Now that the June primary vote has happened and we’ve had our July 4 holiday, I thought it would be a good time to reach out and thank everyone for the votes.
What votes?
For “Marc Ratner” (that’s me) for Knox County Commissioner, District Three, on the Democratic primary ballot on June 11.
You might remember me in Camden as a previous select board member for six years.
Now, because of my interest in the position and the specific experience I would bring to the job, I’m running for the... Read more
Elections 2024: Municipal, school and state primary ballots, local budgets, candidates
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June is when many Maine citizens weigh how much to spend on school budgets, and polls are open on Election Day for voters to cast ballots on other business, including municipal and county budgets. It is also time to elect local officers to municipal boards and committees, and this year, to vote on state and federal primaries in advance of the 2024 general elections on November 5, 2024.
The longtime tradition of a March Town Meeting was changed dramatically decades ago when education and municipal budgets adopted a July-June budget cycle. Some town meetings then went to a June schedule. Now, the scenario has changed once again, with some towns doing away with in-person town meeting altogether in favor of voting on municipal budgets and policies at the ballot box.
One constant remains: Voters ultimately decide whether to approve budgets, which directly affect their property taxes. And many towns are busy with a variety of ordinance amendments, policy changes and developments.
Appleton, Camden, Rockport and Union have done away with the in-person town meeting, which traditionally was soon after the Tuesday June elections. This means that all municipal business, from budgets to policy initiatives and changes in those towns will now be addressed at the polls Tuesday, June. 11. If voters ever decide to bring back their in-person town meetings, they can organize to change the policy.
letter to the editor
A short goodbye
Out front, I want to say that I am an Independent voter as I don’t believe that the current two party system we live under is serving we the people.
The debate that many of us witnessed the other day was not an off night for President Biden. That was a look into his abilities when unscripted and without a teleprompter. He was a shell of his former self and left many of us aghast at how much he has aged.
We now know that there is a good reason why Biden’s handlers kept him from the annual... Read more
letter to the editor
Support Chip Curry for Maine Senate
Chip Curry stands up, speaks and votes for the people of Waldo County. He knows us. He sees us. Chip has been a tireless advocate for the health and vitality of Waldo County institutions and services. Chip continues to fight for the Hutchinson Center to remain an educational center used by and for the citizens of Waldo County. Chip works to have Waldo County General Hospital be a full-service facility. Chip recognizes the community support that helped build, finance, maintain, expand and... Read more
letter to the editor
Jan Dodge is the real deal
Jan Dodge, the Maine State Representative serving Belfast, Northport, and Belmont is seeking reelection. Her hard work and high energy continue to inspire the folks around here who work with her on community projects. I am one of them.
For those who haven’t met Jan, she brings the authority of a schoolteacher together with the humor and timing of a musician and dancer to the many roles in which she engages. She looks deeply at environmental issues and isn’t afraid to speak out and vote with... Read more
Letter to the editor
Rockport voters have spoken
On June 11, Rockport voters overwhelmingly approved Article 15, which requires the Select Board, “to appoint an advisory committee to study the costs and benefits of a collaborative approach for improving wastewater treatment systems in the towns of Rockport and Camden, including a municipal utility district, and to have such committee report findings to the Board prior to the 2025 Rockport Town Meeting and prior to funding the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant”.The Rockport... Read more
letter to the editor
An open letter to Governor Janet Mills
Maybe is an important word to use when making decisions that really impact our lives. Maybe we should fix the car we have before we decide to get a new one for instance. Governor Mills, I’m asking that you examine all the ramifications of your present plan to use Sears Island as the site for Searsport’s floating offshore wind facility. I don’t think you’ve done that.Maybe overlooking or ignoring Mack Point is a big mistake. Mack Point is already heavily industrialized and its proposal to build... Read more
letter to the editor
In support of Chip Curry for Senate
I have known Chip for over 15 years, through having kids roughly the same age and yheater (He was a better mayor than I every will be in The Music Man). And we occasionally call each other to catch up and share thoughts on Belfast, the mid-coast and Waldo County. He is a dedicated Family person, which I greatly admire. Recently we came together to work on the Hutchinson Center in the attempt to keep it as an educational site for future generations. The reason we are both doing this is pretty... Read more
letter to the editor
Tips for the Tales of Two Towns
Dear Camden and Rockport,
Conversation breakdowns are the stuff of history. Misunderstandings abound in every hamlet, village, town and city. In every nation as well. In families, too.
I can’t help but ask this question: Would anyone involved in the talks be able to explain to the other town’s satisfaction and agreement as to what is being actually said? Can it be expressed to the other’s complete satisfaction?
Simply ask: What is it you most want understood by the other? Note... Read more
School Committee meeting June 24
UPDATE: With failure of school budget at Lincolnville polls, town restarts review process
LINCOLNVILLE — With the failure of the $5,132,588 school budget before voters in Lincolnville June 11, the process of reviewing why it failed and what to do next lies first with the School Committee.
The Lincolnville School Committee has convened a special meeting for June 24 at 6 p.m. at Lincolnville Central School, 523 Hope Road, Lincolnville and via zoom.
Recordings of past LCS School Committee meetings can be found hereAt the June 24 meeting, the process of adjusting and presenting... Read more
Honored
To the voters of Camden:
Thank you for your votes for Camden Select Board. I am honored by your confidence in me, and I look forward to serving all of Camden with diligence and an open mind, common sense, and a measure of frugality.
Ken Gross lives in Camden
letter to the editor
Rockport, Camden wastewater going forward
Now that the votes in Camden and Rockport are counted, it strikes us as time to come back together for the mutual benefit of both towns, as we have so successfully done before.
Sometimes we differ about the specific way forward, but our concerns remain largely the same: How to keep our rivers and harbors clean, address the needs of our sewer users, house our workforce communities and young families, live in harmony with our neighbors, and serve the fiscal interests of our taxpayers and the... Read more
Stickney & Shipps favored in unofficial results from Waldoboro
Aho, Wilcox elected to RSU 40 board
RSU 40 voters in three towns took to the polls on June 11 to elect School Board Directors.
