And a lot more briefs
Aug 29, 2025
A QUICK NOTE FROM US:
Each week, we compile briefs and press releases and event images and share them all in one (sometimes very long) story. You may have to click through to read it all
Our briefs article is mostly just press releases that we don’t write, or claim to write, but just share from the agencies, businesses, people, and organizations that send them in.
If things are not a press release, they are labelled “BRIEF” in their headlines. The press releases will not have that label. Also, if you or your organization has something you’d like us to share, just email us here.
BRIEF: Potential Appointment of Alex Kimball as New Town Manager
MOUNT DESERT—The town of Mount Desert might once again have a man from home leading its municipal government.
The potential appointment of Alex Kimball as Mount Desert’s new town manager is before the selectboard as an agenda item on the Tuesday, September 2, meeting.
Town Manager Durlin Lunt retires at the end of this month and was appointed as interim manager while the town searched for his successor.
Kimball attended Mount Desert Elementary School and has a home in Northeast Harbor though he is currently employed as the deputy administrator of Cumberland County, Maine, where he’d previously served as finance director. He attended Wesleyan College, graduating in 1991.
“What Happened to Civics Class?” at the Northeast Harbor Library
NORTHEAST HARBOR—Join the MDI Historical Society at 5:30 p.m. on September 10 at the Northeast Harbor Library for “What Happened to Civics Class?” an interactive in-person discussion about what we learned in civics class as kids, what students are learning about civics today, and what type of civic education we need to strengthen our democracy in the future. We encourage teachers, parents and current students to attend and be part of the conversation.
Civics educator and consultant Dan Sigward, MDI Historical Society intern and researcher Sabrina Calas, and Rebecca Taplin of Pathways to Restorative Communities will lead and participate in this highly interactive session to share insights on the nation’s current state of civic education and the trends that point toward the future.
This program is a collaboration between the Northeast Harbor Library and the Mount Desert Island Historical Society. It will be offered in person. To register, go to https://mdihistory.org/events
Dan Sigward is an independent educational consultant with expertise in developing curricula that help young people build the historical understanding and civic skills necessary to sustain our democracy. He specializes in creating curricula that examine the individual and collective choices people made during pivotal moments in history and our contemporary civic life. A former middle school social studies teacher, Dan worked at Facing History & Ourselves for over ten years, where he researched, wrote, and edited classroom resources that covered the history of Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, the Reconstruction Era in the United States, the Civil Rights Movement, and various other topics. As a consultant, he has collaborated with numerous organizations—including StoryCorps, PBS Learning Media, Literacy Design Collaborative, the Fred T. Korematsu Institute, and others—that are committed to inspiring young people to become knowledgeable, active, and engaged citizens.
Reading the Village – Town Planning Lessons from Jesup’s Bar Harbor
Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
BAR HARBOR—On Thursday, September 11, at 6:30 p.m., RAMSA Partner Sargent Gardiner will appear at the Jesup Memorial Library to present a lecture on the rich architectural history and town planning principles of the downtown area of Bar Harbor. Topics of discussion will include the major stages of development and how the Jesup Memorial Library’s original building fits into the evolution of the social and physical fabric of the town. The objective is to identify the breadth of town planning characteristics of Bar Harbor and illustrate how these strategies can be applied in modern architectural practice. RAMSA’s Pratt Landing project in New Rochelle will be used to demonstrate the correlation between Bar Harbor’s historic lessons and modern urban design projects.
Sargent Gardiner, AIA, is a partner at RAMSA whose work bridges architecture, urban design, and landscape. He leads mixed-use developments, residential towers, and master plans that respond to local context and the natural environment. His interdisciplinary background in landscape, urban design, and architecture, informs a holistic approach, integrating interior and exterior environments while considering community impact. Sarge’s leadership helps RAMSA navigate complex approvals and site constraints with clarity and precision.
Sarge’s projects include the 55-acre master plan for The Yards in Washington, D.C., and The Arris, a LEED-Gold building inspired by nearby industrial architecture. In Philadelphia, he designed The Alexander, a large-scale infill project with a residential tower, townhouses, and public spaces. In New York, he contributed to the restoration of the historic Belnord and the design of Claremont Hall, a mixed-use tower within a historic Gothic Revival campus. He recently completed a sustainable assisted living facility in Brookline, Massachusetts and is currently designing Pratt Landing, an 11.5-acre mixed-use development on the shores of New Rochelle, New York.
Sarge is active in architectural research and advocacy, serving on the National Building Museum board, contributing to the Regional Plan Association, and participating in Urban Land Institute forums.
Salon Holds Cut-a-Thon to raise funds for the SPCA
ELLSWORTH—Stylists at the popular Alchemist Salon are hosting a Cut-a-Thon from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, September 14.
