I am writing to thank the Vineyard Gazette and Elizabeth Durkee for her courageous Gazette commentary of Oct. 23, “Climate Change is The Sum of Many Parts.” For many years now Ms. Durkee’s work here on our Island has prompted her to search out the truth about global warming and what it may bring to our home in the near future. In that context she has long focused on the Martha’s Vineyard Commission and its potential and responsibility to prioritize this reality. Now that the MVC is seeking fresh executive leadership, the hour has come for the agency to fully and publicly accept this challenge.

In her commentary, the longtime Oak Bluffs conservation agent states flatly that: “Climate change is the most critical issue facing the Island.” Looking at all the facts and what they indicate, no other issue fits that description — and looking at all the facets of this Island community and community members that are at risk, mentioned in her brief assessment of the challenge, Ms. Durkee’s suggestion that the MVC might “take the opportunity and the responsibility to lead” could be accepted now, starting with support for broad public input that contributes to a successful search process.

Chris Riger
West Tisbury