In light of much of the finger-pointing and back-and-forth surrounding Rep. Mike Timmons’ take on the issue of the Land for Maine’s Future bonds and LD 1378, and since Timmons specifically named Sen. Cathy Breen in his Forecaster Forum piece, I feel compelled to write in support of Breen and her leadership during her first year in Maine’s Senate.

Not only has Breen represented the interests of her community in the debate over the LMF bonds in working to find creative solutions to accomplish the will of both the Legislature and voters on that particular matter, but she has also led the way on the critical issues of the environment and natural resources. She has also worked across parties and chambers to highlight issues that affect many Mainers, including autism, veterans affairs, and health and human services.

Most notably, though, is a topic for which Breen is well known, and that is early childhood education. The importance of kids’ development from a very early age is not lost on Breen. Maine’s future economy, communities and way of life depend on a well-educated workforce. Data continues to show that investment in early childhood education pays dividends for generations to come, and I am thrilled to have Cathy as my senator, given her deep understanding of this vital issue.

Matt Grondin
Cumberland