Lakeville board debates enterprise-account practices and talks joint review with Parks Commission
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Summary
Select Board members spent more than an hour discussing how the town accounts for indirect costs in enterprise funds and whether to ‘de-enterprise’ parks operations; members agreed to a joint meeting and further analysis from town staff.
Select Board members discussed whether Lakeville’s parks enterprise accounting has been handled correctly and whether the town should pursue de‑enterprising the department’s operations, a change that would alter how indirect costs are charged to park-related activities.
The issue arose during the town administrator’s financial report and was pursued in detail by several board members who said town meeting voters and residents expect the Select Board and Parks Commission to work collaboratively on the question. Members argued for more data from the town administrator and the town accountant so the board can decide whether current practice follows state requirements for enterprise accounts and chargebacks.
The board heard that the town accountant and town administrator are reviewing indirect-cost allocations to determine what correct accounting would look like. Several members said past practice changed during the COVID period (suspension or reduction of chargebacks) and that current spreadsheets do not clearly show what proper billbacks should be. Others warned that moving from enterprise status to general-fund operations would create governance and fee-setting questions: who would set park fees and who would make operational decisions if enterprise status were removed.
The Select Board agreed that before taking any formal action the town administrator and town accountant should present clearer figures and proposals. Board members said they expect to schedule a joint meeting with the Parks Commission—likely in March or April—to review the analysis and hear from park officials. Several members asked that the Parks Commission be invited early so both boards can discuss scope, questions, and options together.
No formal vote on enterprise status or on de‑enterprising occurred; the board treated the item as a direction to staff and a plan for a future joint meeting.