As members of the Baby Boom generation continue to age, a relatively new organization is dedicated to helping seniors maintain their independence and remain in their own homes.
The ‘Age Friendly’ program is an initiative launched by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and offers program services in several states across the country.
In Maine, cities and towns from Berwick to Fort Kent have been designated as Age Friendly communities and offer local chapters that provide services for aging residents.
Becky Hadiaris was recently named as executive director of the Age Friendly Saco program. (Seaver photo)
According to the AARP, the population of the United States is “rapidly aging.” By 2030, one out of five people in the U.S. will be 65 or older; and by 2034, the number of adults over the age of 65 will be greater than the number of children under 18.
On a local level, both Biddeford and Saco have an Age Friendly program in place.
Becky Hadiaris was recently hired as the executive director of Age Friendly Saco; and across the river, Betsy Martin is leading a small group of volunteers and trying to keep up with an increasing demand for services offered by Age Friendly Biddeford.
Both Hadiaris and Martin say more volunteers are needed; and they are both working to increase public awareness about the services provided by the Age Friendly program.
“Our program started in 2016, but we got disbanded by Covid in 2020,” Martin said. “We’re stretched thin, but we are trying to rebuild because there is a growing need in our community.”
The Age Friendly Saco program is standing on more solid ground and has 104 volunteers.
Martin said the two groups work closely, and she credits her Saco colleagues for their help in keeping the Age Friendly Biddeford program moving forward.
The Biggest Need
Hadiaris and Martin both say transportation for seniors is a dominant issue in Biddeford and Saco.
Mona Grandbois and Betsy Martin say the Age Friendly Biddeford program has a big need for volunteer drivers (Seaver photo)
Although both communities are served by a public transit system, many seniors still face challenges in getting to medical appointments.
“If you’re 80 years old, using a walker, you probably can’t get to the bus stop,” said Mona Grandbois, transportation director for Age Friendly Biddeford. “It’s just not practical.”
So far this year, Age Friendly Biddeford has provided 829 rides, and Martin says the need is only growing. “We need volunteers who are able to give just a few hours each week to help fill in the gaps. You can make your own schedule. It’s very flexible.”
In Saco, Hadiaris describes her group’s transportation program a shuttle akin to a free Uber ride for seniors.
“But there is only so much we can do,” she said. “We really need more volunteers.”
Beyond transportation services, both organizations offer other programs all designed to help seniors age in their own homes.
For example, Biddeford residents over the age of 55 can have a bucket of sand delivered to their homes for free.
In both cities, seniors are eligible to receive free handyman services, ranging from smoke detector installation to weather-proofing windows and doorways to increase heating efficiency.
Age Friendly Saco also offers free technical/IT services and guidance as well as opportunities for social interaction and activities.
“It’s all about helping people stay in their homes,” Martin said. “We’re moving forward, and that feels good, but we could sure use some more volunteers.”
Hadiaris agreed, pointing out that both programs are continually looking for ways to collaborate. “We’re not looking to reinvent the wheel,” she said. “And we’re always looking for ways to serve our older neighbors.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Students from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Sigma Sigma Phi (SSP) KAPPA Chapter continued a longstanding holiday tradition on Friday, Dec. 12, hosting their annual Holiday Giving Tree toy drive on UNE’s Biddeford Campus to support local families through the Biddeford Primary School.
Now in its seventh year, the drive has been held annually since 2019 and is coordinated in partnership with Biddeford school administrators and staff to ensure gifts reach families facing hardship during the holiday season.
This year’s effort resulted in the collection of more than 300 toys — twice the group’s target 150 — all donated by UNE students, faculty and staff and wrapped by student volunteers.
“The Christmas season is my favorite time of the year, and it was such a blessing to be a part of the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Sigma Sigma Phi KAPPA Chapter Holiday Giving Tree,” said event co-organizer Miranda Pomphrett (D.O., ’28). “I was touched by the generosity of the students and faculty as we came together to collect around 300 gifts during finals season, doubling our goal to support local families.”
Biddeford educators emphasized the importance of the partnership and its continuity.
“We are incredibly grateful to the University of New England students for coordinating this annual Toy Drive with our Resiliency Coordinator,” said Meghan Schrader, principal of Biddeford Primary School. “This partnership has allowed some of our families facing hardship to choose meaningful gifts for their children during the holiday season.
“The need in our community continues to grow, and we are so thankful for UNE’s commitment and for the many community members who step up year after year to make sure every child feels the joy of the season,” Schrader added.
Kin Ly, Pharm.D., Ed.D., advisor of UNE’s Sigma Sigma Phi chapter, said the toy drive reflects UNE’s broader commitment to service, care, and community well-being within its home communities, both during the holiday season and throughout the year.
“We are incredibly grateful to the University of New England students for coordinating this annual Toy Drive.”
– Megan Schrader, principal BPS
That relationship remains strong, she said, even as Maine’s only medical school has transitioned its primary location from UNE’s Biddeford Campus to a new home on the University’s Portland Campus for the Health Sciences — maintaining and strengthening its deep ties to the city and its residents.
“Our UNE COM students’ commitment to bridging the gap between our campus and the local community is truly inspiring,” remarked Ly, who is an associate clinical professor in the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Department of Biomedical Sciences. “By organizing this toy drive, they aren’t just distributing gifts — they are ensuring that every child in need at our partner Biddeford Primary School feels the warmth and joy of the season.”
That service ethos is echoed across the University, including within another annual holiday tradition in which UNE undergraduate students partner with Heart of Biddeford, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering an inclusive and sustainable downtown for the thriving former mill city, to decorate downtown with festive lights, helping bring warmth and cheer to Main Street during the winter months.
Throughout the semester, UNE’s medical students have also led additional service initiatives benefiting communities across southern Maine.
These include a ReSpectacle eyeglasses collection to support underserved individuals worldwide; a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater hosted by the American Geriatrics Society and Gerontological Society of America student chapter to raise funds for Southern Maine Hospice Center; and ongoing meal preparation by the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians student group for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Portland.
“(Our students’) commitment to serving others is commendable and reflects their strong sense of responsibility and empathy — great characteristics for our future osteopathic physicians,” Ly said.
The Heart of Biddeford will once again host the city’s Merry & Bright Night on Friday, December 5th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Adams Street in downtown Biddeford.
The annual event offers families and friends to gather downtown and enjoy an evening filled with holiday performances, joyful activities, festive lights and delicious treats that will warm even the coldest winter night.
Last year’s celebration drew a big crowd to the downtown area (Seaver photo)
This year’s celebration includes an exciting new highlight: the Merry Makerfair, running from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., inside the previous York County Courthouse.
Featuring more than 50 local vendors, the Merry Makerfair offers gifts for the whole family and adds a vibrant marketplace to the evening’s festivities.
Organizers say that the evening’s entertainment lineup offers something for everyone.
Performances will include the Academy of Dance, spreading holiday cheer through dance, and the Salvation Army Brass Band, bringing classic holiday tunes to Main Street.