In Union, Rachel Wilcox was elected.
Votes received were:
367 Rachel Wilcox
358 Timothy Wood
In Waldoboro, Benjamin Stickney and Leah Shipps were elected.
Votes received were:
Steven Karp 510
Tabatha MacArthur 429
Benjamin Stickney 737
Leah Shipps 577 (declared write-in candidate)
In Warren, Naomi Aho was re-elected.
Votes received were:
381 Naomi Aho (incumbent)
326 Torry Verrill... Read more
Union approves mining ordinances and elects two Select Board members
Union has elected Steven Migliorini and Martha Johnston-Nash to the Select Board, and approved new mining regulations, a canine ordinance, and a municipal budget.
At the polls, voters considered three candidates running for one open two-year seat on the Select Board. The candidates were:
Gregory Grotton, 197 votes
Ben Ledger, 214 votes
Steven Migliorini, 278 votes
They also chose between two candidates running for one three-year seat on the Select Board. They were:
Martha Johnston-... Read more
How Knox County Republicans Voted in the June 11 Primary for Maine’s 1st Congressional District
The primary race between Andrew Piantidosi and Ron Russell for the Republic nomination to compete in November against Democratic incumbent Chellie Pingree for the U.S. Congress 1st District seat was not close in Waldo County.
Ron Russell took a strong lead in most of municipalities that reported results late into the night, June 11, according to Maine Public Radio.
Thomaston elects Kimberly Matthews to Select Board, approves RSU 13 budget
Voters in Thomaston elected Kimberly Matthews to their Select Board. She had been running against Emily McBrayer.
Matthews received 178 votes, and McBrayer, 126.
They also elected Olivia FitzPatrick to the RSU 13 School Board and
approved the $39 million RSU 13 budget, up $2.3 million from the current budget.
Yes, 222No, 100
On June 12, citizens will gather at the Thomaston Municipal Building at 6 p.m. for annual Town Meeting and consider the warrant, which includes the municipal... Read more
How Waldo County Republicans voted in Soboleski, Theriault primary
The primary race between Austin Theriault and Michael Soboleski for the Republic nomination to compete in November against Democratic incumbent Jared Golden for the U.S. Congress District 2 seat was not close in Waldo County.
Austin Theriault took a strong lead in most of municipalities that reported results late into the night, June 11. According to Maine Public Radio, Theriault secured the vote statewide.
Cushing voters revamp malt, wine and spirits rules
CUSHING — Cushing’s liquor, malt and win laws have changed, courtesy of town citizens voting at the June 11 polls.
With four warrant articles, the following rules were approved:
Warrant Art. 2.
Shall this municipality authorize the State to permit the sale of spirits for off-premises consumption on days other than Sunday?
YES -130 NO-40
Warrant Art. 3.
Shall this municipality authorize the State to permit the sale of spirits for off-premises consumption on Sundays?... Read more
Rockport says no to wastewater treatment facility and Route 90 sewer extension, elects Michelle Hannan and Denise Munger to Select Board
ROCKPORT — The most contentious article on Rockport’s 2024 Town Meeting warrant – Article 3 — was decided at the polls June 11, and the proposed $33.7 million wastewater treatment facility and Route 90 sewer extension failed.
Article 3 received 428 yes votes and 612 no votes.
Article 15, which was to appoint an advisory committee to study the costs and benefits of a collaborative approach for improving wastewater treatment systems in the towns of Rockport and Camden, passed by a vote... Read more
Camden elects Susan Dorr and Ken Gross to the Select Board, approves $12.5 million bond
Voters turned out in force in Camden June 11, voting to approve municipal and school budgets, a $12.5 million bond, zoning and land use ordinance changes, and buying a groomer for the Camden Snow Bowl.
They also elected Susan Dorr and Ken Gross to the Select Board.
Four candidates were seeking election for the two open Select Board seats in Camden: Susan Dorr, Stephanie French (incumbent), Ken Gross and Sophie Romana (incumbent).
Votes received were:
Susan Dorr, 1,001
Stephanie... Read more
Warren reelects Aho, passes mining ordinance amendments
A contested School Board elections and referendums on prohibiting Metallic Mining brought voters to the polls in Warren on June 11. They also approved the RSU40 2024-2025 budget.
They also elected Justin M. Humes and Jan M. MacDonald to the Select Board and re-elected Naomi Aho to the RSU40 School Board. Lyle Bailey and Saralee Andrews were elected to the Warren Sanitary District.
Votes received were:
Justin M. Humes 570 /write-in 18/blank 197
Jan M. MacDonald 608/write in4/blank 133... Read more
Stickney and Shipps elected to RSU40
Waldoboro elects Simmons, Stephens
Contested School and Select Board elections drove voters to the polls in Waldoboro on June 11, voting to approve municipal and school budgets. They passed all articles, including funding for expanding broadband and changes to the land use ordinance.
They also elected Rebecca Stephens and re-elected Abden Simmons to the Select Board and Leah Shipps and Benjamin Stickney to the RSU40 School Board.
Votes received were:
WIlliam Bragg 357Brendan McGuirl 338Sandie O'Farrell 448Abden Simmons... Read more
letter to the editor
Camden’s watershed moment
Weighing in on local elections is no fun in a small town, and I can respect whatever decision is made by voters. I also understand that most people don’t have time to sort through everything and that they are overwhelmed by the amount on the ballot. It may be helpful to remember that everything on the ballot this year is on there because the people elected to the Select Board voted for it. At least a majority of us.
We listened and read and argued and edited and then invited multiple rounds... Read more
letter to the editor
Why passing Camden Articles 5, 6, and 7 could mean adding a new town employee
The Planning Board’s proposed articles 5, 6, and 7 on Short Term Rentals were created without real data on how many short term rentals actually exist in Camden. Estimates varied anywhere from 150 to 450. For the sake of this discussion lets assume there are 275 short term rentals.
If these articles pass the Code Enforcement Officer and planning Department would be required to do the following.
