The Finance Committee of Nantucket convened on January 27, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding the management and accountability of affordable housing projects in the area. The meeting highlighted significant issues surrounding the Wiggles Way project, which has faced delays and cost overruns, currently estimated at $22 million without completion.

Committee member Toby raised concerns about the lack of progress on Wiggles Way, noting that despite assurances from project managers, visible work has been minimal, with only a few work trucks observed on-site. He emphasized the need for accountability in the use of taxpayer funds, suggesting that the community deserves transparency regarding the status and efficiency of such projects.

Another committee member, Steven, echoed these sentiments, advocating for greater transparency in how housing dollars are allocated and spent. He expressed worries about the speed and efficiency of project execution, stressing that community trust hinges on the proper management of these funds. Steven cautioned that if voters feel misled about project timelines and outcomes, it could lead to calls for funding reductions, which he believes would be detrimental at this time.

John Georgiou, another committee member, pointed out that the citizen petition regarding the funding was not in proper legal form, which could hinder its consideration at the upcoming town meeting. He indicated that while the article could technically be acted upon, it would lack legal standing.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for improved planning and proactive reporting to restore community confidence in the affordable housing initiatives. The committee plans to address these issues further in future discussions, aiming to ensure that projects meet both community expectations and legal requirements.