The evening’s centerpiece—the downtown tree lighting—will take place at 6 p.m., when Santa will officially light the city’s holiday tree.
2025 Merry & Bright Poster – FINAL
Santa Claus will be available for picture taking in the Merry Makerfair from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Merry & Bright Night is packed with activities for younger attendees and the young at heart.
Kids can enjoy cookie decorating with materials donated by Reilly’s Bakery, hands-on art projects aboard the Common Roots Studio Art Bus, festive games, trolley rides, and visits with real reindeer.
The evening will also feature mascots mingling throughout the event, bringing extra fun and photo opportunities for families. Biddeford Recreation Department will offer popcorn and s’mores, and hot cocoa will be available for the community to enjoy.
Heart of Biddeford’s Merry & Bright Night is the perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones and celebrate the season in our beautiful downtown. With lights, laughter, music, and a strong sense of community, this event brings holiday joy to everyone.
Municipalities all across Maine are attempting to respond to the challenge of climate change, but in contrast to the “Maine Won’t Wait” dictum in the state’s plan, local advocates and government are finding it slow going.
That’s partly due to the nature of government, with its myriads of committees and boards and councils, and partly because adjusting to new realities has so many different aspects.
“Getting things from the proposal stage to legislation is a grind,” said one panelist at the Nov. 12 Climate Action Workshop held by the Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission (SMPDC) and the University of New England.
Every picture tells a story. Coastal property owners in Biddeford prepare for the next big storm
As we have all experienced, with rapidly changing weather patterns anything is possible and anything can happen at any time. Biddeford had one “wakeup call” set of storms in January of 2024, but no one knows when the next such event will arrive. But clearly, it will, in its own good time.
A small but dedicated group of citizens have been working on ways to address climate change in Biddeford, both to reduce the city’s carbon footprint and how to mitigate the worst effects of extreme weather. With a mandate from the city council, the Biddeford Climate Change Task Force has so far focused on three areas where rules or ordinances could be amended:
Solar, with an eye to making it easier to develop solar arrays that are large enough to actually cut local government energy costs or reduce electric bills for residents;
Electric Vehicle charging stations, with potential mandates or incentives to developers to provide more changing stations or at least make sure the infrastructure is in place for future installations;
Land use: finding the right balance between use of undeveloped land in Biddeford recognizing that the city’s abundance of forested land should not be developed and that large solar arrays are not appropriate for every site.
All of these areas have the potential to bump up against property rights and to impede desired development. (And some issues — the example used at the SMPDC Workshop was about attempts to ban pesticide use — are simply too difficult for many local governments to handle.)
Will Kochtitzky, a professor at UNE who was speaking as the chair of Biddeford’s Sustainability Commission, noted that some of the commission’s work does not involve legislation. He later expanded on his comments in a Nov. 18 report to the Biddeford City Council.
The Sustainability Commission is charged with working with city departments where appropriate and advising the city council about implementing the Biddeford Climate Action Plan.
The Commission has applied for several grants, inventoried bike racks, is working to improve bike riding as an alternative to automobiles in Biddeford and assisted the city in reclassifying coastal areas as limited growth zones in its comprehensive plan.
The commission also conducted a second inventory of emissions from the city last summer.
“I am not pleased to report that we are going in the wrong direction,” Kochtitzky said.
While energy use in both residential and commercial buildings went down, automobile traffic in Biddeford was substantially up. Biddeford has committed itself to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 and must make more progress to meet this goal.
The new inventory from 2023 included more vehicles from other locations that came to Biddeford than the 2019 inventory — tourism is a “major industry” for Biddeford.
The commission has proposed legislation to increase electric vehicle charging stations in the city, and also a landscaping ordinance for new developments—both municipal and private.
The experience in other Maine cities was reviewed and integrated in the new draft ordinances. New legislation proposed affects property development and has been slow going. As local governments make sure that they do not drive away needed development, both of the proposed new laws are currently in committees to refine the wording and not discourage new projects.
“I am not pleased to report that we are going in the wrong direction.”
— Will Kochtitzky, UNE professor
Councilor Marc Lessard may have spoken for other council members at the Nov. 18 meeting when he stressed to Kochtitzky that he is mainly interested in things that either break even or lower city costs. He hoped these new proposals would include city costs to help the council make decisions, such as the municipal building energy audit.
Kochtitzky replied that the commission’s strategy, working with city staff, is to look for grants to facilitate this work. Unfortunately, federal grants are currently very limited and cannot be counted on for local projects.
Also, in Biddeford’s case, one of the most pressing issues is sea level rise with storm surge, that causes flooding and beach/dune erosion that affects beach front properties.
The Sustainability Commission is collaborating with SMPDC to get a grant to engineer a detailed beach management plan for southern Maine’s beaches that would make Biddeford’s beaches FEMA disaster assistance eligible.
While new construction — and some repair projects from the January 2024 storms — have opted to build or rebuild houses on stilts, most of the properties on or near Biddeford’s beaches are affected by Biddeford’s zoning ordinances and Maine’s beach and dune management ordinances (many through the Dept of Environmental Protection).
The city did obtain federal funding to rebuild roads that were washed out by those storms, and also to rebuild the granite boulder sea walls at Fortunes Rocks beach and Ocean Avenue in Biddeford Pool.
But some issues remain unresolved and apparently undiscussed.
Biddeford is one of the few municipalities in York County that has so far declined to sign on to a compact to use the dredge that York County purchased with federal funds.
According to a county report, the dredge is scheduled to remediate dunes and beaches in other coastal areas starting this month, beginning in Wells and moving on to the eroding beach at Camp Ellis, directly across Saco Bay from Biddeford Pool.
Municipal collaboration among the Saco Bay communities may be important in the next 10 years.
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Tom McPheeters is a life-long lover of Maine and a year-round resident of nearly three years. After a journalism career or 25 years at three newspapers in Ohio and New York State, Tom spent the last 30 years as a community organizer and advocate in Albany, NY. He lives in Biddeford Pool.
The Biddeford Gazette welcomes commentary and feedback from our readers. To learn more, please CONTACT US
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Although it may be hard to believe, we are now pushing up against the edge of the 2025 holiday season. Wow! Where did this year go?
Over the next 30 days, people in our community will celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice and Christmas.
For many people, this can be a stressful and lonely time of the year. So please try to be extra kind during these shortest days of the year.
The world could always use a bit more kindness.
Winter will soon knock upon our door
On the local news front, I am pleased to announce that the Biddeford Gazette will actually take a four-day break between today and Sunday.
We have been moving at a break-neck speed for a while now, so it will likely feel good to walk away from the keyboard for just a few days.
When I think about all the many ways I am blessed, I also think about all those who have helped the Biddeford Gazette get its sea-legs over the past year.
I am grateful for the hundreds of subscribers who want the latest updates and news (You can subscribe here)
But I also thankful for all the people who stop me at the grocery store, downtown or in one of my favorite haunts just to simply express appreciation for what we are doing. It means a lot to me and keeps me motivated.
