The following was sent to the Edgartown selectmen:

As your appointed representative to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission, it is my duty to respond to the statements made by Mr. Smadbeck as reported by the Vineyard Gazette on Friday, June 5. My experience with the commission over the last eight and a half years has given me a perspective that I feel is important to share with you now.

Editor’s note: What follows is a paper read at the leadoff session to the Living Local Harvest Festival on Sept. 26. It responds to the question: From your point of view, what do we need to think about and do to ensure that your grandchildren can live well on the Vineyard?