Meet Your June 2022 Gray Town Council Candidates

On June 14, 2022, Gray citizens will head to the polls for not only a State primary and potential referendum election, but also to elect the newest member of the Gray Town Council.

Two Gray residents, Michael Bailey of 10 Zachary Drive and Michael Curtis of 27 Marsh View Drive, are aiming for the seat. Ahead of a Town Council Candidate Forum on May 19 at 6:30 p.m., here is a quick introduction to both candidates, where they answer some questions early voters may be interested in.

Why do you want to run for Gray Town Council?

Curtis: "I want to run for Gray Town Council because I will represent the voice of growth, while protecting the long-established close-knit community that I call home."

Bailey: "I'm going to guess it's to try and give back to the town I've called home these last 22 years or so. Also, to get a better knowledge of the inner workings of town government."

Why do you think you would make an effective Town Councilor?

Curtis: "I will be an effective councilor because of my ability to look beyond a political landscape. I will work with my fellow councilors to solve our community’s essential needs."

Bailey: "I can only be effective as a Town Councilor if I listen to the voice of the voters and do what I can to promote their requests. We may not always agree on what someone wants, but it would be my job to at least try to compromise."

What are some of your favorite qualities about Gray? What makes Gray unique?

Curtis: "Gray is uniquely connected to Maine’s metropolitan hubs, while being in the Lakes region, making it the perfect location for outdoor recreation and business. I love the fact that Gray wants to preserve its special charm."

Bailey: "I'm not sure what my favorite qualities are about Gray, there's so much to choose from. It's a wonderful place to call home."

What makes you excited about Gray’s future?

Curtis: "I am very excited with the Town's revitalization of the Town Center. Having a centralized place where the town can take advantage of the outdoors and build a stronger community makes Gray a sought-after destination to bring neighbors together."

Bailey: "Nobody can predict the future, but from what I see from other people’s dreams and needs, we could stand out as a community where someone would want to live. If we control the growth and expansion of homes and businesses, the tax rate might be more evenly spread amongst us all."

Why should people get out and vote in the June local election?

Curtis: "People should get out and vote because we have never been more divided as a country. We have to protect our democracy. Voting at the local level helps push the national narrative and protects the right to vote."

Bailey: "If you are registered to vote and then don't, that's a waste. I've missed only one time to vote since I turned 18. Especially this year, it is most important to vote."

Name up to three priority issues you will focus on if elected.

Curtis: "Business development, public recreational improvements, and housing availability."

Bailey: "As a councilperson, it would be my job to focus my attention on all that the voters put me there for. Again, the people who hire me for this job are the ones I will listen to."