A look back
My friend Craig Pendleton and I decided to attend a campaign rally for U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner at the Biddeford Middle School. I decided to go as an observer, not a reporter. I did not bring a notebook or pen.
Five minutes into the event and I was scribbling notes with a borrowed pencil and scraps of paper. It was a big crowd of more than 1,000 people. The energy in the room was unmistakable.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner brough his campaign to Biddeford last week (Seaver photo)
We also learned that Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, submitted his notice of resignation. Phinney served as acting city manager for several months after the city council opted to give Jim Bennett the boot in February.
We wrapped up the week with a story about the St. Joseph’s Convent on Pool Road and the plan to transform it into housing for University of New England students.
If you think the seats in the Biddeford City Council chamber are uncomfortable, try sitting three hours on a metal, folding chair under the glare of fluorescent lights.
We are also planning to publish an in-depth story about the Age-Friendly programs in Biddeford and Saco.
The Age Friendly program is a national initiative focused on helping seniors live independently in their own homes.
And, one week from tonight (Dec. 2), the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor.
On Tuesday, December2, the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor
On a final note, in terms of gratitude. Words cannot express my gratitude for all the people helping the Gazette from behind the scenes.
Gail Toussaint of Biddeford serves as a copy-editor on many (not all) of our stories. She always responds within an hour. News does not happen on a 9-5 schedule, and Gail is always ready to help.
She takes the time to meticulously scan each story, sending her edits back within minutes. She does this – always on call – because she “loves the Gazette and what we’re doing.” She does not get paid.
On a similar note, Contributing Writer Jim Krause is always ready to help cover a story or an event. He is a gifted writer and a news junkie. Again, all of his work is done without pay.
And let’s not forget the nine members of our advisory board who stand ready with input, ideas, suggestions and constructive feedback. They are a power-house team (Check their profiles here)
And we simply cannot overlook or take for granted our publisher, Laura Seaver. Laura is our biggest champion and staunchest defender. We literally could not exist without her support and guidance.
My apologies for being long-winded. Enjoy the holiday and the comfort of family or friends. Drive carefully and be nice to one another.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) voted 9-2 Monday to approve a plan that will allow the University of New England to transform a former convent on the Saco River into a student dormitory.
The Biddeford convent was built in 1986 and features a 57-bed nursing home on a 21.4-acre parcel along the banks of the Saco River.
According to a university representative, only upper-class students will be housed at that site, which is roughly 1-1/2 miles northwest from UNE’s Biddeford campus. Their plan is to provide housing for 126 students.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning addresses members of the Saco River Corridor Commission on Monday (Seaver photo)
According to the SRCC, the Pool Road facility is located within a Limited Residential District.
At least one property abutter has raised concerns about the plan, noting a likely increase in noise and traffic that would fundamentally alter the character of the area.
“The resulting noise, traffic and parking pressures would meaningfully alter the character of this quiet, residential and rural stretch of the corridor,” wrote Carla Ouellette in her objection to the plan.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning, told commissioners Monday that the school will plant several trees along the river frontage to augment the vegetative buffer that is now somewhat sparse.
A prior review of the project last month resulted in commissioners voting to table the plan, asking university officials to provide more detailed information about the capacity of the existing septic system and a current lack of vegetation.
Commissioner Amy Safford raised concerns about erosion and noted that location includes swift river currents. “I see this as over-crowding and altering the character of the neighborhood. Putting that many people so close to the river is not a good idea. I am not convinced.”
Other commissioners asked questions about parking at the facility. The facility currently has 55 parking spaces, and Philippe said there is no plan to increase the parking footprint.
The St. Joseph’s nursing facility in Biddeford could soon become student housing for UNE students near the banks of the Saco River (Seaver photo)
Philippe said the school will provide a “shuttle” service between the complex and the university’s Biddeford campus in order to reduce traffic and the need for more parking.
Philippe told commissioners that on-campus housing is at capacity. He said the university was approached by the convent roughly two years ago.
Their operation, he said, was struggling to remain financially feasible.
In a prior interview with the Gazette, newly appointed Biddeford Commissioner Jim LaBelle described the project as a win-win scenario.
“We’re basically switching one housing facility to another housing facility,” LaBelle said.
LaBelle voted with the majority to approve the plan. Donald Furman, Biddeford’s other representative, was absent.
Saco representative Amy Safford was one of only two commissioners who voted against the proposal. Don Pilon, Saco’s other SRCC commissioner, was also absent.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The former St. Joseph’s Covent in Biddeford could soon become a new dormitory complex for students from the University of New England (UNE).
UNE purchased the property earlier this year. They are scheduled to present their plan before the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) on Monday.
The St. Joseph’s convent in Biddeford could soon become a college dormitory. (Seaver photo)
The former convent is nestled less than 200-feet from a cove of the Saco River and is not visible from the road at 409 Pool Street.
The access road for the convent is located roughly 1-1/2 miles northwest of the university’s Biddeford campus.
UNE’s application has already drawn concerns from property abutters.
Carla Ouellette lives near the Pool Street property. She expressed concerns about the potential for a dramatic increase of noise and traffic if the property becomes housing for college students.
In her letter to the SRCC, Ouellette states that she has no animosity toward the university.
The view of the Saco River from the parking area of St. Joseph’s convent
“I am concerned that this project would have a significant negative impact on traffic safety, neighborhood quality of life, and the broader pattern of development within the Saco River Corridor,” Ouellette wrote.
“The Pool Street area already experiences heavy traffic, especially during commuting hours and when the university is in session.
“The use change and increased density at 409 Pool Street would likely increase vehicle congestion, create safety risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and school buses, and further strain a roadway system not designed to accommodate higher volumes.
“The resulting noise, traffic, and parking pressures would meaningfully alter the character of this quiet, residential and rural stretch of the corridor.”
In related news, Jim LaBelle has been appointed as a Biddeford member to the SRCC. LaBelle, the former executive director of the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce, recently lost his bid to become a city councilor representing Biddeford’s coastal neighborhoods.
LaBelle did not return our call as of press time.
Note:This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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There are many resources available for those struggling with food insecurity
By STATE SEN. HENRY INGWERSENSpecial to the Gazette
This week, I hope that the residents of Senate District 32 — whether in Dayton, Biddeford or Arundel, Hollis and Lyman, — can celebrate the holiday with their families, friends and neighbors. This time of year, our community always seems to pull closer together, and the past month has been no exception.
As we experienced the uncertainty of funding for SNAP (food stamps) for the nearly 1,500 families in our area that depend on it, businesses, groups, individuals and organizations rose to the occasion. Some of you donated items, money or time. Some of you shared flyers and posts on social media. Some of you checked in on a friend or a neighbor and found help for them. I am grateful for all of you and your efforts.
