Lakeville City Administrator Justin Miller presented a comprehensive review of the city's 2024 accomplishments during a year-end presentation, highlighting significant progress across multiple departments and major infrastructure developments.

The city's public safety departments implemented several new initiatives throughout the year. The Lakeville Police Department introduced a drone program featuring outdoor drones with thermal imaging capabilities and indoor tactical drones, while adding a support services liaison to work with social workers on mental health crisis response. The Lakeville Fire Department welcomed its first six full-time firefighters as part of the city's transition to a hybrid department model, with 15 additional full-time firefighters scheduled to join in 2025 through a SAFER grant.

Major infrastructure and development projects marked significant progress in 2024. Sweet Harvest Foods opened a 360,000-square-foot facility, becoming the city's second-largest industrial operation. The Public Works department completed the Dodd Boulevard road improvement project to enhance traffic flow from Cedar Avenue to Pilot Knob Road, repainted the central maintenance facility water tower, and advanced storm water improvements in the Foxboro area.

The Parks and Recreation Department achieved record participation levels across multiple facilities. Grand Prairie Park completed major site work in preparation for a splash pad, playground and pickleball courts, with partial opening scheduled for 2025. Antlers Park set new records with 394 shelter and facility rentals, while Heritage Center memberships exceeded 1,500 patrons. The Lakeville Area Art Center celebrated its first anniversary with a 76.9% increase in participation.

The city also achieved a 90% voter turnout in the primary election and successfully recruited over 250 election judges. Additionally, the city's liquor stores celebrated 90 years of service while raising over $100,000 for local causes including food pantries, nature programs at Ritter Farm Park, and the Yellow Ribbon Program for veterans.