A significant portion of the meeting focused on the need for adequate planning staff. The board discussed the select board’s recent decision to allow the town administrator to hire an interim planner for ten hours a week. This development was met with concerns about whether a part-time position would suffice, given the volume of projects in Lakeville. Members emphasized the necessity of a full-time planner to effectively manage ongoing developments and future projects, particularly as the town explores new housing strategies, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The board expressed appreciation for the advocacy that led to the approval of the interim position but stressed that a long-term solution is needed.

The conversation on staffing extended to the potential implications of hiring a part-time planner. One board member noted a sense of disappointment, arguing that a part-time role might hinder progress on various ongoing projects. Another member suggested exploring a tiered position structure to hire a less experienced planner at a lower salary while retaining access to experienced consultants. The goal was to balance costs and meet the town’s planning needs. The board agreed to draft a memo to the select board, requesting a joint meeting to discuss the planner position further, and emphasized the urgency of hiring a full-time planner.

In parallel, the board delved into housing initiatives, particularly the OSRD bylaw, which seeks to allocate 50% of a parcel to open space while developing the remaining area into smaller lots. This initiative aims to enhance residentially zoned land and connect open spaces for wildlife corridors. The board acknowledged concerns raised by the Board of Health about minimum lot sizes. The board expressed a desire to finalize the OSRD bylaw in time for the Fall Town Meeting, recognizing the need to incorporate feedback from SARPED to address outstanding questions regarding affordability and lot sizes.

The 40Y housing framework was also a topic of discussion, with the board scrutinizing the proposal to define “starter homes” as three-bedroom units. Some members argued for prioritizing one and two-bedroom options to enhance affordability, suggesting that the maximum size for these homes should not exceed 1,200 square feet. The board planned to send comments to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) regarding these concerns, with a view to refining the classification and characteristics of starter homes.

Other notable topics included updates on ongoing projects and administrative matters. The board reviewed the status of the Lakeville Country Club Golfer Way modification, noting that necessary covenants had been signed and notarized, with further developments anticipated. The appointment of a member to the economic development committee was also discussed, with an agreement to appoint Dan as a member while Kathy would attend the meeting to report back on developments.

Persistent issues concerning Bella’s Way were addressed, with a resident emailing board members about unresolved matters related to the subdivision. The board considered reaching out to the town council for advice on utilizing remaining funds allocated for the project to address incomplete work. A memo was proposed to inquire about the developer’s intentions, with plans to revisit the matter at the next meeting.