Bio
Name: Luke Jensen
Office sought: School Committee, Ward 5
Occupation: educational technician III, Auburn School Department
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Lynchburg College Class of 2013, Lewiston High School Class of 2009
Family: single
Political experience: School Committee, Ward 5 representative
Questions
1. Why do you think you’re the best candidate for this seat, and why are you running?
I’m running to continue the work I’ve started with the committee. The next committee will have to tackle some big issues, and I look forward to bringing my experience and perspective to the table. Education is extremely important to me.
2. What do you like, and what don’t you like, about the school budget passed in the spring? ($41.75 million in Auburn, up by $1 million; $74.3 million in Lewiston, up by $5.5 million)
The Lewiston school district is unlike any other in Maine. The state’s (Essential Programs and Services) model is harmful to our district, and should be revised. Policies at the state and federal level place especially large financial burdens on districts like Lewiston and tie our hands regarding school spending. Our schools need more resources, but our community is stretched thin.
3. When it comes to property taxes, what kind of budget would you support this spring?
Residents are past their limit when it comes to property taxes, and I don’t see a light at the end of the tunnel for this spring. Much of Lewiston’s tax woes come from policy at the state and federal level, particularly around education. Ultimately, until changes are made in Augusta and Washington, Lewiston is not likely to see any significant relief in taxes, and it is something our legislators need to address.
4. What, to you, is the biggest issue facing Lewiston or Auburn schools, and how would you like to see it addressed?
The biggest issue facing Lewiston schools is the unfair funding deal we get from the state. Getting paid in arrears for many things causes us to spend money now that we don’t currently have, so we make cuts to other worthy programs as a result. As a growing school district, the EPS model hurts us tremendously. In order to accommodate for more students and to reduce class sizes, the city has to pay the full costs of school building expansions, placing a further burden on Lewiston taxpayers. We need to fight back in Augusta and pass more resolutions as a committee.
5. Do you support the merger of Lewiston and Auburn?
(Did not say yes or no.) If voters approve the merger, I will do everything in my power to make sure the transition is as best for Lewiston residents as possible. If voters say no, the issue is moot.
Luke Jensen
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