Following a significant criminal sweep of Bellingham Square conducted jointly by Chelsea and State Police that resulted in 48 arrests within a single week, the Chelsea Licensing Board has reached an agreement with Heller’s Liquors, a establishment that has faced ongoing problems in the area. This accord may contribute meaningfully to improving conditions throughout the city’s center.
The agreement contains multiple requirements, with one particularly significant provision being Heller’s voluntary commitment to discontinue selling nips. These small bottles of liquor, roughly equivalent to a single shot, are inexpensive and have become the preferred choice among individuals who frequently gather in the Square and openly consume alcohol in public.
By eliminating nips from Heller’s inventory, the area will have virtually no nearby source for such items.
The store also accepted a one-week suspension commencing Sept. 1st as part of the arrangement.
The use of their back entrance represented a contentious issue, though the Commission permitted its continued use. The Commissioners, however, delivered a firm warning that the establishment must maintain strict oversight of this door, with no additional violations to be permitted at either entrance.
According to an e-mail from Jim Dwyer regarding the agreement, “Any future violations will be dealt with very harshly.”
City Manager Jay Ash characterized the action as a positive movement toward transforming Bellingham Square’s atmosphere and clientele. “As we continue to take steps to clean-up activiities in Bellingham Square, the Licensing Commission action represents another victory,” Ash stated. “We’re winning many battles, but the ultimate victory is still many more initiatives away. However, I’m confident that efforts like that made by the Licensing Commission will lead us to eliminating the negatives that have held back the reputation of Bellingham Square.”