District Attorney Natasha Irving engaged in a constructive conversation with members of Lincoln County’s budget advisory committee on October 5, 2023, following their earlier recommendation to defund her department. Irving, who oversees prosecutions for Knox, Waldo, Sagadahoc, and Lincoln County, expressed surprise at the committee’s initial proposal, which suggested a budget allocation of just $1. She had previously indicated that legal action could be pursued if their budget recommendation was approved.
Irving’s reformist stance and emphasis on restorative justice practices have drawn both support and criticism from local officials. During the meeting held at the Lincoln County Planning Office in Wiscasset, she noted that the dialogue with committee members and county commissioners focused on pressing issues such as domestic violence and recidivism, which are of significant concern to local authorities.
“I’m really impressed with the budget committee coming in here, disagreeing and being critical of the criminal justice system and my role in it, and now being willing to learn,” Irving stated. She emphasized the importance of collaboration, asserting that mutual learning is essential for effective governance. “We can learn from each other through this process. That’s how we want county government to work, and that’s how government in Maine should work,” she added, highlighting a commitment to avoiding divisive political dynamics.
The Lincoln County commissioners have invited Irving to present her department’s budget request of approximately $500,000 in further detail before making a final decision on the budget, which is expected to be voted on in November 2023. This proactive engagement reflects a willingness among officials to address budgetary concerns while ensuring the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in the region.
Irving’s initiative to foster discussion around these critical issues illustrates her commitment to transparency and collaboration within county governance. As the budget deliberations continue, the outcomes will likely have significant implications for the functioning of the District Attorney’s office and the broader community it serves.
This article is part of a media partnership with Maine Public.
