Electricity Maine, a locally owned and operated electricity supply company, was launched in July 2011 and reached 100,000 customers in March 2012. The company’s rate for residential and small business customers is .0707 cents per kWh.

The Winthrop Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Thursday, June 7 will be held at the Winthrop Area Federal Credit Union (located at the intersection of Route 202 and Highland Avenue in Winthrop). The cost is $5 per person, to be paid at the door. A light breakfast will be provided beginning at 7:15 am and the meeting will start at 7:30 am and end promptly at 8:30 am. The meeting, which is generously sponsored by Brian S. Berry & Associates, CPAs, is open to the public. No reservations are required.

For more detailed information about this event and/or the Winthrop Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce, please go to www.winthropchamber.org, call 207-377-8020, or send an email to info@winthropchamber.org.

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Maine International Trade Day, northern New England’s largest annual internationally focused business event. Speakers will include Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner George Gervais; leader of Innovation Management at Embraer S.A., Dr. Sandro Valeri and faculty associate at Harvard’s Center for International Development, Dr. Cesar Hidalgo.

WHERE:

The Samoset Resort 220 Warrenton Street Rockport, ME

WHEN:

Thursday, May 24th from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

WHY:

More than 250 attendees from diverse industries, backgrounds and professions will hear why Innovation is the key to global success. It’s been a decade of growth for the international trade sector in Maine, nearly doubling its exports since 2000. Last year Maine exported nearly $3.5 billion, yet competition in the global market is fiercer than ever.

Directions:

From the South: Follow Interstate 95 North to Exit 44, Interstate 295. Follow 295 to exit 28, Brunswick. Follow Coastal Route 1 North through Rockland. Turn right off of Route 1 onto Waldo Avenue. The Samoset Resort entrance is 1/2 mile on the right.

From the North: Follow Route 1A South to Route 1 South. Follow Route 1 South through Camden. Turn left onto Warrenton Street just past the Glen Cove Rest Area. Follow Warrenton Street for one mile. The Samoset Resort is on the left.

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Accomplishments outlined in free booklet available to the public

On Friday, May 18th, Governor Paul LePage released today a comprehensive book of accomplishments of his first 500 days in office. The Governor’s 500^th day as Maine’s Chief Executive is Saturday, May 19, 2012. The 20-page compilation, titled Making Maine Prosperous, The First 500 Days of Governor Paul LePage, details the achievements made by the LePage Administration and the State of Maine 125^th Legislature. A web version of the book is free to the public and available on the Governor’s website.

During the past 500 days, Governor LePage has proved he is able to keep campaign promises and improve Maine’s economy. From January 2011 to March 2012, Maine’s private sector grew by 4,100 jobs, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. The growth may be contributed to a number of initiatives, which are outlined in the book, including tax incentives which encourage job creators to invest in Maine and regulatory reform aimed to streamline the licensing and permitting process.

The state’s unemployment rate has also declined since January 2011, from nearly 8 percent to 7.2 percent. During the past seventeen months, the LePage Administration has focused on developing job skills and training for Mainers searching for work. Under the Governor’s leadership, the Maine Jobs Council, now referred to as the State Workforce Investment Board (SWIB), has been revamped to better address workforce development programs.

“Two of my greatest priorities as Governor relate directly to Maine’s workforce,” Governor LePage said. “We need to ensure students have the skills they need to be productive workers when they graduate, and we must get targeted training to people in the workforce today so that they can be competitive and successful in the job market.”

The needs of Maine Veterans are being addressed within the Administration as well. Legislation was enacted to ensure that Veterans are given full credit for relevant military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. Steps have already been taken to implement the intent of LD 1850, “An Act To Assist Maine’s Current and Former Members of the United States Armed Forces”, by making sure the expertise of Maine veterans is recognized and valued when they apply for a license.

Making Maine Prosperous, The First 500 Days of Governor Paul LePage also highlights other reforms led and/or supported by the Governor including changes made in the areas of

• Welfare
• Education
• Energy
• Domestic Violence
• Public Safety
• Regulatory/Red Tape
• Environmental Protection/Natural Resources
• Pension Debt
• Health Care

A free copy of the book, Making Maine Prosperous, The First 500 Days of Governor Paul LePage, is available on the Office of the Governor website. The published version of the book is available at the Office of the Governor.

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For RFP:  http://www.gardinermaine.com/Public_Documents/GardinerME_WebDocs/20120516%20City%20of%20Gardiner%20Libby%20Hill%20Business%20Park%20Outreach.pdf

State Treasurer Bruce Poliquin

Augusta – Maine State Treasurer Bruce Poliquin reported that Moody’s Investors Service has affirmed the State’s Aa2 credit rating, and has revised its outlook to negative from stable.  During the past several months, the Office of the State Treasurer has led a team of state government officials in discussions with the national rating agencies to update Maine’s credit rating.

During the late spring of each year, Maine state government typically borrows money by selling bonds to investors in order to fund capital projects such as road and bridge construction and repair.  In preparation for the bond sale, the State seeks credit updates from the rating agencies.  On May 31, the Office of the State Treasurer is planning to sell $55 million of general obligation bonds that were approved by the Legislature and Maine voters during past years.  The interest and principal payments to bondholders are secured by the full faith and credit of the State.  There is approximately $490 million of outstanding Maine general obligation debt.

In affirming its Aa2 credit rating, Moody’s cited Maine’s credit strengths including its manageable general obligation debt level; rapid 10-year pay back of such borrowing; gradually increasing tax revenues; strong internally managed Treasurer’s Cash Pool; and recent reform to its public pension plan for teachers and state employees that reduced future annual payments from the State’s General Fund.

Moody’s change to negative outlook reflects Maine’s recurring challenges for the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) spending primarily for its Medicaid (Mainecare) program; modest Budget Stabilization Fund (rainy day fund) balance; negative General Fund unassigned balance; and slower than average economic recovery – all of which strains the State’s financial liquidity position.

Treasurer Poliquin commented, “I’m pleased that Moody’s Investors Service has affirmed Maine’s solid Aa2 credit rating.  This rating will continue to give investors confidence in the quality and security of our general obligation bonds.  Our Office anticipates strong demand at the May 31 bond sale.”

