Election day is approaching fast. Voters in Waldo County and Belfast have two exciting new candidates for State office who bring a fresh look to the challenges facing Maine. They are: Ryan Otis (Waldo County Senate) and Michael Nicholson (State Representative – Belfast, Belmont, Northport).

Our state faces a unique set of problems: Ever-increasing property taxes, soaring energy costs and a lack of affordable housing. Additionally, when lawmakers convene in January 2027, they will have to tackle a $1.4 billion state budget shortfall.

The legislators that we elect on November 3 will need experience with budgets, housing, energy, and regulation. Fortunately, we have two guys who can get the job done.

Ryan Otis owns Rollies Restaurant and Rollies Remote Catering in Belfast. He chairs our school board. He’s married with three sons in the school system. Ryan has met payrolls, managed rising costs, dealt with changing regulations, while keeping a loyal staff and happy customers.

Michael Nicholson is a Certified Real Estate Appraiser and owns MJN Contracting, hiring local tradespeople to build and renovate homes. He’s married to a fourth generation Mainer with two children. As an appraiser, he knows the challenges facing families wanting to buy their forever home – and as a contractor, he understands the high costs and regulations that builders face.

Ryan and Michael have the right skills, experience, and commitment to find real solutions for us all. 

On November 3, elect Ryan Otis and Michael Nicholson. It’s time for new faces and a real change.

Jayne Crosby Giles lives in Belfast