Why Didn't The Town Object To the State Decision On Surfside Crossing?

To the editor: Why has the Town of Nantucket declined to object to the proposed HAC decision? This raises serious concerns as to whether the Select Board intends, once again, to undermine the ZBA’s unanimous denial of the project. All other parties objected to the proposed decision….including the developers.

It is reasonable to question whether the Select Board has engaged in, or is currently pursuing, another “Options Agreement” with the developers. The last “Option Agreement” had the developer getting $89 million from the Town via taxpayer funds. Further, it must be asked whether any such agreement contemplates the use of public funds, thereby obligating taxpayers to finance terms similar to those contained in prior arrangements.

Given the Town’s prior experience, it is imperative that the Select Board act in a manner consistent with the ZBA’s authority and its unequivocal decision to deny the project. Any action to circumvent or diminish that determination would warrant close scrutiny and raise significant legal and governance concerns.

Meghan Perry