All of the proceeds will benefit the SPCA of Hancock County.
“At the Alchemist Salon, we believe beauty goes beyond hair – it’s about kindness, connection, and giving back to the community we love,” said Melissa Bradford, Alchemist Salon owner. “That is why we are hosting a Cut-a-Thon to benefit our local SPCA. Every snip and style that day will help provide food, shelter and medical care for animals in need.”
Appointments can be made online at http://booking.mangomint.com/thealchemistsalon1
“These pets don’t have a voice of their own, but together, we can give them a second change at a safe and loving home. Join us in making a difference – book a cut, bring a friend, or simply stop by to donate,” Bradford said. “Small acts of generosity create big waves of change, and we’re so excited to stand with you for the animals who need it most.”
Patrons who attend the event will also have the opportunity to meet SPCA staff and some animals available for adoption.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the stylists at Alchemist Salon for turning their talent and creativity into compassion,” said Mindy Quinn Wulf, SPCA Executive Director. “Events like this Cut-a-Thon not only raise much-needed funds for our animals, but also help spread awareness about adoption and the importance of giving every pet a second chance. It’s wonderful to see the community come together in such a fabulous way to support our furry friends.”
The Alchemist Salon is located at 121 Main St., Ellsworth.
Founded in 1911, the SPCA of Hancock County is a non-profit animal welfare organization that operates a no-kill shelter in Trenton.
For more information, contact Mariah Donovan at 207-667-8088 or mariah.d@spcahancockcounty.org
Bar Harbor Bank & Trust Invests $350,000 in the Future of Local Healthcare
Leadership Gift to MDI Hospital’s Building Our Future Campaign Supports Charity Care for Those in Need
BAR HARBOR—Bar Harbor Bank & Trust has made a remarkable $350,000 commitment to Mount Desert Island Hospital’s Building Our Future campaign, directing their support to one of the campaign’s most critical priorities: charity care.
“This generous gift reflects Bar Harbor Bank & Trust’s enduring commitment to the people of Mount Desert Island and their deep belief that everyone deserves access to care,” said Chrissi Maguire, MDI Hospital President and CEO. “They are a true community partner, helping meet our region’s greatest needs and build a stronger, healthier future for our friends and neighbors.”
Each year, MDI Hospital provides approximately $200,000 in free and uncompensated care to local individuals and families. Bar Harbor Bank & Trust’s leadership investment will help offset these growing costs, ensuring that the hospital can continue meeting the healthcare needs of our region while remaining financially strong.
“At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we believe good things happen when we work together. We’re proud to support Mount Desert Island Hospital’s Campus Improvement Project by helping offset the costs incurred through the hospital’s patient first commitment.” said Curtis Simard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bar Harbor Bank and Trust. “Just as we build relationships to help our customers reach their goals, MDI Hospital puts patients first with a clear vision for the future. We are honored to be a part of this transformational project, one that will strengthen access to quality care and improve the well-being of our community for generations to come.”
Building Our Future is MDI Hospital’s bold $55 million campaign to expand and modernize its campus—from a new Emergency Department and upgraded surgical suites to critical infrastructure and campus-wide improvements designed with climate resilience and long-term sustainability in mind. The comprehensive campaign also supports vital programs including medical education, workforce stability, and equitable access to care.
“We are profoundly grateful to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust for their incredible kindness and generosity,” said Dr. Charlie Hendricks, Chief of Surgery at MDI Hospital. “Their extraordinary support will help ensure that every member of our community can access the care they need, close to home, when it matters most.”
September 6 – Downeast Folkdancers and Kotwica!
BAR HARBOR—Dance to the intricate rhythms and beautiful harmonies of international folk music with the Downeast Folkdancers, September April 6, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the YWCA 36, Mt. Desert Street, Bar Harbor. Music and dance teaching by the Kotwica Band. No experience and no partner is needed. Admission is $10 at the door. For more information visit
https://www.kotwicaband.org/ and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553848505788
5th Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture: Anthony Walton
Thursday, September 18, at 7:00 p.m.
BAR HARBOR—The Jesup Memorial Library is honored to announce that the 5th Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture has been rescheduled for Thursday, September 18th at 7:00pm. The featured speaker will be poet and writer Anthony Walton. Anthony Walton is perhaps best known as the author of The End of Respectability and Mississippi: An American Journey as well as a chapbook of poems, Cricket Weather. His work has appeared widely in magazines, journals, and anthologies, including The New Yorker, Kenyon Review,Oxford American, the New York Times, Harper’s, the Atlantic Monthly, and Times Literary Supplement. He is also the coauthor, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, of the best-selling Brothers-in-Arms: The Epic Story of the 761st Tank Battalion, and coeditor, with Michael S. Harper, of The Vintage Anthology of African American Poetry. He is currently a professor and the writer-in-residence at Bowdoin College.
The Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture is named in honor of the late printmaker, author, puppet maker, painter, storyteller and illustrator Ashley Bryan, who devoted his life to bringing people together through art. This yearly lecture brings a distinguished artist or critic of color whose work reflects similarly this deep interest in racial equity to discuss that work with the Downeast Maine community.
The 5th Annual Ashley Bryan Lecture, featuring poet and writer Anthony Walton, will be held at the Jesup Memorial Library on Thursday, September 18 at 7 p.m. The program is available online and in-person. Please register online at www.jesuplibrary.org/events/anthonywalton
September Exhibit at the Northeast Harbor Library, “As I See It,” paintings by Sue Aripotch
NORTHEAST HARBOR—This September the Northeast Harbor Library will feature paintings by local artist Sue Aripotch to the Mellon Room for an exhibit entitled “As I See It.” Aripotch will display her bold, colorful paintings from September 1-30 at the library.
As a jeweler for 40 years and an artist for her entire life, Sue Aripotch has explored beauty as a path to wholeness. Her paintings honor the Earth and humanity, creating quiet spaces of calm and inspiration that awaken the part of us that restores ourselves, the planet, and one another.
There will be several opportunities to meet the artist including an opening reception on Thursday, September 5, from 5-7 p.m. at the library and a closing reception on Monday,
September 29 before the exhibit comes down at the end of the month. All are welcome to attend. Aripotch’s work will be for sale at both receptions and throughout the month; exhibit sales support both our local artists and the library.
Additionally, Aripotch will present a slideshow at the library on Friday, September 12 at 5 p.m. about her travels in South Africa. No registration necessary.
You can find more details about events and exhibits on the library’s website, nehlibrary.org, or call 207 276 3333. The exhibit is available for
viewing whenever the room is available during library hours; if you are making a special trip to see the exhibit, please check availability at nehlibrary.org or call ahead.
Harvest Bowls: Pop-Up Community Meal and Fundraiser to Benefit Maine Harvest Bucks
BAR HARBOR—This week, the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM) is launching Harvest Bowls, a series of community meal events at four Midcoast and Downeast farmers’ markets. Each event features a simple meal made with fresh ingredients from the market, plus a sliding-scale sale of handmade artisan bowls. 100% of proceeds benefit Maine Harvest Bucks, a program that gives bonus bucks to shoppers using SNAP.
Maine Harvest Bucks boosts local food security while strengthening Maine’s farming economy. In 2024 alone, the program generated over $100,000 in sales for small farms and food businesses in the Midcoast. It’s a win-win: more healthy food for Maine families, and more dollars directed to local food producers.
Mark your calendar:
Camden Farmers’ Market – Saturday, Aug. 30, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., Tannery Park
Bar Harbor’s Eden Farmers’ Market – Sunday, Aug. 31, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., YMCA Parking Lot
Events are free and open to the public.
AN EVENING OF CONTEMPORARY ACOUSTIC MUSIC
HISTORY HAPPY HOUR!
NORTHEAST HARBOR—Are you a master of historical trivia, a fan of fantastic stories, or a novice know-it-all? Join us at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, September 19 at 5:30 pm at the Nor’Easter, 10 Huntington Rd, Northeast Harbor, for the MDI Historical Society’s September History Happy Hour.
This month’s event will challenge you to 4 rounds of food and dining-related trivia, testing your knowledge of MDI’s historic menus and recipes, public suppers, foraging, dining, and much more. Review the 2025 edition of our history journal,Chebacco, to get a leg up on the competition!
Gather over good eats and good times while putting your knowledge to the test. All ages are welcome! Admission is free. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
Please register at:https://forms.gle/mFtz8aojKKdTKbdd7
Secret Lives and Intimate Writings of Rachel Carson by Carolyn Gage and directed by Jodi Baker
BAR HARBOR—The Bar Harbor Historical Society is proud to present Carolyn Gage’s Secret Lives and Intimate Writings of Rachel Carson, directed by Jodi Baker. The dramatic reading will take place on the piazza of La Rochelle, located at 127 West Street in Bar Harbor, on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The performance is free and open to the public; however, reserved seating is encouraged.
This summer, the Bar Harbor Historical Society is sponsoring a series of dramatic readings with local actors, presenting the secret lives of four Maine writers through an exploration of their writings about their same-sex relationships, including letters, poems, and memoirs. The readings celebrate Maine history and culture and broaden our understanding of some of our most famous authors.
Marine biologist Rachel Carson had just bought a cottage in Southport, Maine, when she was introduced to her summer neighbors, Dorothy and Stanley Freeman. Carson’s friendship with Dorothy turned into something deeper, and, with Stanley’s permission, the middle-aged women pursued an intimate friendship, separated by 500 miles in the winter months, but island neighbors in the summer. Their correspondence documents the Carsons’ struggle over the writing of Silent Spring, as well as her heroic battle with terminal cancer.
