At the West Tisbury town meeting on May 18, we have a chance to meet a critical community need by voting yes on article 6, designating the vacant three acres of land at 401 State Road (east of Lambert’s Cove Road) for affordable housing.

When in 1978, the town spent $75,000 of public funds to purchase the property, it was agreed that the land was to be used for a municipal purpose that meets a community need. Today affordable housing for Islanders is a critical community need. There are lengthy waiting lists for those eligible, including workers and seniors.

West Tisbury has led the Island in the development of affordable housing. Passage of article 6 once again gives us the opportunity to show that we know how to solve the problems that affect us all.

Please attend town meeting at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs and vote yes on article 6.

Michael Colaneri

West Tisbury

The writer is co-chairman of the West Tisbury affordable housing committee.