What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
We need to build more housing. One way we can start to see that happen is reduce costly, unnecessary, time consuming permitting requirements. It’s expensive enough to build a home. Adding $25k+ in fees just to build a home isn’t realistic.
Another issue is the cumbersome, slow eviction process. When adding risk, you eliminate units and rents go up. Fix the system so good tenants aren’t paying for the bad ones.
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?
I’m not against green energy sources. Electricity prices have skyrocketed. Net zero billing needs to be done away with. Even California rolled their version back, yet our current legislature refuses to correct this bad policy. Solar on your roof is great, but your neighbor shouldn’t be paying for it.
Another issue not talked about much, is Sears Island. While it’s not in my district, I think it’s shame to bulldoze it for a 100-acre port when there are alternatives. We need to conserve the environment that we’re trying to protect.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
Property taxes. I’m not against paying my fair share, but I do think we need reasonable restrictions on increases. No one should lose their home or be impoverished over high property taxes. I also believe that at some point, after contributing to a community for decades, you deserve to be able to live in your home without fear of losing it.
These taxes are hurting us. We need relief, not political runaround that leads to nothing. This will be my primary goal if I’m elected.
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?
There’s a lack of access to mental health services in the state. This tragedy is a clear example of that. However, punishing thousands of gun owners who’ve never committed a crime with waiting periods, and other proposed rules that don’t address the root cause of the problem, is wrong.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
I’ve visited thousands of homes during this campaign. I’ve talked with people from every party. I plan to bring action to the numerous issues that we have common ground in (property taxes – I can’t stress this enough). People over politics.