The meeting’s most pressing topic was the hearing related to Carnival Latino. The establishment faced scrutiny over allegations of overserving patrons and extending music beyond regulated hours. Testimony from an officer, referred to as Mclofflin, highlighted a chaotic scene with severely intoxicated patrons being carried out of the venue. The officer noted the use of “bucket service,” where patrons could order multiple drinks at once, potentially leading to overserving. This method of service raised concerns as it obscured individual consumption monitoring, with the officer stating, “if you’re not going one by one, you don’t know when that person hits their tipping point.”

The commission also considered the broader implications of public safety, discussing the necessity of maintaining a police detail at Carnival Latino. The financial burden of the police detail was acknowledged, but the importance of police presence was emphasized due to the high volume of patrons and incidents of gang activity linked to the establishment. The commission debated a potential 90-day trial period without the police detail, contingent upon no incidents occurring during that time. It was agreed that any problems would lead to the immediate reinstatement of the detail.

Discussions then shifted to Lupita Restaurant, where disturbances and arrests in its vicinity raised questions about its role in these incidents. While the police reported two recent arrests outside Lupita’s, they admitted it was challenging to determine whether these disturbances originated within the club or were simply patrons congregating outside. The establishment’s security measures were scrutinized, with the owners defending their choice to use in-house security personnel instead of hiring a professional company. The commission suggested that employing a trained security company could provide better oversight.

The commission acknowledged the challenges of holding Lupita’s solely accountable, considering the concentration of nightlife venues in the area. Nevertheless, they emphasized the responsibility of ensuring patrons exit safely without causing disturbances. The commission decided to extend Lupita’s probationary period for another 90 days, allowing time to address these issues while recognizing the broader nightlife environment.

In addition to the discussions about Carnival Latino and Lupita Restaurant, the meeting addressed several license applications. Notably, the commission approved a one-day license for the New England Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina, allowing them to host a cultural festival promoting Bosnian heritage. The event was scheduled at Susan B. Anthony Middle School, with alcohol service monitored by volunteers.

Similarly, the commission approved an application from Dots Army for a one-day license for a cornhole tournament benefiting the Jimmy Fund. The event manager assured compliance with alcohol containment and ID checks, leading to unanimous approval.

After reviewing the containment plans for alcohol service, the commission unanimously approved the application.

The meeting also heard from Arapa La Mosula, Inc., seeking a license for a stationary mobile food vendor. The applicant plans for operating from the parking lot on Revere Beach Parkway, and after addressing layout concerns, the commission granted approval.