Still Rural, Mullen Way Sparks Heartfelt Debate Over Old Neighborhoods
By IAN FEIN
Saying that the changing character of historic middle-class neighborhoods is a concern better addressed Islandwide, the Martha's Vineyard Commission last week opted against creating special zoning regulations for Mullen Way, a narrow tree-lined side street in Edgartown.
Aquinnah Selectmen Will Seek Bylaw to Regulate Energy Use
By IAN FEIN
With the energy demands of large homes a growing concern across the Island, Aquinnah selectmen this week unanimously endorsed a regulation that would require new homes over a certain size to include renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines.
"This is an important measure," selectman James Newman said at the regular board meeting on Tuesday, after proposing the energy requirement. "And I think that this community should be a leader on the issue."
Roughly three decades ago a country lawyer from Maine unearthed a forgotten 18th-century federal law and sparked a series of large Indian land claims that led to federal recognition for a number of tribes throughout the Northeast, including the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah).
While town and school officials up-Island continue their years-long debate over the fairness of their regional school district, the Massachusetts d
Hospital Plan Peppered with Questions
By IAN FEIN
Neighbors last week aired concerns about plans for the new $42 million Martha's Vineyard Community Hospital, while other Island residents asked pointed questions about the wisdom of rebuilding such a critical facility on the vulnerable 13-acre property off Beach Road in the Eastville section of Oak Bluffs.
The comments came during a public information session hosted by the Martha's Vineyard Commission last Thursday at the Tisbury senior center.
Town, Tribe Agreement Stalls at Special Meeting; Future Remains in Doubt
By IAN FEIN
A land use agreement negotiated by town and tribal leaders this spring is now in a state of limbo, after Aquinnah voters at a special town meeting on Tuesday decided to put the untested venture on hold.