For more information and to reserve your seat, visit http://www.barharborhistorical.org/events
Join the Conversation: “Food Security — It’s In Our Hands Now”
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—All are welcome to join a special event “Food security: It’s In Our Hands Now” on Sunday, September 7th starting at 2:00 p.m. at the Southwest Harbor Public Library. Bill Morrison, local food writer will host speakers and discussions looking at self-determination and food security issues in Southwest Harbor. Presentations by the speakers will set the stage for the discussions to follow.
Harvesting from the ocean that surrounds us. Holly Masterson, local fisherman and John R. Williams retired marine patrol officer for Hancock County (2:00 p.m.)
Farming and gardening in and for the community. Maddrey Coover, a local eco-sustainable farmer (2:45 p.m.)
Sustenance for the food insecure and wider community. Debi Estep of the Common Good Cafe (3:15 p.m.)
Morrison, founding chef of the Common Good Soup Kitchen in Southwest Harbor, is a prize-winning food journalist, Wandering Chef columnist for the MDIslander, private chef, and restaurateur.
Talk details at https://tinyurl.com/bddsx8xp. For more information, call 207-244-7065, visit, or email programs@swhplibrary.org.
STATE BRIEFS
Court Reaches Decision in ‘Maine State Chamber of Commerce v. Department of Labor’
AUGUSTA—The Maine Supreme Judicial Court has unanimously affirmed the legality and constitutionality of rules adopted by the Maine Department of Labor in administering the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act. The plaintiffs in the court case ‘Maine State Chamber of Commerce et al. v. Department of Labor et al.’ argued that the Department’s rules conflicted with the Act and constituted a taking of private property for public use.
The case involved the requirement for all Maine employers to pay quarterly contributions to the Paid Family and Medical Leave Program for the first quarter of 2025. The Act and the Department’s rules allow employers who offer optional private plans that provide substantially equivalent coverage for workers to be exempt from paying contributions to the Program. The Department’s rules, which set the requirements and timelines for these private plans, have been upheld.
“I appreciate the court affirming that the Department’s rule was a reasonable interpretation of the Act and was within our rulemaking authority granted by the Legislature,” said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. “We will continue to focus on implementing the program in preparation for benefits going live in 2026.”
Keep up with the latest information on Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave here: www.maine.gov/paidleave/.
Chapter 310: Wetlands and Waterbodies Protection Plan
Because the State’s surface water and near surface groundwater resources are so extensive, wetlands can be hydrologically connected over large distances. Currently, wetlands that contain significant wildlife habitat, peatlands, or critically imperiled or imperiled plant communities are considered Wetlands of Special Significance and only a limited list of activities can be permitted within them, regardless of the distance between the proposed activity and the triggering feature. The proposed rule would allow the Department to permit additional activities within wetlands that are Wetlands of Special Significance because they contain significant wildlife habitat, peatlands, or critically imperiled or imperiled plant communities, provided: a) the activity is at least 750 feet from the triggering feature and b) the activity does not have an unreasonable adverse effect on the significant wildlife habitat, peatlands, or critically imperiled or imperiled plant community.
The proposed rule would also classify rivers, streams or brooks as Wetlands of Special Significance. Currently, coastal wetlands, great ponds, and freshwater wetlands within 25 feet of a river, stream, or brook are Wetlands of Special Significance. This change would limit the types of development activities that may occur in rivers, streams, or brooks. It would also mean the 2:1 compensation ratio used for Wetlands of Special Significance would apply for impacts to rivers, streams, or brooks.
Less than one week left to review the Draft 2025 Wildlife Action Plan
Maine’s State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) provides a blueprint for actively conserving fish and wildlife to help prevent species from becoming endangered and recovering those that are. First created in 2005, the plan is updated every 10 years to periodically evaluate the health of wildlife populations and identify conservation opportunities.
The SWAP is a collaboration of Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Maine Natural Areas Program, Maine Department of Marine Resources, Maine Audubon, and many other members of Maine’s conservation community who share a common goal of assessing the status of Maine’s biodiversity and identifying conservation priorities for the coming decade.
We encourage you to contribute your knowledge and experience by carefully reviewing the draft SWAP (in whole or in part) and providing feedback using our online form by Sunday, August 31.
Upcoming Online Science Cafe: Using Science and the Law to Combat Salmon Farm Pollution
Monday, September 8, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Online event via Zoom
Conservation Law Foundation is fighting to protect Maine’s waters from salmon farm pollution. Join us to learn about CLF’s legal advocacy — and the science that supports it.