(Photo Courtesy Youth Full Maine)
Although folks ultimately received their full SNAP benefits, hunger remains present in our community. Among the many food assistance resources available, I want to spread the word about the new Maine Food Access Map from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
The Ending Hunger Corps collaborated with food security organizations throughout the state to collect and compile data on a wide range of resources, which you can view online here. Because the map is new, I still encourage folks to contact the organization to confirm details such as hours of operation and services. I hope you explore the map, whether you are looking for help or you are looking to help.
In addition to the Maine Food Access Map, Youth Full Maine has put together a more local list of food resources for residents of Biddeford, Saco and Dayton. You can view the chart online here. I would like to highlight that, thanks to Youth Full Maine and our School Departments, every school in the district has an emergency food pantry. They offer take-home ingredients and meals, which may be helpful over the holiday break.
Looking a little beyond Thanksgiving, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, Youth Full Maine will host a free food distribution in the parking lot of Biddeford Ice Arena (14 Pomerleau St.). It will be a drive-thru event with dry goods and fresh produce, featuring Santa. Mark your calendars and share the event.
As a reminder, for the entire month of November, the Maine Federation of Farmers Markets continues to provide Maine Harvest Bucks to SNAP participants at farmers’ markets. When you show your EBT card at a participating farmers’ market, including the nearby Kennebunk Farmers Market, you will receive $15 in Maine Harvest Bucks to spend on fresh produce. You can do this every time you visit the market in November. (Please be sure to check the hours ahead of time.)
Even before the SNAP crisis, I was proud to work on a bill that allocates ongoing funding to the Maine Harvest Bucks program. Although the full amount did not make it into the state’s budget, my proposal has been carried over to the next legislative session. That means I can try again.
Last month, I also successfully made the case for why the Legislature should, next session, consider a new bill to ensure we can continue to fund this critical program from private or state sources – even if federal match dollars disappear or dry up. After the Legislature resumes its work in January, I will be sure to share more information on this bill, including how and when to testify on it.
Being a grandfather, I am looking forward to time with my family this week. I hope you will, too. If the resources in this column do not provide the help you or someone you know is looking for, you can always call 211 or contact me at Henry.Ingwersen@legislature.maine.gov. You can also call the Senate Majority Office at (207) 287-1515.
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Henry Ingwersen is serving his second term as the state senator representing District 32, which includes Biddeford, Arundel, Dayton, Hollis and Lyman.
Biddeford Adult Education’s First Teachers Family Literacy Program has been selected as one of only three programs in the entire nation to receive a $10,000 grant through the newly launched Barbara Bush Fund for Family Literacy, an initiative of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation aimed at addressing America’s growing literacy crisis.
Biddeford Adult Education’s Family Literacy Coordinator Julie Berube promoting Family Literacy Month.
The fund’s launch was formally announced on November 5, 2025, during a reception at Texas A&M University’s Bush School for Government & Public Service in Washington, D.C. At the event, George & Barbara Bush Foundation CEO Alice Gonzalez Yates highlighted the urgent literacy challenges facing U.S. families—and the critical national role of family literacy programs like Biddeford’s.
Biddeford Adult Education’s First Teachers Family Literacy Program rose to national attention following an in-depth review by Pamela Cote, Senior Director of Literacy Programs and Partnerships for the George & Barbara Bush Foundation. Over the past year, Cote examined the program’s family learning events, parent–child literacy activities, and photos illustrating the authentic ways Biddeford families learn together.
“This recognition means so much because it affirms the heart of our work,” said David Durkee, Adult Education Director. “Julie Berube, our Family Literacy Coordinator, pours so much into creating supportive, joyful learning experiences for families. To be identified as one of the most impactful programs in the country is incredibly uplifting and motivates us to expand this work even further.”
When we invest in family literacy, we strengthen our students’ foundation for lifelong learning.
–Supt. Jeremy Ray
National data underscores the need: more than half of U.S. adults read at or below a sixth-grade level, and 69% of fourth graders lack proficiency in literacy—challenges linked to multigenerational poverty, academic struggles, and workforce-readiness barriers.
The $10,000 grant will enable Biddeford Adult Education to expand parent–child literacy events, increase early childhood reading activities, offer more parent education workshops, and strengthen partnerships that promote literacy from early childhood onward. These funds will broaden both the reach and depth of programming, ensuring more Biddeford families have access to tools, resources, and support that help build strong literacy foundations.
Superintendent of Schools Jeremy Ray praised the program’s national recognition, noting its direct impact on students and families: “This award shines a light on the powerful work happening right here in Biddeford. When we invest in family literacy, we strengthen our students’ foundation for lifelong learning. I’m incredibly proud of our Adult Education team for creating spaces where parents and children learn, grow, and succeed together.”
The new Fund represents the next chapter in a decades-long national commitment to literacy. Since 1989, the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy has invested more than $130 million in literacy programming across all 50 states. The establishment of the Barbara Bush Fund for Family Literacy transitions the Foundation’s historic program operations into a national grantmaking model designed to amplify high-impact local programs.
In announcing the first three recipients, the Foundation recognized Biddeford alongside Briya Public Charter School in Washington, D.C. and Achieve Plant City in Florida—placing Biddeford Adult Education in extraordinary company as part of the inaugural national cohort. As the Fund moves forward, the George & Barbara Bush Foundation will work closely with national literacy experts to shape the full grantmaking process, with the next round of grants expected in 2026.
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Karen Garnett is the communications director for the Biddeford School System. She can be contacted at kgarnett@biddefordschools.meN
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If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whatever happened to the former Smitty’s Cinema in Biddeford’s Five Points shopping center, wonder no more.
The 140,000-square-foot space is now home to Bounce Pickle and Play – where Country Club meets Sports Bar — or so says their marketing slogan.
On Thursday, the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting event to officially welcome the new business.
Bounce Pickle and Play, Maine’s newest indoor recreation facility, is now open in Biddeford (Courtesy photo)
Beyond three golf simulator lounges and six pickle ball courts, the business is also home to Match Point Kitchen, a full-service sports bar and restaurant.
According to Richard Evans, managing partner of Quest Fitness, Bounce Pickle and Play first opened near the end of June. Prior to becoming an indoor sports complex, the space sat vacant for more than five years since Smitty’s closed during the height of the Covid pandemic.
The sports bar has a somewhat upscale, but relaxed feel, offering 30 TVs and a menu “full of flavor-packed crowd-pleaser” entrees, appetizers; and “zero “judgment if you stop by just for the fries.”
Unlike other golf simulator facilities, Bounce Pickle and Play offers private rooms with seating for guests and high-top tables where players can lounge with full service from both the bar and kitchen.
Match Point Kitchen offers full bar service, kitchen and 30 TVs to watch your favorite games. (Courtesy photo)
During our tour of the facility, Adam Labrie of Arundel stopped by with a friend and his golf clubs.
“I’ve been to other places, but none of them offer the privacy like this place,” he said.
Evans points out that each of the golf simulators can offer a wide range of well-known golf courses from around the country. Players cannot only choose to play 18 holes at Pebble Beach; they can also adjust the weather and time of day.
