Local Officials Demand Action on Hazardous Waste Site Compliance Issues

In a recent meeting of the Lakeville Conservation Commission, members grappled with ongoing concerns regarding a local site that has raised significant environmental and regulatory issues. The discussion, marked by frustration and urgency, centered on a property that has been the subject of numerous complaints from residents about potential violations and environmental hazards.

Commission members expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of progress from the property owner, who has failed to comply with requests for soil testing and other necessary actions over the past year. "We need to either send them something that says we need the soils testing," one member stated, emphasizing the need for decisive action. The commission has granted multiple extensions, but the owner has not responded adequately, leading to concerns that they may be taking advantage of the commission's leniency.

The conversation turned to the possibility of denying the owner’s application altogether, a move that could reset the process but also risk further delays. "We're sort of in that damned if we do, damned if we don't situation," another member noted, highlighting the complexities of enforcing compliance without clear regulatory power.

As the meeting progressed, members discussed the potential environmental impact of the site, particularly concerning groundwater contamination. One member raised alarms about the presence of trailers and materials that could pose risks to local water resources. "If there's any contamination, it's drinking water," they warned, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

In a bid to take action, the commission agreed to issue a warning to the property owner, giving them two weeks to comply with requests for information and remediation. If the owner fails to respond, the commission plans to involve the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for further assistance. "We need to be ready to contact DEP for help," a member concluded, signaling a commitment to protecting the community's environmental health.

The meeting encapsulated the ongoing struggle of local officials to balance regulatory enforcement with the need for community safety, as they navigate the complexities of environmental law and property management. As the deadline approaches, residents and commission members alike await the next steps in this unfolding situation, hopeful for a resolution that prioritizes the health of Lakeville’s natural resources.