The Treasurer further commented, “I appreciate the helpful guidance from Moody’s as Maine continuously strives to improve its credit rating.  I note that Moody’s recognized the positive financial impact of state government eliminating $1.7 billion of our unfunded public pension liability last year.  This year, the rating agency acknowledges the long-term financial health of our ongoing initiative to right-size our Medicaid program.”

The LePage Administration is committed to creating a business-friendly environment to attract capital investment and private sector jobs.  This goal of long-term prosperity for Maine citizens is based on restraining state government spending; reforming public entitlements while maintaining important safety nets based on national averages; addressing long-term financial liabilities; lowering energy costs and health insurance premiums; streamlining business regulations; and investing in public education and infrastructure.

For related information and media, visit www.maine.gov/treasurer/outreach.

Maine's First Lady Ann LePage

AUGUSTA – Continuing to be a strong supporter for Maine military families, First Lady Ann LePage will host a luncheon on Friday for Chamber of Commerce members to promote Maine’s “Hire a Veteran” program. The program is part of the Portland Veterans Network which was created by the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The “Hire a Veteran” program is geared toward addressing the needs of veterans returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and offers free chamber benefits to unemployed veterans. The goal of the initiative is to offer free opportunities for unemployed veterans to help them re-integrate into the community, and gain access to fulfilling employment, education, and healthy well-being.

Chamber members will gather at the Blaine House on Friday, May 18, at noon to review progress and learn more about upcoming projects associated with the “Hire a Veteran” effort. “These service members will be returning to their communities and it is incumbent upon all of us to offer support any way we can,” said Mrs. LePage. “Shining a light on what military families sacrifice is only the beginning of what I hope to achieve within my initiative.”

Maine will see hundreds of service members returning home over the next few years and Mrs. LePage believes each one should have an opportunity to reacclimatize his or her self back into the community as easily as possible.

The Portland Regional Chamber has been organizing welcome home gatherings for returning service members and offering support through their membership with activities such as a family day at health organizations to networking opportunities with Portland area business owners. It is First Lady LePage’s hope that other Chambers of Commerce will follow Portland’s lead, creating a state wide environment fully prepared to support returning service members as well as veterans already home.

The goal of the Portland Veterans Network is to provide a one-stop shop that will have a measurable near term impact on the lives of these veterans. The initiatives will include networking opportunities with other chamber members, mentors, and career coaching to aid our veterans in getting jobs. It will also provide resources to give veterans direct access to colleges and universities. Lastly, the program will focus on wellness by provided free access to local gyms, a family week at Camp Kieve Wavus, and free tickets and admission to family recreational opportunities.

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REGISTER TODAY!

Thank you to all of our conference sponsors, supporters, and partners.

PRIMARY SPONSORS:

Bangor Savings Bank

DECD – Office of Community Development

AUDIO/VISUAL SPONSOR:

Maine Department of Transportation

MAY 17

Pre-Conference Event 6:15PM

The conference kicks off the previous evening, May 17 at 6:15 p.m. with a free reception and screening of the 60 minute national award-winning film, The Greenest Building.  Following the film, dessert is included in the Question and Answer conversation with producer and film maker, Jane Turville, from Portland, Oregon.  A $5 donation is suggested.  Location:  Roberts Learning Center, Lincoln Auditorium, UMF campus.

MAY 18

Conference Day 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Registration and Breakfast open at 7:00AM

This year’s featured conference speaker is inventor, entrepreneur and author, Doug Hall.  A Maine native, Doug is the internationally-recognized founder of Eureka! Ranch and Innovation Engineering.

The conference features 12 concurrent sessions and three specialized walking tours providing exceptional training, idea sharing and real solutions for Maine.

Included in the conference are the highly-anticipated Downtown Achievement Awards, the announcement of Maine’s newest Main Street community and four new Maine Downtown Network communities.

A special celebration will honor Main Street Bath – a 2012 winner of a Great American Main Street Award, one of five nationwide and a first for Maine.  And new this year, the conference concludes at the historic Franklin County Courthouse with a reception and announcement of the Downtown Pitch Contest winners!

Pre-Registration is Required – Pricing Includes:

Conference tote bag and water bottle (with all handouts and materials and a few surprises), continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, all sessions, complimentary van service to and from session locations, great opportunities for networking and inspiration: $65 Member of Maine Development Foundation, a Main Street Maine or a Maine Downtown Network Community; $90 Non-Member.

Maine Downtown Center
Maine Development Foundation
295 Water Street Suite 5
Augusta, Maine 04330

Questions or FMI: Contact Roxanne Eflin, Senior Program Director, at207.626.3117 (office), 207.229.9465 (mobile) or via email.

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City of Gardiner

Bid for Fabrication of GARDINER HERITAGE GRAPHIC PANELS
Park Signs

The City of Gardiner is seeking bids for sixteen (16) park signs demonstrating historic and natural resources, to be installed at the Waterfront Park and Marina. Images for the signs will be provided on request in digital format. Sign material must be suitable for exterior installation and meet the criteria specified in this request.

Completed Bids must be delivered by 10:00 AM on June 1, 2012 at Gardiner City Hall and addressed to:

COMPLETE BID ATTACHED

Nate Rudy, Director of Economic & Community Development
City of Gardiner
6 Church St.
Gardiner, ME 04345

20120507 LCA_900 9901_Graphic-Panel vNRR (2).pdf
637K   View Download

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Maine Secretary of State Charles Summers

Secretary of State Charlie Summers announced today a series of seminars to educate Maine’s business community of the risk of corporate identity theft. The Office of the Secretary of State is working in coordination with the U.S. Secret Service and regional business development organizations to inform Maine businesses about how they can minimize specific identity theft threats to their businesses. The goal of this series is to help business owners and managers learn how to be alert to risks, best protect their operations, and effectively respond should breaches in their identity security occur.

The National Association of Secretaries of State reports that criminals look for ways to steal a legitimate business identity by gaining access to its bank accounts and credit cards, as well as other sensitive company information. Once they realize they are victims of such crimes, businesses may need to spend valuable time and resources to repair the damage to their credit and reputation, and banks and retailers may be left with significant financial losses.

The seminars are open to the public and free of charge. Each is approximately one hour in length and allows time for questions and answers. The Small Business Advocate at http://www.maine.gov/sos/sba/index.html from the Office of the Secretary of State will begin each seminar with a brief summary of the assistance now available to Maine businesses facing regulatory challenges.

