Lynn pub on notice over violations

The Daily ItemLYNN – Local pub Raffi?s Place at 408 Summer St. is under fire with the Lynn Licensing Board for receiving four violations in two months.On Tuesday, Raffi?s representatives will come before the board to discuss the violations, which occurred on Feb. 1, 8, and 9 and March 31.The first three violations were issued for operating without a proper occupancy permit, and the fourth was for overcrowding at the pub.Licensing Board Chairman Richard Coppinger said management of Raffi?s Place denied receiving notification for the first hearing, so this time Coppinger said he hand-delivered it.?If the pub is found to be in violation, we will take into consideration any prior violations,” he said. “The standard suspension calls for seven days for the first infraction, 14 days for the second infraction, and 21 days for the third infraction. So there is progressive discipline.”The pub experienced a fire on June 28, 2007 that destroyed the entire structure.Prior to the completion of post-fire renovations, Inspectional Services Department (ISD) Chief Building Inspector Roger Ennis issued a 60-day temporary occupancy permit of 115 people on Feb. 16 that just expired on April 19.Roughly one month after the occupancy was initially granted, Coppinger said the Lynn police special investigations unit (SIU) found 150 people crammed into the pub on March 31.A renewal inspection is scheduled to take place this week with a projected occupancy of 158 people for the new structure.Richard Conigliaro is also scheduled to come before the board Tuesday to discuss his plan to create a sports-themed restaurant and function hall at 31 Stetson St. in memory of his brother, Red Sox legend Tony Conigliaro.Coppinger said the board plans to revoke Conigliaro?s liquor license unless he can present concrete plans and an official opening date.Last year, the City Council approved Conigliaro?s plan, after he said financing was not an issue.City Councilors later questioned Conigliaro?s apparent lack of funds, while Conigliaro claimed he was promised a loan from the Economic Development & Industrial Corporation (EDIC).EDIC director James Cowdell denied that a conversation about a loan took place.The project has since been at a standstill.