More from the local Everett paper about the controversial granting of a liquor license to a youth hostel owned by Representative Stat Smith, the Backpakers Pub on School Street.
The state Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission has been asked to hold a hearing by residents who have signed a petition asking the ABCC not to grant the liquor license approved recently by the Everett Licensing Board. State law provides that the local licensing board approves the license application, then the ABCC must approve it as well. Typically, the ABCC will respect the local municipality’s vote.
Residents say they did not want alcohol to affect the neighborhood negatively. The Backpackers Pub is close to three elementary schools – the Whittier, Adams and St. Anthony’s.
More than 150 area residents have signed a petition opposing the pub.
ABCC protocol allows for hearings when requested by residents of a neighborhood opposed to the granting of a license.