More than 165 members celebrate organization’s 81st year

MaineDOT Commissioner Bruce Van Note (left) and Maine Turnpike Authority Executive Director Peter Mills at the July 9 MBTA Annual Meeting.

MaineDOT Commissioner Bruce Van Note and Maine Turnpike Authority Executive Director Peter Mills headlined a panel discussion at MBTA’s 81st Annual Meeting, July 9, 2020. The two transportation leaders gave MBTA members and their guests an insider’s look at how both agencies are faring as the state emerges from the coronavirus shutdown that went into effect in mid-March. Because of the coronavirus and physical distancing requirements, the meeting was held virtually with more than 165 members logging in from all corners of the state of Maine.

At the meeting, members also elected a new president, Irv Smith of H.O. Bouchard, who will lead the transportation advocacy group during the 2020-2021 year and bade farewell to outgoing president, Paul Bradbury of the Portland Jetport, who served an extended term due to the pandemic. The organization also welcomed six new board members: Wayne Berry, Northeast Paving; Trevor Kraus, Irving Oil Terminals; Jeremy Jordan, Chadwick-BaRoss; Michael O’Brien, The Rowley Agency; Jasmine Strout, Green International Affiliates; and Jon Whited, Whited Peterbilt of Maine. In addition to President Smith, MBTA’s new officers include: First Vice President Tony Grande; Second Vice President Eric Ritchie; and Secretary-Treasurer Michelle Ibarguen.

In between the presentations, participants had the chance to look back at a year during which MBTA members built airport, runways, roads, bridges and friendships. To view videos from the meeting, click on the links below: