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License commission limits hours for new gaming store on Lehigh Street after neighborhood concern
Summary
The Worcester License Commission approved an entertainment license for a proposed gaming store at 117 Lehigh Street but reduced the requested closing hour from 1 a.m. to midnight after commissioners raised residential-neighborhood concerns.
The Worcester License Commission on July 10 approved an entertainment license for a proposed gaming store at 117 Lehigh Street but restricted operating hours to 10 a.m. to 12 midnight, citing proximity to residential buildings.
The applicant, Ayub H. Ali of Worcester, asked to operate seven days a week with hours initially proposed as 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Commissioner Sheron Fisher raised concern that the premises adjoins apartment buildings and recommended a midnight closing time. The applicant agreed: “Okay I don't mind that,” and the commission moved and seconded a motion to approve the license with the hours set to 10 a.m.–12:00 a.m. The motion carried with the commissioners present recorded as voting yes.
Why it matters: The change demonstrates the commission’s practice of tailoring license conditions to neighborhood context when a business operates adjacent to residences.
Key details
- Applicant: Ayub H. Ali, resident of Worcester. The application described a gaming store for children and teenagers with “no loud music.” - Approved hours: Sunday–Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m. (midnight). - Restrictions and expectations: Commissioners and Sergeant Thomas Needham discussed neighborhood impacts and encouraged the licensee to prevent loitering.
What the record shows
During the hearing, Commissioner Fisher explicitly said the business was “right next door to apartment houses and buildings” and moved to limit late-night operations. The applicant agreed to the revised hour. The commission voted to approve the license with the midnight closing time. The record shows the commission emphasized neighbor consideration and told the applicant to “be conscious of your neighbors.”
Next steps
The license is effective upon posting and completion of any required inspections. The applicant must follow any conditions set by inspectional services and the commission’s directions about loitering and noise control.
Source: Worcester License Commission meeting transcript, July 10, 2025.
