The vaccination ball is in the West Tisbury select board’s court now.

At its meeting August 12 the West Tisbury board of health unanimously voted to require that all town employees be vaccinated. If an employee refuses, but does not select one of two exemptions (medical or religious issues) what will happen? Will they be sent home, fired or even slapped on the wrist?

According to board of health agent Omar Johnson the select board, on advise of town counsel, must make that decision.

Prior to asking for the board of health members to vote, Mr. Johnson said that “the town of West Tisbury should be making a statement about the importance of vaccinations.”

What will the select board do at its next meeting? When last the issue of vaccinations were before the board, it deferred to the board of health. Now the board of health has spoken. Will the select board choose to govern, to show leadership? We can do better.

Susan Silk

West Tisbury