Casa Benfica asks committee to approve special permit for former Central Lusso site in New Bedford

The Committee on Appointments and Briefing opened a public hearing Aug. 21 on an application by Jose Barbosa and Derek Mendez doing business as Casa Benfica No. 27, Inc., for a special permit to operate a club or lodge at 34 Beetle Street in New Bedford. Applicant Derek Mendez told the committee the group purchased the former Central Lusso building to expand the existing members' club at 1484 Cushion Avenue and described family-oriented events and a fenced parking area.

"We've never had any problems. We keep everything very structured, and, it's very family oriented," Derek Mendez said during his remarks, adding the club plans occasional Saturday-night rentals and will operate the building's kitchen, which has passed inspection. John Williams, speaking for the applicants, said the location "had a long standing club license," and indicated the applicants expect a license transfer to the new location.

Committee members asked about public rentals, event screening and building-code status; a representative from the building department confirmed there were no known outstanding code issues so long as the new use matches prior club use and the owners maintain required standards. After discussion, the committee voted to close the hearing and then approved a motion to forward a favorable recommendation to the full City Council. The committee chair said the matter will appear on the City Council agenda in September.