Receive and review 275 applications
Collect 275 required fees... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote no on Camden Articles 8, 9 and 10
We strongly support Joshua Moore’s comments (June 4, 2024) namely that the Camden Harbor Committee has made an intelligent set of proposals with regard to piers.
Articles 8, 9, 10 are exaggerated and unreasonable. They should be turned down. Please vote no.
John Reed lives in Camden
letter to the editor
Workforce housing is an unfair selling point for Rockport’s Article 3
Why I believe workforce housing is an unfair selling point for Rockport’s Article 3.
I Have worked in Rockport for over 20 years and have been fortunate enough to live in town with my family for the past seven years. I truly appreciate living close to work along with all the other advantages of living in a close-knit community such as Camden/Rockport.
Over the last several months I have noticed a common selling point for Rockport’s Article 3 (A new $52,000,000 sewage treatment facility)... Read more
Recent controversies drive contentious election
Heated RSU 40 School Board election goes to the polls
Four RSU 40 seats are up for grabs: two in Waldoboro and on each in Warren and Union. At stake could be the existence of the schools themselves. Several candidates’ supporters espoused belief in the dissolution of public education.
Those candidates would join a growing bloc of Board Members who would choose to deny the school district funding altogether and either voted no or abstained from each budget line at this year’s annual meeting.
This the second year of hotly controversial elections... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for South Thomaston Warrant Article 26 on June 18
The South Thomaston Auxiliary is a private nonprofit corporation chartered by the South Thomaston Selectboard after a vote at the 2022 Town Meeting. Its sole purpose is to raise funds to be used in the design and construction of a Community Center and Library in South Thomaston.
We must emphasize that the Auxiliary’s scope does not include the programming or events that may use the new facility. We merely seek to raise funds for a more modern, energy efficient, comfortable, expandable, and... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote yes on Rockport Article 3
In our view, the opposition to this ballot initiative has mischaracterized the facts and failed to recognize the real issue - what is Rockport's vision for its future as a vibrant, thriving community twelve months a year? Please vote yes on Question 3 and pass this info along to voting friends in Rockport!
Rockport's future needs to be in its own hands, not controlled by Camden and tied to a 54 year old obsolete sewage treatment system running on fumes andpolluting Penobscot Bay with its... Read more
letter to the editor
Camden articles 5, 6 and 7 convoluted and unnecessarily controlling
I grew up and live in Camden. I am realizing now that I am one of those “elders and a local” that have seen many changes in town over my lifetime. But I am not writing to reminisce but rather writing as I am very alarmed and disappointed by the well-intentioned but misguided Camden Planning Board’s Articles 5, 6 and 7.
Reading them makes me think and feel like I am living in Florida in a gated community run by an HOA Board. These articles are so convoluted and unnecessarily controlling. They... Read more
letter to the editor
John Viehman has a knack for finding solutions to thorny problems
I am writing to express my support for John Viehman's candidacy for selectman. I have known John for more than 25 years, and while we may not agree on every issue, I can confidently say that he is a thoughtful and capable individual with a deep love of Rockport and would be an excellent addition to our select board.
Although my preference leans towards sailboats and John’s passion lies in hiking our woods, his values and energy will undoubtedly serve Rockport well.
More importantly, he has a... Read more
letter to the editor
A Storm is brewing in Camden — And it’s not climate change. Vote no on the town budget
Over the past several months, I have watched and/or attended several meetings of the Budget Committee and Select Board. It is my firm belief that spending is out of control and there has been no honest effort to rein it in.
Rather than looking to see if expenses could be reduced in a logical, reasonable, and thoughtful manner, it seems the town’s leadership is more intent on trying to generate more revenue (taxes and grants) than promoting fiscal responsibility.
I have reviewed the Town of... Read more
letter to the editor
Don’t Be Fooled on the Numbers on Rockport Article 3
A recent mailing to all Rockport residents promoted voting Yes on Article #3 in the upcoming election.
The mailing stated (in bold red type) that there was a 73% increase in Camden rates for Rockport in the last five years.
Here are those actual payments - (Fiscal Year 2019-2020 -$251,768), (FY 2020-2021- $211,091), (FY 2021-2022 - $34,930), (FY 2022-2023- $43,000) and (FY 2023-2024 - $436,565).
It is easy to calculate a 73% by comparing the first and last year. However, it fails to... Read more
Why are Rockport sewer rates so high?
In the debate over Article 3, a proposal asking Rockport residents to commit $52 million for a new wastewater treatment facility and sewer extension, we have heard from the Rockport Select Board and others that our sewer costs are too high because Camden charges us too much. Proponents of Article 3 have also argued that the only way to reduce our sewer rates is to build our own treatment facility. Both arguments are false.
Since 2010, Rockport sewer rates have increased from $9.38 per... Read more
‘We’re saying it does not make sense. Let’s figure it out so that it does’
Proposed Rockport wastewater treatment project drives robust citizen debate
ROCKPORT — Article 3 on the Rockport Town Meeting 2024 warrant proposing a $33.7 million expenditure to build a new sewer facility has engendered political heat as voting day, June 11, approaches. Two distinct factions have circulated opposing advocacy mailers to town citizens, and one Camden resident has urged the Camden Select Board to reach out to Rockport to help resolve the issue.
The citizen led Rockport Wastewater Working Group, with a Rockport post office box number, sent a colorful... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting no on Question 3, because I’m for workforce housing in Rockport
I’m voting NO on Question 3, because I’m for workforce housing in Rockport. Not just because the $51,891,708 bond will cost my business more annually. Not just because I want our leaders to work with our neighbors. And not just because I’m bothered by the false implication that it would clean the harbor (when question 3 means no change to collection, just direction of flow).
I’m voting No because the development Question 3 encourages would change the character of our community and would... Read more
On the issues: Thomaston Select Board Candidate Emily McBrayer
Two Thomaston citizens, Kimberly Matthews and Emily McBrayer, have stepped forward to run for one open seat on the Thomaston Select Board. Voting will take place June 11 at the polls.
Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their positions on issues.