•Bangor: Husson University, Dyke Center for Family Business, Tuesday, May 22, noon – 1:00 pm •Presque Isle: University of Maine Presque Isle, Campus Center Multi-Purpose Room, Wednesday, May 23, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. •Portland: Portland Regional Chamber, 443 Congress Street, Thursday, May 31, 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. •Machias: Sunrise County Economic Council, 1 Stackpole Road, Thursday, June 7, Noon – 1:00 p.m. •Calais (via simultaneous teleconference from Machias): Washington County Community College Administration Building, Room 6, Thursday, June 7, Noon – 1:00 p.m. “Maine business owners and managers unaware of how to best protect their operations are at risk of not only losing a great deal of money to identity thieves, but also of severe damage to their reputations. By directly presenting this critically important information to our business community, we aim to equip owners and managers with the tools they need to understand, prevent, and respond to identity theft,” stated Secretary Summers.

For more information about these seminars, please contact Jay Martin at the Office of the Secretary of State at (207) 626-8410.

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Researchers find that harmful methane leaks into the air at twice the amounts estimated by the EPA.

(Christian Lagerek /Shutterstock)
From Pacific Standard Magazine

By Paul Tullis

The recent boom in U.S. natural gas production has been hailed as thecure to all America’s ills. Gas, its boosters say, can reduce household heating expenses, enhance energy security, create jobs, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

That last part is crucial to winning over environmentalists. “Over its full cycle of production, distribution, and use, natural gas emits just over half as many greenhouse gas emissions as coal for equivalent energy output,” the green group Worldwatch Institute reported last August. But all of that may amount to a lot of hot air if researchers from Cornell University and the Environmental Defense Fund are right. Thanks to the little-known problem of methane leakage, in the short term at least, natural gas may be worse for the climate than other fossil fuels.

Natural gas is mostly methane, which is itself a heat-trapping greenhouse gas. And it leaks into the air at every point of the process of getting and using the fuel. The technology exists to capture the leaking gas at hydraulic fracturing – aka fracking – sites, but industry officials say it’s not worth the cost. With the price of natural gas having dropped 90 percent since 2005, that attitude is not likely to change soon.

Ramon Alvarez, a physical chemist who works at the Environmental Defense Fund, co-authored a study, published in April in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, that compares the impacts of natural gas with gasoline, diesel, and coal on the climate. His conclusion: “The amount of methane released can affect whether or not natural gas is a better fuel for the climate than other fuels.”

In February, researchers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration analyzed air samples from a region of Colorado where a lot of gas is being extracted through fracking. They found the air contained twice as much methane as the EPA had estimated there would be, suggesting a lot more methane than previously thought was leaking during extraction.

NOAA’s findings lent support to an earlier study, by Cornell researchersRobert Howarth and Anthony Ingraffea, who found natural gas to be no cleaner than coal when you factor in methane leakage. But that study was heavily criticized by the gas industry and other Cornell researchers, who contended the estimates of methane leakage were too high. The EPA stepped into the debate in April when it issued air pollution standards that will force producers to reduce methane leakage caused by fracking by 25 percent.

Figuring out the net effect on climate change of natural gas, and how that compares to other fuel sources, is complicated. Methane is more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the greenhouse gas most prevalent in the burning of coal and liquid transport fuels. But the methane doesn’t persist in the atmosphere as long.

That means, according to Alvarez, the methane emitted from powering a fleet of natural gas driven vehicles, for example, only presents a climate benefit over a gasoline-powered fleet after about 40 years. By his calculations, methane leakage would have to be cut by at least twice as much as the new EPA mandate for natural gas to become less harmful to the climate than gas or diesel in the short term. Compared to coal, though, he found climate benefits are immediate and increase over time.

Those figures, however, are based on the EPA’s official estimate that 2.4 percent of natural gas leaks out during production. When Alvarez and his co-authors ran their model using the median estimate from the Cornell study, 7 percent, natural gas for vehicle transport offers no benefits for at least 100 years. Compared to coal, natural gas would take 30 to 60 years to offer a benefit.

All of that may still seem to give natural gas the advantage. Not so, says James E. Hansen, the physicist who heads NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies and is one of the earliest and most credible authorities to sound the alarm over global warming.

“If we reduce carbon dioxide emissions six percent a year starting in 2015,” he says, “we’ll level out at 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere in about 2100.” Hansen and others believe 350 parts per million is the maximum amount of carbon dioxide the atmosphere can sustain for long periods without warming a disastrous 2º Celsius. The last time the planet was that warm—three million years ago—primates left Europe, alligators moved in, and the ocean was 25 meters above current levels–which would put Calcutta, Miami, and much of New York and Tokyo under water.

But even if we start bringing carbon dioxide levels down in the coming years, we may find ourselves in even worse shape if we accomplish it by switching wholesale to natural gas and releasing huge amounts of methane in the process. In the fight against climate change, Hansen maintains, time is one thing we don’t have.

More like this: Environment
Tags: Climate Change, Fracking, Methane, Natural Gas

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Introduction

The City of Gardiner has recently announced its partnership with the Gardiner Board of Trade, Gardiner Main Street, and the Orton Family Foundation (collectively “Partners” or “Partnership”) in a two-year grant to undertake a Gardiner Heart & Soul Community Planning project.

“Heart & Soul Community Planning” is an innovative, multi-disciplinary approach to helping citizens from all walks of life discover and protect their community’s most important assets so that they can adapt to change while enhancing the attributes they value most. The Heart & Soul project aims to:

- Engage a breadth and diversity of Gardiner’s population in a discussion about the future of their community;

- Identify common community values and priority assets, and identify and evaluate potential actions and policies that will help Gardiner preserve and enhance those assets; and

- Support the development of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Downtown Master Plan, and Waterfront Master Plan.

A key outcome of this Partnership is a Comprehensive Plan that reflects the values, priorities, and aspirations of the community as identified through the Heart & Soul Project.

The City of Gardiner seeks the services of a qualified planning consultant to work with the Heart & Soul Partners and assist the Comprehensive Plan Committee in preparing a revision to the existing Comprehensive Plan. The current Plan, adopted in 1997, will cease to be consistent with MSRA Title 30-A and Chapter 208 of the State Planning Office’s Comprehensive Plan Revision Criteria Rule by the end of 2012. The update will make it eligible for a consistency finding with the Growth Management Act of the State of Maine.

