Lakeville EDC plans spring business social; considers Loom Pond Lodge, sponsorship tiers

Members of the Town of Lakeville Economic Development Committee spent a substantial portion of the Dec. 15 meeting planning a spring 'business social' intended to connect local businesses and encourage networking.

The committee identified tentative designees to organize the event and discussed Loom Pond Lodge as a potential venue the town can use free of charge with coordination and select-board approval. Members flagged logistical requirements including vendor lead times, a 45-day notice window suggested by a potential sponsor, and whether Loom Pond Lodge’s catering or an outside caterer would supply food and bar service.

Sponsorship was a central topic: members suggested tiered levels (gold, silver, bronze) with example amounts (gold $500; silver and bronze lower) and debated whether banks such as Bluestone Bank or Eastern Bank would sponsor. Committee members discussed whether sponsors should receive recognition (signage, a short speaking slot) and whether the committee should ask the town accountant about handling receipts or sponsorship funds.

Members also discussed event format options — a casual meet-and-greet vs. an expo-style event with tables — and whether the chamber of commerce could co-host to reduce liability management. The committee asked staff to draft an event budget and an outline of the event purpose and to place the business social on the January agenda for further planning.

No formal vote was taken on the event at the meeting; members agreed to continue planning and to return in January with budget details and a proposed date.