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CITY OF MALDEN
MASSACHUSETTS
Liquor Licensing Board
Meeting Minutes
Date: June 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Members in Attendance:
- Kevin Molis- Chairman
- Denise Balboni-Cowie
- Andrew Zieberg
Also in Attendance:
- Gia Finocchiaro
- CPT. Marc Gatcomb
Also Present: Assistant City Solicitor Prasanna Rajasekaran
Meeting Called to Order: 6:00 PM
Called to Order By: Kevin Molis
Seconded By: Denise Balboni-Cowie
Approval of Minutes
From: May 19, 2026
Approved By: Denise Cowie
Seconded By: Andrew Zeiberg
The following were considered for approval:
- The Licensing Board discussed the new provision of: MASSACHUSETTS House Bill #5482 (section 1&2 of the legislation). The Board discussed in great length the positives and negative effects of Bill # 5482. Chairman Kevin Molis explained that the Malden Licensing Board is concerned for public safety, safety of our first responders and making sure there is tranquility of neighborhoods that surround licensed establishments. Chairman Molis explained that in summer months the Malden Police Department sees a rise in police activity and calls. Chairman Molis also explained that the Governor put this Bill into effect too quickly which did not allow the Malden Licensing Board to construct any plans or provisions for the bill. A concern brought up by board member Denise Baldoni-Cowie was that people would overpour from other neighboring Cities and Towns that may not have allowed the extended hours as well. Board member Andrew Zeiberg raised his concerns that allowing patrons to consume alcohol for another hour then drive away would cause him great concerns for safety on the road and our first responders and public.
The owner of the Island Restaurant ( Avlot Quessa & Marie-Chantal Quesa) located at 118 Ferry Street were present and spoke as to why they would like the 3am extension of their liquor license. They explained that it would help their business economically because their restaurant is not located in downtown Malden Center. A representee from KASA restaurant located at 637 Broadway spoke in favor of the extension and explained that "everyone loves soccer and it brings all cultures together".
Ward 8 Malden City Counciler Jadeane Sica was present and asked the board for clarification on the Bill. Councilor Sica thought the bill was only for nights where there were games. The Board explained that Bill #5482 is for every night until July 31st whether there is a game or not.
The Three (3) Board members voted not to accept Bill # 5482. Motion was made by Denise Baldoni-Cowie and Seconded by Andrew Zeiberg
0 Yeah 3 Nay
Meeting adjourned at:
Time: 6:20 PM
Motion By: Denise Baldoni-Cowie
Seconded By: Andrew Zeiberg
Minutes respectfully submitted by: Gia Finocchiaro – Liquor Licensing Clerk