Maine County Commissioners Average 68 Years Old

Maine county commissioners have a median age of 68, according to data compiled by The Maine Monitor using public records and background-checking software. Of the state's 58 commissioners, 23 are in their 70s and only 16 are younger than 60. Four counties have a commissioner under age 40.

Blodgett, 89, plans to retire at the end of the year. The only major-party candidate for his seat is Walter Voskian, 87, a Democrat who previously worked for the CIA preparing security briefings. Sawin Millett, 88, is scheduled to serve past his 90th birthday. Waldo County has the youngest commission, where Breanna Pinkham Bebb, 39, was appointed after the death of her predecessor at age 86.

County government in Maine has drawn renewed attention after recent budget pressures tied to jail costs. Commissioners approve county budgets that primarily fund public safety and programs required by state law. The part-time structure, daytime meetings, and modest pay have been cited as barriers for working-age residents.

Former Androscoggin County Commissioner Noel Madore, 35, said the format makes it difficult for people with day jobs to run. Cumberland County candidate Marpheen Chann, 34, has proposed creating a county housing authority and exploring a regional rail system.