In a notable development, the board discussed scheduling cancellation hearings for establishments with potential violations related to licensing compliance. This included Newre Boston LLC, operating as Newsret Steakhouse, and Thornton Companies Inc., doing business as Thornton Fenway Grill. Concerns were raised over their legal right to occupy premises, issues with the execution and filing of annual renewal applications, and non-use of licenses. The board decided to schedule a cancellation hearing in 30 days for Newre Boston LLC, unless an application for a license transfer is submitted. Similarly, Thornton Fenway Grill faces a cancellation hearing, pending further application submissions, after signing a purchase and sale agreement.

The board’s focus on compliance underscored the importance of adhering to licensing laws, with members suggesting further investigation into the lease status discrepancies during renewal processes. Ensuring the accuracy of sworn statements during renewals was also emphasized.

Beyond compliance issues, the board reviewed several altercations at licensed premises, ultimately finding no violations in all cases. Incidents at notable venues like Boston Ballroom Corporation’s Royale, Boston Lecho Corporation, and Concord Entertainment Inc.’s Bill’s Bar were scrutinized. The board emphasized the importance of de-escalation training, with one member suggesting that Bill’s Bar provide documentation of such training following an earlier order in December 2024.

The board also handled numerous transactional matters, approving various petitions for changes in business operations and management. Linux Hotel LLC received unanimous approval for DBA changes, while Barcelona South End LLC and Wonder Boston LLC were granted managerial changes. Bonchon Alustin LLC’s request to change its license classification to a wine and malt beverages license, alongside management restructuring, was approved following verification of the new manager’s character and fitness.

Dining Innovation Massachusetts Inc. successfully transferred its license to NVAG Kenmore LLC, with the board approving the new manager. A retail package store license was awarded to Santu and Sabuj Market, acknowledging public demand for Caribbean grocery offerings. The board stipulated conditions to ensure compliance with floor space requirements for alcohol storage.

Applications for new common victualer licenses were unanimously approved, including for establishments like Dorchester Fried Chicken LLC, Ratatimi Restaurant, Cocoa Coffee, Flower Bakery and Cafe, Laabra Restaurant, and Noodle Lab. Existing victualer licenses saw changes, with Sushi Roll transitioning to Matcha Loves Boba and Cocoa Seapport LLC becoming Love Art Sushi.

Operational adjustments were also sanctioned, such as Central Park Lanes Inc.’s request to extend operating hours and the New England Conservatory of Music’s capacity increase for its dormitory license. The board approved one-day amendments for extended hours at catered events, reflecting flexibility in accommodating special events.

In administrative matters, the board acknowledged correspondence from SelfUp LLC and Goggle Mogle Inc. regarding a mutual intent to revoke a license transfer that was not finalized in time, reverting the license to the original holder.