MACHIAS — Washington County Commissioners addressed a range of topics during their meeting on Thursday, June 11, including public safety staffing challenges, financial planning, and updates on county operations. They also recognized the work of a longtime volunteer historian in the town.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on staffing challenges within the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Barry Curtis requested an increase in the hourly wage paid to part-time officers in hopes of improving recruitment and reducing overtime expenses.
The department is currently facing multiple staffing shortages due to vacant positions, military deployment, maternity leave, medical leave, and an officer being placed on paid administrative leave following the Calais shooting investigation. Officials noted that both the sheriff’s office and the Washington County Regional Communications Center continue to experience heavy call volumes, particularly as the summer season approaches.
During the discussion, officials also noted that the sheriff’s office budget includes utility expenses that are not reflected in other county department budgets. Unlike most county departments, whose utility costs are paid through the buildings and grounds department, the sheriff’s office, communications center, and the county jail pay their own electric bills, making the department’s budget appear larger by comparison.
Looking ahead, commissioners discussed the start of preliminary work on the county’s 2027 budget. Beginning next week, county administration and commissioners will meet with department heads to review anticipated needs, priorities, and challenges. Officials said the early planning process is intended to support responsible budgeting and long-term financial management.
County Manager Renèe Gray also reported that the U.S. Treasury Department has completed its review of Washington County’s American Rescue Plan Act funding and found no misuse of funds. According to Gray, the county will not be required to return any money, and no findings were issued against the county.
Gray also reported that an investigation by the Maine Attorney General’s Office, initiated approximately 18 months ago, is nearing completion.
Commissioners approved a request from the probate office to establish a volunteer program. The office currently operates with approximately 1.5 full-time equivalent staff positions and is seeking volunteers to assist with answering phones, taking messages, staffing the front counter, and conducting probate record research.
Commissioners also recognized Valdine Atwood for her decades of service preserving Washington County history. Commissioners praised Atwood for her efforts in collecting, organizing, and maintaining historical records, including newspapers and genealogical materials. Atwood continues to volunteer one day each week to assist with preserving the county’s historical records.
And officials shared the news that the Washington County Registry of Deeds recently received recognition for having one of the state’s most highly regarded record-keeping systems. Officials noted that the registry’s organization and accessibility have earned praise from peers across Maine.
Commissioners also voted to pursue the second portion of the county’s Tax Anticipation Note. Officials emphasized that the action was anticipated during the budget process and is intended to address seasonal cash-flow needs rather than financial distress.
The board also reviewed a tax abatement appeal concerning property in the Town of Waite. After considering the matter, commissioners voted to deny the request, citing agreement with both the town’s position and the state’s determination.
