In a reversal, Chilmark selectmen voted Tuesday to ease restrictions in Menemsha following Gov. Charlie Baker’s announcement that the state would fully reopen by Memorial Day.

The decision comes amid ongoing discussions around the Island about navigating the coming summer safely.

Earlier this month the select board and board of health voted to limit attendance and parking at Menemsha sunsets, and pause the town shuttle that runs from Tabor House Road.

But the governor’s Monday announcement lifting all Covid restrictions and rescinding state mask orders by May 29, came as a bit of a curve ball.

“This whole thing is very, very weird and puts us in our capacity as town officials and as towns people . . . in an odd situation,” said selectman Jim Malkin at a meeting Tuesday. “What we’re hearing from the federal government and the CDC, the messages is so mixed, but none of them are telling people to stay away.”

Mr. Malkin, who is also the Vineyard Steamship Authority governor, noted the dramatic increase in ferry bookings this summer and proposed overturning the restrictions adopted earlier, beginning with the park and ride at Tabor House.

He also suggested reopening full parking capacity at the Menemsha Beach lot to ease congestion burden placed on traffic officers and policemen.

“I know that’s a complete turnaround from things I’ve said in the past,” Mr. Malkin said. “They’re going to come somehow . . . I don’t think there’s any way we can stop them. I think we’re going to need to do everything we can to help our police and traffic people.”

Selectman Warren Doty and chairman Bill Rossi echoed the sentiment.

“CDC guidelines and the governor’s guidelines to us are all indicating that we’re going to open up, so I personally see no reason why we shouldn’t open up,” Mr. Rossi said.

Chilmark police chief Jonathan Klaren agreed, emphasizing the need for realistic planning.

In related business, selectmen turned an eye toward reopening the town hall under the governor’s orders, with plans to return to the building in a hybrid capacity in the upcoming weeks and resume in-person meetings when possible.

“I would be delighted to go back to in-person meetings as soon as legally possible and safely possible as well,” said Mr. Malkin.