The application by Den Cino LLC to expand Borito and Garrett Boston was a focal point of the meeting. The expansion would add approximately 3,562 square feet to the existing space, increasing the establishment’s capacity to around 150 patrons. Attorney Dennis Quilty represented the applicant, with cooperation from owner-operator Gavin Mosley and current manager Hope Murphy. They expressed gratitude for the support from the Seaport Neighborhood Association and residents of the Echelon building, emphasizing the collaborative efforts undertaken to address community concerns.

However, the proposal faced considerable opposition from residents, primarily due to noise and security issues. Connor Newman from the mayor’s office noted that while some community members supported the proposal, a previous abutters meeting revealed significant opposition, with 21 participants voicing concerns. Residents like Corey Nevan highlighted ongoing disturbances, including vibrations from music and excessive noise, particularly on weekends. Moring, another resident, expressed frustration over the lack of noise level improvement since the previous November.

The board and representatives discussed ongoing efforts to mitigate these issues, including the hiring of additional security personnel and engagement with sound engineers to address structural sound transmission problems. Despite these measures, residents remained dissatisfied, with some questioning the effectiveness of current security arrangements and suggesting the involvement of police details.

In contrast, the application for Tipsy Beer and Wine Inc. to expand its offerings to include spirits at its Mission Hill location also sparked debate. Attorney Kristen Scanland, representing the Patel family, emphasized the community-driven nature of the proposed changes. The board scrutinized the public need for this expansion, particularly given the proximity of other liquor stores like Fuentes Market. Residents expressed mixed opinions, with some highlighting the convenience and safety benefits of Tipsy Market, while others raised concerns about the potential shift away from grocery offerings.

Further testimony revealed community division over the proposal, with some residents emphasizing the need for a grocery-focused establishment over a liquor store. The Community Alliance of Mission Hill voted against the application, reflecting broader concerns about underage sales and neighborhood safety.

The board also considered applications for new establishments, such as the proposed Tradesman restaurant on Guest Street, managed by Bridget Duval. The establishment received support from local associations, with the board taking the matter under advisement.

The meeting also touched upon Kevin Kelly’s proposal for a Southern cuisine restaurant on Arlington, with Tyler Castro as the proposed manager. The board noted the extensive community outreach conducted and the positive reception from the Bay Village neighborhood association. Kelly emphasized the restaurant’s potential to fill a void in the local dining market, with support from both the mayor’s office and councilor representatives.