Petition and Testimony in OPPOSITION to “Willows Tavern” Application

We, the undersigned residents of Salem, Massachusetts and other stakeholders of Salem Willows, strongly OPPOSE the license application for a seasonal (April 1 – January 15) all-alcohol and entertainment license filed by M&M Restaurants LLC dba “Willows Tavern” for premises located at 197 Fort Avenue. This petition is offered as additional written testimony*. The Licensing Board should deny this application due to harm to the public good, including the following:

• The character of the geographical area is inconsistent with this type of establishment. The Willows Park and beaches are a much-beloved and well-used open space for family-friendly activities.

• The size of the proposed bar is 179 person capacity.

• The application is vague regarding the nature and hours of the “entertainment.”

• Additional Noise, Inadequate Parking, Increased Traffic, including impaired drivers,Increased Trash

• The proposed bar will be adjacent to residents’ bedrooms and backyards, in some cases far less than 100 feet away.

• The proposed bar will impermissibly interfere with residents’ right to quiet enjoyment in their homes. Permitted public events at the Park are sporadic, vetted, controlled, subject to an open process, and end by 8 or 9 pm.

• It is premature to consider this proposal at this location while the City is reviewing the emergency access on Island Avenue. In January 2024, we had extreme flooding where the entire Willows neighborhood was cut off from the rest of the City including essential services. The emergency access abuts 197 Fort Ave.