Evan Houk

5 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: moc.l1763347150iamg@1763347150kuohn1763347150ave1763347150

water spraying among the trees during a fire department training event.

New water pumps meant to bolster fire protection in downtown Machias, Marshfield

The Machias water system is “not designed for large commercial fires,” Marshfield Fire Chief Danny Bowker said, citing the Bluebird Motel fire last Christmas Eve, when crews had to haul water in pumper trucks to the site.

ByEvan Houk

November 15, 2025

A logging truck passes a blue sign welcoming travelers to the Town of Baileyville and Village of Woodland.

Washington County municipalities brace for ‘brand new game’ after bond vote fails

Tuesday’s vote is seen as voters’ strong expression of displeasure with the county’s poor financial management, even though towns now face tax increases and potential cuts.

ByEvan Houk

November 8, 2025

Machias looks at loans to pay off county TAN, approves personnel policy amendment

If the town takes out a 5-year loan to pay its portion of Washington County’s shortfall, it could save taxpayers over $40,000 in interest, but would face $70,964 in annual payments.

ByEvan Houk

November 8, 2025

sign denoting the Washington County line and the town of beddington line.

Washington County municipalities weigh whether to pay share of county tax anticipation note early

Towns and cities are considering whether to pay their share of the county’s tax anticipation note by the end of the year, but are waiting to see the result of the $8 million bond vote on Nov. 4 before making any final decisions.

ByEvan Houk

November 1, 2025

People attending the Washington County budget meeting.

Machias considers paying share of county tax anticipation note to avoid proposed $8 million bond

The Washington County Commission has asked all towns to consider paying what could be their share of the bond by the end of the year.

ByEvan Houk

November 1, 2025