A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the application from Parson CC Selfie Opco LLC, operating as Common Craft on Damrell Street. The request focused on adding live entertainment options, such as disc jockeys and instrumental vocal music, both indoors and on the outdoor patio. Larry Liowitz, the proposed manager of record, highlighted the establishment’s expansive 8,000-square-foot space within the new Washington Village development. The venue intends to operate its patio until 11:00 p.m. and remain open indoors until 1:00 a.m. on weekends.

A critical aspect of the discussion was the potential for noise complaints associated with increased residential occupancy in the area. Kathleen Joyce, from the mayor’s office of consumer affairs and licensing, raised concerns about past noise issues. In response, Liowitz detailed their consultation with an audio firm and the implementation of structural soundproofing measures, such as spacers, additional ceiling grids, and foam insulation, to contain sound within the premises. He clarified that outdoor speakers would relay indoor music. Liowitz emphasized the establishment’s goal: “the idea is not to drown them out with loud music.”

The board discussed the necessity of compliance with the city’s noise ordinance and considered implementing a sound monitoring system, potentially through an app. They also suggested having a 24-hour contact available for addressing noise complaints.

Following Common Craft’s application, the board reviewed Bombola’s proposal, represented by SGHC LLC, for a venue located on Northern Avenue in the Seaport District. Bombola sought to include live entertainment, such as disc jockeys, trivia, and instrumental vocal music, intending to operate until 2:00 a.m. The venue’s concept aimed to evoke an Italian villa ambiance, with live music complementing the dining experience rather than overshadowing it.

Joyce acknowledged the absence of opposition from the community regarding Bombola’s application, which received support from public officials and local neighborhood associations. This support highlighted the effectiveness of Bombola’s community engagement efforts.

The discussion then turned to Bamba, which sought to introduce trivia nights as a new entertainment option. The venue, with a capacity for 236 patrons, planned to operate from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily without outdoor entertainment, dancing, or cover charges. To mitigate noise, Bamba proposed the use of smaller speakers, deadening foam, and heavily upholstered furnishings. However, representatives from the Seaport Neighborhood Association requested a delay in decision-making to allow further collaboration with local stakeholders. Concerns centered around ensuring trivia nights did not negatively impact residents’ quality of life.

Lastly, the board discussed Tall Ship Restaurant LLC’s proposal to expand its entertainment offerings to include audio devices, TVs, board games, and seasonal activities like ice skating and bumper cars. The proposal aimed to transform Pier 1 in East Boston into a family-friendly winter village. The applicant emphasized previous community meetings and necessary approvals from relevant bodies, reporting no objections from local residents or associations.

The board inquired about capacity management, noise mitigation strategies, and security measures for the expanded space, which would accommodate 3,000 people and offer seating for 1,250. The Tall Ship application received support from the Jeffre Point Neighborhood Association.