State House Summary

The Maine Legislature convened for the 17th Legislative Day of the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature on March 24, 2026. Committees continued reporting bills out for floor consideration, covering topics such as environmental policy, behavioral health services, municipal public notice requirements, energy infrastructure, and the lobster industry. Several measures advanced through the enactment calendar toward final passage. Lawmakers also adopted numerous legislative sentiments recognizing the achievements of students, athletes, and community members across Maine, including several from Ellsworth and Mount Desert Island.

Notable Legislation

LD 474 – An Act to Improve Maine’s Environment and Protect Natural Resources

This bill expands Maine’s product stewardship program for batteries and makes other updates to environmental protections. The Environment and Natural Resources Committee reported the bill Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment S-565.

LD 1216 – An Act to Improve Behavioral Health Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention Services

The bill aims to strengthen crisis response systems, reduce stigma, and improve services for children, youth, and families, including codifying the 988 lifeline. The Health and Human Services Committee reported the bill Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment S-561.

LD 2002 – An Act to Extend the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative to December 31, 2031

This legislation would extend the authorization of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative for six additional years. The Marine Resources Committee reported the bill Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment S-574.

LD 2042 – An Act to Eliminate the Requirement for Municipalities to Provide Public Notice in a Newspaper

The bill originally sought to allow municipalities to fulfill public notice requirements via websites instead of newspapers. Following compromise discussions, the State and Local Government Committee reported an amended version Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment S-573, which retains newspaper publication while adding digital options.

LD 2064 – An Act to Expand Access to Early Childhood Nutrition by Establishing a Grant Program for Public Preschools

This bill would create a grant program to help off-site public preschool programs provide free breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The Education and Cultural Affairs Committee issued a divided report: majority Ought to Pass as Amended; minority Ought Not to Pass.

LD 838 – An Act to Explore Public Financing and Ownership of Electric Transmission and Distribution Infrastructure

The proposal evolved into a study of public financing options. The Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee issued a divided report: majority Ought to Pass as Amended (creating a commission to study public financing for transmission, distribution, generation, and storage projects); minority Ought Not to Pass.

LD 1908 – An Act to Require the Cooperation of Original Manufacturers of Electronic Devices to Facilitate the Repair of Those Devices by Device Owners and Independent Repair Providers

Commonly known as a “right-to-repair” bill, it would require manufacturers to provide parts, tools, and documentation to owners and independent repair shops. The Housing and Economic Development Committee issued a divided report with competing amendments.

LD 1643 – An Act to Establish the Maine Life Science Innovation Center

This bill, which creates a state-supported center to promote life sciences research and innovation, was passed to be engrossed as amended by the House in 2025 and has since advanced further in the process.

Legislative Resolutions and Actions

The Legislature adopted many expressions of legislative sentiment honoring Maine students, athletes, and community members.

The House advanced several measures through the enactment calendar, including:

LD 2000 – An Act to Update the Campaign Finance Laws

LD 2030 – An Act to Expand the Scope of Practice of Independent Practice Dental Hygienists (including administration of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide)

LD 2088 – An Act to Increase Access to Primary Care Provided by Physician Associates (removing certain practice agreement requirements)

Hancock County Recognitions

Several Hancock County residents and student athletes received formal legislative sentiments:

Finley Harmon of Ellsworth — third consecutive Outstanding Musicianship Award for vocal performance at the 2026 State Jazz Festival.

Harper Turner of Ellsworth — Outstanding Musicianship Award for instrumental performance and composition at the same festival.

Eden Klein of Ellsworth — first place in the 200-yard individual medley, Ellsworth High School Swimming and Diving Team, 2026 Class B State Championships.

Cavan Jester of Ellsworth — first place in both the 50-yard freestyle and 100-yard freestyle, 2026 Class B State Championships.

Patrick Saltysiak of Mount Desert — first place in the 100-yard butterfly and 100-yard backstroke, and named Performer of the Meet, Mount Desert Island High School Swimming and Diving Team, 2026 Class B State Championships.

Committee Activity

Notable committee reports included:

Environment and Natural Resources Committee: LD 474 (Ought to Pass as Amended)

Education and Cultural Affairs Committee: LD 2064 (divided report)

Housing and Economic Development Committee: LD 1908 (divided report with competing amendments)

Transportation Committee: LD 2241 – Resolve, Authorizing the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation to Report Out a Bill Regarding the Towing Industry (Ought to Pass)

Coming Up This Week

Lawmakers are expected to continue floor action on committee reports, including LD 2064 (preschool nutrition grants), LD 838 (public financing study), and LD 1908 (right-to-repair). Additional bills from the consent and enactment calendars will also move forward as the Second Regular session continues.

About this newsletter

This weekly digest exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

March 17, 2026

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Where the Session Stands

The Legislature is now working through bills that have cleared committee and are moving toward final votes. Most of the activity this week involved committee reports, amendments, and floor action rather than new bill introductions.

At this stage, the focus is on final language and whether both chambers can agree on it. That is where the process is starting to slow.

Bar Harbor Ferry Bill

L.D. 1477 – An Act to Provide an Exemption from Pilotage Requirements for Passenger Ferry Service Between Bar Harbor, Maine and Yarmouth, Nova Scoti

This bill would allow the ferry service between Bar Harbor and Nova Scotia to operate without a Maine-licensed pilot onboard, something supporters argue is necessary to make the route financially viable.

The Senate passed an amended version. The House rejected those changes and has maintained its position. The bill is now in non-concurrence and cannot move forward unless the two chambers reach agreement.

Legislation Moving This Week

Several bills moved through committee reports and floor action as the Legislature works through its backlog:

L.D. 517 – An Act to Protect the First Amendment Rights of Individuals in the State

Despite its broad title, the bill has evolved into a proposal focused on political communications. As it stands, it would require campaigns to disclose when images, audio, or video have been altered or generated using artificial intelligence. The bill advanced this week and remains active.

L.D. 2215 – An Act Relating to Nonwater-dependent Floating Structures

This bill addresses how Maine regulates floating structures that are not tied to traditional waterfront uses, an issue that has raised concerns about shoreline development and use of coastal waters.

L.D. 2217 – An Act Related to the Electronic Tagging of Deer

This proposal would modernize wildlife management by allowing or requiring electronic tagging of deer, replacing or supplementing current manual systems.

L.D. 2221 – An Act to Amend the Composition of the Landowners and Land Users Relations Advisory Board

This bill adjusts the makeup of the advisory board that deals with conflicts between landowners and recreational users, including access and liability issues.

L.D. 2234 – An Act to Increase the Debt Limit of the Vinalhaven Water District

An emergency measure that would allow the district to take on additional debt to fund infrastructure improvements. Because of its emergency status, it is expected to move on an accelerated timeline.

Additional Bills in the Pipeline

Other measures continuing to move through the process include:

L.D. 1301 – An Act to Prohibit the Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Denial of Health Insurance Claims

A proposal aimed at limiting the use of AI in health insurance decisions, particularly claim denials.

L.D. 1281 – An Act to Address the Safety of Nurses and Improve Patient Care by Enacting the Maine Quality Care Act

Focuses on staffing levels and working conditions for nurses, with the goal of improving patient care.

L.D. 1605 – An Act to Support Farmers and Food Banks Affected by Federal Funding Cuts to Their Existing Contracts

Addresses funding gaps affecting agricultural producers and food distribution programs.

L.D. 1822 – An Act to Enact the Maine Online Data Privacy Act

Establishes new requirements for how companies collect, use, and protect personal data online.

Resolution Activity

The Legislature also considered a joint resolution recognizing the killing of Charlie Kirk, a national conservative political activist and founder of Turning Point USA.

The resolution failed to advance after Democratic lawmakers voted it down, effectively killing the measure in the Democratic-controlled Legislature.

While resolutions do not carry the force of law, this vote reflects how even symbolic measures can become politically divisive.

Session Outlook

The Legislature is now in the phase where outcomes depend on agreement between the House and Senate.

Bills like L.D. 1477 show where that agreement is breaking down, while others continue to move forward through amendment and negotiation.

Over the coming weeks, expect more bills to reach final votes, more last-minute changes, and a clearer picture of which proposals will ultimately pass.

About this newsletter

This weekly digest exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

Maine Legislative Update

Week of March 2, 2026 - March 6, 2026

132nd Legislature – Second Regular Session

Early March Snapshot

The Legislature convenes Tuesday, March 3 for its 10th Legislative Day. Activity this week centers on committee reports, agency evaluations, nominations, and legislative sentiments.

Environment & Natural Resources

The Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources completed its State Government Evaluation Act review of:

The Board of Environmental Protection

The Department of Environmental Protection

The committee found both operating within statutory authority.

However, a majority of committee members expressed concern regarding Department staffing levels, noting delays in license and permit processing and an approximate 10% vacancy rate. Members indicated support for improving salary competitiveness to address recruitment and retention challenges.

For coastal counties, including Hancock, permit processing timelines remain a relevant operational issue.

Health Coverage, Insurance & Financial Services

The committee voted unanimously to report the following bills “Ought Not to Pass”:

L.D. 2190

L.D. 2197

L.D. 2198

L.D. 2199

These bills related to regulatory oversight of health care transactions.

Hancock County Recognitions

Ellsworth High School Cheer Team

Recognized for winning the 2026 Class B State Championship, their fourth consecutive title.

In Memoriam – Hancock County

George “Skip” Smith – Lamoine

Chief of the Lamoine Volunteer Fire Department for 49 years and the town’s longest continuously serving employee.

Clifford Carl Olson – Northeast Harbor

Educator, counselor, coach, and longtime community volunteer on Mount Desert Island.

Both memorial sentiments were sponsored by Senator Nicole Grohoski and cosponsored by Representative Gary Friedmann.

Floor Activity

No floor votes this week directly affecting Hancock County.

Bottom Line

The week was procedural, with committee reporting and agency oversight work dominating activity. The DEP staffing discussion remains the most operationally relevant issue for coastal permitting and development timelines.

About this newsletter

This weekly digest exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

Legislative activity continued this week with ongoing work on the supplemental budget, alongside several recorded House votes on substantive policy bills. While Appropriations hearings remained central, the House moved forward on child protection legislation and narrowly divided measures involving broadband policy and labor law enforcement.

House Floor Action

L.D. 524 — An Act to Protect Children from Technology-Facilitated Sexual Abuse

Vote: 128–0

The House unanimously enacted legislation addressing sexual abuse involving digital platforms and emerging technologies. The bill passed with an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon final enactment.

This was one of the clearest bipartisan votes of the session.

Hancock County Roll Call

All Hancock County Representatives voted “yay,” except Gary Friedman (D-Bar Harbor) who was absent.

L.D. 1975 — An Act to Eliminate the ConnectMaine Authority

Vote: 65–64

The House narrowly voted to advance legislation that would eliminate the ConnectMaine Authority by repealing the Advanced Technology Infrastructure Act.

The one-vote margin reflects continued division over the state’s role in broadband expansion and infrastructure oversight, particularly in rural areas.

Hancock County Roll Call

Senate

Yay: Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Nay: Moore (R-Washington), Hagan (R-Penobscot)

House

Yay: Eaton (D-Deer Isle), Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Nay: Bishop (R-Bucksport), Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor), McIntyre (R-Lowell), White (R-Ellsworth)

Absent: Friedmann (D-Bar Harbor)

L.D. 1587 — An Act to Establish Greater Alignment of Penalties for Certain Labor Law Violations

Vote: 64–65 (Motion Failed)

The House rejected the majority committee recommendation that would have advanced increased penalties, including potential criminal sanctions, for certain labor law violations.

Following the failed motion, the minority “Ought Not to Pass” position moved forward, effectively halting the bill in its current form.

Hancock County Roll Call

Senate

Yay: Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Nay: Moore (R-Washington), Hagan (R-Penobscot)

House

Yay: Eaton (D-Deer Isle), Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Nay: Bishop (R-Bucksport), Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor), McIntyre (R-Lowell), White (R-Ellsworth)

Absent: Friedmann (D-Bar Habor)

Supplemental Budget Developments

The supplemental appropriations bill, L.D. 2212, remained under review in the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.

