To the Editor:
I read in the Vineyard Gazette that over the past 10 years, the county has received over $2 million from the sales of the Cape and Island license plates. The county spent $87,000 just to market the plate, but the remainder was supposed to be used to promote tourism and economic development.
We now have our own Island plate. The initials MV, our beloved Islander, and the seagull which brings back memories for me of the campaign to secede from the state a few years ago are featured on the plate. The cost of the plate is $40, which is tax deductible.
But more important, Why buy this plate? One hundred percent of the revenue goes to support Martha’s Vineyard Community Services, a nonprofit organization that provides service to newborns through our senior population here on the Island. There is a youth program, mental health counseling, and substance abuse programs. Fundraising primarily supports their budget.
Once we reach 3,000 plates, which won’t be long, the Island plate will continue to be available at the Registry of Motor Vehicles. In addition, 20 percent of funds raised will be distributed to other nonprofits.
Drive with pride, knowing the revenue will benefit all of us here on the Vineyard.
Mary Ellen Larsen
Tisbury