Members have been appointed to the 15-member task force charged with studying the property tax situation in Maine and making recommendations for targeted and general relief.

Vinnie Caliendo, chief executive of Native Maine Produce & Specialty Foods in Westbrook (employs over 100 workers) will represent the business sector.

Sen. Nicole Grohoski (D-Hancock) and Rep. Ann Matlack (D-St. George) will co-chair the group.  The other legislative members include Sen. Bruce Bickford (R-Androscoggin) and Rep. Bob Nutting (R-Oakland).

Task Force duties include:

1. Research and analysis of factors affecting property taxes;
2. Comparison of Maine to the rest of the nation;
3. Explore the need for changes in the Maine Constitution or statutes;
4. Develop methods to ensure municipalities properly use tax relief programs;
5. Assess changes in the valuation process;
6. Develop targeted support for long-term property owners;
7. Explore use of the State’s cash pool for property tax relief; and
8. Examine potential impacts of federal funding changes on property taxes.

An interim report is due by January 15, 2026, and a final report by December 15, 2026.

The impact of residential property taxes and options for relief is likely to be a key issue for gubernatorial and legislative candidates leading up to the November 2026 election.

NFIB will be following this important issue and engaging members as the study progresses.

Task Force information can be found here (as it becomes available): https://legislature.maine.gov/real-estate-property-tax-relief-task-force