What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
One of the ways to make housing easier to build in the State of Maine is to cut regulations and codes. They are needed but we seem to be adding on every year until we get to be “over the line” and too many on the books, so to speak. Every department should “police” itself by looking what is on the books and to re-address or eliminate what no longer applies. It’s called being efficient. Getting to the question, Maine should have one building code construction standard for the state.
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?
Maine should have taken the offer from Hydro Quebec years ago for electrical power to be brought into the State. Hydro power is clean, renewable and cheap. The enormity of Hydro Quebec would have powered Maine for many years to come at a fraction of the cost of wind, solar and nuclear. We are now going to “pay the price” for being independent!
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
A few years ago, we had the Senior Property Tax Stabilization Program and that lasted one year! It was defeated by the democratic legislature. This was a program to help our seniors live in their homes for a few more years after retirement. We have to implement this program again in one form or another for our senior citizens! Currently, Maine has one of the highest tax rates in the nation! Our seniors deserve better from us!
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?
First of all, we need to follow the laws of this State! The “Yellow Flag” law was totally disregarded by multiple parties! We also have a major need for the availability of institutional mental health facilities in this State. When one cries out for help, no one listens!
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
Our seniors need help in all areas in their lives with such basics as food, transportation, medical issues and appointments. If they have a house, the Senior Property Tax Stabilization Program is needed. Traveling for medical reasons is also a real issue for some.