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Retired Police Chief Nominated to Maine Gambling Board

AUGUSTA, Maine – As reported by the Bangor Daily News: "A retired deputy police chief from Bangor has been nominated to administer the day-to-day activities of the new Maine Gambling Control Board. Robert P. Welch, 48, a lifelong resident of Bangor, was the unanimous choice of the five-member board, which made the nomination for the executive director's post during a meeting Tuesday at the Department of Public Safety's headquarters in Augusta, where the department's new gambling control unit is housed.

"Welch's duties as executive director will involve enforcing gambling and other laws relating to the racetrack casino proposed for Bangor, hearing and deciding license and registration applications and issues, reviewing investigation reports concerning applicants for licenses, reviewing acts and transactions that require board approval, referring alleged violations to the Attorney General's Office for prosecution, and collecting all licensing and registration fees and taxes, among other things.

"Gambling control board member Jean Deighan, the Bangor investment adviser and attorney who led the interview process, said she was pleased with the nomination, citing Welch's stellar reputation, integrity and concern for people as among the qualities that set him apart.

"…Chairman George McHale, who heads both the control board and the Maine Harness Racing Commission, said Welch's experience and background combined with the fact that he's from Bangor 'is a plus upon a plus.'

"…The board is expected to formally appoint Welch on Nov. 29, pending a background investigation by the state police. His annual pay was set at $60,652.80, plus the usual benefits offered to state employees…"

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