Bucksport Candidates Weigh In on Data Centers
Candidates at a Bucksport forum Tuesday agreed the town needs more information before welcoming a data center, though they differed on whether smaller facilities could be acceptable.
Concerns raised included electricity and water use, utility costs and environmental impacts, while some speakers noted potential economic benefits.
The Ellsworth American reports the Town Council is scheduled to consider a proposed data-center moratorium Thursday, October 8.
Bangor School Evacuated After Hoax Threat
The William S. Cohen School in Bangor was evacuated Wednesday after a bomb threat that officials later called a swatting hoax.
Nearly 400 students and staff were moved to Fruit Street School.
WABI news reports police searched the building; authorities found nothing dangerous and said the threat was not credible.
Students returned to class or were released to parents, and the school says counselors will be available for anyone needing support.
WABI-TV
Ellsworth Approves Merrill Lane Extension Contract
Ellsworth has approved a $1.63 million contract to finish building the Merrill Lane extension, which will serve the new Hancock Judicial Center.
The City Council voted 4–1 to hire R.F. Jordan and Sons Construction, the lowest of three bidders; the work is required under the city’s agreement with the state.
The Ellsworth American reports the project is funded through a city bond, and officials say the road is targeted for completion by October 2027.
Incorrect Ballots Distributed in Oxford
Maine election officials say a small number of incorrect ballots were mailed to voters in Oxford because of a packaging error at the printer.
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows estimates nine voters may have received the wrong ballot style, and town officials are working to contact those affected.
WABI news reports every voter will have the chance to cast the correct ballot, and anyone who receives an incorrect ballot or makes a mistake can request a replacement.
Local Newspaper Nonprofit Seeks $1 Million to Preserve Papers
The Ellsworth American, Mount Desert Islander and Bangor Historian have launched the nonprofit Acadia Newspaper Trust to transition the papers from for-profit ownership.
The trust aims to raise $1 million to purchase the publications from owner Reade Brower and create a financial foundation for their future, with a purchase targeted for late summer 2027.
Publisher Chris Crockett says the nonprofit model could expand funding options while protecting local control and editorial independence.
Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center Fall Craft Fair
The Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center will host its outdoor Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center in Ellsworth.
Craft vendors can reserve a space for $30 and must bring their own tent, table and chairs.
Hot dogs, chips, drinks and desserts will be available, and interested vendors can register online or contact the center.
