Nantucket Select Board Approves 55 Liquor License Renewals, New Cafe 22 License at December 2025 Meeting
The Nantucket Select Board convened on December 8, 2025, for a comprehensive licensing and petitions meeting that addressed business renewals, liquor licenses, telecommunications infrastructure, and utility improvements across the island. The 48-minute session covered eight major agenda items affecting local businesses and island infrastructure.
Business License Renewals and Unused Rental Car Medallions
The meeting opened with a review of business license renewals across multiple categories, including vehicular, food, entertainment, and mobile vendor licenses. ▶ Watch Board members identified a significant issue with over 100 rental car medallions currently held by Hertz that remain unused on the island.
"We'd like to address that and possibly do so at the January or February licensing meeting," noted a board member during the discussion. The board unanimously approved all license renewals pending completion of required inspections and fee payments, while flagging the unused medallion issue for future consideration.
This matter raises important questions about resource allocation and whether these medallions should be made available to other operators who could actively utilize them during Nantucket's busy tourist season.
55 Annual Liquor License Renewals Approved
The board conducted an extensive review of 55 annual liquor license renewals, representing a substantial portion of Nantucket's hospitality industry. ▶ Watch The renewal process proceeded smoothly for most establishments, though two licenses will not be renewed: UN Ultro LLC and Sushi Shawn 1111 LLC.
Several licenses came with specific conditions attached to their renewals. Notably, Backyard Barbecue received approval with the requirement that they "must file a change of manager by next licensing meeting," according to board discussion. These conditional approvals ensure that establishments maintain proper management structures and comply with local regulations.
The board's unanimous approval of these renewals provides stability for Nantucket's restaurant and hospitality sector as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Seasonal Population Estimate Maintained at 45,000
In a decision with implications for infrastructure planning and resource allocation, the Select Board voted to maintain Nantucket's seasonal population estimate at 45,000 residents. ▶ Watch This figure, which is based on cell phone usage data and state statistics, serves as a critical planning metric for emergency services, utilities, and public facilities.
"At certain weekends, it certainly feels like a lot more," observed one board member, acknowledging the challenge of accurately capturing peak visitation periods. Board member Malcolm McNabb recommended a measured approach: "I think we should hold for this year and try to gather better data for next year."
The board unanimously approved keeping the estimate unchanged while committing to conducting a more comprehensive population study for future planning purposes. This decision reflects the difficulty of measuring seasonal fluctuations on an island that experiences dramatic population swings between winter and summer months.
New Liquor License Approved for Cafe 22 on Federal Street
One of the meeting's most significant business items was the application for a new liquor license by 700 by 800 LLC, operating as Cafe 22 at 22 Federal Street. ▶ Watch Applicant Jonas Baker presented plans to serve alcohol on the upper two floors and patio of the historic downtown location, previously home to Corner Table restaurant.
Baker emphasized his vision for a casual, approachable establishment: "I have no intention of running a full scale bar. It's more like limited, you know, table service." He explained his goal of creating a "casual, relaxed atmosphere" focused on afternoon and evening service with a limited menu.
The Select Board unanimously approved the liquor license application with one important condition: service on the patio requires Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) review and approval. Additionally, the board specified that no entertainment or music would be permitted on the outdoor patio area, addressing potential concerns about noise in the downtown neighborhood.
This approval brings new life to a prominent Federal Street location and adds to Nantucket's downtown dining scene.
Entertainment License Granted for Cafe 22
Immediately following the liquor license approval, the board considered an entertainment license application for the same establishment. ▶ Watch The entertainment license permits "acoustic instrumental vocal type of music, indoor entertainment only with no outdoor music permitted."
This carefully crafted approval allows Cafe 22 to enhance its atmosphere with live music while respecting the residential character of the surrounding neighborhood. The restriction to indoor entertainment only ensures that downtown residents won't be disturbed by amplified outdoor performances.
The board unanimously approved the entertainment license, completing the regulatory framework for Cafe 22's planned operations.
Verizon Wireless Expands Small Cell Network Coverage
Addressing ongoing telecommunications infrastructure needs, the Select Board reviewed six small cell attachment petitions from Verizon Wireless. ▶ Watch These installations are part of a broader effort to improve cellular coverage across Nantucket.
"These petitions are part of an ongoing effort with Verizon Wireless to improve coverage in the island and Nantucket," explained a presenter. The small cell attachments will be mounted on existing utility poles and require no ground equipment, minimizing their visual and physical impact on the island landscape.
The board unanimously approved all six Verizon small cell attachment petitions, supporting improved connectivity for residents and visitors. Enhanced cellular coverage is increasingly critical for public safety, business operations, and quality of life on the island.
National Grid Infrastructure Improvements Across Multiple Locations
The board reviewed several petitions from National Grid for pole relocations and underground service installations at various island locations. ▶ Watch The projects affect Pleasant Street, Pulpus Road, Step Lane, and other areas requiring utility infrastructure improvements.
Most petitions had already received pre-approval from relevant town departments, streamlining the review process. One presenter noted the importance of timing: "We wanted to get this work done earlier than the petition allowed, just so we wouldn't have to cut open brand new paved road."
This proactive approach demonstrates coordination between National Grid and town officials to minimize disruption to recently completed road improvements. The board unanimously approved all National Grid petitions, allowing essential utility work to proceed on schedule.
Meeting Conclusion and Administrative Matters
As the meeting drew to a close, board members addressed administrative matters and prepared for upcoming sessions. ▶ Watch Staff indicated that documents requiring signatures would be ready for the Wednesday night meeting, ensuring continuity of board business.
The board voted unanimously to adjourn, concluding a productive session that addressed both immediate licensing needs and long-term infrastructure planning for Nantucket.
Impact on Nantucket's Business and Infrastructure Landscape
This December 8, 2025, Select Board meeting demonstrates the breadth of regulatory oversight required to maintain Nantucket's unique character while supporting business development and infrastructure modernization. From liquor license renewals that sustain the island's hospitality industry to telecommunications improvements that enhance connectivity, the board's decisions affect daily life for residents and visitors alike.
The approval of Cafe 22's licenses brings renewed activity to a prime Federal Street location, while the maintenance of the seasonal population estimate at 45,000 provides continuity for planning purposes. Infrastructure improvements from both Verizon Wireless and National Grid position Nantucket for improved service reliability.
The identification of unused rental car medallions signals potential policy adjustments in early 2026, which could affect transportation options during peak season.
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