Mike Ray
Representing Appleton, Islesboro, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Searsmont in District 40
About Mike
35 years ago I had just finished helping my brother refit a boat and was driving through Camden on my way home to the Midwest and figured I’d stay a while. I crossed the town and county line into Lincolnville 22 years ago to be with the woman I love. (And try and finish building the house we live in.)
I’ve built a life here by pounding nails, painting buildings, washing dishes, driving a bus, leading kayak camping trips as Registered Maine Guide, managing a woodlot - and trying to finish up on the house! I deeply appreciate all the opportunities this area has afforded me, and so have spent a good portion of my time in Lincolnville reinvesting my time into the town. I started as an Election Clerk counting votes, to being on various Town committees and Boards, and I currently serve on the Selectboard and Conservation Commission.
The best part of my first term has been talking with you. Getting your input on policy, hearing your concerns, and doing my best to see them resolved - as best the state can do. I worked on some practical things that build on our tradition of helping our neighbors: I sponsored and passed first-in-the-nation wood bank legislation that facilitates neighbors helping each other get through the winter; I proudly co-sponsored a bill that keeps state-run ferries berthed on the islands overnight to maintain Emergency Medical Services 24/7.
I would be proud to continue caring for our community and environment as your State Representative!
What Matters Most
Transportation &
Ferry Service
Reliable transportation is essential in our part of Maine. On the Transportation Committee, I’ve worked to improve road maintenance, strengthen public transportation options, and make sure our unbridged islands stay connected. I was proud to help pass legislation keeping ferries on the islands overnight so emergency medical services are available 24/7. I’ll keep fighting for safe, dependable, and affordable transportation for our communities.
Local Control & Property Taxes
After more than 20 years in town government, I’ve seen how decisions made in Augusta can drive up local property taxes. Unfunded mandates and confusing regulations put pressure on towns and taxpayers. I’ll work to strengthen the partnership between the state and municipalities, reduce unnecessary burdens, and make sure local communities have the respect and flexibility they deserve.
Land Use & Responsible Development
Watching fields I grew up running through, playing ball in, hunting pheasants, turn into parking lots drove home to me how radically a landscape and a way of life can be changed by development that doesn’t take those things into account. I’m not against growth, but it needs to be thoughtful and locally driven; development shouldn’t outpace planning. I’ll support stronger area-wide planning tools so towns can guide development in a way that protects our character, natural resources, and way of life.
Environment & Natural Resources
As a former Guide, I’ve spent years on the water and in the woods, and I’ve seen the changes to our environment up close. Habitat loss, poor resource management, and careless development threaten what makes Maine special. I’ll work to hold developers accountable, make permitting more transparent, and protect the land and waters that define our communities.
Climate & Maine’s Future
Climate change is already impacting Maine, from shifting weather patterns to rising sea levels along our coast. I’ve seen places I care about change in ways that future generations won’t experience the same way. I support continuing Maine’s Climate Action Plan as a practical, sensible path forward so our kids and grandkids can enjoy the same outdoors we’ve been lucky to have.
Government That
Listens
The most important part of this job is listening. Over the past two years, I’ve spent time talking with constituents, hearing their concerns, and doing my best to help resolve them. I’ll keep showing up, staying accessible, and making sure your voice is part of the decisions being made in Augusta.
