As House majority leader of the Maine Legislature, I spend a lot of time working with other legislators to build opportunities for our state, but few have done more this session in respect to our heritage and with a vision for Maine’s future than Rep. Nancy Smith of Monmouth.

Preserving our family farms and working waterfronts are some of the most important initiatives the state can undertake. Rep. Smith worked with other legislators to secure funding in the bond package to help Mainers keep and protect access to these working lands. She recognizes economic development as more than just creating new businesses – it’s also giving existing family businesses, particularly farmers and fishermen, the tools they need to prosper.

Originally, Republican legislators refused to include family farms or working waterfront protection in the bond package. Rep. Smith stayed late during negotiations and lobbied members on both sides to ensure the program became part of what voters will consider in November. She fought hard for the people and heritage she believes in so strongly.

I want to thank her for her efforts, and thank the people of Litchfield, Monmouth and Wales for sending her to Augusta to work for Maine.

Rep. Glenn Cummings, Portland

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