Lakeville's Conservation Commission has taken significant steps towards improving local environmental safety during its recent meeting on August 12, 2025. The commission held a public hearing regarding a request from Jessica Faulkner to decommission an existing septic system and install a new one at 125 Hackett Avenue, located within the 100-foot buffer zone of Long Pond, a vital surface water supply for the area.

The proposed project aims to enhance the current septic system, which has been deemed inadequate and potentially harmful to the nearby water supply. The Board of Health has conditionally approved the plan, emphasizing that the new system will be a substantial improvement over the existing one, which is currently situated in a high water table area. The new installation is designed to keep the leaching field as far away from Long Pond as possible, addressing concerns raised by local residents.

During the meeting, representatives from Zenith Consulting Engineers outlined the project details, including the need to pump waste across the street to a new leaching field. The commission discussed potential adjustments to the plumbing layout to further distance the system from the pond, which could enhance the project's environmental impact. The commission expressed a commitment to ensuring that any changes made would not require a complete re-filing of the project, streamlining the process for the applicant.

In addition to the septic system discussion, the commission also opened a hearing for another project at 135 Staple Shore Road, which involves the construction of a deck and installation of a septic tank within a similar buffer zone. This ongoing focus on environmental protection and infrastructure improvement reflects Lakeville's dedication to maintaining the health of its natural resources while accommodating community needs.

The commission's decisions are expected to foster better environmental practices in the area, ensuring that local water supplies remain protected while allowing for necessary residential upgrades. As these projects move forward, the community can anticipate enhanced safety and sustainability in their local environment.