(Representing part of Auburn)

Bonney Starbird

Democrat

Hometown: Born in Lewiston. Raised in Poland. Resident of Auburn since 1984.

Occupation: Registered nurse for 38 years, 10 years as family nurse practitioner.

Education: Master’s degree in nursing, University of Southern Maine. Graduated 1998.

Family status: Married, three sons, two stepdaughters

Why are you running for the Androscoggin County Commission?

I have been the Androscoggin District 5 county commissioner for a little over a year. It’s a great way to serve the community and get a more in-depth understanding of the workings of the county.

What skills do you bring to the role of commissioner?

My experience as a nurse practitioner has helped me learn to listen well. I am able to analyze issues and consider various options. Over the past year I have met with most county department heads to better understand their roles and how I can best serve the county and citizens as a whole.

What is the biggest challenge facing the county, and how would you solve it?

Jail overcrowding is one issue complicated by the opioid crisis. There are current collaborative discussions ongoing as to how to best manage this problem. It’s important to work with the sheriff, DA, treasurer, administrator, and others to find the best solutions. We fix it by putting our heads together and coming up with an educated consensus. Aging county building is another issue. I think the best plan is to have both immediate and long-term goals in order to develop a proactive plan for the physical plant.

Bonney Starbird