With testimony wrapped, judge set to decide MVC trial

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Attorney Edward Dangel, representing Utah-based developers Douglas K. Anderson and Richard G. Matthews, during opening statements in the trial.

The trial between the Martha’s Vineyard Commission and Utah-based developers Douglas K. Anderson and Richard G. Matthews has come to a close, with the decision in Judge Paul Wilson’s hands. The MVC is being sued after denying a request to construct a 28-unit single-family, 14-unit below-market-rate townhouse subdivision on its 54-acre parcel off Meetinghouse Way in 2020, first proposed in 2019. The MVC ultimately determined that the proposal lacks a likeness to surrounding residences, in turn threatening Island character. 

Clerk of Courts George Davis told The Times that as of June 28, both sides wrapped up all oral arguments, now giving way to a period of time for both parties to submit post-trial briefs for review by Wilson. Davis said that the review process is estimated to take at least a month, and will be followed by Wilson’s review of the testimony and briefs to make a determination.