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| Here You Will Find Different News and Political Articles That Have To Do With Car Enthusiasts. |
| If you have a responce or any articles that you want posted, E-mail them to: |
I appreciate your continued support. You will find continuous updates to this site and a much faster
response to your input. As always, your input is vital to the success of this site and I want you to know
I respect that immensely.
Changes have been made to insure that I can honor your requests as promptly as possible. I think
you're going to like it! If you have an e-mail you want posted in response to these or any legislative
matters please send them along. And thank you again for your continued support .
Frank S.
| NEWS & UPDATES |
Hot Rods to Augusta !
| Here are some of the photos taken at The State House Meet |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Hi Folks,
We had a very enjoyable day up to the State House in Augusta on Monday the 11th.
We had 12 vehicles staged and placed on the patio between the Cross building and the State House.
I think every member of the Transportation Committee came out to check out the
cars and speak with us. Cathy Curtis, the head of the DMV spent allot of time with us as well.
A surprise was when the Governors wife, Karen, and the U.S. Surgeon General posed in front
of Curt Dumonts '37 Ford for a photo.
All in all a very nice day and our lawmakers got to enjoy some neat people and cars!
They thanked everyone for their efforts to be there on a work day. There were a couple of
photographers there, Frank Svatek and Wayne.
I have uploaded some 96 pictures to my website, www.ducks32.com, for your enjoyment.
They are rather large files so probably not user friendly to dial-up Internet. They are located
in the albums section of my photos on the site.
Feel free to copy 'em if you want. When I get back from the NHRA Hot Rod Reunion we will work
on downsizing the photos.
See you down the road!
Ducky
John Duckworth
Maine NSRA Rep
We had a very enjoyable day up to the State House in Augusta on Monday the 11th.
We had 12 vehicles staged and placed on the patio between the Cross building and the State House.
I think every member of the Transportation Committee came out to check out the
cars and speak with us. Cathy Curtis, the head of the DMV spent allot of time with us as well.
A surprise was when the Governors wife, Karen, and the U.S. Surgeon General posed in front
of Curt Dumonts '37 Ford for a photo.
All in all a very nice day and our lawmakers got to enjoy some neat people and cars!
They thanked everyone for their efforts to be there on a work day. There were a couple of
photographers there, Frank Svatek and Wayne.
I have uploaded some 96 pictures to my website, www.ducks32.com, for your enjoyment.
They are rather large files so probably not user friendly to dial-up Internet. They are located
in the albums section of my photos on the site.
Feel free to copy 'em if you want. When I get back from the NHRA Hot Rod Reunion we will work
on downsizing the photos.
See you down the road!
Ducky
John Duckworth
Maine NSRA Rep
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| October 1st, 2008 Urgent Notice ! The Following series of e-mails alert us all to a potentially devastating situation Talk to each other about it. Post ideas and potential solutions about it here. Make plans to DO something about it. Go to Augusta if and when its necessary. Go to Town Meetings. Defend your neighbors and friends. If its happening to you, ASK FOR HELP! Don't just sit there and LET this happen! Well, so far no one has replied or expressed any concern at all. I will continue to keep these e-mails posted but lower on the page and in smaller print. I'm going to be using the available space for updates from Augusta, 11/18/08 |
Flag this message
Fw: Municipalities not following state law
From:
"Richard Fritz" <RFritz63559@roadrunner.com>
View contact details
To:
"Bill MacDonald" <wmacdon1@maine.rr.com>, "Bob+Louise Trottier" <rtrottier@securespeed.us>, "Frank Svatek" <fsvatek@maine.rr.com>, "Frank Barron" <fjbblb@exploremaine.
com>, "Ed Miller" <edm101@verizon.net>, "John Duckworth" <ducks32@yahoo.com>... more
Message contains attachments
courtrule80K2006[1].txt (293KB)
Hi Everyone,
Here we go again, the state of Maine is finding a way to destroy our hobby. This sounds like a serious threat. I
guess its time to notify everyone you know, from what I have read this is going to be a tough battle. It maybe time to get all the hobbyist's in Maine to see what we can do before our
hobby
comes to an end.
