Council seeks Eversource and Vineyard Wind help to relight Butler—s Flat Lighthouse; matter tabled for 45 days

Councilor Brian Gomes asked the committee on appointments and briefings on April 15 to invite representatives from Vineyard Wind and Eversource to discuss restoring the Butler—s Flat Lighthouse as a lit maritime beacon.

Why it matters: the lighthouse occupies a visible South End site and was historically a navigational and civic landmark. Councilors said relighting it could support tourism and community pride.

Vineyard Wind manager of public affairs Steve Tagos attended and said he could not commit to funding immediately but would take the request to Vineyard Wind leadership. "I can't give a yes or no answer tonight, but this is something that I can bring back to the team and propose to our leadership at Vineyard Wind," Tagos said. He asked for additional detail about the type of funding and whether solar or infrastructure work would be needed.

Anthony from Eversource—s community relations said he could set up a meeting with appropriate Eversource decision-makers. Councilor Gomes told the committee he believed the city had the CPI funds returned and that a nonprofit previously holding responsibility, Mass Light, had not completed the work; Gomes said the city had recovered the money and that ownership now appears to be with the city, which simplified next steps.

After discussion the committee voted to table the item and asked Eversource and Vineyard Wind to return with more information; Councilor Gomes suggested a 45-day period to allow higher-level conversations. The committee emphasized the potential for a summer relighting if partners could commit resources.

What—s next: the item was tabled for follow-up; members asked staff to schedule a return appearance by the utility and Vineyard Wind or to set a joint meeting once both organizations can identify possible contributions.