FARMINGTON – House District 89 candidates faced audience questions Wednesday as they debated their views on issues ranging from the economy to wind power.

Democrat Dennis Haszko, 41, and Republican Lance Harvell, 45, both of Farmington, are vying for the seat vacated by Janet Mills, D-Farmington. She was elected attorney general last month.

A special election will be held Tuesday, Feb. 3, in the District 89 towns of Farmington and Industry. The candidates agreed to appear for an hourlong debate at the University of Maine at Farmington sponsored by the Daily Bulldog, an Internet-based local news service.

Both candidates agreed the economy is the single biggest issue to be faced by the Legislature. Haszko felt approaching the problem meant growing jobs by “getting as much help as possible to small businesses,” while Harvell felt businesses are over-regulated by government and should see more stability regarding “agreements with the state that can’t be counted on tomorrow.”

Questioned about creating savings to make up an $838 million state shortfall, Harvell expressed disappointment in Dirigo Health and the Department of Human Services and suggested both look for savings. He also expressed views of “saving for a rainy day” to pay for items instead of using bonds and the state’s need to stick to a budget just as the families in District 89 that’s he visited do, he said.

While the state may “have to cut to the bone,” Haszko also felt the state should look at revenues. Investing in business and development increases economic activity, he said. He also said the expected federal stimulus packages would be a boost to the state.

Both candidates said they would vote yes on Carrabassett Valley’s request to annex land in Redington Township for a wind farm.

They differed on a question before the Legislature on gay marriage. Harvell said he does not support gay marriage or the bill. Haszko said he would support a civil union and there’s “no place in Maine for hate and intolerance.”

When asked what would help the economy and bring jobs to Franklin County, Haszko favored tax incentives for new ventures while Harvell looked to reduce government and the burden on business, for more stability between government and business and improving dismal area roads.

Harvell, a 1981 graduate of Mt. Blue High School and an employee of Verso Paper Co. in Jay, talked about his roots and knowledge of local issues, and his desire to create a sustainable economic policy. He ran for the District 89 seat three times, narrowly losing to Mills.

Although Haszko said he came to Maine 12 years ago, his skills and experience working at a previous state level position and on town committees prepared him for the seat. Managing a patent practice with Eaton Peabody Patent Group LLC, Haszko said he is a problem-solver and his experience in engineering and law would help him serve.