A public hearing opened this week before the Martha’s Vineyard Commission on an ambitious two-phase plan by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum to build a new $18.5 million campus at the site of the old marine hospital in Vineyard Haven.

The home ownership lottery system has made a significant dent in the housing problem on the Island by allowing at least some young families to put down roots.

Former Secretary of State John F. Kerry has bought an 18.5-acre waterfront property at Seven Gates Farm for $11.75 million.

The Noepe Center for Literary Arts in Edgartown will not reopen this spring because of the impending sale of the former Point Way Inn that has served as its headquarters for the past 10 years.

Converting existing market-rate properties to year-round affordable housing is on the table for discussion in at least one town as Island leaders regroup over draft housing plans.