Looking to step up your game? Bounce Pickle and Play also offers pickleball and golf lessons and private event opportunities.
The facility also offers a “multi-ball game-room” for kids that integrates physical activity with “full wall computer games.”
Bounce Pickle and Play is open seven days a week and does accept reservations for court times. The facility is open Monday through Thursday, from 4 to 9 p.m. and Fridays, from 3 to 9.p.m.; and noon to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
More than 1,000 people gathered Wednesday at Biddeford Middle School to see and hear U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, and to learn more about his campaign to replace incumbent Republican Susan Collins.
Platner, 40, took the stage wearing blue jeans and a flannel shirt, He was warmly received by a diverse crowd of supporters and onlookers.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner was warmly received during a town hall campaign stop in Biddeford. (Seaver photo)
His message relied on current populist ideas from the left flank of the Democratic Party.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills is also seeking her party’s nomination to replace Collins, and she is widely viewed as a more moderate member of the party. Platner has been endorsed by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who has long embraced being described as “a socialist.”
Although Platner has found himself at the center of controversy about his past statements on social media, none of those issues were raised Wednesday.
Instead, the former combat marine and current oyster farmer stuck to a message about empowering people who have “no voice” within the hallways of Washington D.C.
“The system isn’t broken,” Platner told the crowd. “It’s working exactly how it was designed; to keep the power reserved for the few.”
A diverse crowd of roughly 1,000 people attended Graham Platner’s campaign stop in Biddeford
Before taking questions from the audience, Platner spent nearly 30 minutes introducing himself and outlining the core messages of his campaign.
His speech centered mostly upon a core principle of his campaign: to make life better for Maine’s working-class citizens.
Platner drew rousing applause when he talked about making wealthy Americans “pay their fair share.”
“Every single person in this state knows in their bones that they are getting screwed,” Platner said. “Things will not change until the Democratic Party stops serving the very same interests served by the Republicans.
“The only way we will see change is from the ground up. No one is coming to save us. We need an organized working class.”
Platner said he is planning several more town hall meetings across the state. He also pledged that, if elected, he will continue holding town hall meetings in order to increase “public access” for the working class, jabbing at Collins for her poor performance in meeting with “everyday Mainers’
“Every single person in this state knows in their bones that they are getting screwed,”
— Graham Platner, U.S. Senate candidate
He described himself as a “New Deal” Democrat and invoked the legacy of Frances Perkins, a Maine native who became the first female cabinet member.
Perkins served as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She is credited for drafting the creation of Social Security among many other programs aimed at improving the lives of working Americans.
“I’m not just asking for your vote,” Platner told the audience. “I’m asking for your time, your energy and even your discomfort as you share our message with your friends and neighbors.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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On Tuesday, I sat in my usual seat in the Biddeford City Council Chamber — back row and closest to the door.
With my back against the wall, I can see and monitor almost everything happening in the room.
That perch also provides a quick exit in the event that the shit hits the fan.
I almost didn’t go to the meeting. I had a pretty bad headache, and Laura suggested that I could just stay home and watch the meeting online.
Nope, I said, reaching for my jacket. This would be the last meeting for this current group of city councilors.
It would also be the last council meeting for Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman.
The last regular meeting of the 2023-2025 Biddeford City Council (Seaver photo)
Tuesday’s council meeting was yet another significant moment in our city’s history. The transition process has begun. A new administration will take over the reins in less than two weeks, during the Dec. 2 inauguration ceremony at City Theater.
I am excited about the change, but I am also feeling some trepidation and even some sadness.
Over the last two years, this current council has become akin to a favorite chair that is a tad worn, a bit stained — but always a good fit and comfortably familiar.
Yes, it’s time for a new chair. But I am going to miss this one.
Waiting for the meeting to start, I began pondering all the ups and downs that this council and mayor have faced over the last two years.
There were some high points and some low points. There was anger and there was laughter. I suppose the same could be said for any governing body, but you simply cannot deny that this council was battle-tested during the last two years.
You simply cannot deny that this council was battle-tested during the last two years.
Change is an unavoidable part of life. We have to let go of the familiar in order to discover new opportunities. That is often easier said than done.
You say hello, and I say goodbye
The mayor seemed somewhat somber during Tuesday’s council meeting. He smiled and laughed during some of the meeting’s light-hearted moments, but you could almost feel his sadness.
And who could blame him? Marty put his heart and soul into the job. When he took over the reins two years ago, he was brimming with ideas and energy.
He was a fresh voice following a 12-year run by his predecessor and mentor, Alan Casavant.
Mayor Marty Grohman (right) chairs the final city council meeting of his term while mayor-elect Liam LaFountain (left) reviews an agenda item during Tuesday’s meeting
Marty pledged to hit the ground running. And he made good on that promise. So, naturally, it’s easy to understand why his loss for a second term stings – and will probably sting for a long time to come.
When Marty took over, he inherited some challenges that were not his fault. Former city manager James Bennett was acting like a petulant overlord at City Hall, and he would treat city councilors like a group of adolescents learning how to French kiss.
There were other challenges: a skyrocketing unhoused population, a finance department in chaos and the hemorrhaging of city staff.
Marty rolled up his sleeves and jumped immediately into the deep end of the pool. He never checked the water temperature or whether there were other swimmers in his path.
You have to go back more than 30 years to find another mayor who only served one term in office. Talk about a lonely-hearts club.
During a break of Tuesday’s council meeting, Mayor Marty Grohman invited the public and city councilors to join him for a ceremonial piece of cake to mark the last meeting of the 2023-2025 Biddeford City Council (Seaver photo)
The perfect storm
Two years ago, the city’s elections could easily be described as a “sleeper” affair. Only two city council seats were being contested. Every sitting councilor sought another term.
By contrast, this year’s elections saw contests in five of the seven ward council seats and a three-way contest for the two at-large council seats.
Moreover, Councilors William Emhiser, Scott Whiting and Neva Gross decided to step down this year. Councilors Norman Belanger and Liam LaFountain gave up their seats to run for the mayor’s chair.
There was some excitement in the air this year. Six political newcomers decided to run for council and three of them won their respective campaigns (Abigail Woods, David Kurtz and Jake Pierson).
This last election also broke records in voter turnout for off-year, municipal elections.
What was behind that groundswell of interest in Biddeford’s municipal affairs?
The short answer is: a lot.
But I think the real reason is a bit nuanced and somewhat complex. There is no denying that there has been a cloud of discontent hanging over Biddeford for almost two years.
There was some excitement in the air this year.
What’s the frequency, Kenneth?
Almost out of the gate, Marty and the current council were knocked on their heels by back-to-back resignations. Both former Ward Four Councilor Bobby Mills and then — two weeks later – former Ward Five Councilor Julian Schlaver resigned, both citing “personal reasons.”
Dyland Doughty won a special election to take over Mills’ vacated seat; and Neva Gross was appointed to serve the remainder of Schlaver’s term.
