During a special meeting of the Nantucket Zoning Board of Appeals on January 24, 2025, community concerns about the island's water infrastructure and its implications for public safety took center stage. The discussions highlighted urgent issues regarding water quality, availability, and the potential risks associated with proposed high-density developments.

One of the most pressing topics was the inadequacy of Nantucket's water infrastructure, particularly in the context of fire safety. A local resident emphasized that the town's current water resources would be insufficient to combat a fire larger than the recent Veranda House incident, especially under adverse weather conditions. The resident warned that without significant improvements, including the addition of more water towers and wells, the community could face dire consequences in emergency situations.

Megan Perry, another community member, raised alarms about the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the water supply. She referenced past warnings from experts about the dangers of overdevelopment and its impact on the island's sole source aquifer. Perry pointed out that the water director had indicated the need for costly filtration systems to address PFAS contamination, which she argued would not be a long-term solution. She expressed concern that increasing water demand from new developments could exacerbate contamination risks, putting the health and safety of residents at risk.

The board also discussed the implications of a proposed development at Surfside Crossing, which would include 19 buildings similar in size to the Veranda House. Concerns were raised about whether the existing water supply could handle the demands of such a project, particularly in light of the recent fire and the potential for similar incidents in the future. The community members urged the board to consider the health and safety of residents over economic interests, arguing that the risks associated with the development could outweigh the benefits of increased housing.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for Nantucket to address its water infrastructure challenges and the potential health risks posed by PFAS contamination. As the board deliberates on the proposed developments, the community's call for prioritizing public safety and environmental health remains a critical point of discussion. The outcomes of these deliberations will have lasting implications for Nantucket's residents and their access to safe drinking water and emergency resources.