Board Approves New License For Portuguese Club
Lawrence Licensing Board approves a new liquor license for the Portuguese American Club while warning it over illegal gambling machines.
Other Committee · Meeting of January 7, 2026
Lawrence Licensing Board approves a new liquor license for the Portuguese American Club while warning it over illegal gambling machines. Commissioners voted 2-0 to grant the 93-year-old club a new club license, required after it missed its Nov. 30 renewal deadline for the second straight year, contingent on Vice President Victor's team correcting the application before it reaches the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission. One commissioner said he had warned the club in both 2024 and 2025 to remove keno and other machines, telling members, "I wasn't born yesterday," about their claim the devices were for "entertainment." The closed club has canceled weddings and quinceañeras until the license clears.
In separate votes, the board approved a common victualer license for Taino's Fried Chicken and Cafe at 89 Newberry Street and two Parker Street lodging house licenses contingent on fire inspection, and continued used-car dealer Roger Farah's contested renewal to Jan. 21 over a disputed environmental report.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 1,061 words
Source: the Other Committee meeting of January 7, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
Members read the rest of this story and every Lawrence meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this story
Know someone in Lawrence who follows town government? Share Townbrief Lawrence: they can sign up free.