Karen Montell

Representing Farmingdale & Gardiner, in District 54

About Karen

I was born and raised in Gardiner, and I’ve built my life here, on the same street I grew up on, in the same community that shaped me. Generations of my family have called this place home, and now my husband and I have raised our own children here. This community is part of who I am.

I’ve spent my life showing up for this community: volunteering in our schools, serving on the Gardiner Recycling Advisory Board, leading in the PTA, and working as a childcare provider, substitute teacher, and in the Legislature before ever running for office. Today, as a small business owner and State Representative, I bring that same hands-on, practical experience to the work I do every day.

I’ve seen Gardiner and Farmingdale through both tough times and real progress. I remember when our downtown was quieter, with shuttered storefronts, but I see the momentum building again now. New businesses, renovations, and opportunities are building our community back up. I believe deeply in our potential, but it doesn’t happen by accident. We need to support families, invest in our local economy, and make sure people can access the services and information they need to succeed.

I’m running because our communities deserve someone who understands where we’ve been and is focused on where we’re going. This work isn’t about me, it’s about making sure the voices of Gardiner and Farmingdale are heard, respected, and reflected in the decisions that affect our future.

  • "Karen is an independent thinker who will put people over politics and work hard to represent all of her constituents." Former Rep. Gay Grant

    — Former Rep. Gay Grant

  • "Karen was one of the first persons to welcome my wife and me to Gardiner. While we don't always agree, I find her opinions well reasoned. As an independent voter, that's what I'm looking for - someone who approaches issues with compassion and fairness. I believe Karen does just that. She's got my vote."

    — Bob Monniere

  • "Karen always stands up for what she believes in, and I know that she will always look out for the people of our community."

    — Polly Boynton

  • Linda Cailler:

    “As November 8th nears, voters in House District 54 (Farmingdale & Gardiner) will cast their votes for our next State Representative. The choice is clear, and I will cast my vote for Karen Montell.

    Karen’s involvement in our community has helped prepare her for the job she is seeking. As a former substitute teacher, she recognizes the importance of public schools - and the many challenges the education system has faced, particularly during the pandemic. As a small business owner, she understands the triumphs and problems a business owner faces - whether they’re just starting, or have been doing the job for years. Her work as a nonpartisan committee clerk in the Legislature reinforced her commitment to collaboration and bipartisanship in what are now often divisive times.

    But at the very core of who she is, Karen is empathetic, receptive, and a great listener.

    I’m proud to cast my vote for Karen Montell.”

  • "Karen is the right person to serve District 54 in Augusta. We need wonderful, vibrant people like Karen to serve us in the Legislature. I hope you'll consider voting for Karen."

    — Belle White

What Matters Most

Education

We need access to affordable and inclusive education for all, including the arts. No one seeking an education or access to the arts should be denied because of cost. Our schools have world class staff, but we need to fund them appropriately - and this all can't be on the backs of local taxpayers.

Environment

It goes without saying that we need to expand the use of renewable energy to aid families and businesses, as well as reduce our carbon footprint and it's negative impact on the environment. We need to encourage and offer incentives to reuse & increasing recycling efforts.

Health Care

It is so important that everyone has access to quality, affordable holistic health care - and we need to make mental health care more available to all.

Past Accomplishments

good things