Discussion by the Board:
MGL 138 S. 12D discussion and possible vote and recommendation to City Council:
The law was passed earlier this year allowing holders of a beer and wine license to trade in their license to convert it to an all alcohol license. The applicant will need to be
approved through the local board as well as the ABCC. Once converted this license it is
non-transferrable and cannot be sold as an All Alcoholic Beverage license.
Boston has recently accepted the law. As of tonight their Licensing Board is holding a
public hearing to consider what rules and regulations they want to adopt to establish a
local process for people to trade in their license.
City Council will need to approve of the statute in order for it to be in effect in the City of
Gloucester. .
Ms. Egan suggests that the board takes a vote and refer to the Mayor to include in the
Mayor’s report and then to City Council for approval. Once approved the Board can
develop the rules and regulations for the statute.
A public hearing would be required if someone were to apply for the transfer of the
license.
If the statute is approved and new rules and regulations are being adopted then you
would hold a public hearing for the rules you are adopting, then amend the rules.
Once a business closes down the license converts back to a wine and malt license and
the business will need to re-apply using the approval process again.
Ms. Prince moves to refer to City Council to adopt MGL 138 section 12D.Ms. Egan is going to send an email with a draft memo for the Mayor’s report.
Mr. Costa seconds
All in favor, 3-0
CITY OF GLOUCESTER
LICENSING BOARD MEETING
HARBOR MASTERS OFFICE
19 HARBOR LOOP #2
GLOUCESTER MA 01930
Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2025
Good Morning Gloucester 