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Committee endorses James “Jimmy D” for city Licensing Board; nominees asked to pledge independent decision‑making
Summary
The Committee on Appointments and Briefings voted to forward the mayor’s nomination of James Patrick D. (Jimmy D) to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. Councilors pressed the nominee on independence and community enforcement practices for licensed establishments.
The Committee on Appointments and Briefings on March 18 voted to report James Patrick D. — who introduced himself as “Jimmy D” — to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation for appointment to the Licensing Board.
James Patrick D. gave a brief biography to the committee, describing a longtime New Bedford residency and a 30‑year career with the New England Patriots’ video department. “I was there for 30 years and you don’t stay in the NFL for 30 years,” he said, citing experience supervising staff and working under high pressure.
Councilors focused on two themes: whether he would make independent decisions if asked by political leaders to vote a certain way, and whether he would do periodic compliance checks at local establishments.
Councilor Abreu asked whether Jimmy D. would be a “free thinker” and not vote based on direction from others. Jimmy D. replied, “I’m gonna do what goes with my heart … I’m gonna do my own research and make my own decision.” He added that his experience in the Patriots organization taught him to tell leaders the truth rather than simply what they want to hear.
Councilor Gomes asked whether the commission would periodically visit local liquor establishments to check compliance; Jimmy D. said he would be willing to participate in occasional inspections, including Friday and Saturday evening checks, to help keep establishments and patrons safe.
Committee members voted to refer the mayor’s nomination to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The item will appear on the City Council agenda for March 27, when the nominee may be sworn in if confirmed.
