Xerxes Agassi returned to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission with a new mixed-use development proposal for the former Educomp building at 4 State Road in Vineyard Haven.

Edgartown residents debated 10 possible new zoning bylaws in a public hearing Tuesday, all intended to preserve the town’s year-round housing stock, encourage higher-density building and protect the Island’s fragile natural resources. 

West Tisbury voters will weigh in on an initiative to promote private affordable housing in town at their fall special town meeting next week, along with deciding on a series of minor funding articles.

Wouldn't it be nice if a project such as the proposed 40B housing project at the Donaroma's site and adjoining lots could go before the Martha's Vineyard Commission or any other planning board and be met with: "This proposal is of vital importance to the Island."

After a two-year buying frenzy, sales of Island properties ebbed last year and dropped to their lowest level in at least 10 years during the first six months of 2023.

The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank commission voted Monday to accept Edgartown’s offer to buy the land bank’s old headquarters on Upper Main Street for $1.55 million.

Xerxes Agassi, who owns the former Educomp building on State Road in downtown Vineyard Haven, won the Tisbury select board’s support this week for his latest plan to convert the landmark structure into a 14-unit apartment complex with ground-floor office space.

After reviewing Mr. Agassi’s revised proposal, which designates certain units for workforce and affordable housing, board members voted Wednesday to send a letter of support to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission, which is expected to open a new hearing on the Educomp development later this year.

More than 200 Islanders are expected to take part in Martha Goes to Beacon Hill on March 23, an event organized by the Coalition to Create the Martha’s Vineyard Housing Bank.

Under scrutiny by at least two Island towns over rising expenses and a skyrocketing legal budget, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission is defending its role.