Support The Compromise Short-Term Rental Proposal

To the editor: The proposed compromise on short-term rentals is an encouraging step forward for Nantucket. For far too long, the issue has divided our community, pitting neighbors against neighbors and leaving uncertainty for homeowners, businesses, and visitors alike. This agreement offers a path forward that balances competing interests and helps us move beyond stalemate. Credit to Dave Iverson, and others, for advancing an option other than the two extremes presented in the past.

The compromise recognizes that short-term rentals are an important part of our island’s economy, supporting homeowners, local shops, and both seasonal and year-round jobs. At the same time, it takes seriously the need to protect neighborhood character and ensure that Nantucket remains a strong year-round community.

Equally important, the compromise provides much-needed clarity. Clear, consistent rules will reduce conflict, offer predictability for property owners, and create a more stable framework for the future. Most of all, it gives the voters the opportunity to demonstrate that even on this most contentious issue, Nantucketers can come together, listen, and find common ground. If the proposal indeed “lies on a razor’s edge” I would suggest that it meets the definition of a perfect compromise; everyone will be a little unhappy.

It is my sincere hope that the various stakeholders and committees, our elected leaders, and finally the voters will come together and get this desperately needed legislation over the finish line.

Bruce D. Miller