Visibility Clears

Combined, the recommendations from both represent a sea change in how MSFS is currently funded and operated.

On April 28, MDOT released a white paper outlining the challenges and proposing changes to the MSFS, including the way the organization is governed and funded.

MDOT suggests that the current governance and funding model for the MSFS is inadequate and unsustainable. They propose a legislative resolve to test the idea of restructuring the service to achieve a sense of common purpose, collaborative problem-solving, and fairness to other inhabited islands, other transit services and Maine taxpayers.

The department recommends legislative action to explore alternative models that could provide more effective oversight and financial stability for the Ferry Service. MDOT suggest one such model would include a locally controlled organization that would replace the ferry oversight currently provided by MDOT.

The MDOT document also acknowledges the global mariner shortage and recommends supporting a workforce development scholarship program at Maine Maritime Academy, additional compensation and more flexible scheduling. It also highlights the need for policy guidance and change to improve Ferry Service operations, including addressing issues related to staffing, scheduling and service reliability.

On April 29, one day following the release of the MDOT white paper, a public hearing held by the Maine Legislature’s Transportation Committee discussed several bills related to the Ferry Service.

LD 1231 proposes requiring the MSFS to dock a vehicle-carrying ferry overnight in four specific island towns — Swan’s Island, Vinalhaven, North Haven and Islesboro — to support emergency services. LD 1731 seeks to increase the influence of the Maine State Ferry Advisory Board on the funding and operations of the MSFS. The bill would require the MSFS to consult with the Advisory Board on matters regarding budgets, strategic planning and major operational decisions.

Kimberly Grindle, a lifelong resident of Islesboro and small business owner, submitted written testimony in support of LD 1731. She stressed that for year-round island residents, the Ferry Service is not a luxury but a lifeline, providing access to health care, education, employment and essential supplies.

Grindle highlighted the economic significance of the Ferry Service, noting its role in sustaining tourism and local businesses. She expressed concern over recent service disruptions and staffing challenges, which have impacted the reliability of ferry operations. Grindle advocated for increased community involvement in decision-making processes, emphasizing that island residents possess valuable insights into the unique challenges and needs of their communities.

“Without a reliable ferry, we don’t have access to health care, groceries or even the ability to get to work or school,” she said.

Grindle strongly supported greater local input and described the MSFS as a lifeline. She stressed how unreliable service has directly affected daily life and economic stability on the island.

Also under consideration is LD 447, which would amend existing law to increase the minimum number of annual ferry trips to Matinicus Isle from 12 to 36 trips per year.

Those recommendations aim to address the operational challenges the Ferry Service faces, including staffing shortages, service reliability and governance issues, to ensure equitable and efficient service to Maine’s island communities.

Nick Battista, chief policy officer at the Island Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Maine’s island and coastal communities, emphasized that the Ferry Service is not merely a mode of transportation, but a vital component of civic infrastructure that connects island communities to essential services and opportunities. He advocated for a more collaborative approach between the MSFS and island stakeholders to address challenges such as service reliability, staffing shortages, and rising operational costs.

“The Ferry Service is not just transportation — it is part of the civic infrastructure that sustains year-round island life,” he said.

The Island Institute has been actively involved in studying the Ferry Service, including commissioning a study by KPFF Consulting Engineers to explore future operational strategies. Battista’s testimony underscored the need for data-driven decision-making and increased transparency in Ferry Service governance.

Both Grindle’s and Battista’s testimony underscored the MSFS’s role as a critical infrastructure component for island communities, facilitating access to essential services and economic opportunities.