Marc J. Ratner

The Knox County ME Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Update is a multi-jurisdictional plan developed to lessen the impacts of natural and man-made disasters, aiming to preserve resources, property, and lives within Knox County. The plan focuses on developing a risk assessment and an effective mitigation strategy, with active participation and commitment from numerous towns and the City of Rockland within the county.

The committee discussed the re-appointment of members to the County Commission and reviewed progress on the Master Plan, with the next update expected in July. Updates were provided on the Ash Tree Project, which was found ineligible for the test program due to lack of infestation, and the Airport Manager reported on operational improvements, including new EV chargers and maintenance performance. The committee also addressed inquiries regarding a potential notice of violation related to solar panel screening and reaffirmed the committee's role in the Master Plan process.

The meeting includes a review of 2024 and 2025 airport projects. A public hearing is scheduled regarding the 2026 proposed Knox County budget. Following the hearing, the Budget Committee will vote to approve and transmit the budget to the Commission, after which the Commission will conduct a vote to approve the 2026 budget.

The committee meeting covered multiple administrative and financial topics. Discussions included public concerns regarding the county budget and specific communications budget increases. Action items included the approval of 2026 Step and COLA increases, acceptance of Emergency Management Performance and Local Emergency Planning Committee grant awards, and the appointment of members to various District Budget Committee seats. Additionally, the meeting included the election of Budget Committee officers, a comprehensive review of the 2026 visual budget, capital project assessments, and a year-to-date update for 2025.

The meeting focused on conducting budget reviews for several departments, including Communications, Airport, District Attorney, and Building Maintenance. Each departmental budget item was reviewed and received formal votes of approval from both the Commission and the Budget Committee members present.