Committee rejects cut to Island Explorer funding, approves Parking Fund expenditure 8–4

The Bar Harbor Warrant Committee voted 8–4 on Feb. 23 to recommend that voters adopt Parking Fund expenditures line item 6410 5924, which includes funding for the Island Explorer service.

Chair C. Smith moved the recommendation based on the Public Safety Subcommittee report; the motion was seconded by M. Kelly. During discussion, several committee members reported community feedback that taxpayer funds should not subsidize what some residents view as tourist transportation. In response, proponents noted the Bar Harbor Comprehensive Plan contains goals to increase resident access to Island Explorer and that the service helps alleviate peak-season traffic.

Committee members were given an operating-cost detail point during discussion: roughly 70–75% of Island Explorer operating costs are covered by Acadia Park visitor pass revenues, the committee was told. K. Knopp moved to amend the original motion to reduce Island Explorer funding from $310,544 to $260,544; C. Chappell seconded the amendment. The amendment failed, 4–8. The committee then voted on the original Parking Fund motion; it passed 8–4.

The committee recorded its recommendation to forward the Parking Fund expenditure to the Town Council; Chair C. Smith said she would present the committee's recommendations to the Town Council on Feb. 24, 2026. The committee noted a desire to see clearer documentation in future budget packets about community usage levels and funding breakdowns for services such as Island Explorer.