You can call me at 207-985-7712 or 207-985-2868 in the evening, please leave me a message if not home. You also can email me.
Dick Fritz
----- Original Message -----
From: CFA Imported Parts
To: Undisclosed Recipient
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2008 10:25
Subject: Fw: Municipalities not following state law
MCAA Members,
Attached are several emails relating to a major problem for the Automotive Hobbyist. At this time I guess the question to be asked, is your passion for the Automotive Hobbyist
Community suffient enough to take on this battle? I feel it would require time and funding beyond the capabilities of just the Maine Custom Auto Association. Beyond money and time
commitments, it would behoove members of the hobbyist community to assist legislators that are automotive friendly to become elected this November. Keep in mind that over the past
five years we (MCAA) have many accomplishment and earned a high degree of respect in Augusta.
What is your thinking....is it time to watch TV and play cards or continue to fight for our passion ?
MCAA Legislative Director
Ray Simond
----- Original Message -----
From: CFA Imported Parts
To: Nancy Smith
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2008 9:56 AM
Subject: Fw: Municipalities not following state law
Good Morning Nancy,
Attached are several emails that are cause for major concerns in the Automotive Hobbyist community. Starting with the June 13th email to you from Paul Goudreau to Jon Doyle's
response to my email to him. I was very pleased that Mr. Doyle stated he would be more than willing to work with you on this issue because you are an extremely effective legislator. In
the mean time I am currently removing parts, identifying them and storing the parts from donor vehicles, then crushing the remains in order to abate my violation. The increasing use of
Rule 80K by municipalities as an end run around state statute will effectively put an end to the hobbyist community for the average car lover / hobbyist.
I also need to speak with you about your Re-Election campaign.
Your Constituent & Friend,
Ray
-----Original Message-----
From: Jon Doyle <jdoyle@doylenelson.com>
To: cfaparts@aol.com
Sent: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 9:45 am
Subject: RE: Municipalities not following state law
Thanks for your email and the attachment. I’ve had a chance to look at Rule 80 K, which is actually part of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure. I’m not going to spend time discussing that,
but, essentially, if the municipalities are taking you or your members into court using that rule, they’ll keep it up until we change the law. I’ve got some ideas about changing the law,
because, as I understand it, what they do is take the position that the vehicle has to be fully restored. I’d rather spend your money working on a statutory change than fighting this out
in court, because I think it’s an easier fix.
In your own personal situation, my suggestion would be that you get us to file an appearance for you; get that thing put off until after the Legislature convenes; then you and I can talk
about what it would cost to put a legislative change through. I have some ideas that we can discuss and I’d be glad to work with Nancy Smith, who is an extremely effective legislator.
Thanks for your inquiry.
Jon
From: cfaparts@aol.com [mailto:cfaparts@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 25, 2008 3:00 PM
To: Jon Doyle
Subject: Fwd: Municipalities not following state law
Good Afternoon Jon,
It seems that municipalities have found a way to render useless what we fought to retain several legislative sessions ago relative to having Antique Vehicles and donor cars. I have
become aware of several people that went to court and lost their case. It seems the the CEO's are using "Court Rule 80K" to enforce land use violations if the property owner has more
than two unserviceable vehicles or any parts to be used in the rebuilding / restoration of vehicles.
The timing of this issue is ironic seeing that I just recieved a notice of violation / corrective action this week from the Town of Monmouth, under Title 30-A, Section 3752. I need to appeal
the decision of the CEO ASAP or find some other way to fight it. My two major concerns are the cost of fighting it and the possibility of it having a negative impact on the hobbyist
community. I would greatly appreciate your thoughts.
Attached is an email with a PDF file of Court rule 80K, and an email sent to Representative Nancy Smith
Sincerely,
Ray Simond
Maine Custom Auto Association
783-6166
cfaparts@aol.com
From: Paul R. Goudreau [mailto:lisagoud@gwi.net]
Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2008 4:03 PM
To: Jason Tolleson
Subject: RE: Municipalities not following state law
I am embarrassed to say I went to school with the author of this training –program…This is the ‘battle plan’ that all the municipal CEO’s are using to screw hobbyist’s like me. I know of at
least three more cases very similar to mine taking place in the last 3 months. It is not an isolated incident but a methodically planned approach to destroy auto hobbyist in the State of
Maine.
