Concerns over environmental impacts dominated the Lakeville Conservation Commission meeting on January 2, 2025, as members discussed a proposed Open Space Residential Development (OSRD) project. The project, which aims to expand residential lots, has raised alarms regarding its potential effects on local wetlands and ecosystems.

A key point of contention is the absence of percolation tests for the proposed lots. One commission member expressed serious concerns, stating, “The lack of perk tests on each lot is concerning to me.” This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety about the environmental integrity of the area, particularly given the fragile ecosystems surrounding Long Pond and Cedar Swamp.

The discussion highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before proceeding with the project. Members noted that without proper testing, the risk of damaging the wetlands and surrounding habitats increases significantly. “We want to keep it clean as opposed to trying to clean it up afterwards,” one member emphasized, referencing past failures in environmental management.

The Board of Health's stance was also scrutinized, with members indicating that if the board requires percolation tests for each lot, the project could be halted entirely. “If the Board of Health determines that it has to be a purchase on every lot, then the project's dead,” a member warned, underscoring the potential for significant delays or cancellations.

As the commission grapples with these environmental concerns, the future of the OSRD project remains uncertain. The meeting concluded with a call for further investigation and clarity on the environmental implications, ensuring that Lakeville's natural resources are preserved for future generations.