Committee recommends confirmation of Carlos Barrio Nuevo to Maine Connectivity Authority

Senator Mark Lawrence, the senate chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology, said the committee voted 9–0 to recommend confirmation of Carlos Barrio Nuevo of Georgetown for reappointment to the Maine Connectivity Authority.

Joe Busch, appearing for Governor Janet Mills, introduced Barrio Nuevo and summarized his background in business and public media, noting his roles with Public Media Company, Oveo Solutions and Palisades Media Ventures and his work building community broadband in Georgetown. "On behalf of Governor Mills, I urge you to support his nomination," Busch told the committee.

Barrio Nuevo told the committee he has served on the Maine Connectivity Authority since its creation five years ago and described the volunteer work and community projects that preceded the authority. "I passionately believe, still believe broadband can improve our communities and create opportunities for Maine to thrive," he said, urging continued focus on connecting underserved areas.

During questioning, members pressed the nominee on the next priorities after approaching statewide connectivity. Barrio Nuevo said the authority should continue work on affordability and digital skills and leverage the state’s middle‑mile infrastructure, MooseNet, to support economic and workforce development. He told members the MCA has used federal funds and has prioritized high‑quality fiber where possible, while exploring other technologies and creative deployment models when appropriate.

Representative Chris Kessler asked whether MCA work intersects with local access television or franchise fees; Barrio Nuevo said franchise fees and franchise regulation have not been part of the MCA's work but stressed that improved connectivity enables communities to communicate and participate in new ways, such as remote public meetings.

Representative Valerie Geiger raised household-level experience with slow upload speeds and asked about standards; Barrio Nuevo said standards are being built and that the authority is working to ensure connections meet established thresholds and to continue upgrades over time.

Chair Lawrence reviewed procedure for public comment and written statements; no in‑person or online public speakers were called. With no objection to proceeding immediately, the committee took a roll‑call vote. The clerk recorded nine members voting in favor and no opposing votes; four members were absent. The committee will send a written recommendation to the president of the Senate as required by statute.

The committee’s formal motion to recommend confirmation was made by Representative Melaye Sachs. The roll call as read into the record listed the yes votes and absentees; the committee’s recommendation now moves to the next step in the Senate confirmation process.

A copy of written comments submitted to the committee will be provided to the nominee before the committee finalizes its report to the Senate.