AUBURN — Sally Christner of Turner, who is seeking a third term representing District 7 on the Androscoggin County Commission, is facing challenger Amanda Ricci of Livermore Falls in the Nov. 8 elections.

Sally Christner

District 7 includes Leeds, Livermore, Livermore Falls, Minot and Turner.

Christner, 66, a Republican, has served as the chairwoman several times since she was first elected in 2014. Married with children and grandchildren, Christner is active in her church and with the Make-A-Wish foundation.

Ricci, 35, the mother of two teenage daughters, is completing the final three courses for a master’s degree in business from Columbia Southern University and has a bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizational studies from University of Southern Maine. The Democrat, who is formerly from East Dixfield, is the owner of Lifeline for ME, county director of Franklin County United Bikers of Maine, volunteer at American Red Cross of Northern New England. She served 11 years as a volunteer firefighter.

The winner of the election will serve a four-year term through 2026.

Why are you running for Androscoggin County Commission?

Amanda Ricci

Christner: I want to finish the work and goals I had when I first ran eight years ago and bring the voice for the five rural communities I represent.

Ricci:  I find value in public service, and a friend and colleague recommended this position to me. Unprecedented funds are coming in from (American Rescue Plan Act) and the opioid settlement, and they need to be distributed appropriately. I have the knowledge, skills and experience to ensure this happens.

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

Christner: I want to continue to find ways to competently deliver services and support to rural communities. In a time of increasing expense of doing business, continuously seeking cost-saving measures to put as little financial strain on Androscoggin County towns and taxpayers as possible. We need to carefully appropriate the once-in-a-lifetime ARPA funds in a manner to have the best long-term benefit while being mindful of the ramifications on the long-term budgets.

Ricci: Mental health and substance use disorders are contributing to increased utilization of emergency services and the criminal justice system, exacerbating the housing crisis. County employees deserve adequate pay and benefits. Facilities need to be adequate. I will work with my colleagues to ensure that these significant issues take priority, and our county employees feel supported, while balancing the financial impact our decisions will have on our communities.