Hearings continued on funding allocations involving:

• Health and Human Services

• Education

• Housing

• Public safety

• Revenue and tax provisions

The committee remains in the testimony phase. Work sessions and amendment negotiations are expected in the coming weeks as surplus allocation decisions take shape.

Bottom Line

This was a mixed week of continued budget hearings and meaningful House floor action.

One bill passed unanimously. Two others were decided by a single vote.

The session is beginning to shift from information-gathering to visible policy decisions, with closely divided votes signaling where larger debates are likely to intensify.

Around Hancock County

Bankruptcy bill amended to force county governments to conduct timely audits

The Maine Monitor via The Ellsworth American

A bill that started as a proposal to allow Maine towns and counties to seek bankruptcy protection has been rewritten to focus instead on financial accountability. Under the revised language, county governments would be required to complete annual audits within 12 months of the end of their fiscal year and submit them for state auditor review, with extensions possible if needed. The shift came after concerns that even discussing bankruptcy options could raise borrowing costs for local governments, and the amended bill aims to create firmer deadlines and transparency around county finances.

Town of Sedgwick ponders pot proposal at public hearing

The Weekly Packet

Sedgwick held a public hearing on a proposal to allow recreational cannabis retail in town, with supporters pointing to potential tax revenue and opponents raising concerns about traffic, location and community impact. The discussion showed a clear split among residents as the board weighs whether to put the question to voters in a referendum.

Brooklin Boat Yard receives $1.5 million in development funds

The Weekly Packet

Brooklin’s boatyard is getting a $1.5 million boost in development funding aimed at expanding capacity and modernizing facilities. Supporters say the investment will help sustain jobs and strengthen a key part of the town’s marine economy, while questions remain about timing, long-term costs and how the improvements will fit into broader harbor activity.

Town of Orland Select board seeks ambulance options

The River Observer

Orland’s select board is exploring options for ambulance service after the town’s current provider signaled it may no longer be able to continue. Board members discussed potential partners, costs and how changes might affect response times, and residents at the meeting emphasized the importance of reliable emergency coverage. The process is still early, but finding a sustainable solution is becoming a pressing local issue.

Bucksport Regional Health Center receives grant

The River Observer

Bucksport Regional Health Center has been awarded about $1.98 million in grant funding secured by Sen. Susan Collins to support an expansion of dental services and related care in the community. The infusion of federal dollars aims to help the center broaden access to dental care in a region where such services can be hard to come by and strengthen local health resources without shifting costs to patients

Superintendent Says Single Voting Day Protects Fairness in School Reorganization

Bar Harbor Story

Superintendent Mike Zboray is urging AOS 91 towns to hold the school reorganization vote on June 9 alongside the state primary. He says a single voting day protects fairness by preventing early results in one town from influencing others and keeps the process on track for the July 1 fiscal year. Trenton’s Select Board agreed to the June 9 date.

Mount Desert Looks to Raise Some Property Assessments as Market Values Climb

Bar Harbor Story

Mount Desert officials plan to increase many property assessments after finding values are well below current market sales. The interim update would bring assessments closer to state standards, with larger increases in some parts of town. A full revaluation is expected within the next two years.

After Strong Voter Backing, Southwest Harbor Reconsiders Scope of Hazardous Soil Testing

Bar Harbor Story

After voters approved mandatory soil testing near certain hazardous sites, Southwest Harbor officials say they will refine the ordinance to clarify its scope and enforcement. Revised language could return to voters later this year.

Upcoming Town Meetings

Blue Hill

Blue Hill’s annual Town Meeting will take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, commencing at 9:00am in the Blue Hill Consolidated Gymnasium. Municipal Elections will be the day before, Friday, April 3, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the town office

Brooksville

Brooksville’s annual Town Meeting will take place Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Brooksville Elementary School. Municipal Elections will be the day before, Monday, March 2. Municipal elections are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the town office and include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA.

Deer Isle

Deer Isle’s annual Town Meeting will take place Monday, March 2. The day begins with a referendum vote from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the town office, followed by the warrant portion of the meeting at approximately 3 p.m.

Penobscot

Penobscot's annual Town Meeting will take place Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department. Municipal Elections will be the day before, Monday, March 2. Municipal elections will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department and will include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA and funding for the Blue Hill Public Library.

Sedgwick

Sedgwick’s annual town meeting is changing the way it handles its warrant articles this year by moving part of voting on them to a separate session. The municipal election and referendum vote take place on Friday, March 6, from 1-6 p.m. at the Sedgwick Town House and the open Town Meeting to Saturday, June 6, at 9 a.m.

Stonington

Stonington voters are getting ready for their annual town meeting on March 2. The day begins with a referendum vote from 8 a.m. to noon at the town office, followed by the warrant portion of the meeting at 3 p.m., also at the town office.

Surry

Surry’s annual Town Meeting will take place Monday, April 13 at 6 p.m. at the Surry Elementary School. Municipal Elections will be held on Friday, April 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Surry Town Office.

Local Election News

Blue Hill

There is one seat up the Blue Hill Select Board. Ellen Best is running for re-election and she is challenged by Scott Cromwell.

Ballot voting is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 3, at the town office

Brooksville

There is one open seat on the Brooksville Select Board as Richard Bakeman is not running for re-election. Shawn Duffy and Linda Gifford are running for that seat.

There are two seats up on the school board. Sam Vaughn and Annie Silver are running for re-election and Lindsay MacDonald is running as a write-in candidate.

Ballot voting is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Deer Isle

Ronald Eaton is running unopposed for re-election to the Selectboard. This term lasts three years. This will be his fifth term.

Co-chairperson of Union 76 School Board, Chelsea Torrey of Stonington, is seeking re-election and is unopposed.

Town Clerk Heather Cormier, and town Treasurer/Tax Collector Judy Dunham are running for re-election for one year terms in their positions.

Ballot voting is from 7 a.m. to noon Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Mount Desert

There are two seats available for the Selectboard. Board Chair John Mcauley is running for re-election. David MacDonald is also running.

There is also 1 position on School Board, and 1 three-year School District Trustee vacancy and 1 one-year School District Trustee vacancy.

Per the town website: Deadline for filing nominations papers is Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. The residents of Mount Desert will vote for these elected officials at their annual town meeting on Monday, May 4, 2026.

Penobscot

There is one open seat on the Penobscot Selectboard. Scott Ferden and Vivian Turner Welts are running for that seat.

Town Clerk Sally Bridges is not running for re-election. Rita Martynowski is running unopposed for the two-year term.

Voters will also choose members for the school board, finance committee, and charter commission. There are no candidates for the charter commission so voters must write in candidates.

Municipal elections will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department and will include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA and funding for the Blue Hill Public Library.

Sedgwick

There is one open seat on the Selectboard. Incumbent Selectboard member Susan Ford is running unopposed.

There is a contested vote for Sedgwick School Board. One three-year term is open as Board Chair Allen Cole is not seeking re-election. Laura Davis and Tiffany MacDonald are both running for the seat.

The municipal election and referendum vote on Friday, March 6, from 1-6 p.m. at the Sedgwick Town House. There will be two referendum votes. The first referendum vote will be on supplemental tuition for GSA. The second referendum question asks whether residents want to allow a recreational cannabis shop within town borders.

Southwest Harbor

There are two open seats for the Selectboard. Incumbent Chapin McFarland is running for re-election. Former Selectboard members Jim Vallette and Tom Benson are also running.

Per the town website the following positions are also available:

(2) School Board Member three-year term

(1) MDI High School Trustee three-year term

Nomination papers must be returned by 5:30 p.m., Monday March 9, 2026.

Stonington

There are two open seats on the Selectboard. Each term lasts three years. Incumbents Donna Brewer and John Robbins are both seeking reelection.

Stonington has one open seat on the Union 76 School Board. This is also a three year term. Co-chairperson Chelsea Torrey of Stonington is seeking re-election and is unopposed.

Ballot voting is from 8 a.m. to noon Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Surry

There is one open seat on the Surry Selectboard as Board Chair Mary Allen is not running for re-election. This seat is a three year position. William Booth and Nicholas Noddin are seeking election for the contested select board seat.

There are two seats on the Surry School Board. This seat is also a three year position. Jared Benner is running for re-election and Pat Shepard is running for the seat being vacated by Board Chair Nick Noddin.

Municipal Elections will be the day Friday, April 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Surry Town Office.

Tremont

There are two open seats for the Selectboard. McKenzie Jewett is running for re-election. Ben Harper and Michael Reynolds are also running.

Per the town website, the following seats are also available:

School Committee: 2 seats; 3-year term

School District Trustee (High School): 1 seat; 3-year term.

All nomination papers must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office no later than 4 p.m. on March 12th.

About this newsletter

The Hancock County Rundown exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

State House Summary

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

The Legislature remains in the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. Most significant policy movement continues to occur through committee reports, with several amended bills advancing to the floor this week.

Energy policy, housing capacity, transportation, and marine-related development remain active areas.

Session Floor Activity

L.D. 1477 – Passenger Ferry Pilotage (Bar Harbor–Yarmouth, Nova Scotia)

The Transportation Committee issued a divided report on legislation to exempt passenger ferry service between Bar Harbor and Yarmouth from certain pilotage requirements. The majority recommends Ought to Pass as Amended; a minority recommends Ought Not to Pass.

L.D. 1949 – Energy Fairness

The Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee issued a divided report, with the majority recommending Ought to Pass as Amended and a minority recommending Ought Not to Pass.

L.D. 1936 – Net Energy Billing Reform

Advanced as amended.

L.D. 1964 – Distributed Generation Disclosure Requirements

Requires standardized written disclosures for sellers and installers of distributed generation resources and updates consumer protection provisions related to electricity sales.

L.D. 2127 – Maine State Housing Authority Bond Cap

Reported Ought to Pass as Amended. The bill raises the cap on bonds issued by MSHA.

L.D. 2216 – Maine Blue Economy Center

Referred to the Housing and Economic Development Committee pursuant to resolve.

L.D. 2217 – Electronic Tagging of Deer

Referred to the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee pursuant to resolve.

Committee Actions

Several bills received Ought Not to Pass reports this week, including measures related to nonemergency MaineCare transportation, connected vehicle service access for survivors, and prosecution standards in certain domestic violence cases.

Committee work continues to drive the pace of legislation, with many bills advancing in amended form rather than as originally drafted.

Hancock County Watch

While much of the activity is statewide, several measures intersect directly with Hancock County:

• The Bar Harbor–Yarmouth ferry pilotage exemption

• Energy cost allocation and net energy billing changes

• Solar and distributed generation disclosure standards

• Housing financing capacity through MSHA

• The proposed Maine Blue Economy Center

• Electronic deer tagging policy

Senate Sentiment

Dwight Rodgers, of Gouldsboro, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award.

Sponsored by Senator Nicole Grohoski of Hancock

Cosponsored by Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham of Winter Harbor

House Sentiment

Kenneth “Kenny” Leaton Webber, Jr., of Franklin, In Memoriam.

Presented by Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham of Winter Harbor

Cosponsored by Senator Marianne Moore of Washington

About this newsletter

This weekly digest exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

A weekly snapshot of public social media activity from Hancock County–area elected officials. Coverage is limited to local and state officials with direct governing authority affecting Hancock County.

As always, the Rundown tracks what’s happening, where, and why it matters for Hancock County residents.

State Senate

Sen Marianne Moore (R-Washington)

Maine Senate District #6

No new posts.

Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Maine Senate District #7

Link to post and news article:

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02YQAHuQN5ggLVRXUm9D7pfnqkNmaN3djx78W5XTRHQXdAXKvXBF4i3eoU69PkPrXl&id=100057860987321&mibextid=ZbWKwL

Senator David Haggan (R- Penobscot)

Maine Senate District #10

No new posts.

