Morning update: What you need to know in Maine today

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“It doesn’t take a large percentage of that [4 million recreational visitors per year] number to create big demand. There’s always people who want a piece of this place.”

— Real estate agent Jeff Miller on the high demand for property on Mount Desert Island.

TODAY’S TOP MAINE STORIES

It took months to start fixing a tiny Maine water district’s financial crisis . The district’s problems are an extreme example of institutional issues threatening vital government tasks.

Opponents believe a 2021 law should block a planned expansion of Juniper Ridge landfill in Old Town . It is the first time environmental justice must be considered.

Rents in Bangor are rising faster than anywhere else in the state . A national real estate advisory firm discovered this and more when evaluating the city’s housing market.

A “one-of-a-kind” home for sale on Mount Desert Island gives a big nod to the Old World . Not only does “Rockridge” have curious design elements, but it’s one of the least expensive homes for sale on MDI right now.

MAINE IN PICTURES

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

• Susan Collins says Joe Biden’s Supreme Court proposals have ‘absolutely no chance’
• Undocumented immigrants in Maine pay $15.6M in state and local taxes, study finds
• Bangor bird tests positive for West Nile virus
• Penobscot County driver seen on blown tires and 3 children hospitalized after crash
• Presque Isle Ruby Tuesday closed after failed inspections
• Fort Fairfield residents voice concerns about border station construction
• You could buy this Bucksport restaurant for less than a median-priced home
• High court considers discipline for Hancock County probate judge
• Toddler found unresponsive at Thomaston Walmart had ‘severely lacerated liver’
• A former Belfast auto garage will soon fix your bike
• Woman killed in West Forks crash
• Maine woman dies from injuries after shooting that hospitalized 4
• Julia Gagnon sings in memory of her birth mother who inspired ‘American Idol’ bid
• Maine-based Holy Donut to start shipping nationwide
• Bluefin tuna tourney brings in big fish
• Bangor Babes claim summer league baseball title with 4-2 win over Old Orchard Beach
• 5 things to watch during UMaine football’s preseason camp

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

“There is a very important voice calling for change at the U.S. Supreme Court, and everyone should be listening to them. No, it’s not President Joe Biden.”

Editorial: Listen to Justice Elena Kagan on Supreme Court reform

LIFE IN MAINE

Only about a quarter of bear hunting permits are filled each year due to the extraordinary senses of sight, hearing and smell the animals possess. BDN Outdoors contributor Bill Graves talks about how to use the right scents for bait sites .

Bangor’s landmark Paul Bunyan statue is getting a fresh paint job .

If you didn’t make it to the Maine Lobster Festival on Wednesday, there are still four more days. In the meantime, enjoy these scenes from Day 1 .