License commission approves short-term, relocation and two new licenses; contingencies set for safety sign-offs

The Northampton License Commission on Oct. 15 unanimously approved three licensing actions and reviewed documents related to a prior license.

Commissioners Natasha Yakovlev (chair), Jennifer Ewers and Amy Cahillane voted to: approve a short-term liquor license for Pedigo Services Corporation (d/b/a Quonk) for a dance event on Oct. 18; approve the change of location and change of d/b/a for 41 Strong Avenue LLC (d/b/a Luna) from 41 Strong Ave to 300 Pleasant St., contingent on building, fire and health signoffs; and approve an annual wine-and-malt on-premises license plus a common victualer and entertainment license for Analog Output LLC (d/b/a Sound) at 185 Main Street, contingent on building and fire sign-off for an entertainment-response system.

The commission recorded the votes on the record: each motion was adopted with all three commissioners voting yes. The short-term liquor permit vote was moved and seconded by commissioners and passed by roll call. The Luna relocation and the Sound licenses were both approved with explicit contingency language that the license not be considered active for its new operation until the relevant municipal departments sign off on required building, fire and health items.

Separately, commissioners reviewed invoices and receipts that had been requested from the prior licensee of Bishop’s Lounge (41 Strong LLC) after concerns were raised about whether alcohol purchases had been made at retail stores. Staff reported receipts covering January through June; commissioners said the documents answered their outstanding questions and reiterated that purchases at other retail establishments would violate license requirements.

The commission concluded its business with approval of the Sep. 17 minutes and adjournment.