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Politics & Government

2018

Sheriff’s department expansion option receives tepid response

Washington County communities recognize the problem of escalating drug-related crimes but are struggling with how to tackle the problem without placing additional financial burdens on already tight municipal and household budgets.

2018

Legality of closure challenged

The state's attorney general, the Washington County commissioners and the county's legislators are challenging in court the unilateral decision by Governor LePage and the Department of Corrections (DOC) to close the Downeast Correctional Facility (DCF) without warning on the morning of February 9.

2018

Calais council firm in opposition to county budget plan

The Washington County budget plan -- which would increase the budget by approximately $530,000 while adding four deputies -- was addressed with consternation by the Calais City Council at a meeting on February 8.

2018

DOC restructuring proposal considers closing county jail

The just released proposal by the Maine Department of Corrections (DOC) to restructure the state's county jail system did not come out of the blue, but nonetheless Washington County Commission Chair Chris Gardner says that he's surprised they "took this route."

2018

Supporters of prison testify during hearing

The fight to keep the Downeast Correctional Facility (DCF) prison operating will be a long road, says Rep. Will Tuell of East Machias. He, Senator Joyce Maker of Calais, Rep. Robert Alley of Beals, Rep.

2017

Commissioners OK 8% jump

Washington County Commission Chair Chris Gardner explains that the county's drug-related crimes are one of the "biggest drivers" of the almost 8% increase in the Washington County fiscal year 2018 budget. The county commissioners approved the budget at their November meeting.

2017

Medicaid expansion and casino top November ballot questions

Maine voters will face on the November 7 ballot four referendum questions, including citizen's initiatives for Medicaid expansion and a southern Maine casino.