The Comprehensive Plan (“Plan”) is the foundation for determining effective public policy, master planning, and land use decisions for the future, and will provide an ongoing framework for informed and directed development. The Plan shall include goals, objectives, and strategies and utilize maps, graphs, and City of Gardiner 2 other imagery tools to analyze, assess, and recommend best practices for values-based planning, economic development, housing, infrastructure, and other improvements. The responsibility of the Plan is to reflect and respond to the priorities, values, and requirements of Gardiner’s residents, safeguarding the city’s history and sense of place while stimulating the conditions for short- and long-term assurances of dignity, freedom, life, work, and economic stability and community in Gardiner.

Project Area

The City of Gardiner is located in Kennebec County, about 6 miles south of Augusta. Gardiner has a population of 5,800 according to the 2010 U.S. Census data, down 300 residents from 2000 figures. Its total land area covers about 16 square miles. Although the physical scope of the Comprehensive Plan shall not exceed the official boundaries of the City, neighboring and regional influences on future growth opportunities and challenges may be selectively incorporated into the Plan where appropriate.

Scope of Work

The Consultant will conduct the following minimum tasks. The City strongly encourages bidders to expand on these tasks, to provide detail on how they are to be accomplished, to recommend which tasks require greater emphasis, and to suggest additional tasks not identified in this RFP that may be necessary or beneficial.

Project Meetings. The consultant is expected to meet regularly with project staff and Partners to discuss project progress and direction.

Meetings with the Comprehensive Plan Committee, Staff, and Council. The consultant will meet with the Committee to provide updates and collect input. In addition, the consultant will solicit input and feedback from City Council, Staff, and the State of Maine, providing interim reports, presentations, and updates to each as required and appropriate; attend the Plan’s formal adoption by City Council.

Public Engagement and Communications. The Heart & Soul engagement process requires that the consultant actively collaborate in public outreach and engagement. The consultant is expected to work with the Heart & Soul project team, Partners, and the Department of Economic and Community Development and bring inquiries, information, and technical capacity to the department’s delegated project manager (the Assistant Community Planner) who has been charged with delivering a community-driven, values-based planning process that identifies actions and policies for the Comprehensive Plan. This could include assisting with communications, collaborating in engagement planning and facilitation, and substantially supporting the development of policy alternatives and decision-support materials.

Comprehensive Plan Development. The consultant will research and develop materials for the comprehensive plan, including but not limited to:

- A baseline review of existing plans and relevant information, including the existing Comprehensive Plan and Master Plans, codes and policies, demographic and census data, and other information relevant to the required plan elements.

City of Gardiner 3

- An existing condition inventory and projected needs analysis, including a population analysis, existing land use and capital facilities (water, sewer, transportation, recreation, open space) assessment, and residential/commercial growth patterns; and a projection of Gardiner population and housing trends to 2030.

- A graphic vision plan that comprehensively addresses the downtown, waterfront, Common, Cobbossee Corridor, and other critical areas within the community.

- A strategic plan for the future of Gardiner, complete with goals, objectives, public input mechanisms and results, and implementation strategies for the 2012 Comprehensive Plan.

Deliverables

The 2012 Comprehensive Plan products will include:

1. Twenty (20) printed, bound, color copies of the draft and final Comprehensive Plan, including maps and appendices;

2. An unbound, reproducible, original copy of (1) above;

3. Any derived GIS data or other new mapping information developed for the plan; and

4. A labeled compact disc of (1) above, inclusive of all graphics and appendices, in original electronic formats, as well as in PDF and Word 2007.

Project Management and Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for working closely with the Comprehensive Plan Committee, the Assistant Community Planner, and the Partners as necessary to ensure that the Comprehensive Plan is aligned with the outcomes of the Heart & Soul engagement process.

The City’s Director of Economic and Community Development will be the Project Director. The City’s Assistant Community Planner will serve as the primary contact and coordinator between the City, the Comprehensive Plan Committee, the Partners, and the successful firm. Other City staff will be available for input as necessary.

A Comprehensive Plan Committee will serve as an oversight committee for this project, consisting of a minimum of seven (7) and a maximum of nine (9) members who are residents of Gardiner and who will guide, evaluate, and approve the direction and completion of the Plan. This committee will recommend the final Plan to Council for approval.

The Partners will collaborate with the consultant and substantially support and direct the community engagement efforts, and will play an advisory role on the translation of Heart& Soul project outcomes into the Comprehensive Plan.

The Heart & Soul Advisory Team will play an advisory role and act as liaisons to the broader community.

The City of Gardiner will also:

- Provide any and all existing documentation to the consultant as requested, within reasonable expectations and costs;

City of Gardiner 4

- Assist with human and technical resources as needed to facilitate timely progress;

- Provide and distribute minutes for all Comprehensive Plan Committee meetings; and

- Schedule, coordinate, and make necessary arrangements for other Plan-related meetings.

Project Budget

The City of Gardiner expects this contract amount to fall between $17K and $35K.

Project Schedule

The consistency finding by the State of Maine for the plan adopted in 1997 expires at the end of 2012, but the Plan itself and its associated recommendations remain valid. By purposefully extending the City’s timeline for updating the Comprehensive Plan, the Partners expect the update process to be closely aligned with the Heart & Soul engagement activities arising from the Orton Family Foundation’s Heart & Soul planning framework.

Key phases in this process will include:

July 2012 – December 2012: development of a community-driven, values-based vision for Gardiner’s future.

January 2013 – June 2013: the use of these values to engage the community in crafting and evaluating policies and actions.

June 30, 2013: the deadline for the Comprehensive Plan update and all associated deliverables.

July 2013 – January 2014: pending outcomes of the Heart & Soul project as well as budgetary considerations, the City may request a limited scope of services extending to the close of the two-year project (January 2014), or that requires a revisit and incorporation during this time period of any continuing Heart & Soul processes that may relate to the Comprehensive Plan deliverables.

The City wishes to complete and adopt the plan in a timely manner that does not shortcut or circumvent the Heart & Soul process.

Submission Requirements

For consideration, please submit two (2) digital files, including one PDF and one Word (2007-compatible) file, containing your proposal to the City of Gardiner on or before 4:30 PM on Friday, June 1, 2012. Please also submit one (1) paper copy of the proposal. We will accept this copy by mail after the due date provided it is postmarked no later than June 1, 2012.

