A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing community concerns regarding the Rocky Woods development. The project, which has been in the planning stages for several years, initially proposed the construction of over 300 housing units. This has sparked fears among residents about potential negative impacts, including increased strain on the local school system and traffic congestion. A resident named Larry Costan articulated the community’s preference for commercial over residential development, citing the detrimental effects of the latter on town resources. Costan urged reconsideration of the development plans, advocating for a plan that would not consist of extensive residential housing, which could “decimate” the school system.

Echoing Costan’s concerns, another resident named Jonah highlighted the financial drawbacks of residential development, arguing that it would be less beneficial than commercial development. Jonah pointed out that residential projects often incur costs that surpass their benefits, emphasizing the need for a development strategy that prioritizes business-oriented growth.

The meeting further delved into the logistical challenges and concerns tied to the Rocky Woods project. There was discussion about the developer’s substantial investment in the project and the potential need for a comprehensive permit. Infrastructure inadequacies, particularly in economic corridors along Routes 18 and 105, were noted as barriers to development, with a focus on the need for improved water and sewer systems.

The board also explored the prospect of drafting a letter in support of shifting the development’s focus from residential to commercial or industrial purposes. This would involve careful consideration of zoning regulations and possible consultation with legal experts to ensure the proposal’s language accurately reflects the community’s intent. The urgency of addressing these issues was underscored by the approaching 180-day deadline for action, prompting calls for timely and strategic responses.

In another major topic, the Select Board discussed the debt exclusion vote scheduled for November 18, 2025, related to the Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School project. The board emphasized the financial implications of this vote, which, if approved, would temporarily increase the tax base to fund Lakeville’s share of the estimated $288 million project. With a grant expected to cover a substantial portion of the costs, Lakeville would still be responsible for approximately $40 million. The potential impact on the town’s operating budget if the exclusion is not approved was a point of concern, with officials stressing the importance of communicating these implications to residents.

Parallel to these discussions, the board addressed the renewal of Verizon New England, Inc.’s cable television franchise, set to expire in 2028. The public hearing aimed to gather community input on cable-related needs, with residents expressing the importance of maintaining local access channels like Lake Cam. Concerns were raised about the declining number of cable subscribers and the potential revenue implications for the town. The board acknowledged the necessity of adapting to changing media consumption trends.