Heather Johnson

As Maine begins reopening its economy, what are the risks, challenges and oppportunities ahead? We discuss how the first steps to the phased process are being taken, especially now that Gov. Janet Mills has given 12 Maine counties the go-ahead to reopen some businesses and entitites. How do businesses owners and customers feel about returning? What plans are in place for the months ahead?

All over the country, and in Maine, the coronavirus crisis has caused businesses to shut down and workers to find themselves with no source of income. We find out what government aid is available, how to apply for it, and what other avenues people have for help in this time of need.

This show will air from 1-3 pm as part of Maine Calling's special coverage of the impacts of COVID-19 on the people of Maine.

With businesses suffering or closing, and people losing their sources of income and livelihoods, what can be done? We speak with Maine's labor and economic leaders to learn how the state is trying to face the challenges of helping to keep workers and businesses afloat amidst the coronavirus emergency.

 This show is a rebroadcast of an earlier show (original air date January 7, 2020); no calls will be taken.

Gov. Janet Mills’ task force recently released its new 10-year Strategic Economic Development Plan for the state of Maine. It focuses on revitalizing the state through growth in rural communities; fostering job creation and workforce development; attracting new young families to our state; and focusing on quality of life here. We’ll discuss the plans’ major initiatives and the economic outlook for Maine in 2020 and beyond.

Gov. Janet Mills’ task force recently released its new 10-year Strategic Economic Development Plan for the state of Maine. It focuses on revitalizing the state through growth in rural communities; fostering job creation and workforce development; attracting new young families to our state; and focusing on quality of life here. We’ll discuss the plans’ major initiatives and the economic outlook for Maine in 2020 and beyond.

Commissioner Heather Johnson joins us to discuss the economic challenges and opportunities facing Maine, and how she hopes to foster growth and revitalization throughout the state.. We'll talk about topics ranging from: tax relief to community block grants; re-energizing rural communities; the role of tourism in Maine; challenges in housing, wages, and strengthening the workforce; broadband, infrastructure, and more.

Maine Governor-elect Janet Mills has chosen the Director of the ConnectME Authority, which promotes broadband access, as her nominee to oversee the State Department of Economic and Community Development.