2008Rockport officials approved the town taking control of Straitsmouth Lighthouse.Economy and Industry, Government and Public Service, Maritime & Fishing Industry, City Government

Selectmen agreed to approve acquisition of the lighthouse and 1.8 acres of land – contingent on Town Meeting approval, the ability to obtain Community Preservation funds for maintenance, and acquisition of an easement from the Audubon Society, which owned the island and protected it as a sea bird refuge. The Thacher Island Town Committee expressed a willingness to manage the structure, while the Thacher Island Association would raise money for maintenance.