Join the Somerville Licensing Commission

The City of Somerville is seeking one new alternate member to join the Somerville Licensing Commission. 

What is the Somerville Licensing Commission? 

The Licensing Commission reviews and issues a range of licenses in Somerville. These include licenses to operate restaurants (both with and without alcohol service), liquor stores, private clubs, hotels, entertainment venues, and more. It also includes one-day special alcohol licenses, recreational marijuana retail licenses, and public and private outdoor dining licenses. In addition, the Licensing Commission develops license rules and regulations and addresses complaints regarding these licenses.  

For more information on the responsibilities of the Somerville Licensing Commission, visit: somervillema.gov/departments/licensing-commission. 

What is an Alternate Member?   

The Licensing Commission Alternate Member attends all meetings but is not a regular voting member. However, when a regular member is absent, or for any reason cannot vote on a license, the Alternate Member can be designated to vote on a license.    

Who Can Join? 

This vacancy is available for any Somerville resident who is over the age of 18 and has lived in Somerville for at least the last two years. Applicants cannot be involved, directly or indirectly, in the manufacture or sale of alcohol or cannabis products. 

What is the Time Commitment? 

The Licensing Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. There is no meeting in the month of December.   

The term of this appointment expires on May 31, 2027. 

Is this a paid position? 

The Somerville Licensing Commission Alternate Member will receive a monthly stipend of $159.00 to cover expenses related to meeting attendance. 

How Do I Apply? 

Applications are due by the end of the day (4:30 p.m.) on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. If you have questions, contact licensing@somervillema.gov. 

Where to Apply: 

Applications can be sent via email or U.S. Mail, or brought in-person to: 

• Email: licensing@somervillema.gov.
• Mail: City Clerk, City of Somerville, 93 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA 02143. Mail well in advance!
• In-Person: City Clerk Counter, Somerville City Hall, 1^st Floor, 93 Highland Avenue. 

For questions or more information, contact licensing@somervillema.gov. 

The City of Somerville does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected category. Auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures will be provided to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities free of charge, upon request.  

Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures in order to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should please contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or apomeroy@somervillema.gov.