Here, candidate Emily McBrayer responds:
Please provide a biography of yourself.
Yes, it’s true I’m not a Maine native. I’m originally from... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote Yes on Rockport Ballot Measure 3
Despite what you may be reading on every street corner in town, the decision whether to build a wastewater treatment plant in Rockport is not about mythical cooperation with Camden. It is about the future of Rockport.
Camden made, and has stuck to, their decision to require Rockport to exit their wastewater treatment system and even though their current and future Select Board candidates may wax eloquently about cooperation, not one single concrete step has been made by anyone in Camden to... Read more
letter to the editor
Ask ourselves: Where the priority should lie?
There has been much commentary online and elsewhere about the various ordinance amendments voters are being asked to approve this year. Much has been said about the speed at which these amendments were written, the process taken and the potential impacts. Sadly, much of what has been said does not tell the whole story on multiple fronts. I write this mostly as a lifelong citizen of Camden, but also as member of the planning board. I do not write on behalf of any other board members.
First and... Read more
opinion
All quiet on the Thomaston Front
For two years now, Thomaston had huge turnouts at the polls and at last year’s town meeting. Why? Because the former Maine State Prison property, called “Thomaston Green,” was up for grabs. The June 14, 2023, Town Meeting violated fire safety regulations by allowing more than 300 people to cram into the Lura Libby room at the Town Office. Most left after the votes on the first 3 articles, which carved “Thomaston Green” up into 3 pieces: a park in perpetuity, a clinic, and a Fire/EMS station.... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting yes for a new community building in South Thomaston
I am a proud Rockland native, and after 20 years of living away, moved back home in 2002 and built a home in South Thomaston.
When RSU13 gifted Gilford Butler School to our town, the Town gave permission for our tiny library to move into that building temporarily while monies were raised to build a new, green, state-of-the-art building.
The community center is thriving, giving us year-round opportunities. However, the building has structural issues that will take upwards of $2 million to... Read more
letter to the editor
The future of the former Gilford Butler School in South Thomaston
South Thomaston is on the cusp of receiving just over $3 million in federal and private grants to construct a modern library and community center at the site of the former Gilford Butler School. This new building is envisioned to be energy efficient and will include a large meeting room and kitchen. It will serve this town well for the next 50, perhaps 70, years. This is an incredible opportunity!
But what seems even more incredible is that we, as a town, actually may throw this opportunity... Read more
Gordon Page to run for County Commissioner
The Maine Secretary of State's Bureau of Corporations and Elections has certified the appropriate number of signatures on a petition submitted by Gordon Page of Owls Head in his run for the Knox County Commission District 3 seat.
His name will be placed on the November ballot as an unenrolled independent candidate.
District 3 includes the municipalities of Camden, Hope, Isle au Haut, Matinicus Isle Plantation, North Haven, Owls Head, Rockport, Vinalhaven and the Unorganized Territories... Read more
letter to the editor
Saddened to have to check ‘No’ beside Camden Town Meeting Warrant Articles 8, 9, 10
Today I filled out my absentee ballot at the Camden Town Office, and it saddened me to have to check “NO” beside Articles 8, 9, 10 – the ordinance changes effectively banning new residential, commercial, and municipal piers in Camden Harbor.
I was disappointed to vote NO to the laundry list of restrictions contained in Articles 8, 9, 10 because in January 2023 the Camden Harbor Committee, of which I served as chairman, responded to a voter-approved temporary moratorium on new residential piers... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote no on Camden Articles 5, 6 and 7: Or, how poor planning produced a bad warrant article
Months ago, the Camden Planning Board started investigating the issue of Short Term Rentals (STR) in Camden. They began with a statement of goals and concerns. The goal seemed to be to establish a set of regulations to mitigate their estimates of potential negative effects of STR. Their estimate of potential negative effects included:
Reduction of housing stock available for sale to potential long term residents
Reduced availability of long-term rentals
Reduced availability of workforce... Read more
letter to the editor
Steve Migliorini for Union Select Board
My name is Steve Migliorini and I am a candidate for the two-year seat on Union’s Select Board. As a business owner for over 35 years, I understand the value of good leadership, and the importance of working as a team when it comes to problem solving and decision making. I have been able to apply this knowledge throughout my adult life while serving on numerous community-based boards and committees. I embrace the importance of being involved with my community and giving back.
I am a careful... Read more
letter to the editor
Disappointed with Camden Select Board public hearing process
In early April, the Camden Select Board held a much anticipated public hearing on proposed short term rental regulations (STRs). That evening, the French Conference Room was packed with citizens, business owners, and townspeople from all walks—it was standing room only with folks even streaming outside onto the sidewalk and on Zoom.
This should have been a Select Board’s dream come true with an opportunity to dialog with an interested and engaged group of townsfolk, regarding an issue... Read more
ON THE BALLOT
Thomaston to vote on Select Board member, primary contenders and zoning changes
THOMASTON – Voters will elect a Select Board member and decide on changes to the town’s land use ordinance that include a new noise and vibration section and new definitions for assisted living and strip developments. An up or down vote will be taken on the RSU 14 school budget.
Voting at the polls takes place June 11 and the open Town Meeting takes place June 12.
All current election information is available on the town website thomastonmaine.gov under the Government tab under the June 2024... Read more
On the issues: Thomaston Select Board Candidate Kimberly Matthews
Two Thomaston citizens, Kimberly Matthews and Emily McBrayer, have stepped forward to run for one open seat on the Thomaston Select Board. Voting will take place June 11 at the polls. Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their positions on issues. Here, candidate Kimberly Matthews responds: Please provide a biography of yourself. My parents and I moved to Thomaston when I was 2 1/2 years old and except for... Read more
letter to the editor
What happens when people talk to each other?
How many of us have any idea of what 52 million dollars looks like? It’s a lot. It would easily set up generations of one family and heirs forever, as would a million dollar jackpot.
The people who advocate strongly for a NO vote on Article 3 are some of our most sensible, informed and thoughtful neighbors.
