Boston Licensing Board Reviews Late-Night McDonald’s Hours Extension Amid Community Concerns

The Boston Licensing Board convened virtually on September 25, 2024, to review multiple applications, including a notable proposal from S Family Group LLC to extend the operating hours of a McDonald’s restaurant on Legends Way from 11:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. This application drew attention due to the potential impact on the community and operational logistics.

Attorney Dennis Quilty presented the case for McDonald’s, explaining that the change aimed to accommodate late-night demand and streamline delivery services between midnight and 3:00 a.m. Quilty emphasized that the application was part of an ongoing strategy to extend hours across various McDonald’s locations. He noted that the West End Civic Association had submitted a letter of non-opposition after discussions about mitigating issues such as double parking and delivery logistics. The Licensing Board took this matter under advisement.

In another discussion, Commonwealth Land Trust (CLT), doing business as 250 Sver Street LLC, sought a lodging house license for a 16-unit single room occupancy facility on Sver Street in Dorchester. Dina Herrera, along with attorney Derek Small and CLT president Eva Comey, led the presentation. Small highlighted the community engagement process, stating that no concerns were raised during abutters’ meetings and that the Back Bay neighborhood association expressed no opposition.

Eva Comey elaborated on CLT’s history, noting its longstanding service in the Boston area since 1985, with several permanent supportive housing locations. The facility would provide case management services from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and a key fob system would ensure secure resident access. Concerns about parking, quality of life, and density were addressed through community meetings, leading to support from the Nascent Street Neighborhood Association and Project Right after the number of proposed units was reduced. Conor Newman from the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services deferred to the board’s judgment, emphasizing community support.

The board also deliberated on a proposal from The Newman School for a lodging house dormitory license at 298-300 Newbury Street. Attorney Mike Ross represented the school, which plans to accommodate 41 beds across several floors with faculty living in two studio apartments. The school outlined comprehensive security measures, including a fob access system and external security cameras. Ross conveyed that community feedback was positive, with no opposition from abutters.

Another application came from 326b LLC, doing business as Red Fox, requesting to amend its licensed premises description to include the “Extra Dirty Martini Room.” This space would allow alcohol service at an existing raw bar, operating under a reservation system with curated cocktails and small plates. The applicant’s attorney likened this concept to a previous initiative at CH Roma, emphasizing a structured dining experience. The board took this matter under advisement without public testimony.

In a related matter, Cannonball Cafe LLC sought to transfer its beer, wine, and cordials license to Park City, a new establishment at the same location, 383 Dorchester Avenue. The proposal involves an extensive transformation, expanding from a coffee shop to a larger outdoor venue with various seating arrangements and activities. Mike Shaw, the proposed manager, stressed the family-friendly environment planned for the venue. The community showed strong support, with representatives from the Andrew Square Civic Association highlighting the positive impact of the Cannonball Cafe on the area.

However, Greg Donovan raised concerns about a nearby $75 million soil contamination cleanup, arguing that the proximity posed health risks. Attorney Hanley, representing the proposal, refuted Donovan’s claims, asserting that the site was not contaminated. The board kept the record open for further submissions until 5:00 p.m. that day.

Additionally, the board addressed applications for changes in management at various establishments, including NKOTB Lesie LLC and Del Frisco of Boston LLC. Clover Ventures LLC requested to pledge its liquor license to secure funding for a second location, while SSP America Inc. at Logan Airport sought to extend closing hours due to increased late-night flights.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Mayor:
Michelle Wu
Licensing Board Officials:
Liam Curran, Keeana Saxon, Kathleen Joyce, Daniel R. Green

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