A focal point of the meeting was the debate surrounding the wording of the ballot question for the fire station debt exclusion. The proposed question asked whether the town should exempt the amounts necessary for the bond related to the new fire station’s design, construction, and furnishing from the limitations of Proposition 2 ½. Disagreement arose among board members about the absence of a specific dollar amount in the ballot language. One member voiced concern about potential cost overruns. They highlighted the risk of costs escalating to $28 million without recourse, despite assurances that the town meeting had approved a budget of $21.4 million, with any excess requiring further approval.

The board acknowledged the importance of transparency in municipal borrowing and budgeting. They agreed to seek clarification from the town clerk on whether including a specific figure on the ballot was standard practice. The decision on the ballot wording was deferred to allow time for further consideration and input. This issue is particularly relevant given the financial implications of the fire station project for the town and the need for voter trust and understanding.

In parallel to the fire station discussions, the board addressed a vacancy in the town accountant position. Michael Ellis, a Lakeville resident with extensive experience in municipal finance, was appointed to the role, succeeding Todd after nine years of service. Ellis’s background includes 15 years at Heg Sahti and Company and 12 years as a town accountant and assistant town accountant in Bourne. The board expressed confidence in Ellis’s qualifications and community ties, and he is expected to present a budget analysis at the December 2nd meeting.

Further community updates included the progress of the Pavilion and Clear Pond Park projects. The board expressed satisfaction with the trajectory of these initiatives, noting the upcoming water main tap for Clear Pond Park and the dissemination of a full project schedule to stakeholders. Acknowledgments were given to key individuals for their contributions to these projects. Additionally, the board announced the formation of an Information Technology subcommittee, with members appointed until July 31, 2025, to enhance the town’s digital infrastructure.

The meeting also covered topics such as the approval of a common victualler license for a Subway restaurant on Bedford Street, contingent upon completion of necessary documentation. Discussions on the carryover of vacation hours for the Council on Aging Director were approved, recognizing her busy schedule and the recent establishment of a food pantry.

Subcommittee activities were highlighted, including preparations for the Fire Station Building Committee’s upcoming meeting and the Citizens Academy’s organizational plans for January. The board discussed the American Rescue Plan Act funds, with projects such as irrigation and security systems at Clear Pond Park identified as priorities.

In other business, the board addressed the need to review executive session minutes to comply with transparency laws. They also considered deferring the appointment of a park liaison to a future meeting and discussed the continuation of a public hearing for a property on Bedford Street due to pending soil test information from the Conservation Commission.