PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • April 7, 2026
The January 2024 storms did significant damage to our home in Georgetown, but with timely help from FEMA, flood insurance and a low-interest SBA loan, we were able to recover. Still, it’s hard to ignore storms are getting stronger, and sea levels are rising. Will support from FEMA be there next time? The FEMA budget has been cut, and states will have to pick up the tab. Maine, unfortunately, is not ready to replace their staff or funding. This will put the cost of the next storm on homeowners, towns and local taxpayers. I spent much of my career in Maine as a small business owner, corporate planner and school superintendent. You don’t wait for a crisis and hope things work out. Maine is at that point now. LD 1870, the climate superfund study would take a clear look at the cost of climate damage Maine has experienced. That’s a necessary step. I urge lawmakers to fund this study. ~ Bill Webster, Georgetown