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Sharon EDC advances business directory and events calendar amid debate over non‑resident membership
Summary
At its May 11 meeting the Town of Sharon Economic Development Committee discussed a customer‑facing business directory, ongoing library networking sessions, and an events calendar while debating whether non‑resident business owners should sit on the EDC; the committee approved minutes and adjourned.
The Town of Sharon Economic Development Committee discussed steps to organize local businesses, including creating an electronic, customer‑facing directory and continuing networking sessions at the library, and reviewed a calendar of upcoming town events.
Shana Seidenberg, vice chair of the EDC, said the goal of the library meetings "is to get the business owners to step up and call the next meeting," describing the sessions as networking events intended to encourage local business leadership. Chair Hy Waxman said the immediate tangible product would be an online business directory with contact information and locations to make it easier for customers to find local services.
Judy Crosby suggested using the assessor's list of businesses and posting it on the town website, and she urged the town communications person to promote the directory. David Straus cautioned that the directory will require ongoing maintenance and suggested that, if a chamber‑style group forms, responsibility for upkeep could be passed to that organization.
Members reviewed an events list that includes a Food Truck Festival at Veterans Memorial Park Beach on May 17, a Chalk Art Festival at Town Hall on May 31, Sharon Pride Day at Veterans’ Memorial Park Beach on May 31 from 1 to 5 p.m., and Porch Fest on Aug. 30. There was also discussion of a proposal to stage an event in the parking lot behind Angels, with Xander relaying that Fred had mentioned the idea.
Committee members also debated whether non‑resident business owners should be eligible to join the EDC. Cheryl Rosenfeld and David Straus said they were concerned a non‑resident member might prioritize interests different from town residents; Shana Seidenberg said she would take responsibility for asking a non‑resident but preferred finding a town resident.
Procedural actions: Hy Waxman moved to accept the April 6 minutes as amended; Cheryl Rosenfeld seconded and the committee voted 4‑0‑0 to approve. David Straus moved to adjourn at 8:00 p.m.; Shana Seidenberg seconded and the committee voted 4‑0‑0 to adjourn. The committee set its next meeting for 7 p.m. Monday, June 1, 2026.
