Washington County Grapples with Budget Crisis: Bond Referendum and Public Outcry
Washington County is facing a significant budget crisis, leading to a proposed $11 million bond referendum on the November 4th ballot. A packed public hearing at the Washington County Courthouse in Machias, Maine, revealed deep-seated frustration and calls for transparency among residents regarding a proposed 40% budget hike and past financial mismanagement.
Public Hearing Highlights Concerns and Demands for Accountability
During the hearing, residents voiced concerns about the potential impact of the bond referendum and demanded accountability for the county’s financial woes. Several speakers requested a forensic audit and greater transparency regarding how the budget crisis originated, with some suggesting potential legal violations. Many residents expressed discomfort voting on the bond issue without a clear understanding of the consequences if it fails.
"Personally, I’m not comfortable voting on this referendum until I feel comfortable that I really do understand what happened year after year after year, how that ends up to such a terrible mess," said Robin Hadlock Seeley of Pembroke.
Former Commissioner Chris Gardner offered an apology for the oversight that led to the crisis, stating the errors were unintentional. However, some residents, like Kendall Alley, expressed appreciation for his apology while questioning the handling of ARPA funds.
Proposed Budget Hike and Potential Consequences
Commissioners presented a 2026 budget that includes a controversial 40% budget hike. The proposed budget is currently under review by an advisory committee, but it underpins the $11 million bond issue. The bond would allow the county to refinance debts accumulated due to years of financial mismanagement. If the referendum fails, the county faces severe financial challenges, potentially running out of money by the new year.
Commissioner Courtney Hammond acknowledged the dire situation, stating, "We’re screwed." Eastport City Manager Brian Schuth, now chairing the advisory committee, emphasized the challenges ahead, stating, “We simply won’t have enough cash to continue to keep the county functioning without doing something else dramatic, and I’m not sure what that is right now.”
Blame and Responsibility
With the fiscal issues largely attributed to the tenure of previous commissioners and the oversight of former treasurer Jill Holmes, current officials have faced criticism and calls for accountability. Commissioner David Burns responded to resident complaints by stating, "We had no alternative." Former Commissioner Chris Gardner accepted responsibility for the oversight, stating, “If you want accountability, if you want somebody to blame … I’m your huckleberry. I’m sorry, I missed it.”