Four individuals are vying for a pair of Warren select board seats for the June 8 municipal election. Michael Doucette, John Crabtree and Richard Butler are pursuing Seat 3, while Jan Macdonald is pursuing Seat 4. Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the town and region.

Please provide a concise biography of yourself.

I attended grade school in South Hope and graduated from Camden High School. I joined the Army and was sent to Korea. I spent 25 years with the Maine Game Warden Service, retiring as a lieutenant.

I then spent 12 years as a private investigator before opening a security company providing security work at several locations for MBNA. When MBNA sold to Bank of America I retired for the last time.

I spent many years in the Warren town government on the planning board, appeals board and select board.

What are the three most pressing issues facing Warren today and how would you like to see them resolved?

Keeping the budget in line with the growth of the town.

To present a true budget that meets the needs of the town by working with the Assessors Agent on the current re-evaluation.

Be prepared for the possibility of the next census to reach the population of 4,000 in Warren, which will affect the building codes rules and regulations.

How will you protect taxpayers as you shape and govern a municipal budget and juggle various interests that request municipal funding through the year?

In answer to this question; If elected, I would be only one member out of five select board people. I would work with the town manager and select board to present a true operational budget, keeping in mind that the budget is roughly 12% of the total town budget. I feel that the municipal officials have done a good job to keep it at this level.

What steps do town officials need to take in the coming months to ensure the community recovers economically from COVID-19?

It is my understanding that the town is to receive from the government a sizable COVID relief package. I am sure there will be specific guidance from the government as to how those funds can be spent. If elected, part of my job will be to assist others in the proposed distributions of funds.

Is Warren zoning adequate enough to sustain economic vitality and quality of life?

I feel it is adequate.

What is your stance on the town's proposed marijuana ordinance?

In 2017 the town voted to prohibit commercial marijuana activities in Warren.

In 2020 the town voted to amend the land use ordinance to allow medical marijuana dispensaries and cultivation in Warren.

At this time, there is a proposed marijuana ordinance that will provide guidance on how this industry will be allowed to operate in the town of Warren. Regardless of my personal feelings on this issue, as always I will accept whatever the voters decide.

Free Space: Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you?

It is my belief that I can hear both sides of any issue. After careful consideration and discussion with other select board members I can reach the conclusion that I feel will best benefit the Town of Warren.