Taunton addresses water quality concerns and infrastructure issues at planning meeting

The Lakeville Select Board meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding water quality and infrastructure issues related to local developments. Board members expressed concerns about the oversight of water testing and the responsibilities of homeowner associations in managing water systems.

A significant topic was the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and its role in ensuring water quality. Board members questioned whether the water was being adequately tested and what steps were necessary to bring the secondary water system up to standard. There was a discussion about the potential for homeowner associations to take over testing responsibilities, which raised concerns about the implications for residents.

Another key issue was the financial burden on residents due to the current water billing system, which charges commercial rates because of a single master meter. The board noted that the city of Taunton has been hesitant to switch to individual meters, citing uncertainty about the existing infrastructure. This situation has led to frustrations among residents, particularly regarding the lack of clarity on how new phases of development are being constructed without proper documentation of existing utilities.

Members of the board emphasized the need for better communication with the DEP and the importance of ensuring that developers provide necessary documentation, such as as-built plans, during the permitting process. They acknowledged that past developments had faced similar issues and stressed the importance of learning from these experiences to avoid future complications.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to reach out to the DEP for clarification on water quality testing and to ensure that all necessary information is gathered before proceeding with any new developments. The next Select Board meeting is scheduled for May 5, 2025, where further discussions on these pressing issues are expected to continue.