Here are the results of the November 6, 2018 Question 4, a bond proposal for construction and remodeling of University of Maine system facilities, as they roll in from municipalities in Knox and Waldo counties. 

Question 4 on the statewide ballot, would provide $49 million, matched by at least $49 million in private and public funds, “to modernize and improve  the facilities and infrastructure of Maine's public universities in order to expand workforce development capacity and to attract and retain students to strengthen Maine's economy and future workforce.” 

According to the Maine Office of the Treasurer, “the total estimated life time cost is $62,475,000 representing $49,000,000 in principal and $13,475,000 in interest (assuming interest at 5.0 percent over 10 years).” Furthermore, the Maine Office of Fiscal and Program Review notes this bond issue would have “no significant fiscal impact” aside from the debt service costs outlined.

According to the Maine Office of the Attorney General, the bonds would run for not longer than 10 years from date of issue and “would be backed by the full faith and credit of the State.” 

$49,000,000: This amount would be expended by the University of Maine System “to support the construction, reconstruction and remodeling of existing and new facilities and infrastructure as approved by the Board of Trustees. The purpose of the bond funding is to expand the University of Maine System’s capacity to develop Maine’s workforce and enhance its ability to attract and retain students.

The projects currently approved by the Board of Trustees are located at all seven campuses in the University of Maine System and include renovations and improvements to dormitories, modernization and expansion of laboratories and classrooms for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) programs, nursing and child care programs, as well as development of career service centers, and other facilities to support first-generation and nontraditional students.”

Knox County

 Waldo County