suggestion of exploring collaborative options for traffic management, particularly given a tragic incident at a nearby intersection. The engineer assured that the project would comply with stormwater management requirements and included a significant drainage system for the parking area. The board was informed that a peer review process was underway and that feedback would be available by the next meeting.

In addition to traffic management, the board discussed signage visibility for tenants, restroom facilities in the units, and the compliance of the leaching field with health regulations. There was also mention of the potential need for special permits for specific business activities, such as auto repair, which are not currently allowed under existing zoning classifications.

The board also addressed a 200-unit apartment project and its related infrastructure, with a focus on traffic and access implications. There were discussions about potentially installing a traffic light due to the expected increase in traffic. The board decided to hold off on further peer reviews until a meeting with various stakeholders, including members of the select board and representatives from Rhino Capital, could be arranged. Fire truck access and the compliance of the leaching field with Title 5 requirements were also topics of concern.

Conversations regarding the revision of town bylaws were significant. The board considered a review of site plan review processes, emphasizing the importance of integrating clear guidelines into the bylaws. A proposal to implement a technical review process involving department heads early in the planning process was discussed. This approach aims to streamline the application process, reduce costs, and prevent delays.

The board’s attention also turned to the senior overlay district proposal, prompted by a presentation from Thorndike about the Lakeville Country Club. A member suggested that developers should draft the overlay, with Town Council reviewing it. The discussion on zoning map revisions highlighted the need for a more accurate GIS representation of the town’s districts, with the current map’s complexity noted due to its reliance on meets and bounds.

Further considerations included a discussion about stormwater management, with confusion over departmental responsibilities. It was suggested to clarify roles with the new conservation agent. The board resolved to send placeholders to the select board for the spring town meeting, focusing on ADU site plan review and stormwater management.

Administrative updates included a review of a streamlined site plan review application and an ANR decision for a property on Holland Road that required signatures. There was also concern about the timely posting of meeting minutes to maintain transparency.