Each proposal should include no more than thirty (30) pages and adhere to the following format:

- Project understanding;

- Work and cost proposals meeting or exceeding the scope of work in this request;

City of Gardiner 5

- Statement of qualifications illustrating the ability and skills of consultant and all staff/subcontractors in the areas covered in this request;

- Names and contact information of three (3) professional references;

- Names and contact information of authorized agent to negotiate on behalf of and contractually bind the consultant during the period of the proposed evaluation;

- Statement that the proposal is binding for not less than 60 days after the proposal due date;

- Acknowledgment that the selected Consultant shall agree to indemnify and hold the Partnership harmless from claims, demands, suits, causes of action and judgments arising from the Consultant’s performance, including claims of professional malpractice or negligence; and

- List of hourly billing rates to be charged should the City expand the project scope or require additional services.

Selection Process

After initial review by the Comprehensive Plan Committee and City Staff, a shortlist of consultants will be selected and evaluated based on (but not limited to) the following:

- Consultant shows a demonstrated understanding of the Heart & Soul approach to planning;

- Proposals that are complete and on time, and that meet specified minimum requirements;

- Qualifications, technical and creative approach, performance in similar communities, and references of each bidding consultant (as well as each contributing staff or team member);

- The success of the bidder in any interview or presentation process that may be requested; and

- Additional evaluation (as needed) and approval by City Council.

Interviews, if conducted, will be limited to a maximum of four (4) consultants, and will result in a negotiations process with each of the top prioritized list of consultants based on the above evaluation until a suitable negotiation has been reached for both the City and the consultant, upon which a contract with the winning bidder may be drawn. This contract will specify the terms and schedule of reimbursement as agreed upon during negotiations.

Reservation of Rights

This Request for Proposal shall not be construed as a contract or commitment by the City of Gardiner, or as a statement of intent to award a contract or pay any costs incurred by a bidding consultant. The City reserves the right to cancel or re-advertise this request, to accept, reject, or hold over any and all bids received, to interview at its discretion, to negotiate acceptable contract terms, and to seek timely proposal clarifications on bids upon which acceptance may be contingent.

All proposals submitted in response to this RFP become the property of the City. The City has the right to disclose information contained in the proposals after an award has been made unless the Consultant requests certain portions remain confidential. All products developed for this project shall be considered public information and shall be co-owned by the Heart & Soul Partnership and the Consultant. All City of Gardiner 6

products, both paper and digital, and borrowed materials shall be delivered to the City of Gardiner prior to final payment.

Inquiries & Contact Information

Please submit any written inquiries about this project by May 18, 2012. We will collate all questions and respond collectively by May 25, 2012. Any inquiries and associated contact information will remain confidential.

Please send all inquiries and proposal submissions to:

City of Gardiner
6 Church Street
Gardiner, ME 04345
Ph: 207/582-6888
Fax: 207/582-6895
acoffice@gardinermaine.com

The deadline for submission of proposals is 4:30 PM on Friday, June 1, 2012.

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Pelletco is creating jobs and keeping dollars local, all actions supporting Pelletco’s mission of Making Energy Local. “Together we can support the local economy with renewable, sustainable resources,” she said. Tom Wood, senior planner for the Maine Department of Forestry, supports the use of wood products and commented, “It’s a renewable, clean, efficient energy source and it gets us off the oil bandwagon.”

Offering its patent under a licensee opportunity, pellet mills can produce higher BTU energy per pound, and save on fuel delivery costs, according to Elizabeth Fossett, Pelletco’s business development manager. Pelletco is currently focused on bulk production for commercial and institutional users in Maine and the Northeast, expanding to the residential pellet market later.

Extensive research went into the development of Pelletco’s patents, conducted through the University of Maine at Orono and independent, third-party laboratories. Case studies to measure the increased performance of the pellet fuel were conducted at Poland Regional High School and the Mechanic Falls Town Office buildings in Maine. The Poland school, which has a wood chip boiler and uses high moisture green wood chips, is unable to operate on warm days. The blending of Pelletco fuel with the green wood chips allows the school to operate the boiler longer, extending the heating season and saving the school money. “No question that we saved money, and going forward we can make a bigger savings and lengthen the heating season with Pelletco pellets,” Tony Bennett, Poland Regional High School’s maintenance director, said recently. “We wouldn’t be able to do it with just chips; and that’s a given.”

Pelletco pellet product is “unique in its durability and BTU value,” said Kyle Michael, owner of Power & Steam in Vassalboro, ME, an independent consultant hired to design the case study for Pelletco. “High moisture content has the greatest negative effect on boiler efficiency so the ability to mix the high BTU water-resistant Pelletco fuel is critical. We measure operating efficiency and found that Pelletco composite fuel performed consistently better than biomass alone.”

Testing of Pelletco pellets conducted in a commercial pellet boiler installed in the Mechanic Falls Town Office building by Northline Energy showed the pellets had improved CO levels. In addition, the higher BTU fuel per pound will save the town in fuel costs and transportation. “We hope that our reliance on foreign oil will be significantly less in future years,” John Hawley, Mechanic Falls town manager, commented.

For more information on converting to biomass pellet heating or Pelletco, contact Elizabeth Fossett at efossett@thepelletco.com or visit www.pelletco.com.

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This property has been farmed for generations, ever since the Foster family started a dairy operation here in 1870. Nowadays, Mary Perry and her three children continue the agricultural tradition, and they are passionate about seeing the land remain a forever farm for future generations– with a little help from their friends. “Our mission is to create a sense of community and belonging by offering our wholesome food, and to restore old-fashioned values by inviting people to come and experience the way life used to be,” says Perry. “Our commitment to sustainable agriculture allows us to produce abundant food, without depleting resources or polluting the environment. And our organic food is produced specifically with families in mind, to ensure the continued health of our children and the land on which they are raised.”

The first of these family-friendly “WInterberry Farm Forever” events, each intended to raise awareness about farms in general as well as funds for this initiative, will be a community bread and soup supper at the Union Church on Rte. 27 in Belgrade Lakes, on Saturday, April 28th from 5 to 7pm.  Suggested donation is $5 per person or  $15 per family for the meal, which includes a selection of homemade soups, bread and dessert. In addition there will be door prizes, a CSA farm share raffle, and live folk music entertainment by Dave Peloquin. Feel free to be “green” and bring your own dinnerware (optional).