Only a few weeks ago, former at-large councilor Doris Ortiz announced her resignation because she was moving to a new home outside of the city.
Three resignations in one term? That seems like a record to me.
Two years ago, Councilor Liam LaFountain jockeyed to become council president, ousting Councilor Norm Belanger from that role in a 6-3 vote.
Affordable housing became the focus of the new administration.
Earlier this year, the council received a blistering report about its delayed financial audits from an outside accounting firm.
Wade Goldthwait addresses the city council during a citizens grievance meeting about the University of New England’s planned research pier
Former city manager James Bennett was finally ousted from his office and then filed a lawsuit against the city.
The city hired Truc Dever to become the new city manager.
A major sewer upgrade project along Elm Street drew the ire of residents and downtown business owners who were impacted by the seven-month construction project.
In the background – beyond the council’s purview – there was increasing tension and controversy brewing about a proposed pier that the University of New England hopes to build on the Saco River.
The city ramped up efforts to address the issues of homelessness, clearing out a large encampment near Mechanics Park.
Planning Board Member Roch Angers spoke at a city council meeting regarding his concerns about the UNE pier. The mayor then tried to have Angers removed from his position on the planning board.
Citizens circulated petitions and collected enough signatures to trigger a “citizens grievance” meeting about the UNE pier.
In July, residents saw one of the most heated and tense council meetings in recent memory, calling into question two major development projects on Pearl Street.
Of course, there were many other things that shaped this current council and Marty’s term as mayor but now it is time for us to turn and face the winds of change.
It’s time to recycle that old, comfortable recliner. Let’s see what the future brings.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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A little more than two weeks ago, Biddeford voters sent a clear message that they wanted change and more accountability from City Hall.
In fact, nearly two thirds of the people who cast ballots in the Nov. 4 municipal election chose candidates other than incumbent Mayor Marty Grohman for the city’s top job.
Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain was able to tap into that voter discontent, but he was also a late entrant — and a somewhat unlikely candidate — in the three-way mayoral race.
Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain
Skeptics said LaFountain, 28, was “too young” for the job. Others questioned his experience and his ability to effectively lead the city because he has a full-time job.
But many other voters saw LaFountain’s candidacy as a breath of fresh air, and his youthful energy appealed to younger voters in a city that has become Maine’s youngest municipality.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median age of all Biddeford residents is 35, and it’s even younger — just 29 — in the city’s downtown area.
Typically, only 30 percent of registered voters participate in Biddeford’s off-year municipal elections. And those consistent voters are typically over the age of 50.
But this year saw a marked change and an elevated level of interest in local elections, especially among younger voters. In fact, turnout exceeded 43 percent for the first time in the last 30 years.
Many younger voters said they came to vote because of their concerns about a statewide referendum regarding voter identification and absentee voting. One woman waiting in line said, “We can’t let [President] Trump and his supporters eat away at our democracy. I felt it was important to take a stand.”
LaFountain says he is honored and humbled by the support he received, but he is quick to point out that 57 percent of voters did not choose him to be the next mayor.
“I am honored by the support I received but my job now is to lead the entire city, and that includes everyone, not just those who voted for me,” LaFountain said. “It was not a landslide. I won the race by only 210 votes.”
As is usually the case, LaFountain was eager to share his thoughts and opinions with us. During our interview, he was simultaneously self-deprecating and equally passionate about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Biddeford.
Has the reality of being Biddeford’s next mayor set in yet?
“Oh yeah. I quickly went from being excited about the results and then had a sense of dread wash over me. You spend so much time on the campaign trail that you don’t give a lot of thought to what will happen if you win. (Laughs)
“That night – while we were celebrating at Pizza By Alex – the reality set in pretty quickly.”
You are not only going to be the city’s youngest mayor in recent memory but also the first mayor who will simultaneously hold a full-time job. Is your employment going to impact your leadership of the city?
“I don’t think it’s going to be much different than how I handled serving as council president and a city councilor.
“Most people in Biddeford have full-time jobs, and I think it helps my perspective about many issues through the lens of someone who is still working and facing many of the same challenges.
“As mayor, my top priority is to the people of Biddeford. I want to meet people where they are. I’m thinking about things like holding open hours at City Hall so constituents can meet with me informally. Being accessible and accountable will continue to be my focus.”
During your campaign, you talked a lot about accountability, accessibility and affordability. How do you plan to put those goals into action?
“The talking points I used during the campaign primarily came from the people I was talking with as I was campaigning. We need to make sure that residents are able to access the services they need and get information and news that is important to them.
“We need budgets that reflect both the values and needs of the public. We heard a lot about transparency this year. We need to make sure people are aware of what is happening in city government and how those things may impact them, and how they can be part of the process.
“The affordability issue stretches across the spectrum of Biddeford residents, whether you’re a property owner worried about tax increases, or a tenant who is seeing your rental payments increase each year – even downtown business owners are experiencing rapidly increasing lease payments.”
“As mayor, my top priority is to the people of Biddeford. I want to meet people where they are”
— Mayor Elect Liam LaFountain
Voters also approved a $6 million bond for upgrades and repairs to the city’s recreational assets. That money is not going to cover all of the city’s needs. How do you propose those funds should be allocated?
“That is going to be one of our top priorities in the coming year. I think we’re going to need a process that includes a lot of public input, working with the Recreation Commission and the [city] council to identify how we use those funds because Biddeford residents wanted us to use that money to improve recreation opportunities.
“Obviously, we cannot fix everything, so we need a good process to identify the priorities from the public’s perspective and look for ways to capitalize on our existing resources.
“As an example, we still haven’t made any decisions about what to do with the JFK School. When we think about all the challenges we have, it’s going to involve looking at how we can use existing resources to make sure we’re addressing challenges without missing existing opportunities.”
What do you consider as the challenges facing the city of Biddeford?
“We really need to get back to basics. Our finance department is making good progress on correcting some of the things that caused a variety of problems. We need to make sure that we have adequate reporting, timely audits and reconciliations. We need continuous improvement because our financial position impacts everything the city does.
“I also believe we need to pursue a regional approach when it comes to addressing the needs of our unhoused population. My basic perspective on that issue is rooted in providing dignity for all residents, whether they live in a home or not.
“It’s a regional issue, and I want us to work closely with county officials and the state of Maine because we cannot do it all on our own.
Have you spoken yet with Saco’s mayor about opportunities for collaboration between the two cities?
“Yes, we had a good conversation, and I’m excited about how we can work together and leverage our shared strength when it comes to advocating on both a regional and state level.
“We have a new city manager, and they are about to welcome a new city manager so I think we have a nice, clean slate to work from.”
What do you think about the new council that you will be working with?
“I am really excited about the council. I think we have a really good mix, including experience and fresh perspectives. I think Lisa Vadnais will bring a valuable perspective about our city’s schools to her new role on the council. We also have three councilors who will be serving for the first time.
“I really look forward to working with them and our new school committee as we collectively chart the city’s future.”
What will be your mantra as Biddeford’s mayor?
