Election Day Means $10 Million Water Decision For Maine

When Maine voters hit their polling places this week, they will decide whether to devote millions of dollars to water infrastructure upgrades.

According to the state government, Question 6 on the ballot asks: "Do you favor a $10,000,000 bond issue to ensure clean water and safe communities across Maine; to protect drinking water sources; to restore wetlands; to create jobs and vital public infrastructure; and to strengthen the state’s long-term economic base and competitive advantage?"

Some of Maine's drinking water infrastructure dates back decades, and proponents say this measure is a no-brainer.

"Question 6 on the November ballot offers voters a chance to replenish two key funds that pay for drinking water and sewer system upgrades while triggering additional federal funds. In helping the state and local governments maintain infrastructure for something as critical as water, the initiative offers government the tools necessary to fulfill a core function: ensuring safe drinking water," a recent Bangor Daily News editorial argued. 

All in all, Maine voters will consider $50 million in bonds on Election Day, according to the Associated Press. The dollar amount may put off fiscally conservative voters. And some people might not be informed about the bond measures at hand. 

"The groups promoting the borrowing measures say their biggest challenge has been trying to get their messages heard in a crowded election cycle dominated by contentious and competitive races for governor and Congress and a ballot question measure that would ban bear baiting, dogging and trapping," the report said. 

Nobody appears to have staked out a strong position against the water upgrades. "There is no organized opposition to the bond questions," the AP reported. 

Vote Yes On 6, a coalition in favor of the measure, says it would support the economy. The group says it will create or sustain 1,000 jobs and add $119 million to Maine's GDP.

Ultimately, the bond measure may be just a drop in the bucket for water issues in Maine. The state has reported $540 million water infrastructure needs and $1 billion in wastewater infrastructure needs over the next 20 years, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers.