BUCKSPORT, Maine — Tracey Hair announced on Aug. 10 that she will not seek reelection to the Bucksport Town Council.
Hair cited shifting demands personally and professionally in making her decision, according to the statement, posted to social media and emailed to the River Observer.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, but I know it’s the right one for me,” she said.
She also asked residents to consider taking out nomination papers for one of two open three-year seats on the town council. Deputy Mayor Mark Eastman currently holds the other.
“I hope someone who has been thinking about getting involved will consider running,” she said.
Bucksport’s municipal election is set for Nov. 3. Nomination papers are available at the town office. Forms with signatures of at least 25 but no more than 100 registered voters must be returned to the town office by 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 3, to secure a spot on the ballot.
Hair was first elected to the council in 2023; her term expires on Dec. 31.
She is a community partner with the Maine Community Foundation and previously served as executive director of Orland-based H.O.M.E. Inc.
Hair’s statement
Hair’s complete statement is as follows:
“Bucksport friends, after a lot of thought, I’ve decided not to seek another term on the Bucksport Town Council when my term ends in December.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, but I know it’s the right one for me. A lot has changed since I first ran for council, personally and professionally.
“Losing my wife early in my term was part of that, and over time, work, life and other board commitments have all shifted too. I’ve come to realize I can’t give this role the time and attention it deserves.
“I’m grateful to the people who trusted me with this role and gave me the chance to serve Bucksport. I’m also thankful for the conversations, the hard questions, and the people who care enough to keep showing up for this community.
“Some of the moments I’ll remember most didn’t happen during official meetings. They happened at the grocery store, at community events, or while running into people at the transfer station. Those moments reminded me that local government is really neighbors talking to neighbors and trying to figure out what’s best for the place we all care about.
“I hope someone who has been thinking about getting involved will consider running. Bucksport needs people who care about this town, are willing to listen, and are ready to do the work. You don’t have to have all the answers to make a difference.
“I’ll be cheering on whoever decides to take that step, and I look forward to staying involved in Bucksport in a different way.”