What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
Municipalities must be incentivized to clearly define measurable zoning and permitting requirements. There also needs to be legislation that encourages municipalities to actively take steps towards meeting projected housing needs.
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?
We need to be able to provide electricity to the people, regardless of how we source it. While clean energy is an admirable pursuit we must be cost-conscious of how we go about it. If we make the cost of energy prohibitively expensive, we will see businesses and people leave our state.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
State government should be on our side, not on our back. This past year unfunded mandates put in place by the State Legislature fell onto the backs of taxpayers. The establishment of a study committee of unfunded mandates at the state level would promote more durable legislation. We need to establish a way to measure, understand, and mitigate the tax burden proposed legislation places on towns, schools, and counties.
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 prioritize mental health into our state budget. This includes the development of treatment facilities, accessible counseling services, and ensuring our law enforcement and first responders are adequately trained for a variety of situations.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
I grew up in a small Maine town, served in the U.S. Army to protect our freedoms, and gained experience meeting and working with people all over the world. When I returned home to Winthrop, I found I still wanted to be involved in public service and make a positive impact. While serving as chair of the town council, I noticed a disconnect between the State Legislature and local communities. I want to bridge the gap, propose equitable solutions, and make this state a place where our children can thrive.