As for myself, any breakdown in communications with the Town of Camden is a failure. Let Camden own it, if they so choose.
What happens when people talk to each other? ... Read more
opinion
CARMA supports yes votes on Union and Warren mining ordinance amendments
On June 11, Warren and Union residents will be able to vote on ordinance changes that regulate and control metallic mineral mining in their towns. Before voting, there is important information about the history and substance of these issues of which voters should be aware.In February 2023, Canadian mineral exploration company Exiro Minerals Corporation approached Warren and Union disclosing that it had acquired a lease on a Warren property near the shores of the pristine Crawford Pond – one of... Read more
letter to the editor
Rockport Voters deserve transparency and accuracy
Rockport voters will soon decide on a $52 million bond for our sewer system, and it's crucial that our decisions are based on accurate and comprehensive information. Unfortunately, the information provided by the Select Board through the Rockport Resource and other channels has proven to be both inaccurate and incomplete, raising serious concerns.
In a letter published in the Rockport Resource, the Select Board stated that only sewer users would be financially responsible for the bond. This... Read more
letter to the editor
Rockport-Camden Wastewater Conundrum
I urge Rockport voters to vote No On Article 3, which would otherwise allow the Town to build a $52 million wastewater plant, and to vote Yes On Article 15, which appoints a task force to study the alternatives.It’s important to note that the financial burden of a $52 million water treatment plant will fall solely on sewer users, and those who could be sewer users will all pay the same. This means less than half of the Town's population will be responsible for a debt of $52 million, including... Read more
letter to the editor
Denise Munger and Michelle Hannan are Rockport’s best option to lead
Having served Rockport in the capacity of Select Board member for four terms decades ago I what see in Denise Munger and Michelle Hannan are Rockport’s best option to lead the town over the next three years.
Both Denise and Michelle have demonstrated a "steady hand" as chairperson of our board over multiple years.
Each meeting I have attended, both have shown the qualities of kindness, insuring that all views are heard, and the ability to control a meeting.
Especially with the Sewer... Read more
letter to the editor
Why I’m Voting for Denise Munger
I am writing in support of Denise Munger for Rockport Select Board. She is one of the most dedicated and hard working select board members I have seen in my 30 years of living in Rockport. She thoroughly studies and researches the issues facing our community. She works hard to listen to all perspectives and to keep an open mind.Denise is a “Yes” person. When something needs to be done she is the first person to raise her hand to say, “I’m happy to help with that”. Then she proceeds to get it... Read more
On the issues: Rockport Select Board Candidate Michelle Hannan
Four candidates are running for two open seats on the Rockport Select Board. Three are competing for two three-year seats, and one is running for a one-year term that opened up when James Annis stepped down last winter for health reason.
The three running for the two open seats are Denise K. Munger, Delores Michelle Hannan and Tiffany Ford. John Viehman is the only candidate running for the one-year term.
Elections take place June 11 at the polls at annual town meeting.
Penobscot Bay Pilot... Read more
letter to the editor
All Rockport taxpayers will help fund expanded sewer system
At the May 27 Rockport Select Board meeting, several Rockport residents addressed the assertion that the town's proposed $52 million wastewater project would only be paid for by Rockport's sewer users.This is false.Every public building in Rockport that is connected to the sewer will be paying use fees and debt service related to the project, including the high school, elementary school, opera house, library, town offices, harbor building, and police & fire station. These fees will be... Read more
letter to the editor
Two outstanding candidates for Camden Select Board: Stephanie French and Ken Gross
As a lifelong resident of Rockport and Camden, a third-generation owner of a Main Street business, and having been on multiple town committees over the years, I would like to share my views on the upcoming election of select board members.
After watching the Candidates’ Forum, it was clear to me that we are very fortunate to have two outstanding candidates: Stephanie French, who is running for re-election, and Ken Gross.
Stephanie has proven herself to be a strong advocate for Camden... Read more
opinion
Rockport’s Select Board uses taxpayer money for political advocacy. Again.
By now, Rockport residents are used to seeing the Rockport Resource newsletter arrive in their mailboxes a few times each year. Launched in 2020, the stated intention of the taxpayer-funded bulletin was to provide updates and useful information to town residents.
Increasingly, though, it has become a means for the town’s Select Board to lobby its own voters—at taxpayer expense — to adopt policies that the Board favors. Simply put, the Rockport Resource has essentially become taxpayer-funded... Read more
letter to the editor
Please vote no on Article 3
Article 3 on the 2024 Town Meeting Warrant asks Rockport taxpayers to commit nearly $52 million to a new wastewater treatment facility and sewer extension.The reasons to oppose Article 3 are obvious:1) $52 million is an unrealistic amount for a town of less than 3400 residents to spend on a public works project; and,2) financial projections supporting the project are based on unrealistic assumptions that bias against continuing to collaborate with Camden.Proponents suggest:Camden charges too... Read more
letter to the editor
My votes will go to Susan Dorr and Sophie Romana for Camden Select Board
Camden has a wealth of worthy candidates for the two open positions on the Select Board—so much so that it may be difficult to choose. Even so, after considering them all, I’ve made my selection. My votes will go to Sophie Romana and Susan Dorr, and here’s why:
Each of these two candidates offers an impressive background and lengthy experience serving the Town of Camden. Moreover, in the responses they gave to questions raised by the Camden Herald, they both indicate a clear understanding of... Read more
letter to the editor
Reelect Jan Dodge for Maine Legislative District 39
I’m writing to offer my support for the reelection of Jan Dodge to the Legislature, serving Belfast, Northport and Belmont.
Jan has successfully served three terms in the Legislature and has been an outstanding representative for our communities. She serves on the Education Committee and is a strong advocate for local education. Jan is also deeply supportive of Seniors in the area.
For me, it’s important to know Jan’s family has lived in Belfast for generations. This allows Jan to... Read more
letter to the editor
We need to elect Ken Gross and Stephanie French to Camden Select Board
Some of our Select Board candidates have spoken about the importance of legacy. I'm reflecting on the unique legacy left to us by our predecessors in the form of our enchanting waterfall and millpond created by the Montgomery Dam.
