Editor’s note: the following is a collection of candidate profiles for those individuals running for the Houlton Town Council. Candidates are listed in alphabetical order.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned that will help assist you if elected?
I served on the Houlton Town Council for six years, serving as chairman for one year; president/interpreter of the I.A.A.B.O. Basketball Officials; won a state championship coaching basketball in 1995-96 with Central Aroostook High School; coached Houlton varsity boys basketball from 1996-2003.
What is your career background?
I have been a barber in Houlton for the past 41 years and am still going strong.
What made you decide to run for this office?
I decided to run because I care about the people of the community and take serving on the council very serious.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (and how will you work to fix it)?
My goal is to lower property taxes, promote Houlton in a larger way and take a leadership role with the current situation between our town and the school board. Spiraling school costs have meant Houlton has a very high property tax rate.
What will be your primary goal, if elected (give specifics)?
One of my goals will be to help fix the situation with the Houlton Rest Area. I have a plan in place that I feel would lower the costs dramatically.
Why should people vote for you?
I have long been active in local government. I bring experience to the position from my time on the council in the past. I truly love the town of Houlton and am a lifelong resident.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned that will help you if elected?
I served on the Houlton Board of Budget Review for four years (a one-year term and a three-year term) which reviews the manager’s budget and makes recommendations prior to it being submitted to the Council for their vote. I served on the Shiretown Development Corporation (S.D.C.) for three years as the citizen representative, which oversees the use of the Houlton International land and building located at the Houlton International Airport. I served on a Private Homeowners Board of Directors while in the U.S. Military. I am certified every six months in the readings of Visual Smoke Opacity by the state of Maine, governed by the Environmental Protection Agency rules.
What is your career background?
I entered the U.S. Navy with my dad signing my papers, as I was 17 during the Vietnam Conflict. My dad was a WW II hero awarded the Army’s Distinguished Service Cross, July 1943, the Solomon Islands. Upon graduating Basic Training, I volunteered for Basic Underwater Demolition Training (BUDs), graduated from BUDs and served at both SEAL Team 1 & 2. I retired from the U.S. Navy serving as a Navy S.E.A.L., Petty Officer First Class, PO1, Gunner’s Mate Guns 1, and was the liaison point of contact between Naval and other services at a U. S. Army installation. I received an Army Letter of Commendation, A Naval Commendation Medal for helping to save the life of a pilot crashing just feet from my location, surviving an 81 mm explosion and a submarine explosive decompression event. I am a disabled veteran with life memberships with the U.D.T./S.E.A.L. Association, Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion. After retiring, I was involved in the federal sector and residential construction.
What made you decide to run for this office?
I like doing things for others, those who have little or no voice. It is illogical for those in power to withhold the proper way for citizens to speak out on each and every issue before the government body in order to silence the people; the expenditure of taxpayer money needs more oversight and details of what and why before being expended. It is my opinion that the town of Houlton has wasted over $1 million within the last 10 years, which equates to 4 mils placed upon the taxpayers.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (how will you work to fix it)?
I would examine each of the expenditures we have, justify or reduce them; examine all fees for services/use rates; shift working hours of maintenance to support to the needs imposed by weather/time of year as needed; rein in use of town resources except where absolutely necessary; supply employment benefits and pay raises based upon equality to the town’s taxpayers. I would also set up one day-a-week so that citizens can come in and meet with their councilor or meet at some convenient place for the citizenry.
What will be your primary goal if elected (give specifics)?
The image of the town of Houlton has to have a well-maintained foundation, based upon shared obligations and fairness, which benefits the greatest amount of citizens as possible, our image has to be true, not a cliché, open to all. When questions arise that a process be restarted rather than questions hurried to meet a deadline.
Keeping taxes down and when taxes are on the table that the examination and justifications be laid bare. Finding out what we can do to bring businesses here, what are they looking for and what do we need. Remember government does not create jobs. They can at their best create the atmosphere, which will bring businesses to us, which in turn will mean jobs, benefits, prosperity and a place for our children to grow up, remain, prosper and stay if they so desire.
Why should people vote for you?
To encourage/motivate the people to be more involved and for them to feel equally a part of our great town; that their tax dollars are respected; that we the elected officials are here to serve all of them not a select group, that we answer to them; and to thank them everyday for their trust they have placed in us. To try to find what works best and where in the relationship to our downtown and the North Road. That their tax dollars are used wisely, is the expenditure really needed, what are our long-term commitments and costs, what are the alternatives, and that they want honesty, hard honesty when needed and brutally honest explanations when we may have to do those things that with disclosure, research and facts may have to be made for the good of Houlton’s citizens.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned that will help assist you if elected?
I served on the Board of Budget Review; Southern Aroostook Development Corporation Executive Board member; NMDC Brownfields Committee member; and Maine Community Development Association member.
