The Future of Nantucket’s Government: Questions for Consideration

To the editor: I want to thank the Nantucket Civic League for hosting the recent forum with the Town Council Study Committee. It was a welcome opportunity for our community to start an important conversation about the proposed shift to a town council form of government.

As we move toward a decision, we must ask ourselves critical questions that will shape our island’s future:

• Do we truly understand what a town council government is?
• How do we feel about having our voices represented by nine elected council members, instead of us voting directly on local issues?
• Do we know the process if we disagree with a decision made by the town council?
• Do we know what issues can’t even be challenged or disputed?
• What price are we willing to pay for "efficiency" in government?
• How will zoning issues be handled under this new system?
• Will this shift lead to greater engagement or disengagement? Town council meetings will occur more frequently, requiring more commitment to stay informed. In contrast, open town meeting allows us months to prepare and vote directly. What will this change mean for us as citizens?

These are critical questions we must reflect on carefully and thoughtfully before making any decisions. The impacts will be long-lasting, so we must carefully consider the consequences.

I encourage everyone to engage in this discussion and think about how this change will affect our participation in local decisions and the future of our democratic values.

Thanks again to the Nantucket Civic League for facilitating this conversation. Let’s continue asking the tough questions and approach this decision with the seriousness it truly deserves.

“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” – Albert Einstein

Stay Curious and be informed,

Lucy Hehir