TAT DALE-XIINE 131 C. 135. 1'3 1-1 RN (3 3 TAT if. IXATIO Paul R. LePa-ge July 23, 2013 The Honourabie Premier Dexter 1700 Grandviile Street Halifax NS B3J2T3 Canada Subject: Vermouth Ferry Service Dear Premier Dexter: I would like to commend you and your government for the recognizing the immense value of reestablishing the Ya rmouth ferry service. Since 2009, Nova Scotia and Maine have missed a critical link between our citizens and economies. Speaking on behalf of the people of Maine, we would welcome restoration of this vital service and economic driver. I have been briefed on the proposal from STM Quest, a joint venture between ST Marine of Singapore and Quest Navigation of Maine. I understand that there are many factors that your team will need to consider in selecting the proponent that best meets the needs ofthe service. However, I wouid like to take this opportunity to formally declare my support for this proposal and to confirm that the State of Maine will offer the following assistance to Quest: 0 We will work with the Quest Navigation marketing team and we will allocate a portion of our marketing to promote the ferry service. I We will also assist Quest Navigation in securing an operating line of credit for the amount of $5 million. 0 We will assist including Quest Navigation?s capital needs into Portland waterfront planning to ensure consistency with the freight and business focus of the International Marine Terminal plans. I am personally excited about the prospect of seeing the ferry service return, and lam pleased to offer the support of the State of Maine. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss this matter further. Sincerely, Paul R. Governor, State of Maine ties lf?wli (TIN PA i-?Eili 'l?t??iONE: 28-13531 {yam} 7.1.: FAX: 2.8131034 ?1 .