Tim Cowan Submitted photo
Name: Tim Cowan
Age: 54
Occupation: Public health scientist; current director of Community Health Surveillance and Evaluation at MaineHealth
Political experience: None
Why do you think you’re the most qualified, or best candidate for this seat?
I have 30 years’ experience analyzing health data and working effectively with others to identify the best data-informed strategies to improve communities’ health and quality of life. I have 15-plus years’ experience creating and managing budgets, at work and for community organizations I have led.
Please name two issues that you believe are critical to Auburn’s future, and how you would address them.
Protecting Lake Auburn is critical. Auburn is one of a few districts in the country that has a waiver for the EPA’s expensive filtration requirement because the quality of our public water is so high. Restricting development is the best option to maintain that waiver and avoid costly consequences for thousands of residents and businesses.
Maintaining strong schools is a keystone for Auburn’s future. Ensuring fair compensation to attract and retain high-quality educators and staff and maintaining school facilities are crucial to ensure optimal learning opportunities for all students. Strong schools will attract young families and business owners.
What actions will you take to support businesses and grow the local economy?
Local businesses are struggling with staff shortages and maintaining a dependable workforce. Employees need training to develop the skills necessary to meet the evolving needs of the local economy. We can work together to encourage and help students to access technical education at LRTC (Lewiston Regional Technical Center) and CMCC (Central Maine Community College), as well as explore opportunities to create/increase internships with local businesses. I will also work to ensure Auburn provides the infrastructure needed to support business (e.g., transportation and adequate supply of child care). In addition, Auburn could provide incentives to businesses that would benefit the Auburn community as well as the business.
Do you support the direction Auburn in moving toward with redefined development zones?
I do not support the process being used to redefine Auburn’s development zones. Changes are being ramrodded through, without transparency. Residents I have talked with feel decisions are being forced through too fast and with too little consideration of residents’ views or concerns. Most do not agree with many of the zoning changes, particularly changes that put the quality of Auburn’s public water supply at risk. There is a real need to address housing in Auburn, but the current direction will not meet needs for residents in all income brackets. Many cannot afford the rent for the apartments recently built.
What do you want voters to know about you?
As an Eagle Scout, I strive to live the scouting principles, including being trustworthy, helpful and courteous. As a city councilor, I will respectfully listen to residents and consider their views as I work with city leadership and staff to develop the best solutions for Auburn’s needs and goals.
Ryan Hawes Submitted photo
Name: Ryan Hawes
Age: 36
Occupation: (Did not answer)
Political experience: Two years, Ward 2 city councilor.
Why do you think you’re the most qualified, or best candidate for this seat?
I’m not, I have flaws just like everyone else. I am not perfect. I have bills to pay and a family to support. Over the past two years, every vote I cast was made with the best of intentions for Auburn’s people and their families. I am not looking to please everyone with every decision; however, I will continue to do what is best for the city and its people.
Please name two issues that you believe are critical to Auburn’s future, and how you would address them.
Children’s safety and education is paramount to Auburn’s future. We must provide our schools with the staff, resources and support they need to teach and shape our next generation at all grade levels. We will continue to talk with parents and teachers to better understand their struggles and partner with them to find solutions as we have done over the past two years.
Homelessness: Over the past two years we introduced a pilot program that actively opens up lines of communication with people who are in need of help and identifies ways to offer support through difficult times. We must continue this plan and help as many people as we can.
What actions will you take to support businesses and grow the local economy?
Auburn’s economy is growing and must embrace a strategy that supports local businesses and helps them succeed. We want more businesses to come to Auburn, and pay taxes and create jobs. We will become stronger with each business that calls Auburn their home.
Do you support the direction Auburn in moving toward with redefined development zones?
Yes, we all want to support housing development for all families. However, people should take a moment to read LD 2003 and read the legislation coming into effect shortly. I want to give our people more of a voice and redefine the “requirements” to build a home here in Auburn.
What do you want voters to know about you?
Being in the military and serving my country, I discovered a passion for leading and helping people. I want to ensure their voice is heard. I brought that passion home with me. Being a city councilor is tough, no decision is the right one, and you will also make someone upset. However, you need someone who is willing to listen to everyone and make the tough decisions. When re-elected, I will continue to work hard to represent Ward 2 and the great people of Auburn. Auburn needs leadership and I will continue to be that leader.
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