Adam Platz

Age: 39

Occupation: CFO/Business owner

Political experience: One term as Auburn city councilor

Why do you think you’re the most qualified, or best candidate, for this seat?

Over the past two years on both the City Council and the School Committee, I’ve tried to show what commitment and collaboration really mean. I do my homework, listen to people with different perspectives, and keep an open mind when making decisions that affect our community. This role is about showing up, being informed, and working together, even when we don’t all agree. I believe I’ve done that, and I’d be grateful for the chance to keep serving and learning from the people I represent.

Please name two issues that you believe are critical to Auburn’s future, and how you would address them. Be specific.

Two critical issues facing Auburn are rising property taxes and balancing infrastructure improvements with municipal services. Rising taxes place an unfair burden on vulnerable residents, and we must protect those most affected through responsible fiscal management and targeted relief. Meanwhile, Auburn has invested heavily in future projects like the new Public Safety Building. In the coming fiscal years, we must be cautious not to drown our city in debt, so that we may continue investing in education, public services, and recreation. Difficult decisions lie ahead, and every dollar must serve the essential needs of our citizens.

Auburn, like many other municipalities, is seeing rising property taxes resulting from higher property values. What can Auburn do to address this issue?

Property values are rising across Maine, and Auburn is no exception. To address this, Auburn must work diligently to keep its mil rate low and expand its tax base. We should remain focused on commercial development and encourage housing projects near downtown and other developed areas with existing infrastructure. At the same time, we must protect those most affected by rising costs. Programs like Auburn’s Senior Tax Relief initiative demonstrate the type of creative approach needed to ensure growth remains sustainable and equitable.