For this Science Cafe, Clare Soria, an attorney with the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), will dive into the complex world of salmon aquaculture in Maine. She will provide background on the history and growth of salmon farming in the region, explain the environmental challenges it poses, and discuss CLF’s ongoing Clean Water Act enforcement lawsuit against Cooke Aquaculture, USA.
Soria will also highlight CLF’s broader efforts to ensure stronger environmental protections, including advocating for more rigorous regulations and permitting standards to safeguard water quality, marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
P.S. Did you miss a previous Science Cafe or want to watch one again?
Find the YouTube video link on our Science Cafe webpage.
Governor Mills Announces Retirement of Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services Commissioner Kirsten Figueroa
As commissioner, Figueroa’s strong fiscal management led DAFS through unprecedented challenges to deliver responsible balanced budgets and a record Budget Stabilization fund
AUGUSTA—Governor Janet Mills announced today that Kirsten LC Figueroa, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services (DAFS), will retire on October 31, 2025, following nearly 30 years of dedicated service to the State of Maine.
Governor Mills nominated Figueroa as DAFS Commissioner in January 2019. During her tenure, she has overseen two dozen State and Highway Fund budgets, built up the State’s “Rainy Day Fund” to a record $1.03 billion, secured regular increases to the state’s credit rating due to strong and responsible fiscal management, and, through collective bargaining, increased wages for State employees by at least 24 percent.
“Kirsten is not only one of my closest advisors, but she’s a good friend. She has been by my side ever since I was Attorney General, and, to this day, I remain consistently impressed with her ability to solve some of the most complicated issues in state government,” said Governor Mills. “The job of DAFS Commissioner is one of the most challenging in state service, and Kirsten has done an exceptional job. I am deeply sad to lose her, but it is in large part because of her that the State of Maine is in such good financial shape and that we were able to accomplish so much. I wish her the best as she enters her well-deserved retirement, and I thank her for all she has done over her stellar career to serve the people of Maine.”
“It has been the honor of my life to serve as Commissioner of DAFS. My career in finance and administrative service, including nearly 30 years in public service from Bank Examiner at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation in 1993 to Commissioner of DAFS in 2019, was more than I could have imagined. I am so proud of all we have accomplished under Governor Mills’ leadership – investing in the health and welfare of Maine people, boosting our economy, balancing every budget, enhancing our credit ratings, and increasing the Budget Stabilization Fund to its record high,” said Commissioner Figueroa. “I leave knowing that the State is on solid financial footing, and I feel deeply grateful to have fought for the interests of more than 12,000 State employees, folks who work tirelessly day in and day out for the people of Maine. I thank the Governor for this incredible opportunity, and I thank the people of Maine for allowing me to serve them.”
As Commissioner and the top budget advisor to the Governor, Figueroa successfully:
- Drafted and helped pass a total of 24 budgets over the past seven years, including 22 biennial and supplemental General Fund and Highway Fund budgets, and two special budgets for the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan and Emergency Winter Energy Relief. Through these budgets – all of which were balanced – the Mills Administration achieved 55 percent of education for the first time in history, restored 5 percent municipal revenue sharing, significantly increased tax relief, implemented free school meals for all Maine students, launched free community college, and delivered $850 in inflation relief to Maine people, the strongest inflation relief package in the country at the time;
- Stewarded the State’s Budget Stabilization Fund, or “Rainy Day Fund” from $209.9 million in 2019 to its statutory maximum of over $1.03 billion in 2025;
- Secured through strong financial management rating upgrades by two of the three major bond rating companies including Moody’s 2023 increase to Aa1, their second highest rating, and Fitch’s 2025 rating increase to AA+, their second highest rating;
- Distributed nearly $1 billion in Federal American Rescue Plan funding through the Governor’s Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan;
- Drafted and helped pass the Winter Energy Relief package in 2023 that put $450 in energy relief back into the pockets of Maine people.
Additionally, as Commissioner, Figueroa led more than ten large and diverse divisions at DAFS, guided more than 12,000 State employees through a global pandemic, including instituting the immediate adoption of a successful telework program to maintain state services.
She also:
- Through collective bargaining, increased wages for State employees by at least 24 percent over the last seven years. Under the Mills Administration, Governor Mills and the Legislature provided more salary increases for state employees than during the previous 16 years combined, as well as longevity pay, guaranteed promotion increases, and many other benefits;
- Managed investments of more than $200 million in state office building capital improvements;
- Championed implementation of over $56 million in cybersecurity improvements to protect State computer and software systems;
- Led the overhaul of Maine Revenue Services tax filing system with the implementation of the STARS project resulting in the successful launch of the Maine Tax Portal;
- Established the Office of Cannabis Policy in 2019 per the direction of the Legislature to oversee and manage the sale of recreational cannabis in advance of the opening of adult cannabis retail establishments in September 2020;
- Expanded the Maine State Economist’s Office to improve access to Maine economic information, forecasts and visual representations of State data.