Maine House

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House Minority Leader

Maine House District #12

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BYhhGUf9M/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/173z7Sdm3S/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FpVN4JbcF/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1c7fAsUbAj/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DQnjVMgha/

Representative Russ White (R-Ellsworth)

Maine House District #13

No new posts.

Representative Gary Friedman (D- Bar Harbor)

Maine House District #14

No social media identified

Representative Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle)

Maine House District #15

No new posts.

Representative Nina Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Maine House District #16

No new posts.

Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport)

Maine House District #17

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Braw92w59/

Representative Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell)

Maine House District #18

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1HE8MwUMFm/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AjXQhxTpR/

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17teQtbqab/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CV8eQX17m/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14SqRYsLQju/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18BeS1FS45/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C4HkYme22/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17sJT1JCpo/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17hhnx4cLL/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DYJnLjvTb/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1dFfF6aYA9/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DfMEkvbkk/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17JNdjLgi7/

County Officials

The only two county officials with official Facebook pages are Sheriff Scott Kane and Registrar of Probate Juliette Wilbur. There have been no recent posts on either page.

Follow along on social media each Saturday for the Hancock County Rundown, keeping an eye on what’s happening across Hancock County.

Mid-February Legislative Snapshot (February 14-20, 2026)

This week’s activity was limited due to the Presidents’ Day state holiday on February 16 (no sessions or committee meetings) and cancellations of full floor sessions on February 17 and 19. Focus remained on committee-level work, particularly public hearings on the supplemental budget, with no major floor votes or enactments.

Supplemental Budget Developments

The supplemental appropriations bill, L.D. 2212 (introduced February 12 and referred to the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee), continued to draw attention as hearings progressed. Governor Mills’ proposal addresses a roughly $248 million General Fund surplus, proposing allocations for affordability measures (such as one-time relief checks), MaineCare stability amid potential federal shifts, education, health care, public safety, and other priorities.

The Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee spent this week holding public hearings on L.D. 2212, the state budget bill. Some of those hearings were joint sessions with other committees. On February 19, the committee met with the Taxation Committee to review tax-related sections of the bill, including a proposal to phase out the Business Equipment Tax Reimbursement program. Other joint hearings were held with committees like Health and Human Services and Education to review how the budget affects their departments.

Lawmakers heard testimony both in person and online. Much of the discussion focused on spending priorities, changes to state programs, and how Maine aligns with federal tax law.

The bill is still under review, and negotiations will continue as lawmakers work toward a final version of the budget.

Bottom Line

Because of the holiday and some canceled sessions, there were no major floor votes or headline-making developments this week. Most of the work focused on continued budget hearings as lawmakers prepare for tougher fiscal negotiations in the weeks ahead.

Around Hancock County

Note: Some links to news articles may be behind a paywall.

City pursues lease negotiations at Hancock property

Ellsworth American

The Ellsworth City Council voted 5–2 to allow the city manager to begin negotiating a lease on a property in Hancock. The discussion centers on space needs, as the city continues looking for practical options to support municipal operations. Not everyone agrees leasing is the best route, especially with questions about existing city-owned space, but councilors signaled they are open to exploring the terms. For now, this is about negotiation authority, not a final commitment.

Brooklin voters to consider whether to accept church buildings

Ellsworth American

Brooklin voters will decide whether to accept the former Baptist church and Bowden Hall as a gift to the town. A committee has been reviewing potential uses and long-term costs, with debate centering on opportunity versus upkeep. The decision will shape how, or whether, the buildings serve the community going forward.

Orland residents weigh in on proposed stoplight

Ellsworth American

Orland residents weighed in on a proposed stoplight at the Route 1 intersection with School House and Upper Falls roads. Many support installing a full signal for safety, while others favor a roundabout instead.

Ellsworth schools consider cell phone ban

Ellsworth American

Ellsworth school officials are weighing a proposal to limit or ban student use of cell phones during the school day as part of efforts to reduce distractions and improve focus in classrooms. The idea has drawn input from parents and staff as the district considers what rules might look like if adopted.

Grohoski introduces legislation to address nursing home staffing

Ellsworth American

State Senator Nicole Grohoski has introduced legislation aimed at stabilizing Maine’s nursing home sector by addressing chronic staffing shortages and reimbursement issues. LD 2131 would require the Department of Health and Human Services to adjust nursing facility reimbursement formulas so providers get cost-of-living increases and additional direct-care funding, and to release earned quality bonus payments held in reserve. Grohoski says the bill is meant to help facilities recruit and retain staff and keep long-term care services viable in communities across the state, including Hancock County towns that have lost local skilled nursing options.

Newbury Neck Evacuation Route project in Surry faces public scrutiny

The Weekly Packet

Surry’s Newbury Neck evacuation route proposal is drawing sharper questions from residents, who are pressing town officials on cost, environmental impact and how decisions are being made. While the project is framed as a way to maintain access during flooding, some in town are asking whether the scope, price tag and process match the urgency being described.

Stonington select board cheers new federal grants for the Island

Island Ad-Vantage

The Stonington Select Board celebrated news that the town will receive several federal grants for projects secured by Senator Susan Collins, including dock repairs, harbor infrastructure and stormwater upgrades. Officials say the funding will help pay for improvements that might otherwise fall to taxpayers, but residents will still be watching how the dollars are spent and whether timelines hold.

Blue Hill planning board weighs 10-lot village subdivision

The Rising Tide

A proposed subdivision on Herrick Lane in Blue Hill is facing pushback from the planning board. The Jonathan Fisher Fields Subdivision would carve a 5.7-acre parcel behind Harbor View Apartments into 10 village-scale lots, but the board rejected several key standards for groundwater, water supply and traffic and gave conditional approvals on others, saying more information is needed before the plan can move forward. The developer says he will work with engineers to address the concerns, but the project’s path is not yet clear.

Nearly Two Decades in the Making, Southwest Harbor’s Garage Project May Be Coming Soon

Bar Harbor Story

After nearly two decades of debate, Southwest Harbor may finally see progress on a long-planned municipal garage project. The select board is moving toward a preferred site and has begun sketching out timelines and costs for building a new facility to replace aging infrastructure. While some residents are relieved to see momentum on something many consider overdue, questions remain about price, design and how the project will fit into the town’s broader capital needs.

State Housing Expansion Law Prompts Local Review in Southwest Harbor

Bar Harbor Story

Southwest Harbor’s planning board spent part of its meeting digging into the implications of a new state housing expansion law that requires towns to allow multiple dwellings on a single lot in many residential areas. Board members said the change probably won’t upend local rules, since existing town regulations still govern things like dimensional and lot requirements, but they’re sorting through how the state mandate fits with current zoning. The board also took up a separate state outdoor lighting law that could affect public lighting standards.

As Canada Reviews Ferry Contract, Maine Weighs State Support

Bar Harbor Story

Bar Harbor and Maine officials are watching closely as Canada reviews the contract for the high-speed ferry between Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, and Bar Harbor. Bay Ferries is asking the state to cover roughly $325,000 a year in piloting costs, and a consultant report that could influence the vessel’s future hasn’t been released publicly yet. Locally there’s concern about what changes in ownership, crew or funding might mean for the service and for Bar Harbor’s connections with Nova Scotia.

After a Decade of Flat Rates, Bar Harbor Confronts the True Cost of Water

Bar Harbor Story

After a decade of keeping water rates flat, Bar Harbor officials are confronting the reality that the system needs more revenue to pay for aging infrastructure and rising costs. A rate study shows that deferring increases has left a growing gap between what customers pay and what it actually costs to maintain and replace pipes, pumps and treatment systems. The conversation now is shifting toward how much rates might have to rise and how to balance affordability with the need for a reliable water system.

Election roundup - new and familiar faces vie for select board seats in 3 MDI towns

The Quietside Journal

Select board races on Mount Desert Island are shaping up with a mix of incumbents and challengers in Southwest Harbor, Tremont and Mount Desert. Some familiar names are seeking reelection, while newcomers are stepping forward, setting up competitive contests as towns head into spring voting.

Upcoming Town Meetings

Brooksville

Brooksville’s annual Town Meeting will take place Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Brooksville Elementary School. Municipal Elections will be the day before, Monday, March 2. Municipal elections are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the town office and include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA.

Deer Isle

Deer Isle’s annual Town Meeting will take place Monday, March 2. The day begins with a referendum vote from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the town office, followed by the warrant portion of the meeting at approximately 3 p.m.

Penobscot

Penobscot's annual Town Meeting will take place Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department. Municipal Elections will be the day before, Monday, March 2. Municipal elections will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department and will include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA and funding for the Blue Hill Public Library.

Sedgwick

Sedgwick’s annual town meeting is changing the way it handles its warrant articles this year by moving part of voting on them to a separate session. The municipal election and referendum vote take place on Friday, March 6, from 1-6 p.m. at the Sedgwick Town House and the open Town Meeting to Saturday, June 6, at 9 a.m.

Stonington

Stonington voters are getting ready for their annual town meeting on March 2. The day begins with a referendum vote from 8 a.m. to noon at the town office, followed by the warrant portion of the meeting at 3 p.m., also at the town office.

Surry

Surry’s annual Town Meeting will take place Monday, April 13 at 6 p.m. at the Surry Elementary School. Municipal Elections will be held on Friday, April 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Surry Town Office.

Local Election News

Brooksville

There is one open seat on the Brooksville School Board as Richard Bakeman is not running for re-election. Shawn Duffy and Linda Gifford are running for that seat.

Ballot voting is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Deer Isle

Ronald Eaton is running unopposed for re-election to the Selectboard. This term lasts three years. This will be his fifth term.

Co-chairperson of Union 76 School Board, Chelsea Torrey of Stonington, is seeking re-election and is unopposed.

Town Clerk Heather Cormier, and town Treasurer/Tax Collector Judy Dunham are running for re-election for one year terms in their positions.

Ballot voting is from 7 a.m. to noon Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Mount Desert

There are two seats available for the Selectboard. Board Chair John Mcauley is running for re-election. David MacDonald is also running.

There is also 1 position on School Board, and 1 three-year School District Trustee vacancy and 1 one-year School District Trustee vacancy.

Per the town website: Deadline for filing nominations papers is Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. The residents of Mount Desert will vote for these elected officials at their annual town meeting on Monday, May 4, 2026.

Penobscot

There is one open seat on the Penobscot Selectboard. Scott Ferden and Vivian Turner Welts are running for that seat.

Town Clerk Sally Bridges is not running for re-election. Rita Martynowski is running unopposed for the two-year term.

Voters will also choose members for the school board, finance committee, and charter commission. There are no candidates for the charter commission so voters must write in candidates.

Municipal elections will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Penobscot Fire Department and will include a referendum vote regarding supplemental tuition for GSA and funding for the Blue Hill Public Library.

Sedgwick

There is one open seat on the Selectboard. Incumbent Selectboard member Susan Ford is running unopposed.

There is a contested vote for Sedgwick School Board. One three-year term is open as Board Chair Allen Cole is not seeking re-election. Laura Davis and Tiffany MacDonald are both running for the seat.

The municipal election and referendum vote on Friday, March 6, from 1-6 p.m. at the Sedgwick Town House. There will be two referendum votes. The first referendum vote will be on supplemental tuition for GSA. The second referendum question asks whether residents want to allow a recreational cannabis shop within town borders.

Southwest Harbor

There are two open seats for the Selectboard. Incumbent Chapin McFarland is running for re-election. Former Selectboard members Jim Vallette and Tom Benson are also running.

Per the town website the following positions are also available:

(2) School Board Member three-year term
(1) MDI High School Trustee three-year term

Nomination papers must be returned by 5:30 p.m., Monday March 9, 2026.

Stonington

There are two open seats on the Selectboard. Each term lasts three years. Incumbents Donna Brewer and John Robbins are both seeking reelection.

Stonington has one open seat on the Union 76 School Board. This is also a three year term. Co-chairperson Chelsea Torrey of Stonington is seeking re-election and is unopposed.

