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Wilma & Basil’s gets conditional Class B license; council limits entertainment to inside only
Summary
After a public hearing, the Warren Town Council approved a Class B beverage license and an inside‑only entertainment license for Wilma & Basil’s Counter at 8 Turner Street, subject to police, fire and zoning clearances and other state/local approvals.
A public hearing and license review for a proposed deli and evening lounge called Wilma & Basil’s Counter at 8 Turner Street concluded with the Town Council voting to approve a Class B beverage license and an entertainment license limited to indoor performances.
Applicant Aliyah Johnson, joined by business partner Debbie Gaudette, described a daytime deli counter and a small, speakeasy‑style evening “Basils backroom” that would serve small plates, local and imported beers and crafted cocktails Thursday through Sunday. Johnson said alcohol would be served only to patrons inside the backroom and never during daytime service to deli customers.
Neighbors and nearby business owners spoke during the public hearing. Matthew King, a resident on Charles Street, said he was comfortable with alcohol service if it was strictly contained inside the building and said he would oppose outdoor entertainment. Jim Coore, who lives on Market Street, said he supported the application and praised the applicants’ previous work at Del’s Depot.
Council action and conditions: The council approved the Class B beverage license and the entertainment license by voice vote, and specifically directed the clerk not to issue final licenses until the police chief, fire chief and zoning board had cleared the applications. Councilor(s) also amended/recorded the entertainment approval to be “inside only.” Public testimony and council discussion emphasized hours, noise, occupancy and that any outdoor service would require additional zoning relief and separate council or licensing action.
Why it matters: 8 Turner Street is adjacent to the East Bay bike path and downtown businesses; the town’s decision sets immediate conditions (inside‑only entertainment; required departmental sign‑offs) intended to limit noise and outdoor alcohol service while allowing the business to open pending inspections and permits.
Ending: The council welcomed the applicants, approved the licenses with the noted conditions and instructed the clerk to withhold issuance until all local and state requirements are satisfied.
