Let’s get to know Rick.

Rick Atherton has a unique appreciation for Nantucket. A homeowner for 40 years and year-round resident since 1991, Rick has spent most of his adult life here, living, working and raising a family. He’s also been deeply committed to civic life, serving on nine Nantucket Town boards, commissions and committees – most notably for three terms as a member/chair of the Finance Committee, and another nine years as a member/chair of the Select Board – as well as the boards of the Civic League, the NHA, and the Quidnet Squam Association. The unmatched depth and breadth of his experience gives Rick a unique appreciation for the complexity of Nantucket’s challenges, and a strong confidence that our Town government can do better in navigating them. For Rick, that all starts with a renewed commitment to good government, driven by open and honest communication, citizen participation, pragmatism and accountability. Rick has earned a reputation for approaching every issue thoughtfully, and is inspired by a belief that government operates best when it welcomes community involvement into the decision-making process.

What makes Rick tick?

“One of the really enjoyable things about being on the Board is to be in touch with people on a very direct basis, and to be able to take their input back to the Board’s decision making.”

Rick Atherton

Don’t take our word for it…

“He’s an articulate voice, able to frame the issues in ways that are easy to understand.”

Allen Reinhard, Land Bank Commissioner and former member Select Board

“Rick’s years of institutional experience is extraordinarily valuable, and practically nobody in Town government now brings that kind of knowledge and experience to the game.”

Bruce Miller, former member Select Board and Finance Committee

 “He’s not polarizing. He tries to see both sides of each issue. He is a thinker. And he’s not coming to each new issue with a pre-determined position on it.”

Charity Benz, owner, Nantucket Knotworks

“He can break down these large and complicated Town issues, and explain how it affects you. He puts a ton of time into it, and makes a real effort to understand everything he’s talking about.”

Jenne Atherton

“He’s a great person to work with. Even if you don’t agree with him, he has an ability to make you feel comfortable.”

Allen Reinhard

“His experience, particularly his financial experience, and his keen, analytical mind.”

Charity Benz

 “I don’t think there’s anyone on the island who has a greater understanding of the issues facing the Town financially.”

Bruce Miller

“Rick brings integrity... and an understanding of the need for transparency in government.”

Allen Reinhard