“My primary goal will be focused upon putting the public interest at the center of all our decisions. That means making decisions that primarily benefit Biddeford residents.
“We need a data-driven decision-making process, and we also need to listen to Biddeford residents to reflect their goals, needs and wants when it comes to policies, budgets and ordinances that we pass.
“I want to be accessible and available to listen. I will readily admit that I don’t have all the answers, but I am ready to work with residents, city staff and the council to address our direction going forward.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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If the new Biddeford mayor really wants to serve the public, he needs to revamp City Hall’s hours, which are an insult to every city taxpayer.
“In an effort to minimize public confusion, the council will consider streamlining business hours at City Hall,” the Biddeford Gazette reported.
Minimize public confusion? There is no public confusion.
Blaming the public for being “confused” is a cynical stunt by city officials to accuse taxpayers of being too simple-minded to understand what hours a building is open, even if the hours vary from day to day.
So, let’s drill down on the insanity before us.
Reducing hours on Mondays and Tuesdays, besides opening a half hour later on those days, makes it harder for people who need to get to work early and would appreciate the 7 a.m. start to be able to get into City Hall.
Better yet why don’t they open at 6 a.m.?
On those same days, meanwhile, the elected cynics are proposing to reduce by a half hour the closing time by which a taxpayer must get in and conduct business.
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, it’ll open and close a half hour earlier. Again, just complicating the lives of taxpayers who can’t get there in the morning and need to come later in the day.
And City Hall is not open on Fridays? WTF is that all about?
Does the average working stiff in Biddeford get to work a four-day week?
Who do these clowns think they are?
The government should be serving the taxpayers, ergo, it should be open late at least one night a week until 9 and maybe also Saturday mornings from 8 until noon.
The [Biddeford] Gazette needs to ask the mayor some real questions such as proposed above.
If he’s really claiming to serve his constituency then he’ll expand the hours of City Hall in favor of those who need to use it and not in deference to those who “work* inside it.
If the mayor had any real balls, he would do it by executive action and just ignore whatever the council considers to be its role in setting City Hall hours.
And if the councilors want to sue him for exceeding his authority, then God bless him – let them do it.
They never will. They’re too busy blaming taxpayers for being too stupid to understand the definition of operating hours.
Let’s see a mayor who actually has some leadership ability rather than just standing by and accusing taxpayers of being too dumb to understand when City Hall is open.
Again, it’s not the alternating hours that’s the problem. That’s a canard – just a convenient distraction from the real issue that city officials don’t want to talk about: failing to serve the public so the people who staff the counters inside City Hall can get their beauty sleep.
The problem is that city workers couldn’t give a rat’s ass about serving the needs of the good hard-working taxpayers of Biddeford.
That means they have something in common with the City Council.
Let’s see if the new mayor can change that narrative.
It’ll never happen.
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Ted Cohen is a veteran Maine journalist and contributing writer at the Maine Wire. He lives in Owls Head, Maine.
The Biddeford Gazette welcomes reader-submitted letters and guest columns on any topic related to the city of Biddeford. For more information, please contact us
Mady Denault, a UNE sophomore, says volunteering downtown helps her feel more connected to the community. (Seaver photo)
Over the past few days, other volunteers — from both La Kermesse and the Biddeford Cultural & Heritage Center — have placed holiday wreaths and bows on the lampposts lining Main and Lincoln streets.
When asked why they volunteer, many of the students said it just felt like a fun thing to do. “We are part of this community, and this downtown is also our downtown,” said Tighe Archambault from Pepperell, Massachusetts. “It feels good to give back to the community.”
Sophomore Mady Denault is studying dental hygiene at UNE. She said helping string strands of lights in downtown Biddeford makes her feel more connected to the community and a bit more excited about the upcoming holiday season.
The Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce announced Saturday that Alex MacPhail has been named as the agency’s executive director.
MacPhail, the husband of Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail, is well known in the Biddeford–Saco region.
According to a press release, MacPhail brings “strong connections with local businesses, community partners, and municipal offices. His familiarity with the Chamber’s systems, communication platforms, and member network gives him a strong starting point as he steps into this role.”
Alex MacPhail
MacPhail will be responsible for managing all day-to-day Chamber operations, including member services, communications, event planning and coordination and community outreach
“Because he already understands the organization and the community, Alex will be able to begin working immediately without a lengthy transition period,” reads the Chamber’s press release. “The Chamber looks forward to this new chapter and is confident in the steady leadership Alex will bring to the role.”
New mayor; changing business hours at City Hall and approaching holidays
The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but it feels good to approach the holiday season with some enthusiasm and contentment.
This week, we are asking our readers to tell us what they believe were the Top-Ten news stories in Biddeford for 2025.
We are also soliciting ideas about holiday coverage and feature stories that you may enjoy learning about.
Of course, we expect to once again offer an exclusive, sit-down interview with Santa Claus, but we also want to highlight and celebrate the diversity of Biddeford’s holiday season.
This is a great opportunity for you or your organization to share news and events about the holidays and community celebrations. CONTACT US
Now that the local elections are over, we are returning to a much more manageable schedule, focused on original, in-depth reporting.
For the time period between Oct. 1 and Nov. 12, we published an average of more than one story per day. Now, we anticipate two-to-three stories per week, not including obituaries, public events or business profiles.
Nutting was always very bullish about both cities, and he was perpetually on the hunt for partnership opportunities. It seems only fitting that a bridge connecting the two cities would be named in his honor.
The council’s chamber was packed for Thursday’s ZBA meeting
Biddeford’s Policy Committee tackled both next steps for an updated Comprehensive Plan and a review of the council’s Code of Ethics.
From our friends at Saco Bay News, we learned this week that three former York County corrections officers were indicted on charges that they facilitated the delivery of contraband items to prisoners.
What’s on deck:
On Saturday, we sat down with Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain for an exclusive, free-ranging interview about a number of issues facing the city.
Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain
We also met with folks from the Age Friendly Saco program to highlight the many services they provide to seniors and how they hope to work closely with the Age Friendly Biddeford program.
On Tuesday, the Biddeford City Council will tackle the issue of business hours at City Hall.
Currently, City Hall is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7 a.m. to 5 pm; and on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In an effort to minimize public confusion, the council will consider streamlining business hours at City Hall to 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
Changing hours at City Hall?
And that’s a wrap for this week.
Remember: What do you think were the Top-Ten news stories in Biddeford this year? Drop us a line at BiddefordGazette@gmail.com
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The University of New England cleared another hurdle Thursday when the Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) voted unanimously to reject an appeal of the university’s proposed research pier.
Although the Biddeford Planning Board narrowly approved the controversial pier in August, a group of private citizens – led by the former chair of the Biddeford Harbor Commission – filed an appeal of the planning board’s approval.
Thursday’s meeting lasted only a few minutes, despite an agenda packet of more than 3,000 pages of information related to the project.