Ballot voting is from 8 a.m. to noon Monday, March 2, at the town office.

Surry

There is one open seat on the Surry Selectboard as Board Chair Mary Allen is not running for re-election. This seat is a three year position. William Booth and Nicholas Noddin are seeking election for the contested select board seat.

There are two seats on the Surry School Board. This seat is also a three year position. Jared Benner is running for re-election and Pat Shepard is running for the seat being vacated by Board Chair Nick Noddin.

Municipal Elections will be the day Friday, April 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Surry Town Office.

Tremont

There are two open seats for the Selectboard. McKenzie Jewett is running for re-election. Ben Harper and Michael Reynolds are also running.

Per the town website, the following seats are also available:

School Committee: 2 seats; 3-year term

School District Trustee (High School): 1 seat; 3-year term.

All nomination papers must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office no later than 4 p.m. on March 12th.

About this newsletter
The Hancock County Rundown exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

​This week, we are breaking down the roles of the Selectboard, the function of the Town Meeting, the intricate landscape of local school governance, and how Planning Boards apply the rules. Understanding who makes which decision is the first step toward effective civic engagement.

Selectboard

The Selectboard is the executive branch of a traditional Maine town government. Selectboard members are elected and usually serve three-year terms.

Voters remain the legislative authority through Town Meeting. The Selectboard does not create laws independently. It carries out what voters approve and manages town affairs between meetings. Many Selectboards often host special public hearings in solicit input from voters on key issues. However, voters don't need to wait for special hearing to give input as normal Selectboard meetings usually have a time slot that is open for the public to comment.

Responsibilities include:

• Oversees the town manager or staff

• Prepares the municipal budget

• Sets the Town Meeting warrant

• Signs contracts and permits

• Manages roads and town property

• Appoints committees and board members

• Represents the town in negotiations and disputes

Town Meeting

Town Meeting is the legislative body in most Maine towns. It is not a public hearing and it is not run by the Selectboard. It is the actual lawmaking authority of the municipality. Residents who are registered voters gather, discuss articles, amend them, and vote. What passes becomes law and spending authorization.

This is one of the oldest forms of direct democracy in the United States and still governs many Maine communities.

What voters decide at Town Meeting

• The municipal budget

• Ordinances and amendments

• Tax spending limits

• Capital projects

• Land use rules (unless delegated)

• Authorizing borrowing and bonds

The Selectboard only prepares the warrant.

Voters decide whether each article passes.

Warrant Articles

Each decision is listed as an article on the warrant.

Examples:

• Approve funding for roads

• Fund the fire department

• Purchase equipment

• Adopt or amend ordinances

Voters can debate and sometimes amend articles before voting.

Once approved, the Selectboard must carry it out. They cannot ignore it and cannot change it later.

If Town Meeting functions as the legislature, the Selectboard functions as the executive branch implementing voter decisions.

City and Town Councils

Some municipalities adopt a charter and replace Town Meeting with an elected council.

In Hancock County, Ellsworth and Bucksport use this model.

The council becomes the legislative body. Residents elect representatives who make decisions year-round rather than voting article by article at a meeting.

Responsibilities

• Pass ordinances and local laws

• Approve the budget

• Set the tax commitment

• Hire and oversee the manager

• Approve contracts and major projects

• Set long term policy

The key difference between a City or Town with a council (Ellsworth and Bucksport) and towns that are run by select boards and town meetings is the form of government. Town Meeting towns operate as direct democracy. Council municipalities operate as representative democracy.

In Ellsworth, seven City Council members are elected to serve three-year terms. According to the Ellsworth City Council website “the City Council is responsible for the administration of all municipal affairs of the City of Ellsworth, except as otherwise provided by in the City Charter.”

The Bucksport Town Council consists of seven elected members that serve three-year terms. Unlike Ellsworth, Bucksport had a Mayor and a Deputy Mayor.

School Boards

School systems are legally separate governments from the town, even though they share taxpayers.

Hancock County uses four different organizational structures; school unions, Regional School Units (RSU), Alternative Organizational Structure (AOS), and Independent School Systems. In other parts of the state, you may also see Community School Districts (CSD) and Maine School Administrative Districts (MSAD).

School Unions

Towns share a superintendent but keep independent school systems.

Each town:

• Has its own school board

• Votes its own budget

• Owns its buildings

This is cooperation without consolidation.

In Hancock County, there are two school unions:

Union 76 (Brooklin, Deer Isle, Sedgwick, and Stonington)

Union 93 (Blue Hill, Brooksville, Castine, Penobscot, and Surry)

RSUs (Regional School Unit)

Towns merge into one single district.

There is:

• One board

• One budget

• Shared schools and administration

The RSU model consists of full consolidation among the towns.

In Hancock County, there are two RSUs:

RSU 24 (Eastbrook, Franklin, Gouldsboro, Mariaville, Sorrento, Sullivan, Waltham, Winter Harbor and the Washington County town of Steuben)

RSU 25 (Bucksport, Orland, Verona Island and the Waldo County town of Prospect)

AOS (Alternative Organizational Structure)

The AOS hybrid model.

Towns keep local identity but operate under regional governance.

There is:

• One superintendent

• Regional board

• Local advisory committees

• Cost sharing formulas

This is regional administration with local representation.

In Hancock County, there are two AOSs:

AOS 47 (Dedham, Airline Community School* and the Penobscot County towns of Orrington)

AOS 91 (Bar Harbor, Cranberry Isles, Frenchboro, Mount Desert, Southwest Harbor, Swan's Island, Tremont and Trenton)

*Airline Community School states on their website that they are “CSD #8, and are grouped with AOS 47.” Airline Community School serves the towns of Amherst, Aurora, Great Pond and Osborn

Independent (Municipal) School Systems

Some towns operate their own school system entirely on their own.

They are not part of an RSU, Union, or AOS.

In these communities, the town itself is the school district. What this means:

• One town = one school department

• One local school board

• Local voters approve the school budget

• No cost sharing formula with other towns

• Full local control over policy, staffing, and spending

These towns may still tuition students to other schools for certain grade levels, but governance remains local.

Examples in Hancock County include Ellsworth, Hancock, Lamoine, and Otis*.

*Beech Hill School serves students in Otis and Mariaville. Mariaville is part of RSU 24 and the Otis School Committee website lists the RSU 24 board member.

Planning Board

The Planning Board regulates land use and development. It does not make laws. It applies ordinances already approved by voters or the council.

Responsibilities

• Subdivision approval

• Site plan review

• Shoreland zoning enforcement

• Reviewing commercial and residential development

• Interpreting land use ordinances

The board acts in a quasi judicial role and must apply the ordinance as written, regardless of personal opinion. Depending on the town, planning board members may be appointed or elected.

Comprehensive Planning Committee

A Comprehensive Planning Committee is a temporary or ad hoc citizen committee created by the Selectboard or council to write or update the town’s Comprehensive Plan.

The Comprehensive Plan is the town’s long-range policy document.

It guides future zoning, development, housing, roads, conservation, and growth. It does not regulate land by itself. It tells the town how it intends to regulate land later.

What the Committee Does

• Studies housing, population, and growth trends

• Surveys residents

• Holds workshops and public meetings

• Identifies future development areas

• Recommends zoning changes

• Writes the plan submitted to voters

The final plan is adopted by voters or the council.

In Maine, zoning ordinances must be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. So while the committee cannot approve or deny a building project, it shapes the rules the Planning Board will later enforce.

A Comprehensive Plan Committee usually consists of volunteers appointed by the Selectboard or council. It often includes residents, business owners, and sometimes members of other boards.

Once the plan is adopted, the committee typically dissolves until the next update cycle (often every 10–15 years).

Other Town Committees

Beyond the major boards, most Maine towns also rely on smaller citizen committees. These groups usually do not have final authority. They research issues, gather public input, and make recommendations to the Selectboard, council, or voters.

They exist because small towns run on volunteer expertise.

Common examples include budget or finance committees, conservation commissions, recreation committees, harbor committees, and ad hoc study groups for specific projects. Some last for years. Others form for a single task and dissolve when the work is finished.

These committees rarely make binding decisions, but they strongly influence them. By the time an issue reaches a public vote or board decision, much of the detail work has already happened at the committee level.

Town Employees and Staff

Most Maine municipalities are not run directly by elected officials. Daily operations are handled by professional staff hired by the Selectboard or council. These are the people you see when you register your vehicle or apply for a permit. Residents often direct complaints or demands at employees who legally cannot change policy.

The largest responsibility usually falls on the town or city manager, who functions as the chief administrator.

Typical Municipal Staff can include:

Town or City Manager, oversees daily operations and departments

Town Clerk, maintains records, elections, licenses, and vital statistics. Many town also have a Deputy Town Clerk.

Treasurer or Finance Director, handles payroll, accounts, and taxes

Code Enforcement Officer, enforces building and land use ordinances

Animal Control Officer responds to stray and nuisance animal calls and enforces local animal ordinances.

Public Works crew, roads, plowing, maintenance

Fire and EMS staff or volunteers

Tax Assessor, assessing and tax commitment.

Police Department in larger communities.

​Conclusion: Your Voice Matters

​Understanding these structures is not just an academic exercise; it is the foundation of local civic power. Whether you live in a town governed by a Town Meeting or a city run by a Council, your participation determines the direction of your community.

​Boards and committees rely heavily on volunteer expertise, and elected officials rely on voter input to make informed decisions. By knowing which body holds authority, you can ensure your voice is heard at the right time and the right place.

​One last thing: Get Involved!

Consider running for a seat on the Selectboard or Council, or applying for a spot on the Planning Board or a budget committee. These roles offer a direct way to shape the future of Hancock County. If you have a few hours to spare, volunteering for a committee is an excellent way to learn how your town operates and make a tangible difference.

A weekly snapshot of public social media activity from Hancock County–area elected officials. Coverage is limited to local and state officials with direct governing authority affecting Hancock County.

As always, the Rundown tracks what’s happening, where, and why it matters for Hancock County residents.

State Senate

Sen Marianne Moore (R-Washington) Maine Senate District #6

Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock) Maine Senate District #7

Senator David Haggan (R- Penobscot) Maine Senate District #10

Maine House

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House District #12

Maine House Minority Leader

Link to post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AvgJFatuP/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AfPcCsPxy/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DC2bTdm4r/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1aMpUR7QZk/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FotUYYuR8/

Representative Russ White (R-Ellsworth) Maine House District #13

No recent posts.

Representative Gary Friedman (D- Bar Harbor)

Maine House District #14

No social media account identified.

Representative Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle)

Maine House District #15

Representative Nina Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Maine House District #16

Link to post: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17DNpPnoHc/

Link to article (may be behind a paywall):

https://www.pressherald.com/2026/02/12/former-rep-jeff-evangelos-fierce-advocate-for-criminal-justice-reform-dies-at-73/

Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport)

Maine House District #17

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18ChxFdaTw/

Representative Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell)

Maine House District #18

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16Ca3bQ3Vs/

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KXit84ZEv/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CQDEaKt4Q/

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KgpCRxxbJ/

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CB781Rrta/

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C3LBQ5gW6/

County Officials

The only two county officials with official Facebook pages are Sheriff Scott Kane and Registrar of Probate Juliette Wilbur.

Follow along on social media each Saturday for the Hancock County Rundown, keeping an eye on what’s happening across Hancock County.

About this newsletter…

The Hancock County Rundown exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

Mid-February Legislative Snapshot (February 7–13, 2026)

This week’s activity combined continued budget positioning with targeted floor action and committee hearings. While the supplemental budget remained central, there was also recorded movement on election law and public safety legislation.

Elections and Governance

Ranked-choice voting expansion legislation, L.D. 1666, saw recorded action this week.

On February 10, the Senate voted 19–13 to accept the minority “Ought to Pass as Amended” report. (See asterix below for explanation.) The House also advanced the bill the same day. The measure seeks to expand ranked-choice voting to additional statewide and legislative offices.

