Tom Nevers Residents Challenge New Signs Installed by Homeowners Association

In a recent meeting of the HDC Sign Advisory Council held on July 29, 2025, community concerns regarding signage in the Tom Nevers East neighborhood took center stage. The meeting, which included discussions among council members and public comments, highlighted the ongoing tension between community aesthetics and regulatory compliance.

Howard Matts, a resident of Tom Nevers East, voiced his concerns about a series of new signs installed by the Tom Nevers Homeowners Association, known as Poteet. Matts described the signs as inconsistent with the neighborhood's rural character and expressed that many residents found them to be excessive and visually unappealing. He argued that the signs, mounted on eight-foot posts but positioned at four feet, did not adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Historic District Commission (HDC).

Matts requested that the HDC confirm whether the signage fell under its jurisdiction and urged the council to require Poteet to submit an application for approval prior to installation. He emphasized that the community's consensus was against the signs, viewing them as a blemish on the neighborhood's aesthetic.

The discussion reflects broader themes of community identity and the role of local governance in maintaining the character of residential areas. As Nantucket continues to navigate growth and development, the balance between individual homeowner desires and collective community standards remains a critical issue.

The meeting concluded without immediate resolutions, leaving the council to consider Matts' request and the implications of the signage on the neighborhood's character. The HDC's next steps will be crucial in addressing these community concerns and ensuring that local guidelines are upheld.