On Sunday, May 6th– with a mud date of May 12th–  members of the Farmers Steer & Oxen Club of Maine will gather at Winterberry Farm for their second annual plowing event. The work will get underway at approximately 10am, and the public is cordially invited to come by to witness this time honored task. “Bring your family, and come watch the “boys” and their handlers prepare the soil at Winterberry Farm for the spring planting of vegetables, using authentic animal-powered equipment,” says Perry. “Feel free to participate in the farmers’ potluck, or bring a brown bag lunch if you like, and by all means, ask lots of questions.”

And on Sunday, May 27th, at the Rome Grange Hall (corner of Rte. 27N and 125 E), a community potluck supper, silent auction and contra dance will take place. All ages are welcome, with admission by donation at the door.  Again, feel free to bring your own dinnerware for the supper, which will begin at 5pm (featuring homemade pie for dessert!).  Dancing to live accompaniment by the Gawler family as well as the Pineland Fiddlers will begin at 6:30pm. Please contact Perry if you would like to contribute to the potluck supper, and/or donate goods or services for the auction.

More events are currently being organized for later in the summer and beyond. Details will be posted as they are available, on the Winterberry Farm FaceBook page and website (see below).

MORE ABOUT WINTERBERRY FARM Locals and seasonal visitors have become accustomed to stopping by the roadside Winterberry farm stand on Rte 27, to buy Perry’s home baked pies, breads, soups, home-canned goods of all varieties (jams, pickles, relishes, salsas, etc.) as well as organic honey, eggs, flowers and veggies.  The farm stand is open 9-6 most days and everyday in the summer.

Visitors are welcome at Winterberry Farm. Bring your children to see the farm and the animals, and experience special events such as maple sugaring, sheep shearing, the big spring plowing, and winter sleigh rides. Perry and her children grow salad greens year round in their unheated greenhouse. They also raise Romney sheep for wool, which Perry spins and dyes and knits into handmade socks—also for sale at the farm stand shop.

Winterberry is also a CSA farm: the Community Supported Agriculture shareholders enjoy an ongoing supply of fresh, delicious produce– and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping to keep a local farm sustainable.  Purchasing a Winterberry Farm CSA share in  the spring, entitles you to stop by the farm each week for your box of fresh picked vegetables and fruits, all season long.  What’s more, shareholders receive weekly newsletters and recipes, as well as tips on how to store, prepare or preserve farm fresh produce; you  can even cut your own flowers and herbs from the gardens when you stop by for your Friday CSA pick-up. “It’s almost as if you have a farm to call your own for the season!” says Perry. “You even help out with the farm chores, if you like.”

For more information about Winterberry Farm, participating in the CSA farm share program, or the farmland trust efforts and the “forever farm” events, please visit www.winterberryfarmstand.com, or find Winterberry Farm on FaceBook, or call 495-2593.

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Empowering Maine People to Power Maine’s Economy     

As the warm weather arrives, MDF is absolutely bustling with activity.  We released the Maine Economic Growth Council’s Measures of Growth in Focus report in early March and our staff is available if your organization would like a presentation.  We have begun traveling the state with our wonderful partner, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, sharing our third report in the Making Maine Work Series, “Investment in Early Childhood = Real Economic Development.”  And our new Leadership Unplugged series based on the the four pillars of our strategic plan (Education, Health, Innovation, and Attraction) has been a fantastic success.  Please join us on May 9 at Thomas College for Wick Johnson’s conversation on how wellness is driving costs down and productivity up at Kennebec Technologies, and on May 18 for innovation guru Doug Hall at the annual Downtown Conference.  The sun is always shining at MDF!  Happy Spring!

Laurie G. Lachance
President and CEO

Education

This year’s Maine Downtown Conference, “Innovation Meets Main Street,”  is
Friday, May 18 in Downtown Farmington and on the University of Maine at Farmington campus.  This 12th annual event showcases the economic and community values of downtown and village center revitalization and features inventor, entrepreneur, author, and innovation guru Doug Hall, the internationally-recognized founder of Eureka Ranch and Innovation Engineering.  The conference kicks off the evening before (the 17th) with a reception and showing of the film The Greenest Building.  The conference features the Achievement Awards plus 12 concurrent sessions and walking tours on business entrepreneurship; green downtowns and heritage conservation; healthy communities and local food; and organization leadership and education.  You do not want to miss it!
Action: See our website for details and register now.

The Maine Employers’ Initiative has launched a scholarship challenge

through our strong partnership with the Maine State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). There are seven regional chapters in Maine associated with the State Council, and each chapter has been challenged to sign up ten new employers to the network from within their membership. This challenge is a win-win for all partners involved. The network of employers statewide who are committed to supporting education will grow exponentially, while the human resources chapters will receive $1,000 scholarships to support education and training for their members. If you are a member of one of the SHRM chapters and haven’t yet joined the Maine Employers’ Initiative, take that step now and you’ll take part in the scholarship challenge! Checks will be handed out to chapters who have met their goal at the May HR Convention held at the Samoset in Rockland.

Joining Maine Employers’ Initiative is simple: take the online survey at our website, and simply fill out a commitment letter outlining “one more step” you will take to support education in your workplace!

Action:  Join MEI now.

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Health and Wellness 

Our May 9 Leadership Unplugged is entitled “Healthy Employees = Lower Costs and Higher Productivity.”  Charles “Wick” Johnson, President and Owner of Kennebec Technologies, will discuss how healthy employees lower costs and raise productivity.  Kennebec Technologies is a leader in their industry, and the health of employees affects productivity and competitiveness. Kennebec Technologies aggressively invests in the health and wellness of their employees.  Wick is passionate about this investment in his employees.  The economic return is great, and Wick believes it is the right thing to do for his people.  Come hear about their success and growth in a tough economy.

Action: Register now.

MDF has challenged our friends at the Maine Health Access Foundation to a physical activity competition as part of our own wellness plan.  Each MDF staffer has a pedometer and exercise conversion chart and we are busy tracking our steps!  The game is on!  MEHAF is joining us as a sponsor of our 2012 Downtown Conference, which will include sessions on active design, worksite wellness, and local foods.  MDF is also pleased to be taking part in theActive Community Conference, on May 31 at USM’s Abromson Center.