What is your career background?
I am the economic development director for the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians (Current). Previously, I served as community development director for Houlton (2008-2011); Houlton Code Enforcement Officer (2001-2008); Civic Center Director for Houlton (2000-2001); and a building contractor (1998-2000).
What made you decide to run for this office?
My wife, Carol and I have invested time and effort over the years to make the town of Houlton home for us and our girls. We decided that after my 10 years of service to the community as an employee of the taxpayers that it was time to invest in helping to create an even more vibrant future for our kids and future grandkids. With time being the major investment and experience being an asset the choice was simple. If the future is our kids, and our kids are our security, we need to capitalize and provide economic growth and opportunity for them to do the same for generations to come. I want to help ensure that potential.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (and how will you work to fix it)?
In my opinion the most important issues facing the town is the creation of a viable tax base. As a service center community we are set apart from other municipalities by being fortunate enough to host a number of government entities and tax-exempt organizations. These respectable, moderately secured positions are needed assets to the area, as well as a manageable burden to the taxpayer. In order to supplant the loss of tax revenue from such organizations and businesses, it is imperative that the council supports and funds efforts to bring tax-contributing enterprises to the Houlton marketplace.
Other areas of concern now and well into the future are and will be opportunities for alternative heat sources. The prospect lies in utilizing regional resources to provide safe, affordable options to citizens of Houlton to heat their homes and businesses. The renewable resources that are available and accessible to this region and its existing industry are wood-based consumables. With current funding opportunities to design and create the infrastructure, Houlton has the potential to lead the region in this field. This effort would capitalize on an existing industry — wood-harvesting — that is ready, willing and able. It would diversify the market by offering development opportunity to manufacturing industries such as boiler manufacturing, system installations, centralized heating for neighborhoods and businesses, wood chip and pellet manufacturing, equipment sales and maintenance, fuel sales, the list goes on and on. This type of option, brings money to the community, reduces the dependency on foreign oils and diversifies the market to keep pricing on all options competitive. It also creates the business of selling heat as a commodity if someone chose to build a heat plant and market the service.
What will be your primary goal, if elected (give specifics)?
My primary goal will be to work with management to place Houlton on the top of everyone’s list to be considered as “The place to prosper.” Manageable expenses, fair property values, sustained infrastructure, affordable services, top-ranked educational system and retain that ever-present neighbor helping neighbor familiarity.
I would focus my efforts in areas of tax base increases and development opportunities, on supporting management and department decisions on infrastructure needs and improvements and creating a sustainable mil rate.
Why should people vote for you?
People need to make a choice on Nov. 5 as to where and how they would like to see the town venture in the future. Status quo won’t pay the bills any longer and my curious, open-minded, educated approach will provide another conscientious perspective to the existing Houlton Town Council. Municipal budgeting experience and high expectations will provide the drive to Council management through the next three years if elected. My family and I are and have always been dedicated to the town of Houlton and this is a way for me to give something back for all Houlton has done for us. Thank you and I hope you will give me a chance to serve you and your future.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors, titles have you earned?
I have served our town in many capacities. I have served on the council for three years (2004-07), the first year as co-chair. I am currently serving as a member of the Board of Assessment Review, Board of Budget Review and Zoning Board of Appeals, serving as chairman for the Board of Budget Review for several years and currently serving as chairman for the Board of Appeals.
What is your career background?
I have worked for lumber mills and farming before getting into manufacturing for 28 years. I am currently employed by a sub-contractor for the government. I also hold certificates for High Pressure Boiler Operator, Industrial Ergonomics and grant writing.
What made you decide to run for this office?
I am seeking a seat on the Town Council because I believe that all the citizens of Houlton should be represented equally. Houlton needs a councilor to make good sound decisions, someone that can make the toughest decisions in the worst of times, and also the compassion to listen to the needs of others. It has always been my obligation to do this for the town and its citizens. Staying involved on our town boards and committees keeps me highly informed.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (and how will you work to fix it)?
The impact of the Financial Aid coming from the federal and state government is affecting our budget more each year; therefore we cannot depend on as much help with our budget. As the town budget stands today, it will be a huge challenge to keep the mil rate from rising to a level where not only the taxpayers would be greatly affected, but the Economic Development impact as well. This is unacceptable to me. Jobs would give employment to our citizens. Until that happens, we must keep our costs in line.
What will be your primary goal, if elected (give specifics)?
If elected, I have only one thing on my agenda, working for all the citizens of Houlton. That means making wiser decisions that will benefit everyone in our town, keeping money in the pocket of our taxpayers instead of a higher tax rate. Houlton deserves better and we can do better. Let’s be that shining star, after all, Houlton is the capital of Aroostook County.