Next steps: The bill now proceeds through the remaining legislative steps, including further review and final concurrence before it can be enacted. Ongoing discussion continues over constitutional considerations and how the measure would be implemented.

*A minority “Ought to Pass” report means the committee was split. In this case, 7 members voted that the bill should not pass, while 6 supported it. Even though a majority of the committee recommended against the bill, a divided committee vote allows the measure to go to the full Senate for consideration. The Senate then decides which recommendation to adopt.

Judiciary and Court System Update

On February 12, Chief Justice Valerie Stanfill delivered her annual address to a joint session of the Legislature. Her remarks included updates on the statewide eCourts rollout and courthouse infrastructure projects, including developments directly affecting Hancock County.

Stanfill announced that the Hancock Judicial Center will be a new courthouse construction project in Ellsworth. Renovating the existing location was deemed infeasible. With assistance from the City of Ellsworth, a new site has been secured off High Street behind the L.L. Bean Outlet and Merrill Furniture.

Committee Activity

Committees remained active throughout the week:

The Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on February 9 on L.D. 2081, sponsored by Rep. Steve Bishop of Bucksport. The bill would establish a fund to reimburse veterinary expenses for retired law enforcement K-9 units, up to $5,000 per eligible canine over its lifetime. The measure remains under committee review.

Other committees continued work sessions and public hearings on housing policy, energy regulation, and public health proposals, though no major floor enactments resulted from those discussions this week.

Bottom Line

There were no major budget votes or high-profile veto moments this week. Instead, attention centered on continued supplemental budget positioning, recorded legislative action on ranked-choice voting expansion, a public hearing on retired law enforcement canine health care reimbursement, and steady committee-level work as the session moves toward more substantive fiscal negotiations.

Around Hancock County

Collins Secures $39 Million in Federal Funding for Hancock County

U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that more than $39 million in Fiscal Year 2026 federal funding has been directed to projects in Hancock County as part of the broader appropriations bills signed into law.

The funding supports a range of local priorities, including infrastructure improvements, public safety investments, health care facilities, and community development initiatives. The projects were included through Congressionally Directed Spending requests submitted by local entities and approved through the federal appropriations process.

The announcement is part of a larger $425 million package secured statewide, with Hancock County receiving one of the more significant allocations.

Trenton School Committee Reviews RSU Reorganization and 2027 Budget

The Trenton School Committee met this week to discuss possible school reorganization and begin early planning for the 2027 budget. Members are considering whether shifting from the current AOS structure to a regional school unit (RSU) model could impact governance, shared services, and long-term costs. The discussion remains preliminary, with additional analysis and community input expected before any decisions are made.

Surry School Board Votes to Maintain School Choice; Tuition Question Moves Forward

The Surry School Board voted unanimously on January 20 to maintain school choice, declining a proposal from George Stevens Academy that would have required the town to send all high school students to a single school.

The focus now shifts to whether Surry will continue paying supplemental tuition. The Select Board plans to draft a warrant article for the April town meeting, with options that could either continue payments or begin phasing them out for future students.

Bucksport’s Main Street Project Earns $7.2 Million in Federal Funding

A major infrastructure boost is coming to Bucksport’s Main Street after the project was awarded $7.2 million in federal Congressionally Directed Spending this year. The funding will support safety and accessibility improvements to the town’s central corridor, aligning with long-term planning efforts to enhance pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular traffic flow while strengthening the local economy. Bucksport voters previously approved local funding toward the project, and this federal award brings the total investment for downtown revitalization into clearer view.

U.S. Secretary of the Interior Visits Acadia National Park

U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum visited Acadia National Park last week, meeting with park officials and local leaders to discuss infrastructure, visitor management, and long-term stewardship priorities.

The visit highlighted the federal government’s role in maintaining Acadia’s roads, facilities, and natural resources, as well as the park’s economic importance to Hancock County. Federal funding, staffing levels, and ongoing maintenance projects were among the key topics discussed.

Orland Select Board Encourages Public Participation at DOT Hearing

The Orland Select Board is urging residents to attend an upcoming Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) public hearing on transportation planning in the region. Board members emphasized the importance of community input as state officials review road, bridge, and safety priorities that could affect local travel and funding decisions. The hearing is an opportunity for residents to share concerns and help shape future transportation projects in and around Orland.

Judge Orders $47K in Fines Over Unregistered Bar Harbor Short-Term Rental

A judge has ordered more than $47,000 in fines against the owner of a Bar Harbor short-term rental found to be operating without proper registration. The ruling underscores the town’s enforcement of its short-term rental registration requirements as officials work to ensure compliance with local lodging laws and address community concerns about housing availability and neighborhood impacts.

Stonington Fish Pier Dredging Project Moving Ahead

The long-planned dredging project at the Stonington fish pier is moving forward, with permits and funding now in place to begin work. The effort aims to deepen the harbor channel to improve access for commercial fishing vessels, support local marine businesses, and enhance safety for waterfront operations. Construction is expected to take place during the next appropriate seasonal window.

Local decisions shape everyday life, often quietly. Hancock County Rundown tracks those developments so readers can stay connected to what’s happening across the county and in Augusta. Subscribe for weekly updates and help spread the word.

About this newsletter
The Hancock County Rundown exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

I normally wait until Saturday to share social media posts, but after last night’s Super Bowl, I thought we could all use some cheering up. State Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport) shared some pictures with a furry friend, a retired law enforcement canine. Click here to read more about LD 2081 “An Act to Provide Health Care Cost Reimbursement for Retired Law Enforcement Canines.”

State House Summary

The Maine Legislature is in the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature, with most activity this week concentrated in committee hearings and work sessions. The House and Senate are scheduled to meet on Tuesday and Thursday, including a Joint Convention and the annual State of the Judiciary address. Overall, this is a routine but active mid-session week, with substantive policy development happening primarily in committees.

The full legislative calendar can be accessed here:

https://legislature.maine.gov/calendar/#Weekly/2026-02-08

Tuesday, February 10

Floor Sessions

10:00 AM | House and Senate convene

Committee Meetings

1:00 PM | Energy, Utilities and Technology | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 211

1:00 PM | Judiciary | Public hearing | State House, Room 438

1:00 PM | Labor | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 202

1:00 PM | Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 220

1:00 PM | Housing and Economic Development | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 206

1:00 PM | Taxation | Public hearing | State House, Room 127

1:00 PM | Transportation | Committee agenda | State House, Room 126

1:30 PM | Health and Human Services | Work session | Cross Building, Room 209

1:30 PM | Labor | Work session | Cross Building, Room 202

1:30 PM | Taxation | Work session | State House, Room 127

Wednesday, February 11

No House or Senate floor sessions are scheduled.

Committee Meetings

9:00 AM | State and Local Government | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 214

9:30 AM | Criminal Justice and Public Safety | Public hearing | State House, Room 436

10:00 AM | Environment and Natural Resources | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 216

10:00 AM | Health and Human Services | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 209

10:00 AM | Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 220

10:00 AM | Judiciary | Work session | State House, Room 438

10:00 AM | Veterans and Legal Affairs | Work session | State House, Room 437

1:00 PM | Inland Fisheries and Wildlife | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 206

1:00 PM | Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services | Work session | Cross Building, Room 220

1:00 PM | Judiciary | Work session | State House, Room 438

2:00 PM | Health and Human Services | Work session | Cross Building, Room 209

2:00 PM | Veterans and Legal Affairs | Work session | State House, Room 437

Thursday, February 12

Floor Sessions

10:00 AM | House and Senate convene

10:45 AM | Joint Convention, House Chamber

11:00 AM | State of the Judiciary Address

Committee Meetings

1:00 PM | Judiciary | Public hearing | State House, Room 438

1:00 PM | Marine Resources | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 202

1:00 PM | Taxation | Work session | State House, Room 127

1:00 PM | Transportation | Public hearings | State House, Room 126

2:00 PM | Housing and Economic Development | Work session | Cross Building, Room 206

2:30 PM | Marine Resources | Work session | Cross Building, Room 202

2:30 PM | Energy, Utilities and Technology | Public hearing | Cross Building, Room 211

Friday, February 13

No House or Senate floor sessions or committee meetings are scheduled.

Session Floor Activity

The House and Senate are scheduled to meet at 10:00 AM on Tuesday and Thursday. Thursday’s agenda includes a Joint Convention followed by the annual State of the Judiciary address. Outside of the joint session, floor time this week appears aligned with a routine mid-session schedule, with committee work driving most legislative movement.

Hancock County Lens

This week reflects a familiar mid-session pattern, with policy work advancing quietly through committees rather than floor debate. Marine policy, housing, healthcare delivery, energy costs, and public safety remain active areas of consideration, with several measures positioned for further action later in the session.

Hancock County Watch: This Week in Augusta

While most legislative business this week is statewide, several actions and recognitions directly involve Hancock County residents and institutions.

Senate Highlights

Spirit of America Awards (Surry): Legislative sentiments recognize Florence Reed of Surry and Alfred Judd of Surry as recipients of the Spirit of America Foundation Award.

MDIHS athletic milestone (Bar Harbor): A Senate sentiment recognizes James Witham of Bar Harbor for scoring his 1,000th career point with the Mount Desert Island High School boys basketball team.

In Memoriam (Somesville): A joint resolution honors the life of Henry “Hank” L.P. Schmelzer of Somesville.

In Memoriam (Surry): A joint resolution honors Heidi-Noel Grindle of Surry, noting her public service and professional contributions.

Trenton transportation resolve advances: The resolve designating Route 3 in Trenton as the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway received an Ought to Pass report and was passed to be engrossed.

House Highlights

In Memoriam with Deer Isle and Stonington ties: The House adopted an “In Memory of” sentiment for Scott P. Snedden of Augusta, recognizing his service as a school principal in Stonington and Deer Isle, among other Maine communities.

In Memoriam (Bar Harbor): An “In Memory of” sentiment honors Janet Margaret Benner Holloway of Bar Harbor.

In Memoriam (Orland): An “In Memory of” sentiment honors Sharon Bray of Orland, noting her role in founding H.O.M.E. in Orland and her long civic involvement.

In Memoriam (Trenton): An “In Memory of” sentiment honors Deb Crooks of Trenton, with a detailed account of her academic and professional career.

Who represents me in Hancock County?

County Commissioners

Each of Maine’s 16 counties elects a small board of county commissioners. Depending on the county, there are either three or five commissioners, and they serve four-year terms. Each commissioner represents a specific area of the county.

County commissioners are the main elected officials in county government. They make decisions about the county budget, spending, and overall policies. They also hear appeals on local tax abatements, handle issues related to town road maintenance, and act as the local governing officials for Maine’s unorganized territories where there is no town government.

The Hancock County Commissioners meet every Tuesday at 8:30a.m.

Meetings are accessible via Zoom.

William F. Clark

DISTRICT I Commissioner

District I:

Amherst, Aurora, Blue Hill, Central Hancock, East Hancock, Eastbrook, Ellsworth, Gouldsboro, Great Pond, Mariaville, Northwest Hancock, Osborn, Otis, Sorrento, Sullivan, Surry, Waltham and Winter Harbor.

william.clark@hancockcountymaine.gov

More Information:

Terms: 1/1/2017-12/31/2020, 1/1/2021-12/31/2024, 1/1/2025-12/31/2028

Chairman during the following years: 2020, 2021, 2025

Other Employment: Hancock County Sheriff (Retired) from 1981 to 2014 President - Woodbine Cemetery Association President - Ellsworth Snowmobile Association

John A. Wombacher

DISTRICT II Commissioner

District II:

Bucksport, Orland, Penobscot, Brooksville, Sedgwick, Brooklin, Dedham, Deer Isle, Stonington, Verona and Castine.

john.wombacher@hancockcountymaine.gov

More Information

Term:

1/1/2019-12/31/2022, 1/1/2023 - 12/31/2026

Samuel Dibella

DISTRICT III Commissioner

samuel.dibella@hancockcountymaine.gov

More Information

Term:

1/1/2025-12/31/2028

DISTRICT III: Franklin, Hancock, Lamoine, Trenton, Bar Harbor, Mt. Desert, Tremont, Southwest Harbor, Cranberry Isles, Swan’s Island, Frenchboro.

