During a recent school committee meeting, members discussed a liquor license application from a business in the town of Dennis that seeks to relocate near the Ezra Baker School. The proposed site is within 500 feet of the elementary school, prompting the committee to consider potential impacts on the school environment.
The committee received input from both the school principal and another administrator, who expressed concerns about increased traffic and litter, particularly from discarded items associated with liquor stores, such as nips. The back of the proposed business location directly abuts the school's playground, raising additional worries about adult traffic in an area already congested with school-related activities.
Ezra Baker School currently serves approximately 400 students, and the committee members highlighted the importance of maintaining a safe and conducive environment for the children. They noted that state regulations allow towns to deny liquor license applications if they interfere with school operations, emphasizing the rationale behind such laws.
Committee members discussed the need for further investigation into local bylaws that might support their concerns. The meeting concluded with a call for a formal response to the town regarding the application, reflecting the committee's commitment to safeguarding the interests of the school community.