Questioning the need and citing possible negative effects on the mom-and-pop gas stations up-Island, the Martha's Vineyard Commission voted without dissent last week to reject a plan for a new gas station on State Road in Vineyard Haven.

"I don't think we should be building any more facilities to accommodate the automobile, and this is going to rob Peter to pay Paul," said commission member Tristan Israel.

Falmouth SSA Governor Sues Selectmen to Block His Ouster

By JULIA WELLS

The standoff between Falmouth Steamship Authority governor and board chairman Galen Robbins escalated yesterday when Mr. Robbins filed a tough complaint in federal court against the Falmouth selectmen, who are trying to oust him as the town's boat line governor.

Among other things, the complaint charges that the selectmen violated Mr. Robbins's First Amendment and civil rights when they took steps last month to remove him as boat line governor.

New Bedford Presses for Fast Ferries in First Expanded SSA Board Meeting

By JULIA WELLS
Gazette Senior Writer

After a few scant minutes of statesmanship, the newly appointed Steamship Authority governor from New Bedford quickly changed tack yesterday, unveiling a surprise plan for fast ferry service between New Bedford and the Vineyard and mouthing an old sales pitch from last year.

Vineyard Democrats broke ranks with the rest of the commonwealth this week, throwing their support to former U.S. Labor Secretary Robert Reich over state treasurer Shannon P. O'Brien in the primary race for governor.

SSA Rate Cuts Gather Backing

New Bedford and Barnstable Join Expanded Boat Line Governing Board for Monthly Meeting on the Vineyard Thursday

By JULIA WELLS
Gazette Senior Writer

No rate increases and a possible reduction in excursion fares - these are the key monetary themes this week as Steamship Authority governors prepare to discuss a preliminary budget for the coming year.

Oak Bluffs Presents Passionate Defense of the Martha's Vineyard Commission Before Legislative Committee Hearing

By JULIA WELLS
Gazette Senior Writer

An overflow crowd from Oak Bluffs and other Vineyard towns turned out for a state legislative hearing yesterday that was marked by an outpouring of passionate support for the Martha's Vineyard Commission and the unique role it has played in the protection of the Island for the last 28 years.