to make a zoning change to encourage this type of growth that we’re talking about.” This high level of resident engagement can be a challenge. “There is a strong sense of community, and with that comes differing opinions,” Darling acknowledges. “You have a majority of residents who are looking to keep Lakeville exactly the way it is. And then you have another component of the community saying, ‘we need to spur economic growth and figure out how to pay for the things that we want moving forward.’” Like other municipalities in Massachusetts, Lakeville must operate under Proposition 2½, which limits the annual increase in property tax revenue, making new development a necessary part of the strategy. “There is not a lot of opportunity to hire additional staff and do these enhancements that a lot of the residents want to see,” Darling remarks. “The only way to make those things happen is by creating new growth and better taxation.” INFRASTRUCTURE LIMITATIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES Lakeville’s signature ponds are not only scenic, but they are vital regional water sources, supplying water to cities of New Bedford and Taunton, as well as Lakeville, and the town of Freetown. “New Bedford and Taunton hold the water withdrawal permits through the state of Massachusetts to take water out of our pond complex and treat that water and 5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 LAKEVILLE, MA
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