What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
Many building contractors have stated that they are having difficulty locating and keeping new house construction employees, a reflection of high school students not being held accountable for their grades, which often are very inflated. I’m told that many new hires lack the work ethic, dedication and commitment to the job. Free community college tuition has helped many students attend post-secondary schooling, but we invest more in the training of building trades students, establishing requirements and guidelines for graduation from the academic program and into the work force. Several contractors would like to offer on the job training apprentice opportunities but feel that too many state regulations limit new hire possibilities.
Transmission lines, solar incentives and offshore wind development have been controversial over the past several years. What steps should Maine take to meet growing demand for electricity?
Damaging energy policies have led to soaring food, fuel and energy costs. Taxpayer dollars are subsidizing politically favored industries at the expense of small businesses and working families. We must support low-cost clean and renewable energy, such as hydropower and end the expansive and unsustainable subsidies.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
Many senior citizens in Gorham are concerned that they may not remain in their homes due to increased tax burdens. Maine was in the correct direction with property tax caps for seniors. Instead of repealing the former law, we should have been more innovative in altering the past law. The new challenge involves creating a new program that benefits our dedicated seniors. Maine recently has experienced huge surpluses. instead of creating new programs, which may not be necessary, let’s address current citizen tax difficulties.
We are closing in on the one-year anniversary of the Lewiston mass shooting. Are further legislative responses required around guns, mental health, supporting victims and families or other policy areas?
We all agree that the Lewiston mass shooting was a terrible tragedy. The investigative report revealed that lives were lost due to the failure of our current system. We must invest more in the mental inpatient and outpatient services, with treatment facilities, and opportunities for more health care professionals in Maine. We also must offer more law enforcement training to properly address future challenging situations.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
As a 42 year high school math teacher and 20 year college professor, I will bring the ability to listen and communicate with fellow Mainers. I will focus on legislation to reduce electricity costs, lower property taxes, expand housing opportunities, and ensure that students are acquiring the skills to enter adulthood and the work force. I don’t consider myself a politician but rather a concerned citizen who wants to help Maine’s economy.
