Evan W. Houk

30 posts

Evan Houk has reported on localities in the Midcoast, central and western Maine, and is now covering Washington County and other areas for Monitor Local, an initiative of The Maine Monitor.

Evan is originally from western Pennsylvania, moving to Maine in 2019 to pursue journalism. In his free time, he enjoys hikes in the woods, live music, and spending as much time as possible chasing around his two-year-old son.

Contact Evan via email with questions, concerns or story ideas: evMEMONan themainemonitor org

Machias Select Board approves using Town Office as warming and cooling center in extreme weather

A local nonprofit will staff the daytime facility to save town resources; the board also moved forward with roof repairs for the Public Works building.

ByEvan W. Houk

July 10, 2026

residents raise cards during a voting process

Machias passes cannabis moratorium to review 2024 ordinance

The six-month pause follows the unexpected death of a local shop owner, spotlighting a regulatory gap in the current rules.

ByEvan W. Houk

July 10, 2026

members of the select board raise their hands for a vote.

Machias Select Board upholds ambulance worker’s removal, sets cannabis vote

Officials voted unanimously to back the town's personnel decision after a public hearing; board to meet Wednesday to consider a 180-day freeze on new cannabis permits.

ByEvan W. Houk

July 6, 2026

Machias approves $3.9 million budget amid questions on airport, school resource officer

Much of the 6.73 percent budget increase reflects investments in roads, public safety grant matches and infrastructure projects, according to the town manager.

ByEvan W. Houk

June 26, 2026

Machias voters unanimously approve $69,000 to cover police and fire overruns

The shortfalls were caused by an unaccounted police cruiser purchase and a new payment system for volunteer firefighters.

ByEvan W. Houk

June 26, 2026

Machias to hold special town meeting to address department cost overruns

Police accounting lapse and rising fire costs among issues prompting Thursday meeting.

ByEvan W. Houk

June 16, 2026

Upper Machias Bay Plan calls for full replacement of aging dike bridge, new steps to reduce flooding

Committee’s presentation honored Bill Kitchen, whose vision launched the regional planning effort.

ByEvan W. Houk

May 21, 2026