In a recent meeting of the Visitor Services Advisory Committee in Nantucket, officials discussed the community's response to a significant power outage that affected local businesses and visitors during a peak holiday weekend. The outage, which was resolved quickly, highlighted the importance of effective communication and coordination among town officials, local businesses, and service providers.

During the meeting, it was noted that the power outage led to concerns about displaced guests, but swift action ensured that 60 guests at the Roberts Collection were relocated to other hotels within 15 minutes. Liz, a representative from the local hospitality sector, played a crucial role in securing additional ferry spots for those wishing to leave the island, demonstrating a strong collaborative effort among the town, the chamber of commerce, and the steamship authority.

However, the outage had a more significant impact on local businesses, particularly restaurants, which struggled to operate without power. Retailers adapted by using mobile payment systems, but the challenges faced by dining establishments were more pronounced, as they could not function without electricity.

The committee also addressed broader safety concerns, including the need for improved emergency action plans. A suggestion was made to consider using Jersey barriers for safety measures, reflecting a proactive approach to potential future emergencies. The committee plans to meet monthly to discuss ongoing issues and enhance community preparedness.

Additionally, the meeting touched on upcoming events, including changes to the registration process for the popular Daffodil Festival. The aim is to alleviate the stress associated with sign-ups, which have become a source of frustration for both staff and the public. The new strategy will extend the registration window and involve a committee to ensure a fair selection process, prioritizing local participants.

As Nantucket continues to navigate the challenges posed by emergencies and community events, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of collaboration and communication in fostering a resilient and responsive local environment. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a dedication to enhancing the visitor experience while supporting local businesses and residents.