Treasurer

Each county has a treasurer, either elected or appointed, who keeps track of the county’s finances and manages how tax revenues are invested. In Hancock County, we elect our treasurer.

Monica Cease

Robert C. Granger

District Attorney

OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY

PROSECUTORIAL DISTRICT VII

Hancock and Washington Counties

Hancock County Registry of Probate

Maine’s Probate Courts operate under the authority of the Maine Supreme Court while being funded by the individual counties. The Probate Court has jurisdiction over estates, guardianships, conservatorships, name changes, adoptions, and related legal matters. In each county, both the Probate Judge and the Register of Probate are elected offices.

William B.Blaisdell IV

Judge of Probate

More Information

207-667-8434

As Judge of Probate, Mr. Blaisdell’s term is 1/1/2015 – 12/31/2022. He resides in Ellsworth.

Registrar of Probate

Juliette Wilbur

More Information

207-667-8434

Fax 207-667-1410

As the Hancock County Registrar of Probate, Juliette Wilbur’s term runs 01/01/2025 to 12/31/2028.

Registry of Deeds

The registry of deeds mainly handles property records for the county. It records deeds, survey plans, and other documents related to property located within the county. These records are preserved for safekeeping and are available for the public to review. The registry also keeps an index of buyers’ and sellers’ names so property records can be easily located. In Hancock County, the Registrar of Deeds is an elected position.

Registrar of Deeds

Julie Curtis

Ellsworth, Maine

More Information

207-667-8353 x 248

Fax 207-667-1410

As the Hancock County Registrar of Deeds, Julie Curtis’s term runs 01/01/2007 – 12/31/2026.

Hancock County Sheriff's Department

Maine’s 16 county sheriff’s offices conduct most criminal investigations in rural areas and carry out a significant portion of highway patrol outside urban centers. Sheriff’s offices are also responsible for serving civil complaints and related legal documents statewide

Hancock County Sheriff

Scott Kane

More Information

Scott Kane was elected to serve in the position of Hancock County Sheriff January 1, 2015. The Sheriff holds an elected position and his term runs 1/1/2015-12/31/2026. He resides in Brooksville.

About this newsletter
This weekly digest exists to keep track of what’s happening in Augusta and what it means for Hancock County and Downeast Maine. If you read it, use it, or forward it to someone else, that already matters. If you’d like to support the work and help keep it going, subscriptions make that possible. Thank you to the readers who already do. Your support helps keep this steady and independent.

Correction (Feb. 10, 2026): An earlier version of this post misstated Sheriff Kane's term ending in 2022. This has been corrected.

As always, the Rundown tracks what’s happening, where, and why it matters for Hancock County residents.

State Senate

Sen Marianne Moore (R-Washington)

Maine Senate District #6

Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Maine Senate District #7

No recent posts

Senator David Haggan (R- Penobscot)

Maine Senate District #10

No recent posts

Maine House

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House Minority Leader

Maine House District #12

Link to post/newsletter

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DdzHmdJnE/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/181Pacwtdm/

Representative Russ White (R-Ellsworth)

Maine House District #13

No recent posts

Representative Gary Friedman (D- Bar Harbor)

Maine House District #14

No identified social media account.

Representative Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle)

Maine House District #15

No recent posts

Representative Nina Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Maine House District #16

Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport)

Maine House District #17

Link to post/newsletter

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EsbrERjXx/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1HCyq6ijfT/

Representative Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell)

Maine House District #18

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1KVcGtEEYX/

County Officials 

The only two county officials with official Facebook pages are Sheriff Scott Kane and Registrar of Probate Juliette Wilbur. The recent updates have been made to either page.

Follow along on social media each Saturday for the Hancock County Rundown, keeping an eye on what’s happening across Hancock County. 

Early February Legislative Snapshot (Feb. 2–6, 2026)

This week’s activity focused largely on the state budget and affordability issues, with most action occurring in committees rather than on the floor.

Budget and Affordability

On February 4, Governor Janet Mills released her supplemental budget proposal. The plan includes drawing more than $300 million from the state’s Rainy Day Fund to support initiatives such as:

• One-time $300 “affordability checks” for many residents earning under $75,000

• Making free community college permanent

• Addressing housing costs

• Maintaining core funding for education, health care, and public safety

This builds on her January 27 State of the State address, which emphasized affordability amid potential federal policy changes. The Legislature will now review the proposal and develop its own version.

Affordability legislation remained a central theme. Democrats advanced more than 20 bills aimed at lowering costs for Mainers. Republicans countered by pushing for tax cuts, aligning with recent federal changes such as eliminating taxes on tips and overtime, and criticized the governor’s proposal as excessive spending compared to one-time relief.

Committee Activity

Committees were active throughout the week:

• The Marine Resources Committee held public hearings on February 5, including bills related to seaweed permits, lobster marketing, and aquaculture.

• The Health and Human Services Committee met, with recorded sessions available online.

• Other committees, including Judiciary and Education, advanced legislation. Notably, emergency funding for public defense services to address a $13 million shortfall moved forward on February 4, though without full bipartisan support.

Advocacy and Policy Efforts

Advocacy groups continued pressing lawmakers on several fronts, including funding for two domestic violence bills and abortion policy proposals, including potential state funding for Planned Parenthood amid federal restrictions.

Additional legislative work is underway on bills involving energy policy, mobile home park affordability, and extreme risk protection orders.

Separately, a ballot initiative aimed at protecting girls’ sports by limiting teams to biological sex has been gathering signatures and could appear on the November 2026 ballot if not taken up by the Legislature.

State-Level Bill on County Bankruptcy Protection Tabled

A legislative bill (L.D. 2009) to allow Maine counties and municipalities to seek bankruptcy protection was tabled by the Joint Standing Committee on State and Local Government on February 4, potentially for a second public hearing. This follows discussions with county commissioners’ associations, including notes on delayed audits in counties such as Hancock (most recent from 2023).

Bottom Line

There were no major floor votes, vetoes, or dramatic legislative moments this week. Instead, attention focused on the governor’s budget rollout, committee hearings, and growing partisan debate over affordability and fiscal priorities.

Around Hancock County

Hancock County Probate Judge Faces Another Contempt Hearing

Probate Judge William B. Blaisdell IV was ordered to appear in Belfast District Court on February 23, 2026, for a contempt hearing over overdue child support payments to his ex-wife. This follows prior contempt orders and suspensions (including from practicing law and the bench). He remains technically in the elected position but is suspended from duties.

Ellsworth Seeking New Finance Director

The city is hiring a new Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer following the departure of Nate Moore (who is moving to a role in Colorado). This continues a pattern of turnover in the department (sixth in eight years). The position offers $95,000–$150,000 salary and aims for an early March fill. Job posting and details: https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/job/finance-director-chief-financial-officer/

Protecting Newbury Neck Road from sea erosion

Officials in Surry are reviewing engineering options to protect Newbury Neck Road from increasing tidal flooding and erosion tied to sea level rise and stronger storms. Early design work suggests any long-term fix (such as raising the roadway or reinforcing the shoreline) could cost several million dollars, with the town positioning itself to seek future state or federal funding.

School threat hoax at George Stevens Academy

A threatening voicemail prompted the school's closure and evacuation on February 2, but it was determined to be part of a nationwide computer-generated hoax with no real threat.

Local primary races beginning to take shape

With the June 9, 2026 primary approaching, candidates across federal, state, and local offices are positioning for contested primaries, including seats in the state legislature and county offices. Local coverage from the Ellsworth American highlights developments in Hancock County and surrounding districts as contenders file paperwork, build campaign teams, and begin outreach in advance of the filing deadline, signaling what could be competitive races this spring.

George Stevens Academy adjusts petition language

In response to community feedback, George Stevens Academy has slowed its contract process and moved away from the previously proposed petition language tied to governance changes. The decision reflects ongoing dialogue between the school board and stakeholders as the academy works to build a broader consensus before finalizing any revisions.

Maine Department of Marine Resources seeks offshore lobstermen for research

The Maine Department of Marine Resources is recruiting offshore lobstermen to assist with a new research initiative aimed at improving data on offshore lobster populations and ocean conditions. Participants will work alongside scientists to help shape management decisions that could affect Maine’s lobster fishery and coastal communities.

Castine updates traffic ordinance

The Castine Select Board has approved expanded parking enforcement measures, including more ticketing, towing provisions, and new time limits aimed at improving traffic flow and safety in town.

Public hearing on cannabis dispensary in Sedgwick

The Town of Sedgwick held a public hearing on a proposed cannabis dispensary on February 3, giving residents and officials a chance to weigh in on the project’s potential impacts and regulations before the permitting process moves forward.

Trenton Select Board focuses on transparency

The Trenton Select Board discussed technical updates to improve transparency and accessibility in town documents and communications, part of ongoing efforts to make local government clearer and more user-friendly for residents.

Fired Southwest Harbor police sergeant files grievance

A former police sergeant in Southwest Harbor has filed a grievance against the town after being terminated, asserting that proper procedures were not followed and seeking review of the department’s decision.

Mount Desert fire chief is retiring

The longtime fire chief of the Mount Desert Fire Department is retiring after more than 40 years of service, marking the end of a distinguished career leading training and emergency response for the community.

Local decisions shape everyday life, often quietly. Hancock County Rundown tracks those developments so readers can stay connected to what’s happening across the county and in Augusta. Subscribe for weekly updates and help spread the word.

Compared to the snow last week, this Monday started off a bit more startling as schools across Maine received bomb threats. In Hancock County, George Stevens Academy in Blue Hill evacuated over a threat (WABI/WMTW)

On Monday morning, administrators evacuated students from the Blue Hill School after receiving a voicemail about an “imminent threat.” Law enforcement with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office investigated and determined that the message was part of a nationwide hoax affecting multiple states. Officials stressed no credible threat to public safety was found.

State House Summary

The full calendar can be accessed at the following link:

https://legislature.maine.gov/calendar/#Weekly/2026-02-01

This week’s legislative calendar includes scheduled meetings of state agencies and joint standing committees. It continues activity in the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Maine Legislature, with public committee meetings on nominations, state boards, and policy bodies.

Monday, February 2

No meetings listed on the Weekly Calendar. (Session chamber dates show Floor session Tuesday.)

Tuesday, February 3

• 9:00 AM — State Board of Examiners of Psychologists
  Regular meeting. Gardiner, ME.

• 1:00 PM — Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
  Confirmation hearing for gubernatorial appointees to the Maine Milk Commission. Written comment deadline 9 AM.

Wednesday, February 4

• 10:00 AM — Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources
  Two confirmation hearings:

  • Nominees for the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board (including a nominee from Veazie).

  • Nominee to the Board of Environmental Protection (from Harpswell).
    Written comment deadlines 9 AM.

Thursday, February 5

• 8:30 AM — Board of Pharmacy
  Regular meeting. Gardiner, ME.

• 9:00 AM — Maine Health Data Organization
  Board meeting (agenda and Zoom link available online).

Friday, February 6

No additional meetings listed.

Session Floor Activity

As part of the 132nd Legislature’s Second Regular Session, both chambers are scheduled for floor sessions this week:

• Tuesday, February 3 — House and Senate each convene at 10:00 AM.

• Thursday, February 5 — House and Senate scheduled again at 10:00 AM.
  (This is consistent with the published session schedule for February 2026.)

Why this matters locally

This week’s committee hearings include appointments and confirmations that affect state oversight of agriculture and food systems, environmental protections, and public health data governance. These areas intersect with issues important to communities across Hancock County — from coastal resource management to public health policy and workforce regulation.

