Ask Michael Pander why he wants to run for the Boothbay Selectmen, and he can tell in just one word. 

Community.

For Pander, a strong sense of community is Boothbay’s most valuable feature, and a reason to serve its people.  

“Community does not just happen,” Pander said. “Like a good friendship, it takes some work, and thankfully the work can be fun as well.”

Pander and his wife settled down in Boothbay 27 years ago. He has been involved with various local boards and committees, including the Boothbay Region Land Trust, the St. Andrews Task Force and the Town of Boothbay Planning Board.

Pander said it seemed like a natural progression to pursue a seat on the Boothbay Board of Selectmen.

“The town's government presents many complex issues that will affect our community for many years,” Pander said. “I believe I can offer the town of Boothbay a variety of related management experience directly applicable to service on the board of selectmen.”

Pander spent 15 years working in state government, five years with nonprofits, 14 years in the private sector, and he's no stranger to handling budgets with seven digits. He currently volunteers as a mediator at the Maine Attorney General's Office. 

With a professional background in public safety and public administration, Pander said he brings an analytical approach to the table. But one of the most important factors, he said, is open communication and transparency.

“I am committed to transparency, so that the public will know the reasons behind all decisions of their elected officials,” Pander said.

Preserving the rich quality of life and the strong sense of community here is a priority for Pander. 

“I think we have to recognize that the future is coming our way no matter what,” Pander said. “And how the future affects the town is within our control. We can absolutely maintain the character of our town and what's best about it, as well as make progress.”

May 5 is election day and voting hours will be between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Boothbay Town Office at 1011 Wiscasset Road in Boothbay.