Tipping Point Urges Protection of Preservation Act

This letter was originally sent to  Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, and Representative Bill Keating. 

To the editor: Nantucket Tipping Point (NTP), established in 2018, works to protect the island’s health, safety, welfare, and environment. Our mission is to educate and encourage residents, visitors, Town officials, and leadership to support responsible development that protects Nantucket’s finite resources, infrastructure, natural environment, and National Historic Landmark designation for the long term.

In keeping with that mission, we ask you to oppose or remove provisions of S. 5653 that would weaken Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

Nantucket’s historic significance extends beyond individual buildings to its landscapes, waterfront, archaeological resources, and overall setting. Federal decisions affecting these resources should include careful consideration of relevant direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, together with meaningful consultation with local governments, Tribal Nations, and the public.

We support improvements that make permitting more efficient while preserving thorough review, meaningful public participation, and effective court remedies when agencies fail to meet their obligations. These safeguards help ensure that development decisions account for their long-term consequences.

Please protect Section 106 and the community’s opportunity to help safeguard Nantucket’s irreplaceable historic resources.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Will Willauer - President
Nantucket Tipping Point

(Tipping point is also sharing contact information for residents to send their comments to the island's elected representatives. The deadline is Monday, Nov. 9, 2026)