The board’s decision to grant a retail package store license to MD’s Provisions and Spirits was among a notable topics at the meeting. The applicant, represented by Amir Khan Chowder, sought approval for an all-alcoholic beverages license, emphasizing the store’s unique focus on gourmet grocery offerings, including kosher wines and spirits. The proposal was met with significant opposition from community members expressing concerns over the potential impact on the neighborhood.

To address these concerns, the applicant agreed to several conditions, such as prohibiting the sale of nips, singles, kegs, lottery, and tobacco, and committing not to offer delivery services. The board appreciated the applicant’s willingness to work with opponents and noted that similar package store licenses were not available within a significant distance. Additionally, the board requested a detailed written operations plan outlining age verification processes to prevent underage drinking.

Despite the opposition, the board members were convinced by the applicant’s presentation and the lack of comparable competitors nearby, ultimately voting to approve the license. They cited that the conditions imposed would ensure no detrimental impact on the community.

The meeting also covered several disciplinary hearings. Notably, GSI Shamad LLC, doing business as Cava in Roxbury, faced violations due to patrons under 21 possessing alcohol on the premises from an incident on July 25, 2024. The board unanimously agreed that a violation had occurred and issued a first warning, considering the establishment’s lack of prior similar issues.

In another case involving 253 Food and Spirit LLC, known as Nashville Grill and Stage, located at Tremont Street, the establishment was cited for over-serving alcohol and allowing an intoxicated patron on May 27, 2024. The board deferred the vote, pending additional narrative and video evidence. Meanwhile, Las Palmas Market Inc, operating as El Parar Restaurant in East Boston, was involved in a patron-on-patron assault incident. The board found no violation but decided to remind the establishment of their duty to contact the police in such situations.

The board also handled transactional matters, including approving a common victualer license for Berkeley College of Music Inc, operating as Melo, and Blank Street Coffee. Papa E RDR Dorchester LLC, doing business as Papa John’s, faced considerable opposition during their license application hearing, primarily due to community concerns. However, the board approved the license with the condition that deliveries be made through a rear entrance and noted the applicant’s willingness to incorporate healthy menu options.

Various petitions for changes in management or operational structure were also addressed. The board approved manager changes for Concession Associates LLC at the Envoy Hotel and Trinity Ashmont Restaurant LLC at Tavo. Additionally, RB SBW Inc, doing business as Roach Brothers Supermarket, received approval for multiple operational changes.

Other approvals included the transfer of licenses from Fajitas and Ras Inc to Parson CC Sou Opco LLC and from Manjo Cport to Sarva Foods LLC, with the latter receiving approval for a proposed closing time of 12:00 a.m. The board also approved W Entertainment Group Inc’s proposal to amend its premises description and change its DBA to Viva Karaoke and Studios.