From: Paul R. Goudreau [mailto:lisagoud@gwi.net]
Sent: Friday, June 13, 2008 8:21 PM
To: 'RepNancy.Smith@legislature.maine.gov'
Subject: More illegal activities by municipalities designed to kill the antique vehicle hobby here in Maine
Just a quick note to let you know municipalities in Maine are doing everything in their power (and beyond) to kill our hobby. While the Maine legislature did pass a bill which says the
following:
A. "Automobile graveyard" does not include:
(2) An area used by an automobile hobbyist to store, organize, restore or display antique autos, antique motorcycles, classic vehicles, horseless carriages, reconstructed vehicles, street
rods or parts of these vehicles as these vehicles are defined in Title 29-A, section 101 as long as the hobbyist's activities comply with all applicable federal and state statutes and rules
and municipal ordinances, other than ordinances that are more restrictive than this subsection regarding the storage of vehicles or vehicle parts that are collected by a hobbyist, except
that a municipal ordinance may require areas used by an automobile hobbyist to comply with the screening requirements in section 3754-A, subsection 1, paragraph A and the standards
in section 3754-A, subsection 5, paragraph A, paragraph B, subparagraph (1) and paragraph C. For the purposes of this subparagraph, an automobile hobbyist is a person who is not
primarily engaged in the business of selling any of those vehicles or parts from those vehicles;
Title 29-A: MOTOR VEHICLES HEADING: PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (new); Pt. B, §5 (aff)
Chapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS HEADING: PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (new); Pt. B, §5 (aff)
§101. Definitions
As used in this Title, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [1993
3. Antique auto. "Antique auto" means an automobile or truck manufactured in or after model year 1916 that is:
A. More than 25 years old; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
B. Equipped with an engine manufactured either at the same time as the vehicle or to the specifications of the original engine; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5
(AFF).]
C. Substantially maintained in original or restored condition primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades or other functions of public interest; [1997, c. 653, §2 (AMD).]
D. Not used as its owner's primary mode of transportation of passengers or goods; [2005, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]
E. Not a reconstructed vehicle; and [2005, c. 314, §2 (AMD).]
F. Not an altered vehicle. [2005, c. 314, §3 (NEW).]
Towns are saying that if a vehicle is not fully restored it does not meet that EXCEPTION EVEN THOUGH THE STATUTE CLEARLY STATES THE VEHICLES CAN BE KEPT FOR RESTORATION.
I had the job of defending in York County District Court a lawsuit from the town Of Old orchard Beach, Maine to physically remove my antique trucks under restoration from my property
despite the fact they were properly shielded from the highway. If it happen to me it can happen to you. I'm not sure what the answer is to force judges to enforce statutes as they are
written instead of favoring blindly with the municipalities. Just one more hard fought for right we have being callously taken away. Did I mention the fact I had to pay the town's legal
expenses on top of this BS?
Sincerely yours,
Mr. Paul R. Goudreau
58A Portland Avenue
Old orchard beach, Maine 04064
207-934-0513
Fw: Municipalities not following state law
From:
"Richard Fritz" <RFritz63559@roadrunner.com>
View contact details
To:
"Bill MacDonald" <wmacdon1@maine.rr.com>, "Bob+Louise Trottier" <rtrottier@securespeed.us>, "Frank Svatek" <fsvatek@maine.rr.com>, "Frank Barron" <fjbblb@exploremaine.
com>, "Ed Miller" <edm101@verizon.net>, "John Duckworth" <ducks32@yahoo.com>... more
Message contains attachments
courtrule80K2006[1].txt (293KB)
Hi Everyone,
Here we go again, the state of Maine is finding a way to destroy our hobby. This sounds like a serious threat. I
guess its time to notify everyone you know, from what I have read this is going to be a tough battle. It maybe time to get all the hobbyist's in Maine to see what we can do before our
hobby
comes to an end.
You can call me at 207-985-7712 or 207-985-2868 in the evening, please leave me a message if not home. You also can email me.
