A significant portion of the meeting concentrated on the discussion and approval of outdoor patio extensions for multiple businesses. Establishments like 11 Kitchen and Bar, and Bread and Roses were among those seeking to expand their service areas to include outdoor seating. The board highlighted the need for compliance with fire department regulations, especially concerning outdoor cooking. Businesses were warned that outdoor cooking would only be permitted if prior inspection and approval were obtained from the fire department. Calderon Mal was specifically mentioned due to previous violations.

Noise complaints from outdoor patios were another issue addressed during the meeting. The board stressed the importance of keeping music levels low to avoid disturbing nearby residents. One board member remarked that maintaining low volume would prevent complaints, warning that businesses could face repercussions for non-compliance. In addition, businesses were reminded to apply online for inspections before the May 10 deadline. This requirement applies to both patios on private property and those on public sidewalks, especially for establishments with liquor licenses.

MV Lounge was also a topic of discussion. This establishment had been closed due to landlord-tenant disputes, coupled with past fire safety issues. The board decided that MV Lounge would need to undergo thorough inspections and secure board approval before reopening its patio. A board member emphasized the necessity of resolving all outstanding safety concerns before granting any approval.

Moving on to new business licenses, the board approved a common victualer license for a business located at 109-115 South Broadway. The new owner intends to offer Vietnamese cuisine and was commended by a commissioner who expressed fondness for the location. The approval followed a motion that passed unanimously, allowing the business to proceed once required inspections are completed.

The board also reviewed the case of Better Car Company on Medford Street. Inspector France had previously reported several violations, including debris and improperly stored vehicles. However, recent inspections revealed significant improvements, with the number of cars reduced from 35 to 18, and cleanliness and compliance issues addressed. The board approved the business with a warning to maintain future compliance.

St. Joseph’s Church on Hampshire Street sought an alcohol license for their annual food festival on June 13 and 14. This request had been made in previous years without issue, and both police and fire departments had no concerns. The board unanimously approved the alcohol license for the event, continuing the tradition of supporting community festivals.

The meeting also covered the application from Alex Auto on South Broadway. The owner and his representative sought approval for a license, which was contingent on necessary inspections. The board noted that the zoning board had mentioned a capacity of 75 vehicles, but final approval would depend on the board’s site assessment. The motion to approve the license passed unanimously, pending inspection results.

In addition to these cases, the board addressed the management change request from the Elks at Ust and Street. Kathleen Rupkey sought approval to manage the establishment, which was granted following confirmation of compliance with guest signing-in protocols and camera system improvements. The board emphasized the importance of these measures for maintaining the establishment’s nonprofit status and instructed Rupkey to complete the necessary paperwork promptly.

Bautista Market at 326-334 Lawrence Street also received attention as the board considered their application, which had been tabled from a previous meeting. Commissioner Morales confirmed that all paperwork was complete, but approval was contingent on passing a pending fire department inspection. The board approved the application unanimously, contingent on this condition.