Meet the candidates vying to represent Freeport’s House District 102

Five days remain for Freeporters to decide who to send to the Maine House of Representatives.

Incumbent Democrat Melanie Fleming Sachs is seeking a third term this year representing District 102 in the Maine House. Freeporter James “Jay” J. Finegan Jr., a Republican, is vying for her seat.

The District 102 candidates spoke with The Times Record about their platforms, both highlighting concerns about housing costs and the tax burden in the community.

Candidates’ responses have been lightly edited for grammar, spelling and brevity.

James “Jay” J. Finegan Jr.

Please tell readers a little about yourself.

I have lived in Maine since 1991, when I moved here from Washington, DC. Since 2006, I have been a homeowner in Freeport, near Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park. I served overseas in the U.S. Army after graduating from Penn State University and then embarked on a long career in journalism. I’m 74.

Why are you applying for this opening?

Maine has been largely under Democratic control since 1974. We are now the fourth highest taxed state. By some analysis, our property tax burden is the highest in the country, but personal income ranks 42nd. The new Legislature faces a budget deficit of about $950 million due to overspending. I would take a common sense, fiscally conservative approach to our financial situation.

What are the most pressing concerns in your city? If you were elected, how would you address these challenges?

The cost of living is a concern everywhere. It is most acute for our young people, who face staggering costs for housing, childcare, health insurance, groceries and other essentials. I believe we have a duty to pass on to our children and grandchildren a state and a country that is safe, strong and financially stable. In many ways we are failing them.

I would say the cost of housing is the most difficult challenge. This problem can best be addressed by promoting the construction of affordable houses, apartments and apartment buildings. Excessive regulation adds about 25% to the cost of a new home, so a regulatory overhaul could yield some savings. This is a personnel-critical problem.

What experience/expertise would you bring to this post?

For eight years (2005-2013), I was communications director for the Maine House Republican Bureau, responsible for writing speeches, press releases, opinion columns, media relations and more. I know the legislative process. After six years as a recognized financial professional at Prudential, I gained a solid foundation in investments, insurance and other aspects of finance.

Where can readers learn more about your candidacy?

A Facebook page, Jay Finegan for Maine House, has information about my campaign. Additionally, I welcome calls from constituents: 844-4393.

Melanie Fleming Sachs

Please tell readers a little about yourself.

Melanie Sachs, 55 years old. I had the honor of serving two terms as a State Representative from Freeport in the Maine House. I grew up in Maine and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Bates College with a bachelor’s degree in political science. I earned a master’s degree in science and social administration from Case Western Reserve University and a postdoctoral certificate in business data analytics from the University of New Hampshire. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, with experience in the private and non-profit business sectors. I have been deeply involved in the Freeport community for almost twenty years as a city council member, as a coach and volunteer in our RSU 5 schools, as the former Executive Director of Freeport Community Services, and as a volunteer for many arts and community organizations.

Why are you applying for this opening?

Working with and for my community is a real pleasure. I’ve passed bills that have come directly from our residents, such as working with Freeport’s Accessibility Task Force on a bill that standardizes electric vehicle charging station designs, or with our local Freeport Cable Board member to be the first in the country to pass legislation to protect municipal franchise agreements (which generate revenue for the city and hold cable companies accountable), and with our school staff to improve benefits and policies. Making a difference on issues that Freeport residents care about is why I hope to continue in this role.

What are your most pressing concerns for the district? If you were elected, how would you address these challenges?

I spoke to hundreds of Freeport voters this summer who identify across the political spectrum. Here are the four main issues they talked about:

Environmental protection/climate change: As one voter noted, “If we don’t protect our planet, nothing else matters.” It’s also the No. 1 topic Freeport residents talk to me about during the session. I have a 100% voting record on issues like conservation, clean energy, and PFAS remediation. I sponsored and passed climate resilience funding bills for businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities this past session in response to the extreme weather events that have devastated communities across Maine, including Freeport.

Housing: As Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, I have led efforts to include historic levels of budget funding (over $200 million) to support every level of housing need. This included funding critical emergency shelter and services for those without homes, support for first-time homebuyers and mobile home park tenants, rent relief for those most in need, and building housing in rural areas and low incomes. are needed by the residents of Freeport.

Property Tax Reduction: As a former Freeport City Council President, I know that government actions in support of local property tax reductions are important. This past session we fully funded the municipal revenue share by 5%, which is critical for Freeport. I sponsored and passed a bill to require the state to reimburse communities more quickly this year so we can build local budgets based on real numbers (which meant $97,000 immediately returned to Freeport). We kept Maine’s pledge to fund 55% of K-12 education and increased the Homestead Exemption reimbursement from 70% to 76%, resulting in more money for Freeport.

Healthcare: I was honored to receive a 2023 award from Maine Family Planning for my decades of work in providing and supporting access to reproductive health care, including passing a bill this session to ensure continuity of care after a merger/acquisition (requiring the new entity to continue providing reproductive care regardless of their membership. This is critical, especially in rural Maine.). I also voted to increase funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program, ban debt collectors from charging interest on medical debt, reduce prescription drug costs, invest in veterans homes and nursing facilities, increase access to mental health care and create paid health care. Family and medical leave program. Healthcare is a human right and I will continue to work to ensure that everyone has access to the full spectrum of affordable and quality healthcare.

What experience/expertise would you bring to this post?

I am wrapping up my second term as a Freeport state representative in the Maine Legislature. I currently chair the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives. During my first term I was a member of the Tax Committee; the Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology; and the Maine Climate Council’s Buildings, Housing and Infrastructure Working Group.

I served on the Freeport City Council for six years and was elected Chairman (twice) and Vice Chairman during my term. I bring more than twenty years of experience as a skilled leader in the private and non-profit sectors, and as an active volunteer in local schools, youth and arts organizations.

I believe my experience as a legislator, as a city council member, and as a licensed social worker has been incredibly helpful to my constituents.

Where can readers learn more about your candidacy?

Readers can reach Sachs via the website (Melanie Sachs at mainecandidate.com), FacebookInstagram (@melaniesachforme) or phone – 299-6825.

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