- Elevated the State of Maine as an Employer of Choice, receiving several national and state awards including: Forbes naming the State of Maine as one of America’s Best-in-State Employers for 2025 and again recognized the State of Maine – for the 5th consecutive year – as one of the best larger employers in Maine; The Maine Council on Aging awarded the State of Maine its 2024 Business Excellence Award, recognizing the State of Maine as an excellent employer because of its “workplace culture that supports a diverse multi-generational workforce that intentionally values older workers; and In March of 2023, the State of Maine became a Certified Age-Friendly Employer, which honored Maine state government as an employer valuing diverse employees based on proficiency, qualifications and contributions—free of ageism.
“No one in state government has served the people of Maine with greater integrity, dedication and expertise than Commissioner Figueroa,” said Appropriations Chair, Senator Peggy Rotundo. “She has been invaluable to the work we do in the Appropriations Committee and I am heartbroken to see her go. She is a treasure.”
“I want to congratulate Commissioner Figueroa for her many exemplary years of service to Maine people and wish her the absolute best in her retirement,” said Appropriations Chair, Representative Drew Gattine. “Her leadership at DAFS and her guiding hand as Commissioner over the past seven years has put Maine on a positive trajectory and thanks to her our state is fiscally strong and on solid footing as we head into the future. I have especially appreciated her collaborative work with the AFA Committee and will miss her tremendously as a partner in the budget process.”
Prior to serving as Commissioner, Figueroa served as Chief of Administrative Services in the Attorney General’s Office. She also previously served as Finance Director for the Office of Information Technology from 2013 through 2015 and as Director of Administrative Services for the Division of Financial and Personnel Services from 2001 through 2004.
In addition to these important roles, she worked as the Chief Financial Officer of the Dirigo Health Agency from 2004 through 2006 and the Deputy Commissioner of Finance for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) from 2006 through 2008, overseeing and managing that department’s $3.3 billion budget as well as its accounting and audit functions. She also served as the Chief Financial Officer of Avesta Housing from 2008 through 2010 and as the Energy and Housing Services Program Director for the Maine State Housing Authority from 2010 until her return to DAFS in 2013.
Figueroa grew up in Litchfield and Topsham and worked her entire career in Maine. She began her undergraduate degree at the University of Maine at Orono and graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University where she also continued post graduate studies.
Upon Figueroa’s retirement, the Governor will appoint DAFS Deputy Commissioner of Operations Elaine Clark as Acting Commissioner. Clark is a former practicing attorney with over 28 years in State service including eight years as former DAFS Director of Bureau of General Services. She also served six years with the University of Maine as Associate Vice President for Finance and Administration. Clark returned as BGS Director under Commissioner Figueroa in 2019 and rose to Deputy Commissioner of Operations in 2020.
The Commissioner’s position is a cabinet-level appointment, subject to a hearing before the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee and confirmation by the Maine State Senate.
Urgent Call to Action: Help Stop the Spread of Japanese Stiltgrass in Maine
Community action day planned in Georgetown, September 3
AUGUSTA—The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is urging Mainers to act against Japanese stiltgrass(Microstegium vimineum), an invasive plant that poses a serious threat to the state’s forests, wetlands, and communities.
First detected in Maine in 2020, Japanese stiltgrass has now been confirmed in Sagadahoc and York Counties, with a new and concerning patch discovered in York in August 2025. Left unchecked, this fast-spreading invader can overtake native plants, degrade soil health, and even increase the risk of wildfires.
“Japanese stiltgrass is one of the most aggressive invasive plants we’ve seen in Maine,” said Gary Fish, DACF State Horticulturalist. “It crowds out native species, alters the natural balance of our forests, and leaves behind dry fuel that makes our woodlands more vulnerable to fire. We need the public’s help to find and report it before it spreads further.”
Why Japanese Stiltgrass is a Threat
- Displaces native plants: Releases chemicals into the soil and dead thatch left behind prevents trees, flowers, and native grasses from growing.
- Alters habitats: Changes soil chemistry and takes over trail sides, roadsides, wetlands, and forest understories.
- Raises wildfire risk: Its dry, dead stems create dangerous fuel in the fall.
The plant grows 1-3′ tall and spread outward producing thousands of tiny seeds that hitchhike on boots, tires, animals, and equipment such as lawnmowers. Seeds can easily travel to new areas and sprout each year.
