Lakeville Select Board Statement on May 12 Meeting

PUBLIC STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 5/15/2026

LAKEVILLE SELECT BOARD

During the May 12, 2026 joint meeting of the Lakeville Select Board and Finance Committee, discussion occurred regarding the FY27 Freetown-Lakeville Regional School District assessment, including questions related to the calculation methodology associated with the George R. Austin Intermediate School (GRAIS) debt exclusion payment and its impact on the year-over-year assessment increase.

During the meeting, the Chair permitted a resident to speak and raise a question concerning the George R. Austin Intermediate School (GRAIS) debt payment. The question was unexpected at that time, as the Town Administration had previously discussed the matter with the School District Administration in April and understood at that time that there were no outstanding concerns requiring further review or discussion with the full Select Board.

As a result, the topic was not anticipated as part of the evening’s discussion. The response provided by Town Administration was made in real time and without the benefit of preparation for a detailed public explanation of the assessment calculations being discussed. Given the complexity of the issue and the unexpected nature of the inquiry, portions of the response may not have been communicated as clearly or precisely as intended.

At this time, the Town of Lakeville does not believe there was wrongdoing on the part of either the Freetown-Lakeville Regional School District or the Town of Lakeville. Town Administration embraces the opportunity to improve communication, review processes, and overall understanding of the assessment methodology moving forward. The Select Board values its longstanding working relationship with the School District and remains committed to maintaining a respectful, professional, and collaborative partnership moving forward.

The Select Board recognizes the importance of consistent and equitable public participation practices during public meetings. While Select Board meetings are meetings held in public for the purpose of conducting Town business, they are not intended to function as unrestricted public forums. In an effort to promote parity, consistency, and orderly meeting operations moving forward, the Select Board will be discussing the development and adoption of a formal public comment policy to help establish clear expectations and procedures for future meetings. Until a formal policy is adopted, public participation during meetings will continue to be managed in a manner intended to support fair, respectful, and orderly meetings.

The Select Board remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and ensuring residents receive accurate and timely information regarding municipal and school district matters. We appreciate the continued engagement of residents, municipal officials, and School District leadership as we work together in the best interest of the Lakeville community.

Sincerely,

The Town of Lakeville Select Board

Lorraine Carboni, Chair 
Christopher Plonka, Vice Chair 
Paul Hunt 
Kristen Howard 
Lia Fabian