Selectmen Approve Arlington's First Liquor License Transfer

 will soon become a new full-alcohol liquor store at 94 Summer St., after the of Monday approved Arlington's first ever liquor license transfer.

Arlington resident Alexander Kushnirsky, who owns a liquor store in Medford and one in Somerville, is the new owner of the store. The selectmen approved the liquor license transfer unanimously. Selectman Diane Mahon was absent from the meeting.

"I look forward to this location and I think it’s going to be a very successful venture," Kushnirsky said.

Board of Selectmen Chair Clarissa Rowe reminded Kushnirsky of the responsibility that comes with owning the liquor store closest to .

"One of the things that you need to be very careful is to make sure all of your employees are trained on TIPS," said Rowe, referencing a certification program for responsible alcohol-selling procedures.

Kushnirsky said his employees are trained on several methods of detecting fake identification, and follow strict procedures when carding patrons.

Selectman Dan Dunn reminded Kushnirsky that Arlington was a dry town not long ago, and that liquor stores are still a "bit of an experiment in town."

"Frankly, I like being able to drink my beer," Dunn told Kushnirsky. “Don’t screw up our experiment, please.”