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Woburn commission approves Lord Hobo one‑day event but warns over unpaid city bills
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Summary
The commission granted a one‑day license to Lord Hobo Brewing for a firefighter benefit but publicly criticized the brewery’s outstanding Woburn tax, water and sewer balances and set a monitoring schedule and a Nov. 14 update; the applicant said merger‑related cash‑flow delays explain the arrears.
The Woburn License Commission approved a one‑day liquor license for Lord Hobo Brewing’s planned beer release and fundraiser but made clear the company must resolve overdue city accounts or face escalation, including hearings or suspension.
Chairman Tommy Skeffington and other commissioners pressed the brewery’s representatives about delinquent tax, water and sewer balances. Skeffington said the city expects timely payment and warned: "If you are up to date, starting November 1st, there will not be any one‑day [licenses]... Don't even bother sending your paperwork in because I'm telling you what the answer is gonna be from me beforehand." He added the commission will monitor the account monthly and could call a hearing or recommend suspension if the balance is not addressed.
Applicant Chris Welch described the event as a collaborative beer release called "Good Jake" that will donate 5% of proceeds to the Professional Firefighters Association and include family‑friendly activities. Welch said organizers had significant presales and expected a large turnout.
Jonathan Monnier, identified in the hearing as the brewery’s director of finance, acknowledged the outstanding balances and described merger‑related cash‑flow decisions that diverted operating cash to transaction fees. Monnier said shareholders have been working on a capital raise and that a merger announcement may be imminent. "We're hoping to announce this merger within the coming days," he said, adding that the merger should improve distribution and revenue.
Commissioners repeatedly emphasized the city’s need for consistent collections: Countywide rules mean residents cannot obtain building permits while in arrears, and Skeffington contrasted that standard with the brewery’s situation. Commissioner David Gilgun called the situation "ridiculous" and said it was unacceptable for a local business to be behind on municipal obligations.
Despite the council’s concerns, a motion to approve the one‑day license carried. The commission asked the brewery to provide an update before the next meeting (the clerk noted Nov. 14 as the next scheduled meeting) and said it would review progress monthly.
