28:45Gually Valdez, president and CEO of Metapan Community Health Center, voiced concerns about the proximity of the proposed business to their substance use disorder programs. Valdez emphasized the need for responsible business support while highlighting the saturation of alcohol access along Blue Hill Avenue, particularly near vulnerable individuals seeking assistance. He stated, “Our concern is the proximity… to those individuals who are seeking assistance to make changes in their lives.” This sentiment was echoed by the Greater Mattapan Neighborhood Council, which opposed the application, citing an overabundance of alcohol outlets in Mattapan Square.

21:53The board also heard testimony regarding a proposed restaurant in Roxbury by Weston Way LLC, which applied for a common victualer 7-day all alcoholic beverages license. Clayton Weston, the proposed manager, presented his vision for a family-friendly dining establishment that reflects the local culture and fills a void in sit-down dining options in the area. Weston noted, “I believe so much in Roxbury… to see the people of Roxbury and Boston presented in a better light.”

Community support for Weston’s proposal was substantial, with residents expressing a need for more local dining options and the positive impact such an establishment could have on the neighborhood. Tony Richards, a longtime resident and nonprofit operator, underscored the importance of creating spaces that resonate with young residents and deter them from leaving Boston due to licensing challenges. He stated, “I think it’s an investment… how do we keep our young adults here in our city to make them feel invested?”

39:13Several community members, including Sean Sudino and Troy Omar Phillip, testified in favor of Weston’s proposal, highlighting the potential benefits for the Caribbean community and the need for diverse dining experiences. The board members sought clarification on the restaurant’s concept, seating capacity, and potential for community events, with Weston confirming plans for a traditional restaurant setup without live music but with background music and televisions for patrons.

47:33In Dorchester-Roxbury, another application garnered attention from the community. Andre Williams, owner of Cool Shade Jamaican Restaurant, sought a common victual or 7-day all alcoholic beverages license, seeking to expand his offerings of traditional Jamaican dishes complemented by beverages like rum punch and Red Stripe beer. The board members inquired about the seating capacity, and Williams expressed confidence in community support for this venture.

Additional applications included a liquor license request from a new Jamaican restaurant, described as unique and necessary by community members who often dine outside their neighborhood due to limited local options. Procedural oversights were addressed with manager of record questions posed to applicants like Mr. Weston, who confirmed his extensive experience in the food and beverage industry. Paula Martinez of AAA Restaurant LLC in Jamaica Plain presented her case for a 7-day all alcoholic beverages license, hopeful that it would enhance her Hispanic cuisine offerings.

01:01:58Attention also turned to Gourmet Creole LLC, proposing a tapas-style restaurant in Dorchester, aiming to serve a fusion of Dominican, Haitian, and Cuban food with an emphasis on hiring locally. Concerns about parking and noise were noted, but there was also community support.

01:09:08Finally, Conua LLC, operating as Moe’s Tavern and Kitchen, sought a 7-day all alcoholic beverages license in Brighton. The upscale gastro pub would feature an open floor plan with seating for 70 guests, aiming to serve a diverse menu with late-night service, catering to local hospital and restaurant workers. Public testimony highlighted support alongside concerns about existing rodent issues in the area, urging the applicant to address trash disposal adequately.