News Summary
Governor Wes Moore has initiated major changes to the Baltimore Board of Liquor License Commissioners by removing three members, including chair Albert Matricciani Jr. Donald L. Chambers Jr. has been appointed to the board, and Granville Templeton III serves as the new chairman. These actions follow a recent law giving the governor power over board appointments. While some experts believe this won’t change board functionality significantly, there are concerns about its future direction and community engagement.
Baltimore—Governor Wes Moore has implemented significant changes to the Baltimore Board of Liquor License Commissioners by removing three of its four members, including longtime chair Albert Matricciani Jr. The governor has appointed Donald L. Chambers Jr. to the board and named Granville Templeton III as its new chairman. These changes come after a recent update in state law that provides the governor with the authority to appoint and dismiss board members.
The reshuffling raises questions about the future operations of the liquor board, although local experts believe that the changes may not drastically alter how the board functions. Historically, the board’s primary responsibility is to approve licenses for businesses rather than create laws. It maintains the ability to fine, suspend, or revoke licenses of businesses that violate liquor regulations.
In recent years, the board has shifted its approach to community engagement by encouraging memorandums of understanding (MOUs) between neighborhood associations and local businesses to address concerns that arise regarding the licensing process. Currently, the board is composed of three commissioners and one alternate member, and it is actively seeking to fill two vacant seats.
Chambers, one of the new appointees, brings over 20 years of experience in the federal government, while Templeton was appointed to the board back in July 2023. Community members interested in voicing their opinions can attend biweekly public hearings where they can express support or opposition toward businesses requesting liquor licenses.
A 2013 audit of the liquor board uncovered several enforcement gaps and operational inefficiencies, prompting reforms under Matricciani’s leadership. The board’s community liaison, Achhammer, has confirmed that the agency has made considerable improvements in its operations since the audit, although some residents remain skeptical. Community members have voiced concerns that the board has historically favored the interests of businesses over those of Baltimore residents.
The governor’s office is now aiming to address conflicts between community expectations and business operations concerning liquor regulations. Matricciani, having served nearly a decade on the board, was assured in the positive changes implemented during his tenure.
The liquor board is known to be a contentious sector within Maryland politics, with public opinion showing a clear divide over alcohol sales policies. Polling data indicates that there is a broad public support for legislation allowing beer and wine sales in grocery stores, yet political resistance to change persists. In addition to Baltimore, the state of Maryland appoints liquor board members in various counties, while several jurisdictions allow local officials to make these selections.
This recent reshuffle on Baltimore’s liquor board may signify a shift towards a more community-focused approach in navigating the complexities of liquor licensing. As the board continues to evolve, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the new appointments impact the licensing process and community relations moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Baltimore
- Wikipedia: Liquor License
- The Banner
- Google Search: Baltimore Liquor Board
- Baltimore Sun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alcohol
- WBAL
- Google News: Baltimore liquor regulations
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
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