Hancock County Watch: Today in Augusta

Most legislative calendars are dense and statewide in scope, but a few items today had direct ties to Hancock County. Here’s what stood out from both the Senate and House:

Senate Highlights

• Ellsworth educator recognized: Jasmine Ireland, Director of Theatre at Ellsworth High School, was formally recognized by the Legislature as Maine’s 2025 Outstanding Educator in Theatre. The sentiment was sponsored by Nicole Grohoski and cosponsored by Russ White.

• Downeast representation on marine policy: Residents from Stonington and Millbridge were confirmed to the Marine Resources Advisory Council, which advises on fisheries, aquaculture, and coastal policy, all with direct impact on peninsula communities.

House Highlights

• Marine Resources Committee attendance: Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle) was listed as absent for multiple Marine Resources Committee votes.

• Energy policy moves forward: The Legislature advanced a majority “Ought to Pass” report on L.D. 343, legislation directing the Public Utilities Commission to seek informational bids on small modular nuclear reactors.

• Trenton roadway designation: A resolve to designate Route 3 in Trenton as the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway advanced on the House Consent Calendar. (No L.D. number listed on today’s consent items.)

• Castine connection: Maine Maritime Academy submitted its required annual report to the Legislature, a routine filing but locally relevant given MMA’s role in Castine and the surrounding economy.

Who Represents Me in the Maine State House?

If the State Senate feels big-picture, the Maine House is where things get personal.

It may have been a while since high school civics (or maybe you skipped that day), so here’s another quick refresher. Maine has 151 State Representatives, each serving much smaller districts than State Senators. While Senators represent larger regions, House members represent tighter geographic areas, often just a handful of towns or neighborhoods.

That means your State Representative is usually the elected official closest to home. They’re often your most direct connection to Augusta and the first call when you have a concern about schools, roads, local services, or proposed legislation. Because their districts are smaller, they tend to know their communities well and are generally more accessible.

Hancock County is represented by several State House members, each responsible for a specific slice of our region. Below, we’ll take a look at who they are, which towns they represent, and how to reach them.

Civic tip: If you’re not sure who your State Representative is, now’s a great time to look them up and save their contact info. You’ll be glad you did.

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House District 12

William.Faulkingham@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 460-6967

Town(s): Franklin, Gouldsboro, Hancock, Sorrento, Sullivan, Winter Harbor, and the Washington County town of Steuben.

Committee:

Joint Select Committee on Joint Rules - Ranking Member

Representative Russ White

Maine House District 13

Russell.White@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 460-6359

Seat Number: 151 House District: 13

Town(s): Fletchers Landing Township/ Waltham/ Ellsworth/ Central Hancock

Committee(sRussell.White@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 460-6359

Seat Number: 151 House District: 13

Town(s): Ellsworth, Fletchers Landing Township, Waltham, and Central Hancock

Committee:

Taxation

Representative Gary Friedman

Maine House District 14

Gary.Friedmann@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 460-7362

Seat Number: 29 House District: 14

Town(s): Bar Harbor, Cranberry Isles, Lamoine, and Mount Desert

Committee:

Taxation

State Representative Holly Eaton

Maine House District #15

Holly.Eaton@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 610-9281

Seat Number: 54 House District: 15

Town(s): Brooklin, Deer Isle, Frenchboro, Marshall Island, Southwest Habor, Stonington, Swan's Island, Tremont, Eagle Island Township, and the Knox County Islands of Isle au Haut akd Vinalhaven

Committees:

Marine Resources
Transportation

Representative Nina Milliken

Maine House District 16

Nina.Milliken@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 412-8828

Seat Number: 116 House District: 16

Town(s): Blue Hill, Brooksville, Castine, Sedgwick, Surry, and Trenton

Committees:

Elections
Criminal Justice and Public Safety

Representative Steve Bishop

Maine House District 17

Steven.Bishop@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 991-7909

Seat Number: 150 House District: 17

Town(s): Orland, Penobscot, Verona Island, and Bucksport

Committee:

Transportation

Representative Mathew McIntyre

Maine House District #18

Mathew.McIntyre@legislature.maine.gov

2 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

Contact: (207) 680-0678

Seat Number: 128 House District: 18

Town(s): Amherst, Aurora, East Hancock, Eastbrook, Great Pond, Mariaville, Northwest Hancock, Osborn, Dedham, Otis as well Penobscot towns of Burlington, Greenbush, Lowell, Passadumkeag, Clifton, Grand Falls Township, Greenfield Township, Summit Township, East Central Penobscot, and Washington County towns of Beddington, Cherryfield, Deblois, Day Block Township, Devereaux Township, Sakon Township, North Washington (Part), T3 ND TWP, T7 SD TWP, T22 MD TWP, T9 SD TWP, T10 SD TWP (Milbridge)

Committees:

Engrossed Bills - Ranking Member
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Energy, Utilities and Technology

As always, the Rundown tracks what’s happening, where, and why it matters for Hancock County residents.

State Senate

Sen Marianne Moore (R-Washington)

Maine Senate District #6

No recent posts

Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Maine Senate District #7

Senator David Haggan (R- Penobscot)

Maine Senate District #10

No recent posts

Maine House

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House Minority Leader

Maine House District #12

Link to post if you would like access to the newsletter.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DXqkuEd7o/

Representative Russ White (R-Ellsworth)

Maine House District #13

No recent posts

Representative Gary Friedman (D- Bar Harbor)

Maine House District #14

No social media account identified

Representative Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle)

Maine House District #15

Represenative Nina Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Maine House District #16

Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport)

Maine House District #17

Link to post.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17qg2kY9H7/

Representative Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell)

Maine House District #18

Link to post to read newsletter

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AaMc4ZdtA/

County Officials

The only two county officials with official Facebook pages are Sheriff Scott Kane and Registrar of Probate Juliette Wilbur.

Follow along on social media each Saturday for the Hancock County Rundown, keeping an eye on what’s happening across Hancock County.

There were no roll-call votes on bills this week.

There were public hearings on LD 2106 and LD 2150. The Hancock County Rundown wrote about these bills and how they may affect Hancock County if passed.

Hancock County News Rundown
A weekly summary of political and government-related news affecting Hancock County, drawn from local, regional, and independent reporting. Coverage focuses on public officials, policy decisions, and civic-impact issues.

Some links may require a subscription to view full articles.

Bangor Daily News

Stone honoring George Floyd in Ellsworth prompts temporary ban on memorials - January 27, 2026

Bucksport public health organization to shut down - January 22, 2026

Bar Harbor Story

Officer Departure, Overtime Pay Shape Southwest Harbor Police Budget Cuts - January 28, 2026

Regional Town Officials Assess Road Salt Purchasing as They Worry about Supplies Tightening - January 28, 2026

Trenton Select Board Supports Designating Portion of Route 3 as Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway - January 26, 2026

Mount Desert Corrects Its Budget a Bit- January 23, 2026

Bar Harbor Officials Emphasize Stability in Budget as Revenue Sources Shift - January 23, 2026

Ellsworth American

DOT to install signalized light at Orland high crash intersection - January 28, 2026

GSA head of school hired as superintendent in RSU 40- January 28, 2026

Emergency bill to let towns, counties file for bankruptcy protection garners little support - January 27, 2026

River Observer

Bucksport council approves animal control officer agreement with Verona Island - January 29, 2026

Bucksport health coalition to end services on March 31- January 29, 2026

The Island Ad-Vantages

Date set for public hearing on Deer Isle town meeting warrant articles - January 22, 2026

The Rising Tide

GSA head leaving school - January 26, 2026

Penobscot town clerk retiring from job she never thought she’d have - January 26, 2026

Last call for Blue Hill candidate nomination papers - January 26, 2026

The Weekly Packet

Update: George Stevens Academy head of school takes position at Union school district - January 29, 2026

Wastewater service estimate too low, says Blue Hill Select Board member - January 29, 2026

Blue Hill Planning Board advances review of new subdivision - January 29, 2026

Going forward, I’ll be breaking down the bills our Hancock County legislators are sponsoring, presenting, or publicly supporting, in plain English. Not talking points. Not press releases. Just what the legislation actually does, who’s behind it, and why it matters here at home.

Augusta can feel far away, and most bills are written in dense legal language that regular people don’t have time to decode. My goal with these Rundowns is simple: help everyday voters understand what’s moving through the State House and how it could affect our schools, libraries, hospitals, and local communities.

This week, we’re taking a look at two “Emergency” bills tied to our local delegation. LD 2150 is being presented by Senator Nicole Grohoski and sponsored by Representative Nina Milliken. LD 2106 is not their bill, but both lawmakers have been actively encouraging public testimony in support of it.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Rundown on LD 2106: New Rules for Schools, Libraries, and Clinics

​There’s a new “Emergency” bill moving through Augusta right now that could change the way our local schools and public offices handle federal immigration agents. It’s called LD 2106, and if you live or work in Hancock County, here is what you need to know.

We are delving into the contents of the bill since State Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock) and State Representative Nina Millken (D-Blue Hill) were encouraging voters to testify at the hearing.

​What is this bill actually doing?

​Essentially, this law would tell staff at public schools, colleges, hospitals, daycare centers, and libraries that they cannot “voluntarily” help federal immigration officers.

​In plain English: if an officer shows up and asks to look at a student’s records or walk into a private staff area, the employees are required to say “no” unless the officer has a legal warrant signed by a judge.

​Does this mean they can ignore the law?

​No. The bill has “safety valves” built in. Cooperation is still required if:

• ​The officer has a judicial warrant or a subpoena.

• ​There is a life-or-death emergency.

• ​It’s a specific request for citizenship status that is already required by federal law.

​The Two Sides of the Coin

​Why people support it:

Supporters say this is about privacy and trust. They want to make sure that a parent isn’t afraid to drop their kid off at school, or that someone isn’t too scared to go to the Emergency Room at Blue Hill or MDI Hospital because they’re worried about immigration enforcement. It also protects local employees (like a librarian or a school secretary) from being put on the spot to make a major legal decision without a lawyer present.

​Why people are concerned:

Critics worry this creates “sanctuary” zones and makes it harder for federal agents to do their jobs. There is also a concern about “local control.” Instead of letting our local school boards or town officials decide how to handle these situations, the state would be stepping in and requiring a “one-size-fits-all” policy.

​Why it Matters for Hancock County

• ​Work for Local Boards: If this passes, our local school boards and library trustees will have about six months to write and pass new policies to match the state’s rules. That’s more administrative work for our local volunteers.

• ​It’s an “Emergency”: Usually, laws wait 90 days to kick in. Because this is labeled an emergency, it would start the second the Governor signs it.

• ​Our Community Services: This affects the places we all use—from the Ellsworth Public Library to the small daycare down the street.

​Who supports this bill?

Supporters of this bill includes Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, Preble Street, The Maine Beacon, and the Portland Press Herald.

Who opposes this bill?

No major organizations or elected officials are prominently listed in public coverage so far.

What’s Next?

​The bill is currently sitting with the Judiciary Committee. If you have strong feelings about it—either way—now is the time to reach out to our local representatives or keep an eye on the committee’s schedule for public hearings.

The Rundown on LD 2150: New Rules for Restricting Access to State Services

​LD 2150 is a bill that aims to create a formal, legal process for the state to “ban” or restrict someone from accessing state property, using state services, or communicating with state employees.

This bill is presented by State Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock). State Representative Nina Millken (D-Blue Hill) is listed as a sponsor.

​Right now, if someone is being harrassing or dangerous, the process for cutting off their access to a state building or office can be a bit of a “gray area.” This bill tries to put clear rules and procedures in place to handle those situations.

​What is this bill actually doing?

​If passed, the law would set up a specific way for state entities (like the Maine DHHS, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or even the State House itself) to officially restrict a person.

​The bill focuses on three main things:

• ​Physical Access: Banning someone from entering specific state buildings or lands.

• ​Service Access: Limiting someone’s ability to use state-funded programs.

• ​Communication: Restricting how (or if) someone can contact state employees through phone, email, or in person.

​The “Due Process” Part

​Because the government can’t just take away your right to access public services without a good reason, the bill includes a process for how these restrictions happen. It would likely involve formal notices and a way for the person being restricted to appeal the decision.

