The most contentious topic was the discussion regarding the October Fest, particularly the proposed placement of a mobile bar from Moon Hill Brewing on West Street. Concerns were raised about the potential challenges in monitoring alcohol consumption if the bar were located further from the central event activities. A member of the commission suggested that relocating the mobile bar to a more central location might better contain the drinking area and alleviate any possible congestion. This suggestion led to a decision to table the mobile bar’s location decision until further discussions could occur at the next meeting on September 9.

The commission approved various one-day beer and wine licenses for the event. Red Apple Farm and the Acadian Club both received approvals for their licenses on September 27, following a minor amendment to correct the listed date for Red Apple Farm from the 28th to the 27th. Moon Hill Brewing also received approval for its license on the same date. The commission’s deliberations stressed the importance of security measures, including officers and barriers, to manage the alcohol consumption area effectively.

In addition to October Fest, Moon Hill Brewing submitted an application for a one-day beer and wine permit for a celebration of life event in honor of former city solicitor John Flick. This event is scheduled for August 21, 2025, at Harry Auditorium. Initially, the proposal included full liquor service, but it was revised to include only beer and wine, as it did not qualify as a nonprofit event. The commission approved the amended application without further objections.

Another notable discussion involved a parking lot party planned by Sanctuary Medicinals for August 23, 2025. This event aims to foster community support rather than focusing primarily on alcohol consumption. The representative highlighted that it was “not like a good day,” suggesting the intention was more about community bonding than a conventional drinking occasion. The commission emphasized the need for adequate security, recalling previous events where two officers were present for traffic and alcohol monitoring. The representative agreed to arrange for a detail to ensure the event’s smooth execution.

The commission also reviewed applications for the Late Summer Friday Nights at Mackie Park, requesting six beer and wine licenses for dates in August and September. These events are designed to enhance community engagement through live music in a park that has seen little activity. Although concerns were voiced about attendance and safety, particularly regarding alcohol management, confidence was expressed in the park’s previous successful event handling. The commission approved the bundled application for all six dates unanimously.

Old business included discussions about pending applications, such as the Gardner Lodge’s change of manager facing delays due to missing documentation. The commission plans to invite lodge representatives to the next meeting to address these issues directly. Sawa Asian Cuisine and Lounge’s transfer license application was also under review by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) after corrections. The commission noted a new application for Sawa to go was in process, as well as the completion of the South Gardener Hotel’s boarding house license renewal. However, the hotel’s transfer license application was still pending due to missing signatures and a required financial document.

In new business, the commission discussed the annual active retail licenses report. A member was reconciling this report with the commission’s records, noting a potential impact from the closure of the VFW on West Street. Additionally, an advisory from the ABCC regarding the exchange of existing licenses for new categories prompted a discussion on necessary amendments to local regulations. The commission considered establishing a reasonable fee for these changes, with further discussion slated for the next meeting.