Maine has a few select areas where natural gas is already available. Augusta and the Kennebec Valley will soon be on that list. This week, city officials make a major decision about how natural gas will be provided to businesses and residents in Augusta.

Such a decision is not to be taken lightly. The council is essentially shaping the economic future of the city and the entire region.

A “big picture” consideration is commitment. My company, Mattson Development LLC in Augusta, recently inked a deal with Summit Natural Gas. A major reason for our decision was Summit’s proven track record of investing in communities and providing natural gas to cities just like Augusta. It has invested millions to install pipeline in Augusta, and another $250 million to serve the rest of the Kennebec Valley.

This impressive achievement, to aggressively put “pipe in the ground,” demonstrates serious commitment.

As one of the largest commercial real estate companies in the region, we weighed this data very carefully, and it was a deciding factor. Summit has assumed a major business risk, for sure, but such a sizeable pipeline investment can’t be ignored. It speaks volumes and inspires confidence.

The city council will decide which natural gas company is likely to best help residents and businesses reduce energy costs, and which company will give Augusta and the region a competitive advantage. Who’s best qualified to make Augusta more attractive to buyers and increase the potential to attract new businesses? We have conducted our own in-depth analysis and are very happy with our decision.

I believe Augusta’s decision is in good hands. The council will surely deliberate very carefully. This is a crucial economic development decision to which all residents should be paying very close attention.

Kevin J. Mattson

Augusta


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