If we are to preserve this legacy, we need to elect both Ken Gross and Stephanie French to the Select Board. Although they're both open-minded about the proposals regarding the fate of Montgomery Dam, they strongly support preservation of this legacy.
We... Read more
opinion
Regarding Article 3 in Rockport
Having read pretty much everything printed about this issue, I’m remembering the following.
Many years ago when need for a new high school was made clear, heavy pressure was put on local towns’ people to approve financing touted as the very best we could hope for, and that if we didn’t act immediately, this most excellent opportunity would be lost forever, the sky would fall, delay would only increase costs.
Fortunately, the voters saw through the hype and voted no.
Just a few years later a... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting against Rockport Article 3
I plan to vote against Rockport’s Warrant Article 3 for two primary reasons.
First, the Town of Rockport commissioned an independent group of town citizens to look at what it would cost Rockport to separate from Camden and go it alone with our own waste water facility. The committee identified a place to build the waste water facility and came up with an assumed price tag.
Whether you believe in the credibility of the final projected numbers, the all in cost is somewhere north of $50... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for the facts in Camden
Two candidates for Camden’s Select Board falsely state there have been a lack of opportunities for community input on how we go forward with the Megunticook River. Other claims about the Montgomery Dam and the river have been made with no factual credibility.
Does this concern you coming from those running for office who should understand the public process for input and who we entrust to honor facts?
Facts on Opportunities for Public Input:
* Every SB meeting has time for public comment on... Read more
letter to the editor
Looking for Haskell or Burd descendants
The Camden-Rockport Historical Society is looking for individuals who are Haskells or are descendants of the Haskell and/or Burd families. We have had a request from a gentleman in Missouri to help him find someone here in the Midcoast who might be interested in a family Bible which he is in possession of.
We have some photos of the Marriages and Births pages at the front of the Bible and a list of many of the (legible) names entered in the Bible. If you are interested in being... Read more
letter to the editor
The Golden Latrine
FUD - Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt. It is by far the oldest, and even today, the most used sales tactic to invoke a desired response. Our most recent example of this is Article 3, the proposed sewer treatment facility being thrust upon property owners of Rockport.
Fifty-two million dollars for a town of 3,000 is an enormous sum of money. It is even more significant when looking at just how many homes and businesses are actually going to utilize this golden latrine. For a total of less than... Read more
letter to the editor
Why vote yes on Rockport’s Article 3?
A lot of clever yard signs this election. Makes you want to just vote for the best jokey saying. But if you stop chuckling and think about Rockport’s future, deciding if you should advise your kids to vote for the class clown or the girl that can figure out the hard problems.A lot of good, serious people — Rockport taxpayers, residents, and officials, worked long and hard to solve the waster treatment problem facing us, the one we have been ignoring for so long,Their solution, Rockport’s own... Read more
letter to the editor
Is spending $300,000 on a snow groomer a good investment for Camden?
May own thinking is that there may be two years, at best, of viable snow for the use of the ski lift during winter months. How many years do you hope it can be used? Even artificial snow needs cold ground temperatures to succeed.Is an investment of over $300,000 ( nearly 1/3 of a million dollars) for a snow groomer good investment? Consider this when voting on Camden Article 21 an 22.Nina Holland lives in Camden
letter to the editor
A reminder about why I’m running for Knox County Commissioner
On June 11, or whenever you vote, you will see my name on the ballot running for Knox County Commissioner District 3 as a Democrat.
After six years on the Camden Select Board where the members do not run associated with party, I’m now running for a job that asks but doesn’t require a party registration. (If you don’t want to identify with a party you can run as an independent on the final ballot in November).
I’m proud to identify as a Democrat.
I want to be on this first ballot to run for... Read more
letter to the editor
A Challenge for the Camden Select Board
All four candidates for the Camden Select Board are worthy individuals—we’re lucky to have them stepping up on our behalf—and I’m not completely sure how I will vote when the time comes. I had hoped to attend the Candidates’ Forum in order to hear their thoughts on the environmental challenges we’re facing.
With the bay rising in front of us, “100-year” storms apparently normalizing, warming waters threatening to bring hurricanes farther north and the prospect of ever-heavier precipitation and... Read more
What is on the ballot
Town Meeting: Camden voters to consider $12.5 million infrastructure bond, zoning changes, $10 million municipal budget
CAMDEN — Camden’s 22-article annual Town Meeting warrant is ambitious in scope and expense, as the business of running a municipality grows. Voters will consider it all at the polls June 11, now that in-person town meeting has been replaced by ballot-only participation, and will decide whether to approve the proposed 2024-2025 expenditures that include major projects for the town.
Voters will also vote for two Select Board members and a school board member.
Camden maintains a webpage with... Read more
letter to the editor
Protect Camden property rights, Vote No on Articles 5, 6, and 7
The Camden Planning Board has been misinformed, misguided and simply missed the point as it relates to affordable housing and other complex housing issues facing our community.
Instead of creatively addressing this issue by forming a specialized work group or other mechanism to address affordable housing issues, they’ve simply sought to create more regulation and red tape. Specifically, they’ve targeted short term rentals (STRs) as the panacea to solve all the complex housing problems our... Read more
Vote yes on Article 3 for Rockport’s future
As Rockport voters, we strongly agree with our Select Board, Budget Committee, several former members of the Wastewater Task Force and the Economic Development Committee, and many other residents that we vote yes on funding a wastewater treatment plant for our town (Warrant Article 3).
