Could the increase of Islesboro’s ferry ticket prices be Gov, Paul LePage’s “Bridgegate”? Don’t be to quick to scarf at such a notion. Let’s not forget that Chris Christie and LePage are cut from the same cloth.
Remember, Islesboro was so influential in the fight to preserve its neighboring Sears Island, putting the kibosh to the governor’s plan for big development in the Penobscot Bay. When the projected budget shortfall for the ferry service landed on the Department of Transportation’s desk, I can just imagine him saying, “Let’s put it to those rich/smug islanders.” Too petty for this governor? I think not.
A few facts. This ticket proposal was never mentioned in any of the DOT’s public hearings. What was mentioned was the fact that the increase would be implemented in March. Instead it was thrust upon us inconveniently on the last day of the legislative session in late April. Perhaps so that we wouldn’t have a voice in Augusta?
Just the other day, after tough talk from our attorney’s about DOT’s improper rule-making procedures, the counsel for DOT called North Haven to tell them there would be a delay in the fare increase. It got posted on their website, and this island was ecstatic over this development. But wait, a new letter was sent by the counsel to us whining islanders that the fare increase would take place on schedule.
All very shady to me. I smell fish. How about a loud SOS to Attorney General Janet Mills?
William Boardman
Islesboro
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