Amherst Licensing Board Approves Fresh Side Liquor License Amidst Regulatory Discussions
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Amherst Board of Licensing meeting held remotely, several licensing approvals, including a liquor license transfer for Fresh Side 2 Corp. , were granted amidst discussions on draft regulations for board hearings. These regulations aim to establish formal protocols for appeals related to building inspection violations. The meeting also covered a host of other licensing matters, including food trucks and live entertainment venues, with members ensuring compliance with local statutes.
One of the primary matters addressed was the transfer of a liquor license from Two Fresh Inc. to Fresh Side 2 Corporation. The new applicant explained that the transfer was part of reclaiming the business from a friend returning to New York. Despite the absence of the manager initially, the board navigated the issue efficiently, confirming the transfer after clarification. The board also approved a new common victualer license for Fresh Side 2 Corporation. This approval was categorized as a new application due to the business’s ongoing sale, a process that was handled smoothly by the board.
Another topic was the introduction of draft regulations aimed at formalizing the Board’s hearing protocols, particularly concerning appeals from building inspection violations. The regulations are designed to provide a generalized framework applicable to various hearings, including disciplinary ones. The board serves as an appeals body for landlords challenging violations identified by building inspectors, but its jurisdiction does not extend to eviction matters.
Discussions also touched upon past hearings related to alcohol violations, with an estimated four or five cases handled by the board since its inception. While some hearings were contentious, others proceeded without complications. The board acknowledged these past experiences.
The meeting also addressed a variety of other licensing matters. The renewal of common victualer’s licenses, including those for Speedway LLC and West Street Coffee and Tea, was approved without issues. The board briefly speculated on the food offerings at Speedway, noting the past presence of a Subway franchise. Additionally, live entertainment license renewals for Spearpoint Enterprises were approved, with inquiries confirming no noise complaints had been filed. The board discussed the parameters of live entertainment licensing, noting exceptions for special events like farmers’ markets.
Food truck license renewals for New York Halal Food and Only Kebab were also considered. The owner of Only Kebab, present at the meeting, confirmed regular operations at the Commons and provided details about the Turkish and Mediterranean offerings. The board confirmed all necessary documentation had been submitted, resulting in a unanimous vote for approval.
Towards the meeting’s end, discussions turned to future planning, including the potential formation of a committee to address the issue of cannabis cafes. The need for a liaison from the town council was mentioned, with members opting to wait for further council direction before proceeding. The board agreed to postpone discussions on committee formation until more information was available.
However, these issues were resolved, and the meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn. The session was characterized by cooperative dialogue and efficient handling of licensing matters, with members exchanging well wishes and acknowledging the technical challenges faced.
Paul Brockelman
Licensing Board Officials:
Marian Walker, Gaston de los Reyes, Hallie Hughes, Dillon Maxfield, Doug Slaughter, Steven McCarthy (Licensing Coordinator)
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Meeting Type:
Licensing Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
01/29/2026
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Recording Published:
01/30/2026
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Duration:
30 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Hampshire County
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Towns:
Amherst
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