York election 2022: Two-way race for one Board of Selectmen seat
YORK, Maine — Incumbent Mike Estes is defending his seat on the Board of Selectmen against Eric Goldberg in the 2022 election.
Michael Estes
Age: 69
Address: Carrie Lynn Lane, York
Occupation: Owner of Estes Oil and Propane
Education: Graduate from York High School 1972
Public Service: 5½ years on York School Committee; 12 years on York Board of Selectmen; and 2 years on Budget Committee
1. Why do you want to be a member of the Select Board?
I care very deeply about the town of York. Two big items coming forward are first the Climate Action Plan, I will be a voice to push all of the above energy that makes sense for all of York. The second is the comprehensive plan is done, I need to be there to make sure landowners keep their property rights.
2. What do you see as the top three issues facing the town and how do you plan to address them?
The top three issues we will face over the next three years: Hiring a new town manager; managing inflation both in property values and our budget to be fair to taxpayers; and pushing back on the new state law on affordable housing one plan fits all approach.
3. As a Select Board member, from whom will you seek advice or input in weighing key decisions?
As a selectman, I have also kept my office door open for taxpayers. Often times this is the first place I get information on issues. Second, with almost 18 years in government experience in the town of York, my knowledge of the charter, state law, local zoning, is what will guide me to the right decision.
Eric S. Goldberg
Age: 56
Address: Not given
Occupation: Driver for Franman Transportation/promotional sales
Education: York High School 1983, Navy 1984-1992
Public Service: Boy Scouts of America; organized and participated in beach and road clean ups
1. Why do you want to be a member of the Select Board?
I feel, after living in Cape Neddick all my life, it’s time to give back. I see certain things going on and I’d like to learn and help if possible.
2. What do you see as the top three issues facing the town and how do you plan to address them?
A) Lack of cell service in many parts of York, York Village, York Harbor. I understand the unease the neighbors of the Highlands must be feeling with the possibility of the 5G antenna being put on the water tower with all of the science, real or unreal, being circulated. I have a call in to the town of Sanford in order to gain information regarding 5G versus fiber optic cable. Before the town of York installs on the tower, I think it’s important to exhaust all other opportunities for 5G delivery.
B) Sewer line continuation north up Route 1. After speaking with more than a few businesses and homeowners, I believe extending the line is imperative to the continued health of our community.
C) There are a few other issues facing York including affordable housing, road repair, seawall construction, and others. I feel I must bring up the garbage on the side of the roads in this town. I’ve never seen it this bad before. In the past during April vacation, high school kids were hired to sweep the streets, clean up garbage and prepare for the upcoming tourist season. Why did this stop? It cannot be blamed on the pandemic. I have a few ideas on how to turn this around including town workers working Fridays for overtime hours.
3. As a Select Board member, from whom will you seek advice or input in weighing key decisions?
I will say that it will be important for me to seek advice from current and past board members. Included will be Ron Nowell and Mike Estes. I have called Mr. Estes and we have had a very informative conversation. I also have my personal and professional counsel from whom I have always asked advice. Most, if not all, is all the men and women who live in York and Cape Neddick and include all political shades.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: York ME election 2022: Two-way race for one Board of Selectmen seat