Why should people vote for you?
I am just a citizen with a desire to help get the town back on track. To also help this council make better-informed responsible decisions on all the issues facing our town. A vote for me, Carl W. Lord Jr., would put stability back into our council and our community.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned that will help assist you if elected?
I have never held an elected office, so can honestly say I am not a politician. I volunteered to be a member of Houlton’s Ordinance Review Committee and was appointed the chairperson. I was asked to become a member of the Economic Development Committee. A few years ago I served as a member of my church’s Executive Committee for a period of about 10 years.
What is your career background?
I have 40-plus years of experience working for several major American corporations. Among others, I have been employed by Digital Equipment Corporation (better known as DEC), First National Bank of Boston (now Bank of America) and Fidelity Investments. I began my career as a computer programmer, but my expertise developed into systems analysis and design. Requirements, often worldwide in nature, were established by interviewing and listening to business leaders both stateside and internationally. As a working manager, I led the business analysis and database design phases of numerous business projects over the years. Additionally, I provided consulting services for the Canadian Government and the state of Florida, among others. Also, I was a guest speaker or keynote speaker at several symposiums.
What made you decide to run for this office?
This year, I graduated from the Citizen’s Police Academy, offered each year by the Houlton Police Department. That awesome experience, as well as one of several inspiring members of the town council made me realize that I want to give back more to the town.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (and how will you work to fix it)?
Keeping the town thriving and growing is our most important issue. The question is how in these tough economic times. Augusta’s cut in revenue sharing is the cause of our predicament. Balancing the budget is going to be our challenge. I am like every other property owner in Houlton — I don’t want the taxes to go up again. I absolutely do not want to lay off any town employees. Realistically, you can only cut expenses to a point and then you can’t cut anymore. Besides, the town council and all the other town officials have done a great job at keeping expenses to a minimum; so concentrating on revenue growth seems to be the best solution. I believe that working with other members of the town council, the town manager, the department heads, the community/economic development director and the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce we can devise some innovative ways to increase revenue.
What will be your primary goal, if elected (give specifics)?
I have some ideas on growth potential, but there are no easy answers. All of my concepts involve working with other people. After all, we are all in this together and experience has taught me that a team can accomplish more than an individual. For the most part I have not discussed my ideas with others, so it would be premature to discuss them. If elected I will present my ideas to the appropriate people to see what can be accomplished. Also, I am sure that lots of you have some great ideas. (Not to mention a few complaints.) I will listen to your input and do whatever is possible to meet your expectations.
Why should people vote for you?
As I said, I am not a politician. I am just an ordinary honest citizen who wants to help make a difference. As you can tell from my business background, I have had years of experience at listening to and reacting to other people’s needs and wants. Figuring out solutions is what I was trained to do. Now, I am asking you to please elect me to town council and let me listen to your ideas and work with the other officials to make Houlton an even better place to live.
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned that will help assist you if elected?
I have served on the town council for the past three years (2010-13).
What is your career background?
I have had several jobs in my younger years including delivery driver, data entry, computer sales and management. I also worked in sales and web development for a “dot com” business, eventually owning my own online business. I am now a delivery driver for White Family Freight, an independent contractor of FedEx Ground. My work area is Presque Isle.
What made you decide to run for this office?
I originally ran for town council for several reasons. Those included a desire to be more involved in the community, bringing fresh ideas to the council as one of its younger members, and just overall wanting to do anything I could to help the town grow. Now, after serving for the past three years, I want to continue to serve, as there are several issues facing our town that need to be faced.
What do you see as the most important issue facing the town of Houlton today and in the next three years (and how will you work to fix it)?
The biggest issue facing the town, which should come to as no surprise to anyone, is the budget. The taxpayers of Houlton cannot be asked to shoulder an additional tax burden. Period, end of story.
What will be your primary goal, if elected (give specifics)?
Over the last three years I have not been afraid to vote ‘No’ on spending items I didn’t feel were absolutely necessary. I have been very vocal throughout my term in regards to controlling our spending and not forcing a tax increase. I will continue to do everything in my power to try and change the current trend of rising taxes in Houlton. While other councilors have blamed the school and the state for our mil rate increases, I have instead suggested that we need to be held accountable. While it is true that actions at the state level as well as the school budget have been major factors in our increasing budget, we as town councilors have to be responsible for everything we can control.
Why should people vote for you?
Considering the budget issue the town is up against, I feel I’m the best candidate.
I will continue to stand my ground and vote “No” when necessary and will continue to try and urge fellow councilors to join me.
I would be honored if the voters of Houlton gave me the chance to see some of the things we have been working on come to fruition.
This town can absolutely not sustain further mil rate increases and, if re-elected, I will continue to do all I can to work to regain stability to your tax bills!