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Innovation

Congratulations to MDF member Hancock Lumber, recently named Maine’s Exporter of the Year by the Maine International Trade Center.  President and CEO Kevin Hancock is a Leadership Maine (Lambda) alum.  Hancock started their export business in 2007 and today proudly ships their products all over the world, with export volume accounting for 25% of their sawmill business.

Identifying and capitalizing on new markets is essential to growing the Maine economy and supporting Maine businesses.  International markets represent real growth opportunities for Maine businesses.

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Attraction and Retention

Auro Nair, Ph.D., General Manager Scientific Research Services for the Jackson Laboratory, joined us at our Leadership Unplugged “Maine:  A Destination for Worldclass Talent” on April 10 at Husson University.  The non-profit Jackson Laboratory is at the forefront of the battle against human diseases.  Their 1,200 employees are diverse and are the key to the Lab’s success.  Auro’s engaging discussion about how Jackson Lab attracts talent and his own experience offered valuable insights into what Maine might consider in our effort to attract and retain talented individuals from across the world.

Congratulations to Bath, which has been selected as a Great American Main Street Award winner by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  Main Street Bath was honored at the Main Street Awards Ceremony during the National Main Street Conference in Baltimore, Maryland.  The award recognizes exceptional accomplishments in revitalizing the nation’s historic Main Street commercial districts.  Bath’s award is a testament to the work of Main Street Bath in overcoming obstacles on behalf of Bath’s downtown.

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Upcoming Events

Leadership Unplugged Wick Johnson, May 9 Thomas College

Register Now

Innovation Meets Main Street: 2012 Downtown Conference

May 18, FarmingtonRegister Now

Save the Date

MDF Annual Meeting
September 21
Holiday Inn By the Bay Portland
What’s New

Visit our website

www.mdf.org

Become a Member

Join MDF on Facebook

Maine Development Foundation
295 Water Street, Suite 5
Augusta, ME 04330
P: (207) 622-6345 F: (207) 622-6346
W: mdf.org E: mdf@mdf.org and on Facebook

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We can strike a balance between a prosperous economy while protecting the environment says Governor LePage

AUGUSTA – More than twenty years since Maine laws governing the permitting process for mining activity have been examined by lawmakers there is a new law that will take effect. Today, Governor Paul LePage signed LD 1853, “An Act To Improve Environmental Oversight and Streamline Permitting for Metallic Mineral Mining in Maine. The bill, which is sponsored by Representative John Martin, D-Eagle Lake, seeks to improve environmental oversight and make the permitting process for mining activity in Maine more efficient through a consolidated permitting process.

“It’s time to modernize Maine’s metallic mining regulations – now more than two decades old and under which a permit has never been issued – to reflect improvements in mining technology. This effort has the potential to create hundreds of jobs in Northern Maine. It’s an opportunity we simply can’t afford to lose,” said Governor LePage. “We can strike a balance between a prosperous economy while protecting the environment and the commitment from the Department of Environmental Protection demonstrates we can do it in a meaningful and thoughtful way.”

During the legislative process, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Patricia Aho and Policy Director, Heather Parent worked closely with members of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee. Over the next two years, the Department of Environmental Protection will undertake a thorough review of the best environmental regulatory approaches to metal mining and commence a transparent, inclusive process to modernize current rules, which have not been revisited since 1991.

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will update its mining regulations to create pursuant to the recently enacted Maine Metallic Mineral Mining Act through the major substantive rulemaking process, move all metallic mine permitting from Land Use Regulation Commission jurisdiction to DEP and put money in a Mining Oversight Fund.

“The DEP is committed to fostering a healthy environment that stewards our natural resources with the understanding that without those resources, we won’t have a vibrant economy and we won’t be Maine,” said Commissioner Aho. “From the day this concept mining bill was introduced, the department has worked determinedly to shape it in a way that guarantees Maine and its citizens receive the benefits of the resource and associated activities, while also ensuring that environmental protections are upheld and subsequent remediation and closure is adequate. The final bill the Governor signed today does exactly that,” Aho said.

Serving the people of Northern Maine, Representative John Martin says the bill will boost the economic outlook in the region. “This new law will create hundreds of good paying jobs for the people of Aroostook County,” said Rep. Martin. “Maine’s outdated mining laws needed to be updated to reflect new advances in mining technology that help strike the right balance between protecting the environment, safer mining, and economic development. We will continue to work with the environmental community to ensure that our natural resources are not jeopardized.”

Minerals can be recovered in a way that keeps the air, land and water clean and this modernization of Maine’s mining rules will lay out the framework to foster that.

The DEP will ensure that as this process moves forward, it is a thorough and thoughtful one and if mining activity is carried out in Maine as a result of these regulatory updates, it is done so in a responsible way that ensures adequate environment protections. The department will ensure updated regulations appropriately address ground and surface water protection, the management of waste rock, transfer of ownership and the inclusion of financial assurance mechanisms that will guarantee any proposed mining operation provides financially for long-term closure and remediation. The DEP and its permitting process will also make sure that no mining site owner will be able to walk away from the site until it is completely closed to the satisfaction of the Commissioner and the protection in perpetuity of its surrounding environment.

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Based on 100,000 votes cast for more than 2,800 different Maine nonprofit organizations, the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation will allocate $100,000 to 68 nonprofits. The top vote-getter in each of the eight regions received $5,000 from the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation. These winners are: First Light Farm Equine Shelter; Townline Animal Shelter; Avian Haven Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center; The LifeFlight Foundation: Emergency Medical Helicopters; Cancer Community Center; Sweetser; Pine Tree Hospice and The Animal Orphanage.

Additionally, 60 other organizations received $1,000 each, including 20 organizations earning the most write-in votes from the public. For a complete listing of all the winning organizations by region, please click here.

In addition to our financial support, the organizations initially listed on the Community Matters More ballot received substantial exposure for their critical community missions thanks to major support by our partners WGAN 560 Newsradio, Blueberry Broadcasting, WLBZ-TV 2 and WCSH-TV 6.

We are thrilled by the results of the statewide Community Matters More grant-making initiative. Both the number of votes cast and the number of nonprofit organizations receiving support reflect the commitment of Maine people to their communities and the importance of our nonprofits. The valuable work these nonprofit organizations do to support everything from the arts to food security to the environment help make Maine a better place to live.