How You Can Help
Residents are asked to stay alert, especially in July and August when the plant is easiest to spot. Look for:
- Smooth, pointed leaves (2–4 inches long) with a shiny silver stripe down the middle
- Shallow roots that make the plant easy to pull up
- Reddish stems later in the season
- Seeds forming in September–October that resemble crabgrass
“Every Mainer can make a difference,” added Molly Docherty, Maine Natural Areas Program Director. “By learning to recognize Japanese stiltgrass and reporting it, you help protect our forests, wetlands, and the outdoor spaces we all value.”
A community action day will take place in Georgetown on September 3, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (rain date: September 5) at 210 Robinhood Road, Georgetown, ME. Volunteers will learn how to identify stiltgrass, slow its spread, and assist with its removal to protect Maine’s natural areas. Participants are encouraged to bring gloves, water, friends, and a weedwhacker if available. For more information, contact Chad.Hammer@maine.gov.
If you suspect you’ve found Japanese stiltgrass:
- Document it – Take clear photos and email the location to invasives.mnap@maine.gov.
- Map it – Report sightings through the iMapInvasives website.
- Remove it safely – Pull plants before mid-September (before seed set). Dispose of plants in a tied trash bag and never compost them.
- Prevent spread – Always clean boots, tires, and gear before leaving an infested area.
Protecting Maine’s Future
Japanese stiltgrass may look like some harmless native grasses like Virginia cutgrass or northern panic grass, but the telltale silver stripe sets it apart. To learn more, visit www.maine.gov/dacf/mnap and explore the “Invasive Species” tab for identification guides and free reporting tools.
Plant Awareness and Identification Resources:
Image: Stiltgrass leaves alternate along the stem and have a silvery stripe along the midrib. (Maine Natural Areas Program photo)
Image: Stiltgrass leaf closeup of silvery stripe along the midrib. (Maine Natural Areas Program photo)
Image: Stiltgrass can form large, dense infestations in forests (Georgetown, ME). Photo by MNAP
Public Hearings on Atlantic Striped Bass Draft Addendum III Scheduled
Hearings to gather public input on Draft Addendum III to Amendment 7 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Striped Bass have been scheduled from Maine to Virginia. Addendum III considers management measures to support rebuilding the stock by 2029, as well as addressing a coastwide definition of total length for size limit regulations, the commercial tagging programs, and changes to the Maryland recreational season baseline.
Maine will be holding one in-person hearing and one webinar hearing.
Date and Format:
- Tuesday, September 9, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- In-Person Hearing
Agency and Location:
- Maine Dept. of Marine Resources
- Yarmouth Town Hall Community Room200 Main Street, Yarmouth, ME
Contact:
Megan Ware – (207) 446-0932
Date and Format:
- Wednesday, September 10, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Webinar Hearing
Agency and Location:
- Maine Dept. of Marine Resources
- The webinar registration link is available here, and additional webinar instructions are below.
Contact:
Megan Ware – (207) 446-0932
If you are unable to participate in the Maine hearings, you are welcome to participate in any virtual or hybrid hearings. A full list of hearings can be found HERE. For all virtual or hybrid hearings (except for Rhode Island), please click HERE and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu to register for a public hearing webinar. Hearings will be held via GoToWebinar, and you can join the webinar from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Hearing Presentation Recording
For those who cannot attend any in-person or virtual hearings, the Commission will post a recording of the hearing presentation on the Commission’s YouTube page so that stakeholders may watch the presentation and submit comment at any time during the comment process. This recording will be available by early September.
Addendum III
The Striped Bass Board initiated Draft Addendum III in response to stock projections indicating a less than 50% probability of meeting the 2029 stock rebuilding deadline. The 2024 stock projections estimated an increase in fishing mortality in 2025 due to the above average 2018 year-class entering the recreational slot limit. There is also concern about the lack of strong year-classes following the 2018 year-class.
Proposed management would be implemented in 2026 and is intended to increase the probability of rebuilding the stock by reducing fishery removals by 12%. Proposed management in the draft addendum includes:
- Commercial Fishery
- quota reduction
- tagging programs’ point of tagging
- Recreational Fishery
- season closures
- size limit changes
- Maryland Chesapeake Bay baseline season changes
- Total length measuring definition
The Draft Addendum is available at https://asmfc.org/resources/management-actions/draft-addendum-iii-to-amendment-7-to-the-interstate-fishery-management-plan-for-atlantic-striped-bass-for-public-comment/ or via the Commission’s website at Atlantic Striped Bass Action Tracker.
Submitting Comments
The public is encouraged to submit comments at any time during the public comment period but no later than 11:59 p.m. (EST) on October 3, 2025.