Dick Fritz
----- Original Message -----
From: CFA Imported Parts
To: Undisclosed Recipient
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2008 10:25
Subject: Fw: Municipalities not following state law
MCAA Members,
Attached are several emails relating to a major problem for the Automotive Hobbyist. At this time I guess the question to be asked, is your passion for the Automotive Hobbyist
Community suffient enough to take on this battle? I feel it would require time and funding beyond the capabilities of just the Maine Custom Auto Association. Beyond money and time
commitments, it would behoove members of the hobbyist community to assist legislators that are automotive friendly to become elected this November. Keep in mind that over the past
five years we (MCAA) have many accomplishment and earned a high degree of respect in Augusta.
What is your thinking....is it time to watch TV and play cards or continue to fight for our passion ?
MCAA Legislative Director
Ray Simond
----- Original Message -----
From: CFA Imported Parts
To: Nancy Smith
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2008 9:56 AM
Subject: Fw: Municipalities not following state law
Good Morning Nancy,
Attached are several emails that are cause for major concerns in the Automotive Hobbyist community. Starting with the June 13th email to you from Paul Goudreau to Jon Doyle's
response to my email to him. I was very pleased that Mr. Doyle stated he would be more than willing to work with you on this issue because you are an extremely effective legislator. In
the mean time I am currently removing parts, identifying them and storing the parts from donor vehicles, then crushing the remains in order to abate my violation. The increasing use of
Rule 80K by municipalities as an end run around state statute will effectively put an end to the hobbyist community for the average car lover / hobbyist.
I also need to speak with you about your Re-Election campaign.
Your Constituent & Friend,
Ray
-----Original Message-----
From: Jon Doyle <jdoyle@doylenelson.com>
To: cfaparts@aol.com
Sent: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 9:45 am
Subject: RE: Municipalities not following state law
Thanks for your email and the attachment. I’ve had a chance to look at Rule 80 K, which is actually part of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure. I’m not going to spend time discussing that,
but, essentially, if the municipalities are taking you or your members into court using that rule, they’ll keep it up until we change the law. I’ve got some ideas about changing the law,
because, as I understand it, what they do is take the position that the vehicle has to be fully restored. I’d rather spend your money working on a statutory change than fighting this out
in court, because I think it’s an easier fix.
In your own personal situation, my suggestion would be that you get us to file an appearance for you; get that thing put off until after the Legislature convenes; then you and I can talk
about what it would cost to put a legislative change through. I have some ideas that we can discuss and I’d be glad to work with Nancy Smith, who is an extremely effective legislator.
Thanks for your inquiry.
Jon
From: cfaparts@aol.com [mailto:cfaparts@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 25, 2008 3:00 PM
To: Jon Doyle
Subject: Fwd: Municipalities not following state law
Good Afternoon Jon,
It seems that municipalities have found a way to render useless what we fought to retain several legislative sessions ago relative to having Antique Vehicles and donor cars. I have
become aware of several people that went to court and lost their case. It seems the the CEO's are using "Court Rule 80K" to enforce land use violations if the property owner has more
than two unserviceable vehicles or any parts to be used in the rebuilding / restoration of vehicles.
The timing of this issue is ironic seeing that I just recieved a notice of violation / corrective action this week from the Town of Monmouth, under Title 30-A, Section 3752. I need to appeal
the decision of the CEO ASAP or find some other way to fight it. My two major concerns are the cost of fighting it and the possibility of it having a negative impact on the hobbyist
community. I would greatly appreciate your thoughts.
Attached is an email with a PDF file of Court rule 80K, and an email sent to Representative Nancy Smith
Sincerely,
Ray Simond
Maine Custom Auto Association
783-6166
cfaparts@aol.com
From: Paul R. Goudreau [mailto:lisagoud@gwi.net]
Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2008 4:03 PM
To: Jason Tolleson
Subject: RE: Municipalities not following state law
I am embarrassed to say I went to school with the author of this training –program…This is the ‘battle plan’ that all the municipal CEO’s are using to screw hobbyist’s like me. I know of at
least three more cases very similar to mine taking place in the last 3 months. It is not an isolated incident but a methodically planned approach to destroy auto hobbyist in the State of
Maine.
