Truc Dever — the woman hired to become Biddeford’s next city manager – told the Biddeford Gazette that she and her husband are excited about moving to Maine and have long referred to the state as their “forever home.”
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Dever with a two -year contract that can be renewed.
During an exclusive interview with the Gazette, Dever said she is excited about coming to Biddeford, the city’s potential and the opportunity to be part of such a “warm and welcoming” community.
“I’m excited to lead this team of exceptional city employees and work alongside Biddeford’s council beginning this August,” Dever said. “From day one, my priority will be to engage and understand the needs of this community and immerse myself in Biddeford’s culture and history. “
Dever said that both she and her husband “love it here” and have been referring to Maine as their “forever home” for a long time. The couple owns a seasonal home here.
“When this position opened up, I jumped at the opportunity to come to southern Maine full-time,” Dever said. “There’s incredible opportunity in Biddeford— it’s well-situated between Portland and Boston, has sandy beaches and riverfront, has a rich and vibrant history, a diverse population, and untapped business development opportunities.”
Dever said those community assets “create the perfect formula to build on the momentum already underway in the city” to foster balanced growth and innovation in Biddeford.
From day one, my priority will be to engage and understand the needs of this community and immerse myself in Biddeford’s culture and history. “
Dever said she grew up in a small suburb in southern California surrounded by agriculture, the dairy industry and state preserved open spaces.
“While my resume may reflect a career in highly urbanized areas, I understand the importance of sustainable growth, preservation of history, and maintaining a deep sense of identity,” Dever said. “Biddeford seems to embody these values, and it’s what drew me to the opportunity to serve as city manager.”
But it was more than just a good job and a chance to live in Maine that made Dever want to work in Biddeford.
“What also caught my attention when I interviewed in May was how genuine and welcoming the staff and council were,” Dever said. “I sat in the hallway at City Hall waiting for one of my interviews and was approached by no fewer than five staff asking if they could assist me with anything.”
Dever said that culture and community truly matter to her, especially when she was determining where she wanted to devote her efforts and energy.
“Those seemingly small gestures were a great indicator of staff who care about each other and every member of their community,” she said.
When asked about the challenges facing Biddeford, Dever said every new job offers its own challenges.
“What I know of Biddeford’s challenges is what I’ve read,” she said. “My plan is to quickly come up to speed on the work that is underway and the issues facing the city so that staff, the city council, and community members can tackle them together.”
As previously reported by the Gazette, Dever’s two-year contract calls for her to be paid $195,000 during the first year of her employment and $200,000 for the second year of her contract.
Dever will take over the helm at City Hall on August 11.
Dever’s full contract with the city of Biddeford can be viewed or downloaded below.
There has been almost endless talk on local social media sites about recent traffic congestion in Biddeford and Saco.
The seven-month sewer upgrade project began in April and is expected to be completed in November. In the meantime, traffic sometimes becomes snarled near the cities’ downtown core.
That traffic and constant negative chatter on social media is taking a significant toll on several small, downtown businesses.
Linda Dobnikar and Anastasia Rizas, bartenders at Mulligan’s. say they have taken a “big hit” in tipped wages while their revenues have dropped by more than 40 percent during the last two months (Seaver Photo)
From restaurants to boutique stores, many merchants say they are seeing a drop of roughly 40 percent in revenues, compared to this same time last year.
“It’s really scary, especially for those of us who rely on tipped incomes,” said Linda Dobnikar, the night bartender at Mulligan’s on Lincoln Street.
Travis Kern, co-owner of Nibblesford– a gourmet cheese shop on Washington Street in Biddeford — says he’s trying to keep an open mind about the situation and is open to hearing suggestions from other merchants about creative ways to bring more customers downtown.
“It’s really frustrating,” Dobnikar said. “We had one regular customer from Old Orchard Beach who told us she won’t be coming back to Biddeford until this is all over.”
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman says he is also feeling frustrated about the issue.
