The most significant topic of discussion centered on determining the responsibilities for crowd control at events with one-day licenses. This concern arose from a lack of clarity on whether the event organizers or the venue are responsible for providing a crowd manager. It was noted that the fire department typically signs off on crowd control certificates for permanent licenses, but there is ambiguity about one-day events. The Commission debated whether the venue, particularly city-owned properties like the Perry Auditorium, should ensure compliance with crowd control measures. They planned to research how other towns manage this issue and consider potential exemptions for certain events.

In terms of one-day license approvals, the Commission granted licenses to several organizations for upcoming holiday events, including The Women’s Circle of Giving, the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce, and Hayward Healthcare. These events, scheduled to take place at the Perry Auditorium, expect to draw significant attendance and feature alcohol service.

The Commission also reviewed pending applications for changes in business locations and new licenses. Sawa Asian Cuisine and Lounge seeks to relocate, with a target completion date of January 1st, pending necessary approvals. Similarly, Four Seasons Chinese Cuisine is applying for a new on-premises all-alcoholic beverage license, raising questions about its small seating capacity and lack of a bar area. The Commission plans to invite applicants to future meetings for further clarification.