8/24/2020 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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5 Board of Selectmen Minutes August 24, 2020 Public Hearing: Adoption of a Local Regulation per G.L. c. 138, §23 and Board of Selectmen Policy#068, Alcoholic Beverages Licenses (Section III—Package Store All Alcohol), Banning the Sale of Alcohol Nips(50 mil) as a Condition of any New Renewed and/or Transferred License for Establishments Licensed Pursuant to G.L. c. 138 §15 Based on Considerations of Public Health, Welfare and Safety: (continued) Bryan Anderson, owner of Andy's Market for the past 37 years indicated he is an active member of the Mashpee community. Mr. Anderson voiced concern as he was unable to review the letters and emails sent by residents and local businesses regarding the proposed ban on the sale of alcohol nips. Mr. Anderson also owns two other convenience stores and is keenly aware of the littering problem and has been working diligently to solve this nuisance. Mr. Anderson was noted to have supported Representative Randy Hunt in his endeavors to add the alcohol nips to the bottle bill traveling to Boston on several occasions to speak on behalf of the proposed bill. Additional approaches include partnering with the Massachusetts Package Store Association, Industry Suppliers and Keep American Beautiful attempting to educate the public to recycle and to stop littering. Unfortunately, the pandemic has delayed the initiative until mid-October. As test markets begin, and the educational enforcements and actions are successful it is projected there will be full participation by the Upper Cape retailers. During this time, the Nip it in the Bin trash containers have been installed at all three of his stores as of last week. Mr. Anderson indicated that a lot of problems are solved by communication. It is somewhat shocking the Board of Selectmen would initiate the ban at such a busy time of year. There is chance a ban such as this would bankrupt many small businesses causing layoffs as well. Approximately 1-5% of the customers purchasing nips tend to cause the litter problem. Many other patrons are responsible and may want to try different flavors or a new recipe. Others may be forced to buy a larger bottle, and then there would then be glass on the side of the road. Enforcement for littering was also considered. In closing Mr. Anderson indicated it is important to educate the consumer, and provide a litter option. Mr. Anderson stated he does not want to lose a potential sale to another town. It was noted that all of the letters and emails providing comment on this matter are available for review on the Town's website. Sharon DiFranceso stated the ban is based on the consideration of public health, welfare and safety. In her opinion littering has to do with the environment. It was clarified the ban has to do with the environment as well as public health, welfare and safety. Ms. DiFranceso also echoed Mr. Anderson's concerns and stated that this is one heck of a time to be considering a ban as businesses are going through difficult times due to the pandemic.