After entertaining debate over the building of a small shed and pier on tribal land, Dukes County Superior Court Judge Richard F. Connon ruled last week that the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) need not comply with local zoning law. In a 19-page decision, the judge referred heavily to the doctrine of sovereign immunity and its superiority over local law. Island officials are concerned that the ruling allows the tribe too much freedom, leaving room for future conflicts. However, tribal leaders say they have no intentions of damaging their valuable relationship with the community.
