The Worcester City Council might ask the board of public health to reconsider restrictions on opening new tobacco retailers.
The council on Tuesday night will review a resolution recommending and encouraging the board to change a rule prohibiting the establishment of new tobacco retailers within 500 feet of other stores that sell tobacco.
The resolution seeks to promote economic development and support women- and minority-owned businesses in Worcester’s downtown.
The board of public health approved the 500-foot restriction in 2023 to prevent underage smoking and to prohibit businesses from selling tobacco in clusters, according to the Telegram & Gazette. Only the board can change the rule, making the council resolution a recommendation.
Councilor-at-Large Gary Rosen, a former member of the board, wrote the resolution for Tuesday night’s council meeting.
In August 2025, Rosen and Board Member Michael Perotto voted to exempt Noamesco Bar & Lounge from the 500-foot restriction so it could operate as a smoking bar, the Telegram & Gazette reported.
Rosen told the board at its August Meeting that it should protect the health and safety of Worcester residents but it should also protect, promote and save businesses.
A majority of the board ultimately voted against the exemption in a 3-2 vote.
“We’re hurting and harming a business in Worcester,” Rosen told the board. “I don’t approve and I can’t be a part of that.”
