Lakeville selectmen discuss $4.3M–$7.7M road bond, Route 79, and possible marijuana revenues; board votes to send support letter for Route 79

The Board of Selectmen debated whether to pursue a debt‑exclusion road bond to address a backlog of major street repairs and to reaffirm municipal support for the state’s Route 79 project at the March 6 meeting.

Staff presented a pavement management list of about 15 high‑priority roads with engineering estimates ranging from roughly $4.3 million to $7.7 million to complete repairs to an engineer’s specifications. Selectmen discussed borrowing strategies — including bonding the full estimated amount under a debt exclusion on a ballot or town meeting warrant and phasing work over several years — versus pacing projects with annual Chapter 90 funds and other one‑time revenues.

Officials noted the town’s Chapter 90 allocation for the coming year was about $383,000, an amount that funds only a small part of major repaving projects. Town staff and selectmen discussed options ranging from a large, single authorization (a multi‑year bond) to authorizing a maximum amount and borrowing in phases so interest‑only payments would limit near‑term tax impacts. Board members also discussed peer review of the civil‑engineering cost estimates (one selectman recommended obtaining a second engineer’s review or peer review in addition to the consulting engineer beta) and creating a citizens’ or expert committee to help prioritize streets.

The board also considered using future marijuana‑related revenues as mitigation or capital funding for roads and first‑responder equipment. Selectmen emphasized that marijuana revenues were not yet received and that estimates vary; in the meeting, possible receipt ranges discussed included roughly $1.0–$1.5 million per year (with uncertainty). Members said they preferred to budget conservatively without assuming those revenues but would consider them for nonrecurring capital or for paying down debt if and when funds arrive.

Route 79: The board spent extended time on Route 79, a state road project that has required town engagement on design, easements and cost‑sharing. Members said the state has signaled concerns about the town’s commitment and about potential land takings; one state estimate for takings was discussed in the $2 million–$3 million range. Selectmen expressed support for completing the project through the state and said the town must better understand its potential share of costs. After discussion the board moved and seconded a motion to send a letter to state officials reaffirming Lakeville’s support for the Route 79 project and outlining town concerns about the town’s cost exposure; the board voted in favor, with selectmen saying the letter would also ask the state for clearer information on the town’s likely share and schedule.

Ending: Selectmen asked staff to continue refining cost estimates, to explore peer review of engineering work, and to bring a draft road‑bond presentation and timeline to future meetings so voters could see funding scenarios before any warrant or ballot question is finalized.