Governor Signs $295 Million Bond Package, Mainers to Cast First Ballot in June
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 10, 2007
AUGUSTA – Maine ’s roads, bridges, sewer systems and water quality are one step closer to obtaining the funding needed to make necessary repairs.
The Governor, today, signed the $295 million bond package that received the required 2/3 rds vote of both legislative chambers last Wednesday. The bond package, which was created through a series of meetings and negotiations between legislative leadership and members of the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, will now be sent out to Maine’s voters for approval over the course of three elections.
Of the $295 million total, $136 million has been allocated specifically for transportation; $55 million has been devoted for research and development; $35.5 million for natural resources; $25 million for environmental concerns; and $43.5 million for education. Voters will have the opportunity to approve portions of this bond package on the June 2007, November 2007 and June 2008 ballots.
Senate Republican Leader Carol Weston, of Montville, remains encouraged by the emphasis this total package places on Maine’s infrastructure. “ Maine’s roads, bridges, sewer systems and water quality have been Republicans’ highest priority because the people of Maine have told us it is their highest priority,” she said. “As the minority party we faced some difficult circumstances, but in the end, both parties came together on a number of issues to establish a reasonable package that substantially addresses our crumbling infrastructure.”
Initially, Republicans had called for a $180 million investment for Maine’s deteriorating roads and bridges, for example—a number that was higher than both the Governor’s proposal and the amount that legislative Democrats had initially proposed.
“Although Republicans did not get the full amount we hoped for, we had a big victory. About 1/3 rd of this entire package is devoted specifically to Maine’s infrastructure, a fact that demonstrates the priority that infrastructure had become through our constant attention and advocacy. I am pleased with this package, and grateful to everybody who played a role in its construction,” Sen. Weston concluded.
Communications Director, Senate Republican Office