To the Editor:
I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed Katama Meadows development. It’s clear that many Islanders share the view that this development is not the answer to any of our problems. This project would result in the deforestation of a 54-acre lot, destroying areas designated by the state as “priority habitat.” This development would also further strain the already fragile Edgartown Great Pond ecosystem through additional wastewater and fertilizer runoff.
Yes, we are experiencing a housing crisis, and I do believe that there are times when it’s worth sacrificing undeveloped land to provide affordable housing. However, with more than 40 percent of the Island permanently protected as open space, and roughly another 30 percent already developed, the Vineyard has a limited amount of land remaining to build on. We are also seeing signs that the Island is approaching its carrying capacity, including increased traffic and growing strain on our public systems.
All that said, we should do our best to ensure that new developments aren’t just more summer homes. New housing should serve the teachers, first responders, service workers, fishermen, tradesmen, and small business owners who keep the Island running year-round. Unfortunately, I do not believe that the Katama Meadows project will do any of that: 2.8 acres out of the 54 will be gifted to the town of Edgartown for potential future affordable housing. The developer himself is not building any affordable housing, making it difficult to see how this proposal meaningfully addresses the Island’s housing shortage.
Reflecting on my experience growing up on the Island relative to stories my parents tell of their childhood here, I am struck by how much of the Vineyard’s character has been preserved. I believe one reason we’ve stayed cool, while many other tourist destinations have not, can be attributed to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission. It’s a unique regional body that has done a good job at slowing the pace of change and taking the time to make sure any DRI goes forward in the island’s best interests. With that in mind, I hope the threat of litigation from the developer will not affect how the commission votes on this issue.
This is not the development the Island wants or needs. I support the MVC in voting no on the Katama Meadows proposal.
Silas Abrams
Chilmark
