The meeting’s most issue involved the potential impact of the proposed development on Native American heritage sites within the Simmons Hill area. Archaeologist Duncan Richie from Public Archaeological Laboratories (PLA) presented findings from a cultural resources due diligence study. The study identified zones of moderate and low archaeological sensitivity but reported no known sites within the project area. However, during the meeting, it became evident that local Native American tribes, particularly the Narragansett Indian Tribe, felt excluded from the study’s preliminary stages. A representative from the tribe expressed frustration over not being informed of the study’s timeline and urged the board to delay acceptance of the report to allow for a more inclusive investigation involving other tribal entities.

The representative emphasized the cultural significance of stone features depicted in historical maps from the 1800s, arguing that they hold historical importance to the Native American community. “I lose sleep over this place; this is the most special place in all of Lakeville,” the representative stated. This strong emotional appeal highlighted the need for the board to thoroughly consider the site’s historical and cultural context before moving forward.

Board members acknowledged the importance of incorporating local knowledge and community input into the planning stages. One participant stressed the necessity of involving the Lakeville Historic Commission in discussions about the land’s past. The archaeologist noted that a representative sample of the project area was examined, but board members and the public expressed concerns about the lack of outreach to local tribes before the preliminary study. Questions were raised about the degree of disturbance in sensitive areas and the significance of archaeological findings, with members of the public questioning the appropriateness of conducting perk tests on land deemed sacred.

The board clarified that while they could not prohibit the developer from performing tests on their property, they were committed to ensuring that any findings of historical significance would be protected. “If we do find something of significance, it will be an asset to the community,” a board member stated.

Beyond the cultural and archaeological concerns, the meeting also covered the project’s design and layout. Robert Mather, representing Simmons Hill LLC, provided updates on the proposed development, which includes 176 single-family units. A significant modification to the original plan was introduced: 25% of the units, or 44 homes, will be age-restricted for residents aged 55 and older, with 11 of these designated as affordable housing. The layout describes the over-55 units in the southern portion of the development, while the affordable units are marked distinctly.

Board members expressed satisfaction with the commitment to age-restricted units and anticipated future discussions on the project’s engineering aspects. The board reached a consensus that the project team should proceed with engineering plans, expected to take approximately three months, with an October meeting planned for further discussion.

Richie provided further details about the archaeological study, which involved background archival research examining environmental characteristics and historic maps of Lakeville to identify potential archaeological sites. A walkover survey, conducted in conjunction with a tribal historic preservation officer from the Wampanoag Tribe, identified areas of moderate sensitivity for both Native American and historic archaeological sites. However, the survey found significant areas of low sensitivity, primarily comprising wetlands and steep slopes.

During the meeting, the board was advised that figures related to sensitivity zones could be examined but not photographed to protect the integrity of the sites from potential theft or damage. A small stone-lined well, possibly from the historic period, was identified during the walkover survey. The well was isolated, lacking any associated structures like a cellar hole or foundation. Town council had previously evaluated the consulting organization for this project, and their reputation was deemed very good. However, the town’s engineer expressed concern that specific figures could not be included in public reports due to confidentiality issues.