Building our own treatment facility allows us to take financial control of our high sewer costs, as well as invest in workforce housing, new and existing businesses, improve water quality, and address resilience... Read more
No time to waste in Rockport
While I appreciate the cheeky humor of the anti-question 3 signs, I don’t appreciate the spread of misinformation. The ballot question asks for approval for bonds of $33 million. I assume the exaggerated figure of $52 million includes interest over the 30-year term of the bonds. However, when taking out a car loan or a mortgage, the amount borrowed (not the amount ultimately paid back) is the correct way of expressing the loan amount. We can disagree about whether to move forward with the... Read more
letter to the editor
Support John Viehman for Rockport Select Board
Rockport is fortunate to anticipate electing John Viehman to join our Select Board.John comes to this role with a wealth of professional and community service experience that will inform thoughtful discussions, productive collaboration, and balanced decision making around a range of contemporary challenges. That experience includes decades in the print/digital and television media industry, extensive board service for nonprofits and business-related organizations, positions on Rockport’s... Read more
Keep Rockport sewer options open
As I travel our local roads, I'm seeing a lot of signs talking about haste and waste relative to Rockport's effort to solve our future wastewater issues.
Having served on Rockport’s Select Board back in the time when Rockport entered into an inter-local agreement with the town of Camden, the challenges that were in front of us at that time were immense. They appear that way still.
Having paid attention to the meetings that have taken place between the Select Boards of both towns and... Read more
letter to the editor
Why I’m voting for John Viehman
I met John Viehman several years ago while working at the Rockport Library Foundation. As vice chair, John led us in raising $2.5 million to build the new library. His exceptional leadership and marketing experience were instrumental to the success of the fundraising activities. He is the most focused and organized person I know and is a pleasure to work with.You probably know John from his tireless work as president of United Midcoast Charities, which provides funding for more than 35... Read more
letter to the editor
Haste makes waste in Rockport: No on 3, Yes on 15
Warrant Article 3 on Rockport’s June ballot asks voters approval for moving full speed ahead with purchase of land and a $50-plus million dollar bond for construction of a stand-alone waste-water treatment facility near Pen Bay Medical Center. Some think that this will promote the town’s economic expansion. Future growth is always largely speculative.Aside from the terrible costs of building this stand-alone wastewater system, is the fact that no serious attention has been given to the... Read more
letter to the editor
The un-zoning of Rockland
Several days ago, PenbayPilot.com published a letter from a Rockland resident concerning the City Council’s lack of interest in using the Visualization Tool to show how neighborhoods would look under its multitude of loosened zoning regulations.The same day an article appeared in the Courier Gazette in which a resident expressed similar concerns. Another article in the Courier noted a resident’s concern about the negative impact of the changes on valuations. I do not know any of those residents... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote NO on Articles 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7: New regulations that strip away Camden homeowners’ rights
Like blackflies in spring, every season brings hand-wringing about dark houses in the winter and concerns that Camden will suddenly become a seasonal town. Yet despite MBNA’s departure, 9/11, 2008 or the “housing shortage,” here we still are catching up at Hannaford’s, Zoot’s, or the dump. Still exchanging personal property of dubious value during yard sale season. Life for Camdenites is good and the sky isn’t falling.
Claiming a “housing emergency,” the state government mandated that we do... Read more
On the issues: Rockport Select Board Candidate Denise Munger
Four candidates are running for two open seats on the Rockport Select Board. Three are competing for two three-year seats, and one is running for a one-year term that opened up when James Annis stepped down last winter for health reason.
The three running for the two open seats are Denise K. Munger, Delores Michelle Hannan and Tiffany Ford. John Viehman is the only candidate running for the one-year term.
Elections take place June 11 at the polls at annual town meeting.
Penobscot Bay Pilot... Read more
Camden Select Board Candidates’ meet and greet May 30
All four candidates running for two open seats on the Camden Select Board will gather May 30 at 16 Bay View Street, in Camden, in the Curtis-Bok Room for an informal meet and greet session with citizens.
Megunticook Market will be donating light fare to the Candidate Social Night and there will be a cash bar. Candidates attending will be Susan Dorr, Stephanie French, Ken Gross and Sophie Romana.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mL8f0jwIWAE
on the issues
Camden Select Board Candidates on EMS, sewer, climate resiliency, Montgomery Dam
CAMDEN — The four candidates seeking election for the two open Select Board seats in Camden gathered May 14 in the French Meeting Room at the Camden Town Office, where PenBayPilot.com hosted a Candidates’ Forum.
It was an informative two hours as the candidates — Susan Dorr, Stephanie French (incumbent), Ken Gross and Sophie Romana (incumbent) thoughtfully addressed a variety of topics, ranging from EMS service and sewer systems to the Montgomery Dam, Megunticook River Project, the future of... Read more
Letter to the editor
The Irony of It
I had to laugh when I saw the signs that the opponents of Rockports article 3 on sewage have put out. “Stop the Flow!” and “ Hold It!”
That is exactly what Camden has told Rockport to do with its sewage after March of 2026 in their letter to us in March of 2022.
Very clever! The irony bites deep.
Please vote yes on Rockport Article 3 for a better future for Rockport.
Douglas Cole lives in Rockport
Letter to the editor
Hope common sense prevails and Rockport votes no on Article 3
A few good reasons to vote NO on Rockport’s Question 3 — the $51 million sewer bond:Camden cannot simply turn off the valve; DEP requires a viable alternative. Despite misinformation, Camden’s rates for Rockport have remained relatively flat. (View Wastewater Budgets online.) A stand-alone system in Rockport would cost BOTH Camden and Rockport dearly.Rockport’s increased costs stem from over $100,000 in litigation resulting from Woodard & Curran‘s (W&C) math error, prompting Rockport’s... Read more
Letter to the editor
Signs are all over, three weeks before town elections
“Keep Your Mind on Your Driving and Your Hands on the Wheel" in Rockport.
This is a line written by Paul Evans in the 1960s. It came to mind as I headed home recently through Rockport Village. The signs, the signs! They are all over, three weeks before the Town election on June 11.
Some have lengthy messages, some from a candidate who is running unopposed, all of which can cause havoc for the reader/driver trying to make his way through Rockport Village.
