Fall River Licensing Board Grapples with Event Occupancy and Safety Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Fall River Licensing Board meeting, discussions centered around the approval of various liquor and entertainment permits, with attention on the occupancy and safety issues related to an upcoming professional boxing event by Boston Boxing Promotions. The board also reviewed multiple license requests, ranging from changes in management at local clubs to the establishment of new auto sales businesses.
One notable matter involved the approval of a one-day liquor permit for a boxing event scheduled for March 29, 2025. The application, submitted by Nicholas D. Salvo of Boston Boxing Promotions, proposed hosting the event at a venue known for its second-floor boxing ring setup. The board expressed concerns regarding the venue’s capacity to safely accommodate 400 attendees, as suggested by Salvo, alongside the safety implications of serving alcohol in such a potentially crowded environment.
A board member questioned the feasibility of the proposed occupancy, emphasizing that the physical constraints of the venue would make it challenging to accommodate such a large number of people safely. Given these worries, the board suggested further review by the fire department or building inspector to verify the actual occupancy limits and safety protocols. The board decided to conditionally approve the liquor permit, contingent upon securing a valid certificate of inspection to confirm the venue’s capacity. This decision aimed to ensure compliance with safety regulations while facilitating the event’s success.
Another item on the agenda was the discussion of an entertainment permit for a farmers market event proposed by Viva Fall River. Patty Rigo, the executive director, outlined plans for the event on Granite Street, explaining the transformation of a former drive-thru bank into a community space. The market, scheduled to run every Thursday from June 12 to September 18, would feature local produce vendors and live music, primarily from street performers and students. The board raised questions about the need for additional licensing for outdoor music, given the private property setting. Ultimately, the board unanimously approved the entertainment license, allowing the community event to proceed as planned.
The board also addressed several requests for changes in management at local clubs. John A. D’Silva sought approval to become the new manager of the Portuguese Medance Club on Webster Street. D’Silva highlighted his extensive experience in the liquor business, reassuring the board of his capability to manage the club effectively. The board approved his request without opposition. Similarly, Carlos Faria’s request to become the manager of the Fall River Sports Club was approved, following confirmation of his background as a bartender and manager within the club for a decade.
In addition, the board reviewed and granted several Class 2 license applications for auto sales businesses. Munir Mon Alani’s application for Formula 1 Wholesale was approved, enabling him to operate a wholesaling business purchasing cars from auctions to sell to dealers. Another applicant, Nasser Ialam Nazerof, received approval for a new dealership on Broadway, which planned to accommodate around 65 vehicles. Hercilio Cardoozo’s application for Go Car Auto Sales and Rental was also approved, allowing him to operate a combined sales and rental business on South Main Street.
The meeting concluded with the approval of common victual licenses for several food establishments. Notably, M Shahid Islam’s application for Mona Lisa Kitchen, an authentic Indian cuisine restaurant, was approved. The establishment aims to offer a seating capacity of 20 and operate daily from 11 AM to 10 PM.
Paul Coogan
Licensing Board Officials:
Gregory Brilhante, Melanie C. Cordeiro, Michael Perreira
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Meeting Type:
Licensing Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/19/2025
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Recording Published:
03/20/2025
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Duration:
39 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Fall River
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