MEREDA’s Fall Conference – The Governor’s Race: Through the Lens of Maine’s Commercial & Residential Real Estate Industry

For immediate release: August 3, 2026 -- Portland, ME : The future of Maine's communities has never been more important. The upcoming gubernatorial race brings housing, economic development, and affordability to the forefront. Commercial and residential real estate are at the center of these conversations-from expanding housing opportunities and supporting local businesses to revitalizing downtowns and strengthening our economy.

The Maine Real Estate & Development Association's (MEREDA's) Fall Conference will focus on how the coming election will shape Maine's real estate economy and directly impact the lives and livelihoods of our members. On Wednesday, September 16^th, MEREDA will welcome all three gubernatorial candidates, Democratic Nominee Hannah Pingree, Independent Nominee Rick Bennett, and Republican Nominee Bobby Charles to share their vision and solutions for these important issues.

"Too often, important policy conversations happen without the folks most affected in the room. This conference changes that-it puts real estate professionals face-to-face with the candidates asking for their vote," explains Jennifer Small, MEREDA volunteer President.

The morning will kick off with an economic update from Kenneth J. Entenmann, NBT Bank's Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer. MEREDA's Public Policy Chair Jason Howe will lead the candidate discussions. This event will be informative for MEREDA members and all Maine voters. It will also help set the stage for the next four to eight years of housing and economic policy from the Blaine House.

According to Shelly R. Clark, MEREDA's Executive Director, MEREDA's Fall Conference will be held at the USM's Hannaford Hall on September 16,2026 from 8am to 12pm, with the program beginning at 9am. Registration is available at MEREDA.org. Event sponsors include: NBT Bank, Albin Randall & Bennett, Evernorth, Recovery Insurance Adjustors, Mainebiz, and News Radio WGAN.