​The Two Sides of the Coin

​Why people support it:

Supporters argue that state employees deserve a safe workplace. We’ve all heard stories about government workers being harassed or threatened. This bill gives the state a clear tool to protect its staff and other citizens using those services. It moves the process out of the “gray area” and into a standardized system so everyone knows the rules.

​Why people are concerned:

The big worry here is “government overreach.” Critics fear that if the rules are too broad, the state could use this to “silence” people who are simply being vocal or critical of a government agency. There is also a concern that for some vulnerable people, being banned from a state service (like a benefits office) could be a life-altering punishment that needs very high levels of oversight.

​Why it Matters for Hancock County

• ​Local State Offices: If you need to visit the DHHS office in Ellsworth or the CareerCenter, these new rules would dictate how that office handles “difficult” or “disruptive” visitors.

• ​Our Neighbors: Hancock County has many people who rely on state services for their health and livelihood. Understanding the “rules of the road” for how those services can be restricted is vital for everyone.

• ​Emergency Status: Just like LD 2106, this is an Emergency bill. That means the state isn’t waiting around; they want these procedures in place immediately once the bill is signed.

​Who's supports this bill?

Who is against this bill?

The Maine Policy Institute has spoken out against this bill as well as the Maine Wire.

What’s Next?

​This bill was recently referred to the Judiciary Committee. They are the ones who will hold the public hearings where you can go (or send a letter) to say what you think.

Augusta can feel far away, but these decisions land right here at home. I’ll keep following the bills our local legislators are backing and breaking them down in plain English.

If this kind of coverage matters to you, follow along.

State House Summary

The full calendar can be accessed at the following link

https://legislature.maine.gov/calendar/#Weekly/2026-01-25

Week of January 26–30, 2026: The Maine Legislature’s Weekly Legislative Calendar #4 covers meetings of various state agencies and committees scheduled Monday through Friday, January 26–30, 2026 (this list is published as Vol. LII, No. 4 by the Clerk of the House).

In addition to agency meetings, the Legislature continues floor sessions as part of the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature: the House and Senate were both in session on Tuesday, January 27 (the Fourth Legislative Day).

These meetings and sessions represent the core statewide legislative schedule for that week; specific committee hearings and public access times are detailed in the full Weekly Calendar document.

Why it matters locally: Committee work this week includes health services and marine resources, two areas that directly impact Hancock County families and our working waterfront.

Who represents me in the State Senate?

Schools may be cancelled around Hancock County, but here’s a quick high school civics refresher before we meet your state senators.

Unlike the federal U.S. Senate, where every state gets two senators regardless of size, Maine’s State Senate is based on population. The state is divided into 35 districts with roughly equal populations, so counties don’t automatically get a set number of senators. Hancock County is spread across three Senate districts, so we’re represented by three State Senators in Augusta.

State Senators help write and vote on Maine laws, approve the state budget, and shape policies that affect everything from schools and roads to healthcare, fisheries, and taxes. Because Hancock County spans multiple districts, each senator represents a different slice of our communities.

Here are the three State Senators who represent parts of Hancock County:

Sen. Marianne Moore (R) – Senate District 6

Sen. Moore represents the eastern Hancock County towns of Amherst, Aurora, Central Hancock UT, East Hancock UT, Eastbrook, Franklin, Gouldsboro, Great Pond, Hancock, Mariaville, Northwest Hancock UT, Osborn, Sorrento, Sullivan, Waltham, Winter Harbor, and all of Washington County. Sen. Moore, who lives in Calais, is serving her fourth term and will be termed out after this session.

Address: 3 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333
Home: (207) 454-0501 or (207) 952-2050
State House: (207) 287-1505
Email: Marianne.Moore@legislature.maine.gov
Website: www.mesenategop.com
Legislative Service: Senate 129-132.

Committee Assignments:

Health and Human Services
Marine Resources
Engrossed Bills

Sen. Nicole Grohoski (D) – Senate District 7

Sen. Grohoski represents much of Hancock County’s coastal and island communities of Bar Harbor, Blue Hill, Brooklin, Brooksville, Castine, Cranberry Isles, Deer Isle, Ellsworth, Frenchboro, Lamoine, Marshall Island UT, Mount Desert, Orland, Penobscot, Sedgwick, Southwest Harbor, Stonington, Surry, Swan's Island, Tremont, Trenton, and Verona Island. She also represents the Knox County island of Isle au Haut. Sen. Grohoski is a cartographer and is serving her third term. Before she was a Senator, she served two years in the Maine House.

Address: P.O.Box 1732, Ellsworth, Maine 04605
Cell: (207) 358-8333
State House: (207) 287-1515
Email: Nicole.Grohoski@legislature.maine.gov
Website: www.mainesenate.org
Legislative Service: Senate 130-131; House 129-130.

Committee Assignments:

Taxation (Chair)
Energy, Utilities, and Technology
Engrossed Bills

Sen. David Haggan (R) – Senate District 10

Sen. Haggan represents Bucksport, Dedham, Otis, and the neighboring Penobscot County towns of Bradley, Brewer, Carmel, Clifton, Eddington, Hampden, Holden, Newburgh, and Orrington. Sen. Haggen is a retired teacher and previously served four terms in the Maine House. This is his first term in the Maine Senate.

Mailing Address: 3 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333
Home: (207) 944-7471
State House: (207) 287-1505
Email: david.haggan@legislature.maine.gov
Website: www.mesenategop.com
Legislative Service: Senate 132; House 128-131

Committee Assignment:

Health Coverage, Insurance, and Financial Services
Judiciary

Next week, we will cover State House Representatives, who handle even smaller districts and are often your most direct line to Augusta.

As always, the Rundown tracks what’s happening, where, and why it matters for Hancock County residents.

State Senate

Sen Marianne Moore (R-Washington)

Maine Senate District #6

Sen Moore posted about a recent radio appearance discussing a legislative briefing related to DHHS fraud and audit oversight. Also shared a WABI TV5 post noting the Governor’s directive to lower flags to half-staff in honor of former Representative Kathy Javner.

Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock)

Maine Senate District #7

Sen. Grooski shared multiple public updates, including information about a “Coffee with Constituents” event in Blue Hill with Rep. Nina Milliken, public safety information regarding emergency warming centers and winter heating resources, and contact details for constituent assistance. Also posted about the anniversary of the Citizens United Supreme Court decision and participation in an event calling for a constitutional amendment related to campaign finance regulation. Additionally, shared remarks and reflections from the Maine Senate’s commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Senator David Haggan (R- Penobscot)

Maine Senate District #10

Sen. Haggan attended a legislative discussion hosted by the Eastern Area Agency on Aging focused on issues affecting older Mainers. Shared photos from the event and thanked the organization for convening legislators and stakeholders to discuss aging-related policy and services.

Maine House

Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor)

Maine House Minority Leader

Maine House District #12

Represenative Faulkingham shared multiple video posts addressing current political issues, including criticism of actions by state officials, commentary on law enforcement and public safety, and reactions to national and state policy debates. Also posted constituent-facing content, including promotion of his weekly e-newsletter, acknowledgment of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and non-political posts highlighting the northern lights in Down East Maine.

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BsWagrnir/

Link to post if you would like to access the newsletter

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17qRz2pUco/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PzTzHgP24/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AV1oJsoks/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17x3N5giTd/

Link to video https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1T8m8T3HtZ/

Link to video https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AN9FShCjY/

Representative Russ White (R-Ellsworth)

Maine House District #13

No recent posts

Representative Gary Friedman (D- Bar Harbor)

Maine House District #14

No social media account identified

Representative Holly Eaton (D-Deer Isle)

Maine House District #15

Representative Eaton posted commemorative content marking Martin Luther King Jr. Day, shared information on nominating educators for the 2026 County Teacher of the Year program, and highlighted engagement with students from George Stevens Academy during their visit to the State House.

Link to post https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CEwRTT8VT/

Representative Nina Milliken (D-Blue Hill)

Maine House District #16

Representative Milliken shared information about a Coffee with Constituents event at the Blue Hill Public Library alongside Sen. Nicole Grohoski, highlighted a visit from students at George Stevens Academy to the State House, and posted multiple statements marking Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Additional posts included commentary on immigration enforcement and civil liberties, as well as recognition of a local athlete’s collegiate basketball milestone.

Representative Steve Bishop (R-Bucksport)

Maine House District #17

Representative Bishop shared his weekly e-newsletter and posted a short video about how his work life and State House responsibilities intersect, joking about having to remove snow while wearing a suit.

Link to post:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C5RNH7C2Y/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Bxk8p82Es/

Representative Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell)

Maine House District #18

Rep. McIntyre had a full week on the ground across the region. Recent posts highlight constituent meetings, local events, public safety updates, and time spent traveling the district. From sharing information about community fundraisers and forestry issues to encouraging residents to tune in for official briefings and stay safe during severe weather.

Link to post

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DLJ9Upjz4/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1YskmBvZUN/

Link to video

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18We5RSY1z/

County Officials

The only two county officials with official Facebook pages are Sheriff Scott Kane and Registrar of Probate Juliette Wilbur.

Follow along on social media each Saturday for the Hancock County Rundown, keeping an eye on what’s happening across Hancock County.

There were no roll-call votes on bills this week.

There were Maine Senate roll-call votes on appointments, which are required.

Hancock County News Rundown
A weekly summary of political and government-related news affecting Hancock County, drawn from local, regional, and independent reporting. Coverage focuses on public officials, policy decisions, and civic-impact issues.

Some links may require a subscription to view full articles.

Bangor Daily News

Locals worry as Down East marine facility goes up for sale - January 21, 2026

Bar Harbor Story

Tremont School Committee Unanimously Approves School Resource Officer - January 21, 2026

Bar Harbor’s Water Rates Likely To Rise as Infrastructure Investments Keep System Afloat - January 21, 2026

AOS 91 Budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27 Approved at Annual Public Budget Meeting - January 22, 2026

Ellsworth American

New Lamoine Community Center plan developed, town will ask for voter approval in March - January 20, 2026

GSA exploring town contracts to stabilize enrollment - January 21, 2026

Council tables vote on Marijuanaville license - January 21, 2026

Annual blueberry conference to be held in Ellsworth - January 21, 2026

Sedgwick to hold information session on opting in to recreational cannabis establishments - January 21, 2026

DOT seeks public input on Orland traffic signal - January 21, 2026

Gubernatorial candidate Ben Midgley emphasizes business background in bid for state office - January 22, 2026

Mount Desert Islander

Island Housing Trust Completes Ripples Hill Phase 3 Fundraising Goal - January 21, 2026

https://www.mdislander.com/news/island-housing-trust-completes-ripples-hill-phase-3-fundraising-goal/article_91442abd-8bd2-4301-bae6-181770d8dc31.html

Jesup Library introduces new director to the community - January 22, 2026

River Observer

Bucksport library requests dominate Orland select board meeting - January 22, 2026

DOT looks to light up Route 1 in Bucksport, Orland with pair of new traffic lights - January 22, 2026

Toddy Pond Watershed District approves budget - January 22, 2026

The Island Ad-Vantages

New library director named at Stonington Public Library - January 22, 2026

HomePort project in Deer Isle moves forward - January 22, 2026

$1.49 million water company loan wins town of Stonington’s backing - January 22, 2026

Proposed Deer Isle town budget to decrease, however school budget for CSD 13 means overall increase - January 22, 2026

Town of Stonington’s 2026 budget meetings scheduled - January 22, 2026

The Rising Tide

Penobscot’s first food pantry now open - January 19, 2026

Parents ‘scrambling’ after Castine’s only daycare announces closing - January 21, 2026

Castine hospital group in ‘overdrive’ to find replacement for clinic - January 21, 2026

The Weekly Packet

George Stevens Academy shares details on new town contract initiative - January 22, 2026

Town of Brooklin survey on donation of church, building underway - January 22, 2026