One of the most notable items was the public hearing on proposed amendments to the town code zoning bylaws, aimed at defining and regulating data centers. The amendments seek to clarify that data centers are distinct from traditional office or commercial spaces, acknowledging their infrastructure-based nature and high electricity demands. The board emphasized that the new regulations would require data centers to obtain special permits, allowing for a thorough evaluation of their impacts on energy usage, water consumption, noise, air quality, and site design.

The proposed zoning changes would restrict data centers to a newly defined “marijuana and data center overlay district” within the industrial district, excluding them from other zoning areas. The board underscored the necessity for these regulations to provide clarity and set standards for future data center projects, addressing potential concerns about their industrial nature and resource demands.

Participants noted the importance of a robust power infrastructure to support such developments, with some expressing doubts about the current capacity. One participant remarked that the demand could pose a challenge for locating data centers in Lakeville.

The conversation also touched on the similarities between data centers and marijuana production facilities, both of which have high electricity and water demands. This comparison justified the inclusion of data centers within the existing marijuana overlay district, which would be adjusted to accommodate the new land use.

Public concerns about data centers were further evidenced by the board’s acknowledgment of challenges faced by other towns like Lawrence or Lowell. These examples were cited to stress the importance of proactive regulation and collaboration with town council to draft effective zoning bylaws tailored to data centers.

In addition to the data center discussion, the board approved a site plan for a 29,400 square foot warehouse expansion on Kenneth Welch Drive. The plan includes adding four truck dock bays and a new stormwater basin. The Zoning Board of Appeals had previously granted a special permit to extend the pre-existing non-conformity, and the Conservation Commission issued an order of conditions for the proposed work. The approval process was smooth, with a motion to approve the decision passing unanimously after confirming that all outstanding questions had been addressed.

Another focal point was the ongoing development of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on Kingman Street. The board discussed the proposed construction of a 28 by 28 garage with an ADU on top, clarifying that the structure would be built on a concrete foundation. The board noted inconsistencies in the plans, particularly regarding lot coverage and the need for updated plans to reflect accurate dimensions and requirements. The discussion concluded with a decision to continue the public hearing, with updated plans expected within two weeks.

Administrative updates included the stormwater management bylaw and open space residential development, which incorporated revisions from the Board of Health. The Pine Crest Village project was also addressed, with additional peer review funds submitted by the builder to facilitate road assessments and stormwater peer review.

The board discussed the Lakeville Country Club project, emphasizing the urgency of revenue generation from the project amid budget constraints. Concerns were raised about the potential for undesirable developments if the project continues to face delays. The board proposed a joint meeting with the select board to expedite discussions and updates.