Our Business Is In Peril If Article 59 Does Not Pass

To the editor: My husband Mark and I have put our hearts and soul into creating Nantucket Catering Company and operating a successful business on Nantucket during the past 24 years, employing more than 50 people during the summer season. We are proud of our accomplishment, but now fear our business is in peril at the hands of a shortsighted crusade to deprive island homeowners of their property rights.

That’s why we urge our island friends, neighbors and business associates to vote YES on Article 59 at Nantucket Town Meeting on May 7.

Short-term rentals are a major economic catalyst for Nantucket’s small businesses community, and we must ensure they remain a vital source of visitor lodging.

For instance, Nantucket destination weddings are a significant part of our business – and many others on the island, from florists to photography to entertainment. Imagine if island wedding plans were abandoned because guests had nowhere to stay due to lack of hotel rooms available? The domino effect would be swift and catastrophic – businesses would close (or significantly downsize), jobs would be lost and our tourism industry would be left in shambles.

A de facto ban on short-term rentals would be devastating to Nantucket’s economy and workforce. Please don’t let this happen – vote YES on Article 59.

Eithne Yelle