Editorial — Nantucket Should Invest in Nantucket

N a n t u c k et S h o u l d I n ve st i n N a n t u c k et

THE SUCCESS OF any business corporation is measured by the profitable return on its investments. Nantucket has had an economy based for the most part on its functioning as a summer resort, but the experience of recent years has shown its unique appeal attracts visitors during "out-of-season" months as well. However, private enterprise, rather than corporate Nantucket, has featured the investments.

It should be obvious to all who view the modern scene closely that the town has not kept pace with private business. A commission was established for planning, but its functions have been involved with the pattern of growth, and at a recent meeting much time was devoted to the use of land by developers. If there is one type of modern life that can serve as a detriment to the traditional "out of town" appearance of this island it is the housing development, as it destroys the ancient look of the land and this can never be re-claimed.

To preserve the natural charm of Nantucket's outlying land is to add immeasurably to the future of the island's economy. In years to come the visitor will seek us out in all seasons of the year if we protect our natural appearance, our uniqueness, our traditional appeal. These people do not come here because we have the latest type of motel, the most modern housing development, the plush restaurant or seaside health "club". Our greatest asset is that we represent a seaport town and an island that has retained its 18th and 19th century atmosphere. At present we are clinging desperately to this economic anchor, but the line has become badly frayed.

The Historic Districts legislation has furnished a legal protection for the town against architectural encroachments. Similar legislation should be sought to keep at bay the housing developers who, by building on the stretches of heath and shore front, destroy forever the natural sweep and beauty of our traditional "Commons."

If we await legislation by State or Federal government we must expect an arbitrary solution. If we purchase these sections of land by a vote of a special town meeting, and create true public land, we are making an investment which will have the greatest value for the future. The Nantucket Conservation Foundation has accomplished a remarkable feat in its acquisition of island land, but is a race against time. The Town of Nantucket should invest in itself, purchase what it can salvage, and preserve an asset which, once lost, is gone forever.