As Maine’s largest independent bank, Bangor Savings Bank is committed to being a strong community partner and a good neighbor throughout Maine. The public’s participation in Community Matters More helped us in that effort, and we thank you for your support.

Thank You,

Jim Conlon
President & CEO

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“Healthy Employees = Lower Costs and Higher Productivity”

Register now for the last of Maine Development Foundation’s Spring 2012 Leadership Unplugged Series, sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank.  On Wednesday, May 9, Charles “Wick” Johnson, President and Owner, Kennebec Technologies will discuss with us how healthy employees help lower costs and raise productivity.  To register go to https://mdf.wufoo.com/forms/leadership-unplugged-may-9-2012/

Wednesday, May 9
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Student Commons Function Room
Thomas College, Waterville

Kennebec Technologies is a leader in their industry serving clients nationwide in the aerospace and defense, alternative energy, medical, semiconductor, and telecommunications industries.  They have a demanding production schedule that requires high levels of efficiency and long hours.  The loss of employees affects productivity and their competitiveness.  Kennebec Technologies aggressively invests in the health and wellness of their employees.  Wick is passionate about this investment in his employees.  The economic return is great and most importantly, Wick feels that it is the right thing to do for his people.  Come hear about their success and their growth in a tough economy.

I hope to see you on May 9^th.

Cheryl

Cheryl B. Miller, Senior Program Director
Maine Development Foundation
295 Water St., Ste. 5
Augusta, ME 04330
Tel: 207-626-3116
F: 207-622-6346
www.mdf.org

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Monday, April 23, 2012

No Public Events

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

8:00 a.m.
4th Annual ME Partners in Emergency Preparedness Conference
Location: Augusta Civic Center

Background

Governor Paul LePage will deliver welcoming remarks at the Maine Partners in Emergency Preparedness Conference, which highlights the partnership among the State Emergency Response Commission, The Maine Emergency Management Agency and Maine Association of Local Emergency Managers.

The Conference will feature:

• Keynote talks from two New England Emergency Managers (from the State of Vermont and the City of Springfield, Massachusetts) on unthinkable events they experienced last year.
• Two tracks of hazardous materials response workshops
• Hazmat Team Challenge
• Six tracks of a wide range of emergency management workshops

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

9:30 a.m.
Public Signing for the Mining Bill
Location: Cabinet Room

Background

Governor LePage will sign LD 1853, “An Act To Improve Environmental Oversight and Streamline Permitting for Metallic Mineral Mining in Maine.” Speakers include: Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner, Patricia Aho, Senator Tom Saviello (R-Franklin), Environmental and Natural Resources Committee Chair, and sponsor of the bill Representative John Martin (D-Eagle Lake).

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

6:00 p.m.
Annual Statewide Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Event
Location: Governor Hill Mansion, State Street, Augusta

Background

The Youth of the Year program, Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier character and leadership initiative, recognizes outstanding contributions to a Club member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. The Governor will deliver formal remarks and present awards.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

9:00 a.m.
Save-A-Lot Grand Opening
Location: The Concourse, Waterville

Background

Governor LePage, Save-A-Lot representatives, Waterville’s City Manager, Mike Roy and Waterville Main Street Executive Director, Shannon Haines will celebrate the grand opening of a new Save-A-Lot store in the Waterville Concourse.

Save-A-Lot grocery store network spans from Maine to California, serving more than 4 million shoppers each week. Customers enjoy grocery store bargains on exclusive Save-A-Lot brands and national brands, plus USDA-inspected beef, pork and poultry, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and non-food items.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

6:00 p.m.
Maine Aggregate Association’s Annual Membership Meeting & Banquet
Location: Italian Heritage Center, 40 Westland Avenue, Portland

Background

Maine Aggregate Association is a state-wide member based group of businesses and individuals involved with the gravel and rock industries. MAA operates to ensure the regulatory requirements remain practical for the industry while protecting the environment. Governor LePage will deliver the keynote address.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Town Hall at Nokomis Regional High School
Location: 266 Williams Road, Newport

Background

The Governor and members of his Cabinet will participate in a town hall meeting with citizens from Penobscot County. The event is free and open to the public and media.

Friday, April 27, 2012

Jobs for Maine’s Graduates 20th Annual Career Development Conference
8:15 a.m.
Location: Augusta Civic Center

Background

Governor LePage will deliver formal remarks at the Career Development Conference, or CDC, which celebrates the accomplishments of JMG seniors as they get ready to graduate from high school and take the next step into post-secondary education or careers.

During this event, more than 500 seniors and selected juniors converge on the Augusta Civic Center and take part in competitions that measure their skills in interviewing, job preparedness, team work, communication, and leadership.

Students also have a chance to showcase their accomplishments over the past year in the Career Association Marketplace, to win educational scholarships, and to network with professionals from Maine’s business and college community in the Career and College Expo.

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Today, at a special meeting at the Four Points Hotel in Bangor, the Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) voted to deny a permit to First Wind of Boston (Champlain Wind LLC) for their proposed Bowers Mountain wind project.

FMM commends PPDLW, a grass-roots citizens’ group organized to preserve a region rich in scenic natural resources. The Downeast Lakes region has a centuries-long history of traditional commerce founded on nature-based tourism. Due to PPDLW’s leadership and the participation of hundreds of citizens across Maine, the area’s natural resources, history and primary economic engine have been successfully protected.

LURC Commissioners considered the benefits and drawbacks of the Bowers wind project over the course of many months. This was not a decision arrived at lightly. FMM appreciates LURC’s diligence and patience and the commitment Commissioners have shown as they juggled the misguided directives of the Wind Energy Act with Maine’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Long before the decision document was signed by LURC, John Lamontagne, Director of Communications for First Wind, stated that the company will modify the Bowers application and resubmit it later this year. But Maine citizens-especially locals and tourists to the Downeast area, as well as professionals whose jobs depend on the region’s rich scenic resources-know that such impacts cannot be mitigated with a “modified” project.

If it becomes necessary, FMM will most assuredly stand behind PPDLW, which has vowed to continue to protect the extraordinary Downeast Lakes Watershed from the adverse affects of industrial wind.

Contacts: Chris O’Neil, 590-3842 or Karen Pease, 628-2070 or 340-0066

Friends of Maine’s Mountains
PO Box 60, Weld, ME 04285
(207) 585-2005
www.friendsofmainesmountains.org

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