This bill would ensure tribal sovereignty, an equity issue we fully support. As we define one of the values of smart growth as a continuation of traditional livelihoods like fishing, farming and forestry and keeping Maine families working their heritage and making it possible for their children to do the same, this must apply to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Second, infrastructure that provides plentiful, safe drinking water supports smart growth in strengthening and directing development towards existing communities. From our work with the City of Eastport over the years, I am familiar with the ongoing problems related to the water system shared with the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayak, issues that will require significant investments.