From: Paul R. Goudreau [mailto:lisagoud@gwi.net]
Sent: Friday, June 13, 2008 8:21 PM
To: 'RepNancy.Smith@legislature.maine.gov'
Subject: More illegal activities by municipalities designed to kill the antique vehicle hobby here in Maine
Just a quick note to let you know municipalities in Maine are doing everything in their power (and beyond) to kill our hobby. While the Maine legislature did pass a bill which says the
following:
A. "Automobile graveyard" does not include:
(2) An area used by an automobile hobbyist to store, organize, restore or display antique autos, antique motorcycles, classic vehicles, horseless carriages, reconstructed vehicles, street
rods or parts of these vehicles as these vehicles are defined in Title 29-A, section 101 as long as the hobbyist's activities comply with all applicable federal and state statutes and rules
and municipal ordinances, other than ordinances that are more restrictive than this subsection regarding the storage of vehicles or vehicle parts that are collected by a hobbyist, except
that a municipal ordinance may require areas used by an automobile hobbyist to comply with the screening requirements in section 3754-A, subsection 1, paragraph A and the standards
in section 3754-A, subsection 5, paragraph A, paragraph B, subparagraph (1) and paragraph C. For the purposes of this subparagraph, an automobile hobbyist is a person who is not
primarily engaged in the business of selling any of those vehicles or parts from those vehicles;
Title 29-A: MOTOR VEHICLES HEADING: PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (new); Pt. B, §5 (aff)
Chapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS HEADING: PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (new); Pt. B, §5 (aff)
§101. Definitions
As used in this Title, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [1993
3. Antique auto. "Antique auto" means an automobile or truck manufactured in or after model year 1916 that is:
A. More than 25 years old; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
B. Equipped with an engine manufactured either at the same time as the vehicle or to the specifications of the original engine; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5
(AFF).]
C. Substantially maintained in original or restored condition primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades or other functions of public interest; [1997, c. 653, §2 (AMD).]
D. Not used as its owner's primary mode of transportation of passengers or goods; [2005, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]
E. Not a reconstructed vehicle; and [2005, c. 314, §2 (AMD).]
F. Not an altered vehicle. [2005, c. 314, §3 (NEW).]
Towns are saying that if a vehicle is not fully restored it does not meet that EXCEPTION EVEN THOUGH THE STATUTE CLEARLY STATES THE VEHICLES CAN BE KEPT FOR RESTORATION.
I had the job of defending in York County District Court a lawsuit from the town Of Old orchard Beach, Maine to physically remove my antique trucks under restoration from my property
despite the fact they were properly shielded from the highway. If it happen to me it can happen to you. I'm not sure what the answer is to force judges to enforce statutes as they are
written instead of favoring blindly with the municipalities. Just one more hard fought for right we have being callously taken away. Did I mention the fact I had to pay the town's legal
expenses on top of this BS?
Sincerely yours,
Mr. Paul R. Goudreau
58A Portland Avenue
Old orchard beach, Maine 04064
207-934-0513
| Last Year there were many trips to Augusta. Read John Duckworth's letter about one trip and check out the photos below. |
Be Sure to click on this link to the State courtrule80K2006 |
Hello Fellow Auto Enthusiasts,
Please take a look at the following emails concerning loop holes in our laws that Code Enforcement Officials are now using to prevent people from storing on their properties project cars
or parts cars for their projects. It is with great concern for the future of our hobby, no matter if you are a street rodder, drag racer, restorer or any of the many different facets of the
Automobile Hobby - you should be concerned as this affects you! In speaking with a good friend earlier today, no one person would be effective in standing up to this current assault,
rather in force will be needed again to change the laws that are allowing these loop holes to exist.
A suggestion would be to set up a meeting to discuss and put together a focused plan to address this in Augusta. We will need your support and the possibility of some type of financial
support as we may need to hire lawyers etc. Can I count on your support? You are welcome to contact me at 457-1093 or my email ducks32@yahoo.com, or Dick Fritz at 207-985-7712 or
207-985-2868 in the evening, please leave me a message if not home, or Ray Simond at his email elsewhere in the attached emails.