I'm thinking of the... Read more
letter to the editor
Allow a citizens group from Camden, Rockport to explore wastewater cooperation
To Rockport and Camden citizens,
There have been recent letters stating that it is all Camden’s fault that the two towns can’t agree on wastewater. As in most disputes, there are two sides. Following are a few other points to consider: First, there was a 30-year mutually agreeable interlocal wastewater agreement between Rockport and Camden that expired in 2020. Based on a flawed analysis by Rockport’s engineers, Rockport stopped paying Camden’s wastewater bills to us in 2022. Not... Read more
letter to the editor
Ken Gross will be an able steward on the Camden Select Board
Just as Ken Gross was a thoughtful, responsible, helpful steward in his service roles at the Camden Public Library for 20 years, Ken Gross will be an able steward on the Camden Select Board — serving us all, as a seaside community, as we discuss and decide together the path forward on issues critical to us, our children, and theirs. I thank Ken for his energy and commitment to our community, and I am proud to support his candidacy for Camden Select Board and to encourage you to support Ken as... Read more
letter to the editor
Did Ken Gross really say that?
Last Tuesday, I went to the Camden Select Board candidates’ forum. It was pretty bland stuff until Ken Gross, leader of Save the Dam Falls, answered a question about the Montgomery Dam. He said it shouldn’t be touched because it’s an integral part of the Bok-Olmsted Brothers legacy at Harbor Park.
Ken knows – or should know – that this isn’t true. A few weeks ago, he sat through historian Jennifer Gromada’s presentation to her fellow library trustees about the real Harbor Park legacy.
Mary... Read more
letter to the editor
Rockport Select Board is rushing into a $51 million dollar project without adequately exploring alternatives
We have owned a home in Rockport for 36 years and like many other homeowners have seen our taxes over those years increase dramatically. A large portion of those tax increases paid for a new Town Office, three new schools, new library and fire station. These additions to the town increased the quality of life for all residents who can afford to live in Rockport. But unfortunately many long term residents can not afford these ever increasing taxes.
We are now being asked to approve by far the... Read more
letter to the editor
Controlling our future in Rockport
The Town of Rockport Economic Development Committee was created by the Select Board in 2020 to advise the board on issues related to economic development. Over the years our committee has reviewed existing reports and solicited additional input from residents regarding the nature and pace of growth that is desirable for our town. And though there exists a range of opinions, there are several goals with very broad support:
Reduce our individual tax burden through growing the tax base;Increase... Read more
letter to the editor
Endorsing Sophie Romana and Susan Dorr for Camden Select Board
I am endorsing Sophie Romana and Susan Dorr for the Select Board election on June 11 and encourage every citizen of Camden to vote for them to help govern our community going forward.
The May 14 panel discussion made it abundantly clear that Susan and Sophie are willing to look forward and be thoughtful about the long-term health of our community and the legacy we are leaving our children. They spoke thoughtfully about the environment and the broad range of services we want to provide our... Read more
ROCKPORT TOWN MEETING 2024 ELECTIONS
On the issues: Rockport Select Board Candidate Tiffany Ford
Four candidates are running for two open seats on the Rockport Select Board. Three are competing for two three-year seats, and one is running for a one-year term that opened up when James Annis stepped down last winter for health reason.
The three running for the two open seats are Denise K. Munger, Delores Michelle Hannan and Tiffany Ford. John Viehman is the only candidate running for the one-year term.
Elections take place June 11 at the polls at annual town meeting.
Penobscot Bay Pilot... Read more
Rockport Town Meeting 2024 elections
On the issues: Rockport Select Board Candidate John Viehman
Four candidates are running for two open seats on the Rockport Select Board. Three are competing for two three-year seats, and one is running for a one-year term that opened up when James Annis stepped down last winter for health reason.
The three running for the two open seats are Denise K. Munger, Delores Michelle Hannan and Tiffany Ford. John Viehman is the only candidate running for the one-year term.
Elections take place June 11 at the polls at annual town meeting.
Penobscot Bay Pilot... Read more
letter to the editor
Why I am voting No on Rockport Article 3 in June
Since spring of 2023 hundreds of Rockport residents have become increasingly aware of the deficiencies in the Rockport Select Board’s Article 3 proposal to build a $51 million stand-alone wastewater treatment facility.
The Select Board appointed a working Task Force that researched the siting, operating and financial complexities of a Rockport-only wastewater treatment facility but did not allow the Task Force to even consider the possibility of continuing the 30-year wastewater collaboration... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote Yes on Rockport’s Article 3
As I sat down to write this letter, I was preparing to explain what a thorough job our Wastewater Task Force had done in recommending a location and technology for a new Rockport wastewater treatment plant. It didn’t take me long to realize that these are not the issues that most Rockport residents are wrestling with. Just today an acquaintance of mine told me that he hasn’t followed this issue closely but that “$33 million is a lot of money and it seems as if Camden and Rockport should work... Read more
letter to the editor
Use Mack Point for the proposed offshore wind port
We are writing not in opposition to Offshore Wind in Searsport, as both local and state media have implied, but in opposition to choosing Sears Island as the preferred location for this development. Mack Point seems to be the obviously better choice, It is the fastest option to permit and construct a wind port in Penobscot Bay that meets the 100 acre size requirement. Dredging needed at Mack Point is minimal, compared with Sears Island, with less potential sediment contamination.
Concerns... Read more
6 to 8 p.m., French Conference Room, Camden Town Office
Camden Select Board Candidates’ Forum, May 14
CAMDEN — PenBayPilot.com will host a Camden Select Board Candidates’ Forum Tuesday, May 14, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the French Meeting Room at the Camden Town Office on Washington Street.
Vicki Doudera, of Camden, will be the moderator.
The public is invited to attend and ask questions of the four candidates who are seeking a seat on the Select Board. The forum will be streamed live and available to watch later for those unable to attend.
There are two open seats this June, and elections will... Read more
Vote No on Rockport’s Article 3 and Vote Yes on Article 15
On June 11, Rockport voters are being asked to approve an enormous $38 million ($52 million with fees and interest!) initiative for a new stand-alone sewage treatment plant without sufficient analysis of the alternatives. In short, the standalone facility was presented, based on flawed assumptions, as our only option.
While it is true that a Wastewater Task Force researched the technical issues of siting and operating a wastewater treatment plant, their focus was primarily on the engineering... Read more
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