As the summer season ends, the state Legislature is being called back into a special session to debate the transportation bond package that was negotiated by the leadership of both parties and the governor. It is a bond package that will bring jobs to Maine families, fix some infrastructure issues on our highways and bridges, and also fund higher education at state universities, community colleges and academies. There is also $14 million being added to help the Maine Armory with maintenance and renovation.

The total bond package value is just under $150 million. The Legislature will be voting to approve the statewide referendum to let the people decide if we should bond money for these projects in voting this November.

Even though we have been on a break from daily sessions in Augusta, I have been busy working with some citizens on legislation. One bill that I will be submitting next year is to have a day to recognize the sacrifices of our K-9 military. This bill will honor those dogs that have served and continue to serve our country.

A second bill that I have been asked to submit is one that will take the driver’s license away after a third conviction for OUI. This legislation has hit home with many people with whom I have spoken because of the significant accidents involving alcohol. When a citizen is passionate about an idea and it takes a piece of legislation to implement it, I really work hard to make it happen.

The economy (including job creation) is a high priority for me and has been since I started serving my community as an elected official in 2006. In Old Orchard Beach, our seasonal economy is robust, but there are nine more months of the year that we need to focus on to survive in the new economy of 2013 and beyond. I reached out to Rep. Alan Casavant of Biddeford, Rep. Justin Chenette and Sen. Linda Valentino to see if we could spearhead an economic summit for our Saco Bay region.

The communities of Biddeford, Saco and Old Orchard Beach are unique in that we have the infrastructure to support a variety of businesses. We can accommodate most everything in the spectrum: large industrial complexes and parks, higher educational facilities, mom ‘n’ pop stores, local farms and entrepreneurs. The wide diversity exhibited in our communities affords us one the highest levels, in terms of quality of living, in Maine. A Saco Bay Regional Economic Summit has the potential to be a hallmark of innovation. This idea could be the catalyst that brings leaders from government, business and education together in a way that allows for single-minded effectiveness in seeking the best for our respective communities. Imagine the possibilities if we combined our resources.

There is a great deal going on, even when we are out of session and for my town, rest assured my sleeves are rolled up and I am working hard to represent you well. From the issues with the MaineCare system that we are experiencing to the impact of the changes in the circuit breaker program, I am listening and will work to find some solutions to these problems.

The issue at the Ross Road and Cascade Road intersection is on my radar, too, to help facilitate a DOT solution to that dangerous intersection. My summer has been full of listening and working for the people of Old Orchard Beach and though I may be just one voice ”“ sometimes just one voice can make that difference.

— Rep. Sharri MacDonald represents House Distrsict 132, Old Orchard Beach.  Her column appears on the fourth Monday of each month.