AUGUSTA - On March 12, the Maine Department of Transportation held a public hearing on a proposed rule that would result in an increase in some ferry ticket prices for all routes operated by the Maine State Ferry Service, including service to Islesboro, Swans Island, Frenchboro, North Haven, Vinalhaven and Matinicus.
Reps. Holly Eaton, D-Deer Isle, Valli Geiger, D-Rockland, and Paige Zeigler, D- Montville, all wrote letters in opposition to the proposed rule. Additionally, they issued the following statements:
"I am particularly concerned that the state is considering raising the rates for these communities but currently cannot provide a consistent, reliable ferry schedule," said Eaton. "I have heard from both Vinalhaven and Frenchboro residents on this issue many times, and I know that these island residents are not alone. Folks do not feel that the ferry service responds to their concerns, and the state should not increase the cost for them to access the mainland."
"For many residents, the ferry service is not just a means of transportation, it is a lifeline that connects them to the mainland and provides essential access to employment, education, health care and other vital services," said Geiger. "The proposed increase in ferry ticket rates would place a significant burden on our island communities, many of whom just recently suffered great loss due to storm damage. We should be doing all we can to support these communities especially now and not creating new barriers."
"Islanders rely on the Maine State Ferry Service for various needs such as commuting to work, medical appointments, groceries, supplies, vehicle maintenance and other appointments," said Zeigler. "Raising the rates will make life harder for my constituents on Islesboro who already face unique challenges living on an island and dealing with inconsistent ferry service. I am strongly opposed to this rule change."
Eaton is serving her first term in the Legislature and is a member of the Marine Resources Committee and the Transportation Committee. She represents Brooklin, Deer Isle, Frenchboro, Marshall Island, Southwest Harbor, Stonington, Swan's Island, Tremont, Eagle Island Township, Isle au Haut and Vinalhaven.Geiger is serving her second term in the Maine House and represents District 42, which includes Rockland, Owls Head, North Haven and part of Matinicus Isle. She is a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee and the Labor and Housing Committee.
Zeigler is serving his fourth and final term in the Maine House and represents the communities of Appleton, Islesboro, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill and Searsmont. He is the House chair of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Eaton, Geiger, Zeigler], c. 305-965-2744