We are looking for a site that we can meet at in the near future along with your thoughts and opinions to address this concern? Please pass this along to anyone you think might be
affected by this situation!!
Sincerely,
John Duckworth
NSRA Maine State Rep
Please take a look at the following emails concerning loop holes in our laws that Code Enforcement Officials are now using to prevent people from storing on their properties project cars
or parts cars for their projects. It is with great concern for the future of our hobby, no matter if you are a street rodder, drag racer, restorer or any of the many different facets of the
Automobile Hobby - you should be concerned as this affects you! In speaking with a good friend earlier today, no one person would be effective in standing up to this current assault,
rather in force will be needed again to change the laws that are allowing these loop holes to exist.
A suggestion would be to set up a meeting to discuss and put together a focused plan to address this in Augusta. We will need your support and the possibility of some type of financial
support as we may need to hire lawyers etc. Can I count on your support? You are welcome to contact me at 457-1093 or my email ducks32@yahoo.com, or Dick Fritz at 207-985-7712 or
207-985-2868 in the evening, please leave me a message if not home, or Ray Simond at his email elsewhere in the attached emails.
We are looking for a site that we can meet at in the near future along with your thoughts and opinions to address this concern? Please pass this along to anyone you think might be
affected by this situation!!
Sincerely,
John Duckworth
NSRA Maine State Rep
Forwarded FYI. We need the widest dissemination possible throughout the state of Maine.
And Please, anyone with FIRST HAND KNOWLEDGE of municipal activities such as that described below, contact me.
Bill MacDonald
207 286-3356
wmacdon1@maine.rr.com
85 Graham St, Biddeford, ME 04005-3242
Thanks
Mac
And Please, anyone with FIRST HAND KNOWLEDGE of municipal activities such as that described below, contact me.
Bill MacDonald
207 286-3356
wmacdon1@maine.rr.com
85 Graham St, Biddeford, ME 04005-3242
Thanks
Mac
Hello, Frank. I have done TWO things - I have posted all of tghis on the HotKarz.com blog, but more importantly I have created an ONLINE PETITION that Maine car folks - or ANY Maine
resident - can and should sign. When enough names are collected, it will be sent to all Maine legislators. Please spread the word about the petition.
The petition can be found and signed at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/hotkarz
Regards,
Bill Vaughn
www.HotKarz.com
Bill has removed the on-line version of this petition because of an unintended fee that was attached to it by the company that provided the service.
See his blog at www.HotKarz.com for further explanation. You can also download a copy of the petition from there to help get not only your signature
but others as well. Thank you Bill for this petition and for correcting the issue the service you selected dumped on you without your knowledge. I will
be bringing my copies of the petition to work as well as carrying it around wherever I go.
Frank Svatek
resident - can and should sign. When enough names are collected, it will be sent to all Maine legislators. Please spread the word about the petition.
The petition can be found and signed at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/hotkarz
Regards,
Bill Vaughn
www.HotKarz.com
Bill has removed the on-line version of this petition because of an unintended fee that was attached to it by the company that provided the service.
See his blog at www.HotKarz.com for further explanation. You can also download a copy of the petition from there to help get not only your signature
but others as well. Thank you Bill for this petition and for correcting the issue the service you selected dumped on you without your knowledge. I will
be bringing my copies of the petition to work as well as carrying it around wherever I go.
