Orono Mayor Files for Re-Election

To the editor:

My first term as mayor presented many challenges as our new council rolled out its priorities and tackled this economically difficult period. I am proud of the accomplishments our council and staff have completed during this time. I have filed for re-election seeking to continue leading in this direction for another term.

Positive trends set in motion during the past 18 months include: 

• no increase in the property tax levy in 2012 and budgeting towards a similar outcome in 2013.
• stressing cost-effective infrastructure repair to stretch dollars for use in future projects.
• proactively seeking grants and collaborations on road, storm water and playground equipment saving Orono over $500,000.
• reducing city engineering costs by re-instating the public works/city engineer position and conducting a competitive selection process for our consultative engineering firm.
• initiating a five year capital improvement plan for proper fiscal planning.
• studying city ordinances and fees for effectiveness
• beginning work on issues relating to the Navarre business district.
• engaging our citizens to help us with various tasks such as ordinance review, Navarre improvements, growing produce for donation.

Our governing is now more accountable and accessible with the taping, broadcasting and on-demand streaming of council meetings; the availability of more detailed information on our city website; more citizen input at timely open houses. 

With your support, I will continue to lead with the principles I outlined when I ran for Mayor: preserving the values of Orono, protecting with smart planning and respect for the process. 

Lili McMillan

Orono