Council approves Gatsby Golf all-alcohol license, contingent on planning-board special permit

The East Longmeadow Town Council on Sept. 8 approved an all-alcohol retail restaurant liquor license for Gatsby Golf Company LLC, doing business as Gatsby Golf, at 45 Baldwin Street, contingent on the planning board’s approval of a required special permit. The council also approved a common victualler (food-service) license for the business.

Applicant Joe Tremblay described the planned food operation and staffing during a continuation of the public hearing. "It's a little under 200 square feet, fully electric...roughly $60,000 worth of fixtures," Tremblay said, and said the kitchen would be open whenever the business is open. Councilors asked whether Tremblay would be on site daily; he replied he plans to be on premise and will appoint shift managers and certified staff for daily operations.

Members who spoke in favor said the concept would add an entertainment venue to town. After closing the public hearing, Councilor (S7) moved to approve the liquor license; a roll-call vote was taken and the motion passed. Council subsequently amended the motion to make approval contingent on the planning board issuing the special permit; the amendment was moved and seconded and passed by voice vote before the amended motion carried.

Tremblay also received a common victualler license to operate the proposed kitchen and thanked the board. The Council and applicant noted final building and health-inspection approvals and any planning-board conditions would be addressed during the special-permit review.