Frank Svatek
| ----- Original Message ----- From: CFA Imported Parts To: Jason Tolleson ; Archie Stevens ; Ron Pare ; Jim McGregor ; Dick Fritz Sent: Thursday, October 09, 2008 15:10 Subject: DRAFT - Maine Legislative Candidates and Maine Automotive Small Businesses / Hobbyist Here is a draft for your review and comments: Being fully aware that November 4th is almost upon us we appreciate your taking the time to read and reply to this e-mail. This e-mail was prompted by the increasing and alarming number of small automotive and related businesses in Maine closing their doors this past year. The Anti-Automotive hobbyist / enthusiast issues that keep appearing definitely have a negative impact on many of these small businesses as well as tourism and etc... Please feel free to elaborate. * Do you have family or a friend in an automotive business in Maine? Yes ___ No ___ * Do you have family or a friend that is an automotive Hobbyist / Enthusiast in Maine? Yes __ No___ * Would you be willing to work with us and /or the other three associations in Maine? Yes___ No ___ * May we forward a copy of this questionnaire to the other Maine automotive associations?This could be of some assistance to the memberships on November 4th. Yes ___ No ___ State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus To further the connection between the Maine Custom Car Association and lawmakers, we are working with the SEMA-sponsored State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus (http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=61681). The Caucus is a non-partisan group of state lawmakers whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles. There are over 350 legislators in the Caucus from all 50 states, including 7 from Maine. By joining, these lawmakers have demonstrated their commitment to this great American tradition. __ Yes, please send me more information about the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. |
| Get Educated ! Click here and JOIN ! |
Last Thursday, November 15th, a stakeholder group met with Deputy Secretary of State Cathie Curtis and several BMV directors to discuss issues relative to
Antique Vehicles. The relevant topics of discussion will be revisited and fine tuned at the next meeting, which tentatively is December 11th, 2008. By the end
of the meeting there was a consensus that “True” antiques should not require a state safety inspection. Where as most of the unsafe motor vehicles being
registered as antiques in order to avoid a safety inspection seem to be of the 1960-1980 vintage, it was suggested that requiring a basic safety systems
inspection for 30 to 40 year old vehicles would prevent a high percentage of unsafe junk vehicles from being driven on public ways. It became apparent that
in order to resolve most issues, it was necessary for Antique, Custom, Street Rod and Horseless Carriages to be registered under their proper classifications.
Several methods to accomplish this was discussed. Having a licensed inspection mechanic verify that the vehicle is being registered under their proper
classifications by meeting the necessary criteria. Also a printed list /check sheet with the vehicle criteria in clear and plain english being available to the
vehicle owner, town clerks, anyone and everyone.
We reviewed several communications from Jon Doyle to Lt. Grotton of the State Police and a draft of the Affidavit / Registration form MV-65 prepared by Jon
that would put more bite (penalty) for any misrepresentation on the affidavit. Also on the current MV-65 form under Antique Auto the statement is not an
“Altered” vehicle should also contain the word “Modified”. Under statute definitions “Altered “ pertains to something affecting the vehicles height and does
not address other mechanical and / or body modifications.
Several Stakeholders brought up an issue under the definition of Antique Auto in statute, Title 29-A,section 101, subsection 3. Antique Auto, paragraph C.
which states substantially maintained in original or restored condition primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades or other functions of public
interest. They felt language was needed allowing them to also be able to drive the vehicle for their own personal enjoyment, such as taking family or friend
for an ice cream on a nice sunny day. Deputy Secretary of State Cathie Curtis suggested some of the changes could occur through the agency's Rules /
Regulation process and that the changes in statute could be part of the agency's department bill. Cathie will be inviting Lt. Grotton to the next meeting and she
will also be sending out a summary of the meeting which I will forward to anyone who would like to receive it.
In attendance were Deputy Secretary of State Cathie Curtis, Gary Hinkley and Rich Nickless of BMV as well as stakeholders Dick Fritz, Rosey Gerry, Clayton
Hoak, Ed Kennedy, Bill MacDonald and Ray Simond. Paul Hanson (MOALs) couldn't make the meeting.
The other issue that has to be addressed ASAP is making some changes to Tile 30-A, that would prevent municipalities from not allowing hobbyist to have
project vehicles, donor vehicles, or parts of on a properly screened property from public view. Jon Doyle has volunteered his time to explain at a meeting why
and how something has to be done now.
