Fourteen candidates are running for nine seats on the Martha’s Vineyard Commission. The Gazette emailed questions to all the candidates asking them about their reasons for running, qualifications, and to speak to the unique mission of the 41-year-old regional planning agency.

Brian Smith
Town: Oak Bluffs
Occupation: Realtor

Reason for Running

The Vineyard is a special place for all of us both locally and for the visitors who come from all over the world to enjoy it. Part of what sets it apart is that unlike many areas, the Island was able to control overdevelopment with a very powerful tool, the MVC. The driving force for me to run is my four children. I would like to be a part of the process that will protect this wonderful place for them while also promoting sustainable growth so they may be able to afford to live here as adults.

Qualifications

I believe all of us have an obligation to give back to the community. I had previously served on the MVC from 2010 to 2014 as an active member filling many roles including land use planning committee chairman as well as treasurer. I also have previously served the town of West Tisbury for seven years as a member of the personnel board. I believe my analytical skills made me a valued member in both positions. In addition to my public service, I have over 30 years management experience in various industries. I possess a master’s degree in management and a bachelor’s in political science.

Commission’s Unique Mission

Historically the MVC has done an admirable job in protecting the natural and unique historical character of the Island, yet there’s room for improvement in how it functions. I feel the planners employed by the MVC should work more closely with the towns offering help in whatever capacity the town feels it is lacking with respect to master plans, transportation, water quality or housing. The MVC also needs to streamline the process for developments of regional impact. One of the main priorities in the enabling legislation of the MVC was “promoting the enhancement of sound local economies.” Currently the lengthy review process for a DRI is cumbersome, time consuming and very costly. Eventually these costs are passed down to each of us making this an increasingly more expensive place to live. In this tumultuous election season, you can feel confident that at least one of your votes will be for someone with the experience, reason and common sense to make a positive change.

Available Time Commitment

Five to 25 hours weekly depending on how many DRIs.