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Taunton commissioners ease some restrictions on Fusion Kitchen, require plan and one police detail on weekend nights
Summary
The Taunton Board of License Commissioners on March 12 modified enforcement conditions for Fusion Kitchen at 17 School Street after hearing from owners and police about a disruptive incident earlier this year, reducing the number of required police officers on weekend nights from two to one and setting revised closing hours.
Following a lengthy hearing on March 12, the Taunton Board of License Commissioners modified conditions for 1 Carnation DBA Fusion Kitchen at 17 School Street after an incident earlier this year that the commission described as "unfortunate" and potentially dangerous.
Owners and representatives — including Danielle Sanandrite and the applicant Daniel (Danny) — addressed the commission about personnel changes, emotional and financial impacts, and plans to prevent future problems. Danielle Sanandrite described efforts to formalize operations and asked whether a written plan or an oral presentation would be acceptable; commissioners said either form of a clear plan would help.
Commissioners voiced sympathy for the applicants but emphasized the license-holder’s responsibility for on-premises safety. Commissioner Lamb said the video of the incident showed the manager standing near a problem patron during police intervention and urged the manager to take a more active role in assisting officers in future disturbances. The commission noted the location had not been a chronic problem in prior months, describing the incident as a severe single occurrence, but said the event warranted continuing oversight.
After discussion the commission voted to adjust the prior restrictions for the balance of the previously stated four-month period as follows: set Thursday and Sunday closing times to 11 p.m.; set Friday and Saturday closing times to 1 a.m.; reduce police-detail requirements on Friday and Saturday from two officers to one officer; lift remaining suspension days. The commission required the license-holder to return in one month with a clearer written or oral plan describing operations, management or a transfer, and advised the applicant to maintain communication with Sergeant Balmain and Taunton police about safety practices.
Commissioners conditioned the change on the business not adding DJs; if the applicant seeks a DJ or returns to later hours (for example, midnight close with last call at 11 p.m.), the commission said a police detail is required for now. Licensing staff and police will monitor the business and may restore prior restrictions if further problems occur. The motion passed by voice vote with two commissioners in favor and one absent.