Sincerely,
Ray Simond
Legislative Director
Maine Custom Auto Association
| MCAA Members & Hobbyist, Jon Doyle has offered to attend our meeting on the evening of December 2nd in Lewiston. Jon being a hobbyist, attorney and lobbyist in Augusta is well versed in our automotive hobbyist issues. We keep hearing of more and more hobbyist that municipalities have found a means to prevent them from having a project vehicle,donor vehicle or parts of, even though they are properly screened (out of sight). He feels that Title 30-A, Junkyard and Automobile Graveyards of the Maine statutes can and should be changed in order to protect the hobbyist exemption. Keep in mind that this affects more than just antiques. Speaking of antiques the floor will be open to discussions about the November 13th meeting with the Secretary of State people after Jon Doyle has finished the hobbyist exemption problem and recommendation. The meeting will be held at the Chick A Dee Restaurant ( 1472 Lisbon St.) or Governor's Rest. (1185 Lisbon St.) which are both right off the Pike exit 80. We will need a headcount as to how many people will be buying a meal between 6:30 -7:00. Ray Simond Legislative Director Maine Custom Auto Association 207 783-6166 cfaparts@gwi.net or cfaparts@aol.com |
| Important Invitation ! Please do your best to attend |
MCAA Members & Hobbyist,
The Maine Custom Auto Association is holding it's December 2nd meeting at the Chick A Dee Restaurant located at 1472 Lisbon Street in Lewiston ( Map Quest
& Google show this address too far out on Lisbon Street.) After you exit the pike (Exit 80) you'll be on Alfred Plourde Highway, take the 1st exit to your right
onto Route 196 (Lisbon St.), The restaurant is located shortly up the street on your left, at the second set of traffic lights, on the corner of Lisbon St. and
Westminster St, and across the street is the Tire Warehouse. Anyone wishing to buy a meal should do so by 6:30pm, they also have a complete bar.
Jon Doyle will be our guest speaker and being a hobbyist himself as well as an Attorney and Lobbyist in Augusta, he is well versed with our automotive
hobbyist issues. We keep hearing of more and more hobbyist having problems with their town officials about having project vehicles, donor vehicles and / or
parts of even though the vehicles are totally out of sight. Jon agrees that something should be done with Title 30-A of the State Statute in order to retain an
effective hobbyist exemption. This current Anti-hobbyist action not only effects restoration and building of Antiques, Custom or Street Rods, but also off road
and race vehicles. After Jon's presentation the floor will be open to discussions about the November 13th meeting with the Secretary of State people and
what may be discussed at the December 11th meeting relative to the proper classification, registration and inspection of Antiques, Customs and Street Rods.
We will need a head count for the restaurant, therefore please RSVP Dick Fritz at 985-7712 or
rfritz63559@roadrunner.com or myself at 783-6166 or cfaparts@gwi.net or cfaparts@aol.com
Please pass this on to anyone that you feel is or will be impacted by these issues.
Ray Simond
Maine Custom Auto Association
The Maine Custom Auto Association is holding it's December 2nd meeting at the Chick A Dee Restaurant located at 1472 Lisbon Street in Lewiston ( Map Quest
& Google show this address too far out on Lisbon Street.) After you exit the pike (Exit 80) you'll be on Alfred Plourde Highway, take the 1st exit to your right
onto Route 196 (Lisbon St.), The restaurant is located shortly up the street on your left, at the second set of traffic lights, on the corner of Lisbon St. and
Westminster St, and across the street is the Tire Warehouse. Anyone wishing to buy a meal should do so by 6:30pm, they also have a complete bar.
Jon Doyle will be our guest speaker and being a hobbyist himself as well as an Attorney and Lobbyist in Augusta, he is well versed with our automotive
hobbyist issues. We keep hearing of more and more hobbyist having problems with their town officials about having project vehicles, donor vehicles and / or
parts of even though the vehicles are totally out of sight. Jon agrees that something should be done with Title 30-A of the State Statute in order to retain an
effective hobbyist exemption. This current Anti-hobbyist action not only effects restoration and building of Antiques, Custom or Street Rods, but also off road
and race vehicles. After Jon's presentation the floor will be open to discussions about the November 13th meeting with the Secretary of State people and
what may be discussed at the December 11th meeting relative to the proper classification, registration and inspection of Antiques, Customs and Street Rods.
We will need a head count for the restaurant, therefore please RSVP Dick Fritz at 985-7712 or
rfritz63559@roadrunner.com or myself at 783-6166 or cfaparts@gwi.net or cfaparts@aol.com
Please pass this on to anyone that you feel is or will be impacted by these issues.
Ray Simond
Maine Custom Auto Association
| Here is the updated Letter, with Directions, and invitation to the Dec. 2nd Meeting Please Be There ! |