There are four ways to submit comments:
- Written comments via Atlantic Striped Bass Action Tracker or comments@asmfc.org
- The public comment form, which was developed to facilitate the gathering of input on the Draft Addendum’s specific options
- Mailed written comments addressed to Emilie Franke, FMP Coordinator, at 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200 A-N, Arlington, Virginia 22201
- Verbal comments provided at any of the scheduled public hearings
If your organization is planning to release an action alert in response to the Draft Amendment, please contact Emilie Franke at efranke@asmfc.org or 703.842.0740, so she can work with you to develop a unique subject line to enable us to better organize and summarize incoming comments for Board review. For more information, please contact Emilie Franke at efranke@asmfc.org.
The ASMFC press release is available at https://asmfc.org/news/press-releases/states-schedule-public-hearings-on-atlantic-striped-bass-draft-addendum-iii/
For questions about this, please contact Corrin Flora at corrin.flora@maine.gov or (207) 446-8126
FEDERAL BRIEFS
Senator Collins Recognizes Completion of Route 1 Reconstruction in Searsport
SEARSPORT—Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a ribbon-cutting to mark the completion of the reconstruction of Route 1 in Searsport. Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured $9.2 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in Fiscal Year 2022 to support this project. She was joined by the Acting Commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation Dale Doughty, Searsport Town Manager James Gillway, town selectmen, and State Representative Reagan Paul at the event.
“This long-overdue reconstruction of Route 1 will make downtown Searsport safer and more accessible for drivers and pedestrians alike,” said Senator Collins. “I am proud to have secured the funding for this important project that will help continue the growth of the town and benefit its residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.”
“The project planning for our rebuild started twenty-one years ago. Delays, economic downturns and even a pandemic did not stop our determination to see this done. Thank you to the Maine Department of Transportation for assisting us. When the project looked to be delayed again for lack of funds, Senator Collins stepped in to secure the necessary funds to complete it. She didn’t do it from behind a desk in Washington, she visited us and walked downtown to understand our deteriorated Main Street conditions. Now our town looks fantastic, and the structural improvements will last for decades,” said Searsport Town Manager James Gillway.
Specifically, the project rebuilt a section of Route 1 in downtown Searsport to address deficiencies with pavement structure, drainage, parking, and ADA compliance. The project also included installing brick sidewalks, new street lighting, and a continuous accessible pedestrian route through the downtown area.
In addition to this project, Senator Collins also secured $1,650,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending in Fiscal Year 2022 to support the maintenance dredging of Searsport Harbor.
Senator Collins Delivers Remarks at Grand Opening of UMA Capital Center in Augusta
AUGUSTA—Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined in the grand opening of the new Capital Center for Nursing and Cybersecurity Workforce Development at the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA). She was joined by more than 100 attendees at the event, including Senator Angus King, UMA leaders, faculty, and students as well as leaders of the University of Maine System and MaineGeneral Health.
“Both of the programs housed in this state-of-the-art Capital Center demonstrate the commitment of UMA to provide Maine people with affordable and accessible higher education and to join with private-sector partners to address workforce needs,” said Senator Collins. “I was pleased to secure funding to support this project, which will increase opportunities for students to gain the hands-on training they need to succeed in critical health care and cybersecurity roles.”
“The Capital Center is a transformative investment in UMA’s ability to strengthen Maine’s nursing and cybersecurity workforce. We are profoundly grateful to Senator Collins for her vision and leadership in securing the federal funding that made this possible. Because of her support, UMA students will enter high-demand careers prepared to succeed from day one, helping to meet Maine’s urgent workforce needs and strengthen the communities they serve,” said Jenifer Cushman, President, University of Maine at Augusta.
Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured more than $7 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to support the Capital Center, with $4.5 million supporting construction of the Center and $2.65 million to expand the nursing simulation lab within the new space. She previously secured $500,000 to help establish a cybersecurity training certification program at UMA.
Senator Collins’ Statement on OMB’s Rescissions Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued a statement on the Office of Management and Budget’s rescissions proposal.
“Congress has received from the Administration a $4.9 billion package of proposed rescissions of funding that had been previously appropriated for a wide range of foreign aid programs. Given that this package was sent to Congress very close to the end of the fiscal year when the funds are scheduled to expire, this is an apparent attempt to rescind appropriated funds without congressional approval.
“GAO has concluded that this type of rescission is unlawful and not permitted by the Impoundment Control Act. Article I of the Constitution makes clear that Congress has the responsibility for the power of the purse. Any effort to rescind appropriated funds without congressional approval is a clear violation of the law.
“Instead of this attempt to undermine the law, the appropriate way is to identify ways to reduce excessive spending through the bipartisan, annual appropriations process. Congress approves rescissions regularly as part of this process. In fact, the year-long funding bill that we are currently operating under includes 70 rescissions. This month, the Appropriations Committee intends to markup the Fiscal Year 2026 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs bill. The annual funding bill is the most appropriate way to ensure that any rescissions reflect the views of Congress.”
LINKS TO LEARN MORE
Mount Desert Selectboard Agenda and Packet for September 2
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