What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
I believe we need to roll-back permitting requirements and inspections for new home construction. I have a constituent that is trying to build work-force housing here in southern Maine and the permitting costs and the 12 different code inspections has increased the costs of his, so-called, affordable housing by as much as $25,000. There are ways to streamline the inspection requirements without overburdening the developer and ultimately the home buyer who must pay for those costs. We must also invest in vocational training opportunities in the trades. A lack of plumbers, electricians and carpenters has slowed the construction process thus adding carrying costs to the bottom line.
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?
There needs to be more transparency in the electric billing system. Consumers are paying higher energy costs without a full understanding of what those costs represent. The subsidizing of wind and solar should be clearly spelled out in the billing process. Rural Mainers on fixed incomes should not be subsidizing solar panels on million-dollar houses in coastal communities throughout Maine. The new expansion of offshore wind will add an additional layer of subsidizing costs that Maine ratepayers should have a clearer understanding of those costs and the impacts on the electric costs.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
Maine has seen historic surpluses in revenues without any meaningful tax reductions, only increased spending. Maine needs to reduce the costs of government and lower the income tax brackets to give meaningful tax relief to Maine residents. We need to help lower the property tax burden for our senior citizens on fixed incomes who can no longer afford to stay in their homes. With the ever-increasing costs of homes, the property tax burden has made it impossible for many Mainers to remain in their homes. We need to bring back the property tax cap.
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 need to provide more and better mental healthcare services. We need more treatment facilities, counseling services and support mental health services within our police forces, both state and local.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
Having served in the past in both the House and Senate, I bring valuable experience that I will be able to utilize on day one. Having worked in the private sector, and run my own business, I have a unique perspective facing Maine’s small businesses being impacted by new and overburdensome regulations. I’ve served many years at the local level as a selectman in my hometown and I understand the burden that unfunded mandates have on municipal budgets.
