EDITORIAL
Atherton, Reinhard for Selectman
When island voters head to the polls next Tuesday two new members will be elected to our chief governing body, the Board of Selectmen.

The importance of this year's race is underscored by the apparent division that has lately existed within its ranks. Members, at times, have appeared to be at odds with each other, working not towards consensus but towards policies of personal preference. At other times, they seemed to be in conflict with other town committees, holding fast to a position instead of seeking common ground.

The new board will require members who not only understand the challenges facing Nantucket, but who know that true progress is best achieved through teamwork, understanding, and insight.

In this time of transition - when development, housing, traffic and a stretched infrastructure demand the selectmen's keen attention - islanders yearn for stability in town government.

In the past year, one selectman resigned, an interim member was voted in, and the state of flux proved distracting - to board members and to islanders.

Now we have a chance to re-equip the board and demand that it has as its core mission the well-being of Nantucket. In other words, it's time to get serious, both for the voting public and for the selectmen. The island needs new selectmen who can work with current board members and other town committees; who, with their fellow selectmen, will act as the pivot point for the town, putting Nantucket over personal agendas.

There is a reason Nantucketers have long supported a five-person board of selectmen as being right for the island. The island is too diverse in issues, scope and people to justify a smaller board. The exchange of ideas and opinions that a five-person board can generate is sorely needed as we struggle to adapt to these changing times. Selectmen should be steadfast, but they should also embrace the wisdom of compromise.

There are five candidates in this year's race, and each must be commended for their passion and willingness to serve. Of the current candidates, The Nantucket Independent endorses Rick Atherton and Allen Reinhard.

Atherton's financial acumen, combined with his 15 years on the Finance Committee, brings a wealth of experience and, more importantly, knowledge. He knows as much about the Town's finances as anyone, with the possible exception of Connie Voges. But in the new job, he will have to take a broader view. Although he doesn't always exercise them, he does have leadership skills.

Reinhard is a smart, solid implementer. His experience as a member of the Land Bank Commission, his civic responsibilities as chairman of the Town Government Study Committee, his genuine concern for the island as ranger for the Nantucket Conservation Foundation and his proven ability to work as a member of a team will bode well for Nantucket. It remains to be seen, however, whether the soft-spoken Reinhard has the tenacity we need in our selectmen.

It's time for the selectmen to prove that a fivemember board can work. We believe Atherton and Reinhard will bring the board together so that it can focus on the best interests of Nantucket. I