The Biddeford City Council Chamber was packed for Thursday’s Zoning Board of Appeals meeting regarding the University of New England’s proposed pier. (Seaver photo)
ZBA members did not discuss specifics about the pier, its location or the city’s review process of the project. The discussion instead centered on whether the citizen appellants had legal standing to appeal the planning board’s prior approval.
Ron Schneider – the university’s senior attorney – told ZBA members that the citizen appellants had “no standing” to file an appeal because they were not injured by the planning board’s earlier approval.
Biddeford resident Matt Haas, a former UNE employee, spoke for the appellants and said the citizens group was made up of an “organic” group of citizens, including property abutters and mooring owners who will be displaced by the large pier.
Schneider rejected that argument, pointing out that only Schafer’s name was listed on the appeal filed in September.
“You cannot just add names as you go along,” Schneider argued before the ZBA, pointing out that Schafer lives more than a mile away from where the large pier will be built. “Otherwise, this just becomes a game of whack-a-mole.”
City Attorney Harry Center told the ZBA that they should send the issue back to the planning board for further review.
“New information has recently come to light,” Center said. “The appellants do have standing.”
Center previously supported the planning board’s decision but now says new information about a 250-foot, non-development buffer zone created nearly 25 years ago should trigger a reconsideration of that decision.
“This just becomes a game of whack-a-mole.”
— Ron Schneider, UNE’s senior attorney
As originally reported in the Biddeford Gazette, that buffer zone was overlooked and not raised as an issue of concern during the nearly two-year review process.
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously last week to seek guidance and advice from the Maine Attorney General’s Office about the buffer zone and its impact on the university’s plans.
When asked for comment about Thursday’s ZBA decision, a university spokesperson said the zoning board followed the city charter’s requirements for appeals.
“These rules exist to ensure fairness and clarity in the appeals process,” said Sarah Delage, vice president of communications.
“UNE looks forward to moving ahead with this important research facility that will benefit Maine’s marine environment, economy and students for generations to come,” she added. “We remain committed to being good neighbors and responsible community partners.”
When asked about next steps for the citizen’s coalition, Haas said the group has to rely on the city council for relief.
“The city seems to understand the significance of the buffer zone, and it is heartening to see them pursue that issue with the attorney general’s office,” he said.
“This is not the end of the story,” Haas said.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Gen. Wallace Nutting’s children attended the dedication ceremony of a bridge named in their father’s honor. (L-R) Sally Nutting Somes, John Nutting, Katherine Haughs and Elizabeth Hood.
Nutting’s four children were on hand for the dedication of the bridge at the base of York Hill.
This year’s parade featured marching bands from Thornton Academy, Biddeford High School, and Saco Middle School.
Members of the Biddeford High School marching band played Taps during the opening ceremony.
A small crowd on the Biddeford side of the bridge awaits the start of the annual parade
Local leaders pose with members of Gen. Nutting’s family moments after the bridge was dedicated (L-R) State Rep. Marshall Alexander (D-Saco), Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail, State Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford), Katherine Haughs, John Nutting, Sally Nutting Somes, Elizabeth Hood and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman (Randy Seaver photo)
Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman attended the ceremonies.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 310 raised the American flag
City attorney finds new info, says UNE pier should go back to planning board
By RANDY SEAVER, Editor
Biddeford City Attorney Harry Center says that the Biddeford Planning Board should reconsider its prior approval of the University of New England’s controversial research pier.
Although the planning board narrowly approved the university’s proposal in August, Center now says the Planning Board should reconsider that approval based on new information that came to light a few weeks ago.
An aerial view of where UNE wants to build its research pier (Courtesy photo)
As first reported in the Biddeford Gazette, the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) failed to consider a previous ruling that created a 250-foot, no-development, vegetative buffer zone on the university’s campus in 2001.
Shortly after the Planning Board approved the controversial project, a group of residents filed an appeal with the Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
The ZBA is expected to take up the matter at its next meeting on Thursday.
Center, representing the city’s Planning Board, filed a request Monday with the ZBA on behalf of the planning board and Biddeford’s planning department.
Center also discovered that the permit issued to UNE by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may have expired.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised.”
— City Attorney Harry Center
A university spokesperson said the permit they received from the Army Corps is still in effect, and said the 250-foot no-development zone does not preclude appropriately permitted development.
Sarah Delage, vice president for communications at UNE, said the university received clarification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August that their permit remains in effect.
“The project was required to start prior to October 14, 2025, and the [Army Corps] has confirmed that the design and permitting process, which was underway well before that date, satisfies this condition.
Delage also said that “there is no inconsistency between UNE’s master plan –which was previously approved by the Biddeford Planning Board — and development within this buffer zone.
When asked about the legality of the SRCC’s permit, Delage said the SRCC’s executive director recently clarified that the approval remains valid and is neither under review nor in question at the SRCC office.
“The [SRCC] executive director sent her letter after consulting with the Maine Assistant Attorney General, who represents the SRCC,” Delage said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so,” she added.
Center said he has also researched prior versions of UNE’s master plan, and that those records reveal “that the University of New England’s master plan also references a 250-foot, no-development buffer.”
Red Flags Raised
Center said major red flags were then raised when Cheri Dunning, the executive director of the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC), wrote an unsolicited letter on October 20 to Roby Fecteau, Biddeford’s code enforcement officer.
In that letter to Fecteau, Dunning created the impression that the SRCC — while issuing UNE a permit for the pier — had deliberately overridden the 2001 order creating the buffer. She implied that present-day commissioners consciously intended to create new law. “The condition was created by, and thus can be altered by, the Commission,” she wrote.
Dunning specifically stated that the 2001 order was not discussed during the SRCC hearing. The current commissioners absolutely did not engage in any deliberative process to override the law created in 2001, according to the minutes from the August 2024 meeting.
Since the buffer was never even mentioned, the commissioners were flying blind, Center said.
“My legal analysis is that the order creating the 250-foot buffer remains in place, at least until the Attorney General’s office tells us that it has been rescinded by the commission,” Center said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so.”
— Sarah Delage, UNE spokesperson
Center said the ZBA has the jurisdiction to send UNE’s application back to the planning board, and given all the new information that has surfaced, it should do so.
Furthermore, Center said the city may ask a judge to overrule the SRCC’s approval of a permit for UNE’s pier, and recent statements by Dunning that the 250-foot buffer and other SRCC decisions can be ignored by regulatory authorities.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised,” he said.
Center said he has the full support of Mayor Martin Grohman and the Biddeford City Council to advise the ZBA as he did today.
Last week, the Biddeford City Council unanimously voted to seek clarification and guidance from the Maine Attorney General’s office regarding the 250-foot buffer zone.
The council’s resolution stated that the city “will withhold further permitting or authorization related to the proposed UNE pier to ensure full compliance with applicable state law.”
Center says he firmly stands by his previous legal advice on other issues related to UNE’s application.
“I have one duty, and that is to properly advise my client on legal issues at all times. New information has come to light, and I’ll continue to execute my professional responsibilities accordingly,” Center said.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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