AROOSTOOK DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE 2010

LEAD's Aroostook Day at the Legislature was a multi-part event this year, starting with our weekly phone conference at 12 Noon  Wednesday, February 3, 2010.  LEAD members were at all five locations (Augusta, Houlton, PI, Caribou, and Fort Kent) gathering information and asking questions focused on the impact of budget cuts, funding education, revenue sharing, mandatory sick leave, rail abandonment, an effort to close the Maine Revenue Service Office in Houlton, and identifying certified weatherization auditors, to name a few topics.  (Reminder, all LEAD members are welcome to participate, each Wednesday during Legislative Session at 12 Noon, to voice concerns, ask questions, or just listen.)

Commissioner David Cole briefed LEAD members, legislators, and guests at the LEAD Aroostook Day Reception-Dinner, about transportation activities, noting the importance of recording economic and safety improvements associated with the pilot program that has lifted federal truck weight limits for a one-year period.  Regarding the North-South Highway, an environmental record of decision on the Caribou Bypass is expected soon.  A rail consultant has been negotiating with MDOT, major shippers, and MM&A to find resolution to maintaining rail service in northern Maine.  The report will be presented February 18, 2010.  Finally, he said funding is approved to resurface 15 miles of I-95, from Sherman to Houlton later this year. 

Following dinner, attendees learned about LEAD, community activities and upcoming Cross-Country Junior Olympics, biathlon championships, gubernatorial debate, the 2014 World Acadien Congress, and they were introduced to Matt Bell, 2009 Young Entrepreneur.  Some LEAD members expressed concerns about healthcare, effective use of state and federal funding for training and instructor capacity, creative solutions for freight-passenger rail service, and Mobilize Maine.  Niche market clusters for renewable energy and information technology were discussed, including data centers and alternative energy laboratories.  In response, legislators applauded LEAD's attitude and collaborative spirit.

Thursday morning, LEAD and County Legislators met with MDOT officials, Rob Elder, Nate Moulton, and Nina Fischer discussed Rail research and negotiations.  While there is hope, details about negotiations could not be provided.  The above-highlighted actions were recommended by Senator Sherman and Representatives Theriault, Martin, and Edgecomb. 

The crowd listens during a presentation at the LEAD Aroostook Day Reception-Dinner.	Carl Flora from Loring Development Authority speaks with Rep. Richard Cleary who represents District 8.