Sunday August 8 2026

Weekly Updates from the Ridge

“I knew I shoulda taken that left turn at Albuquerque.”

Why did the potato go to Aroostook County?

Because it wanted to be a real "tater"!

Houlton’s police department is facing significant staffing challenges after two more officers, Seraphima Smalley and Cpl. Austin White, resigned this week, leaving the department down five officers and with only nine on staff out of a budgeted fourteen. Officers cite higher pay elsewhere as a motivating factor, with the sheriff’s department and neighboring towns offering significantly better wages.

This departure continues a troubling trend—four officers have left for higher pay with the sheriff in the past eight months, and the force operates without a contract since December. Chief Tim DeLuca and Captain Jasmine Cyr may need to cover patrol shifts themselves until new hires are brought in and trained. Ongoing mediation aims to address these issues.

These staffing woes reflect broader turmoil in Houlton’s municipal government. Since last fall’s arrest and criminal charges against former Town Manager Cameron Clark, the town has seen a wave of resignations, including councilors and other top officials. As the November elections approach, Houlton has multiple vacancies across police, fire, and administrative departments, raising concerns about recruiting and stability as the town works to restore leadership and public trust.

The Town of Houlton, the historic “Shire Town” of Aroostook County and a busy commercial hub for northern Maine, is searching for a new Town Manager to lead its vibrant community of about 6,000 residents. This key role calls for an ethical, visionary, and collaborative leader who can motivate a dedicated staff of 60 employees, foster economic development, and maintain Houlton's reputation for high-quality municipal services.

Operating under a Town Council/Manager government, Houlton offers full-time police, fire, and ambulance services, a renowned community hospital, and some of New England’s lowest electric rates. The new manager will oversee a $16.2 million annual budget, drive economic growth, and manage key projects through strong financial stewardship, open communication with the Town Council, and proactive grant oversight for community improvements.

Ideal candidates should have substantial leadership experience, preferably in municipal management or a comparable executive context, a relevant bachelor’s (with a master’s a plus), and a passion for ethical public service. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $115,000 to $130,000, plus generous municipal benefits. A willingness to immerse oneself in the culture of northern Maine and build a lasting relationship with Houlton is highly desired for applicants.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) has just landed its largest research grant ever—a $649,836, five-year award from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This major funding will fuel a new biomass research project, led by assistant professor Libin Thaikkattil Louis, examining how emerging technologies can improve the supply chains for woody biomass throughout Northeastern forests.

The initiative will tap into vast long-term forest inventory data to weigh both economic and environmental outcomes, with a focus on supporting sustainable rural communities and fostering a more resilient, forest-based bioeconomy. Collaborators from the University of Maine School of Forest Resources will join Louis in this study, aiming to produce practical guidance for landowners, industry leaders, and policymakers navigating the shift toward renewable materials and responsible forest management.

This historic award isn’t the only win for UMFK’s forestry program. Faculty are also leading new projects on winter tick management to help protect Maine’s moose population, as well as collaborative research into combating the destructive spruce budworm. These efforts underscore the growing reputation of UMFK’s forestry department—as Dean Andrew Egan and President Deb Hedeen highlight, the university’s dedicated faculty are advancing impactful research while engaging students and reinforcing UMFK’s role as a leader in forestry education.

Q: What is the largest county in Maine?

A: Aroostook County.

Q: What is the county seat of Aroostook County?

A: Houlton.

Q: What is the primary industry in Aroostook County?

A: Agriculture, particularly potato farming.

Don't forget to check out the beautiful star-filled sky in Aroostook County - it's the perfect place for stargazing!