Breece quoted in Morning Sentinel article on worker shortage among municipalities
James Breece, an associate professor of economics at the University of Maine, was cited in the Morning Sentinel article, “Maine municipal officials worry, prepare for loss of experienced staff amid new worker shortage.” As local governments struggle with filling positions because of a labor shortage and competition for qualified individuals, municipalities might be forced to raise wages, according to the article. Simple economics say as supply goes down and demand goes up, wages will have to rise, the article states. However, “life isn’t that simplistic,” according to Breece. “I wouldn’t immediately say it would lead to a drastic (tax) rate increase, but it could,” Breece said. “I do say action is needed.” The Maine Municipal Association is working with the Margaret Chase Smith Center for Public Policy at UMaine to help member municipalities hire summer interns who can learn about town business, Morning Sentinel reported. Mainebiz also reported on the shortage, citing the Morning Sentinel article.