Grohman has begun weekly community meetings in his office at City Hall in order to “brainstorm” with merchants, residents and others to find creative solutions that might ease the burden.
This new initiative is aimed at helping support local businesses by raising public awareness about the many different businesses and services that are located in downtown Biddeford and Saco.
Each week, a new business profile will be added. We will be working with our social media partners to share these stories with as many people as possible.
If you are a local merchant or would like to nominate a business to be profiled, please contact us.
LaFayette was a French military officer and politician who volunteered his services to join the Continental Army, which was then being led by Gen. George Washington.
Gen. Marquis de LaFayette became an American hero when he was just 17 years oldand a volunteer in the Continental Army (Wikipedia image)
LaFayette was a teenager at the time, according to Rose Dionne, an archivist at the McArthur Library in Biddeford.
“Actually, there is a lot of evidence that showed that he and George Washington had a close relationship,” said Dionne. “We do know that LaFayette named his first son George, in honor of Washington.”
According to Dionne, LaFayette returned to the United States in 1825, almost 50 years after the end of the Revolutionary War.
Diane Cyr is the president of the Biddeford Cultural & Heritage Center, and she is quite excited about some of the plans to commemorate the anniversary of LaFayette’s return to the United States.
Cyr said that she and others will have a booth set up during this year’s La Kermesse Festival at St. Louis Field.
Diane Cyr and Rose Dionne are planning a celebration to honor the legacy of Gen. Marquis de LaFayette’s return to Biddeford in 1825
But some other things are also planned to celebrate LaFayette and his commitment to the United States.
The library, the heritage center and the historical society are collaborating to host a historical event in front of the Main Street library on June 24. Some folks will be dressed in historical costumes, there will also be a historical presentation and snacks from that time period offered, including switchel (a vinegar-based beverage) and other foods sweetened with caraway spices.
When visiting Biddeford in 1825, LaFayette slept at Spring’s Tavern, which was owned by his friend Capt. Seth Spring. Today, that site is home of the Deering Lumber Company. Spring Island is now known as Saco Island.
LaFayette’s previous tour included all of the states that were part of the Union at that time. Today, the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is helping with the celebration.
Dionne pointed out that LaFayette was seriously injured during the Battle of Brandywine, which was fought on Sept. 11, 1777, giving the British control of Philadelphia.
“He really hated the British,” Cyr laughed. “And he became a legend throughout America. People were so excited about his return to the states.”
Lafayette was also a key figure in the French Revolution of 1789 and he continues to be celebrated as a hero in France.
The June 24 ceremony will include a performance by the Alumni Band. The festivities are scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on the grounds of the McArthur Library.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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The Biddeford City Council is expected Tuesday to confirm the appointment of Truc Dever as city manager.
Dever is being offered a two-year contract that can be renewed. She will be paid a base salary of $195,000 during her first year of employment and $200,00 during her second year.
Dever’s contract also includes a monthly automobile stipend of $700 per month but will not include mileage reimbursement. She will also accrue five weeks of vacation time each year and will enjoy all the other benefits now in place for the city’s non-union workers.
Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever
Dever will not be allowed to serve on the boards or be in the employ of organizations, which either “have a history of or are likely to come before the city, its boards or committees, for funding, permits, approvals or regulatory activities.”
According to the proposed contract, Dever will be expected to be on-call to the city 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Dever is currently employed as the director of public works in Kirkland, Wash. She is expected to begin working in Biddeford on August 11.
For comparison purposes, former city manager James Bennett earned $170,000 per year as a base salary.
[UPDATE: An earlier version of this story reported that Dever will earn five days of vacation per year. She will accrue five weeks of vacation per year. It was a reporting error, and we apologize for the confusion.]
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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A lot can happen in just a few days, and that’s especially true when you’re in the news business.
Over just the past few days, we added a new staff member to the Gazette team, got a huge compliment from one of Maine’s most respected journalists and stumbled across a significant story that is still in development.
Hint: I’ve got a funny feeling we have not heard the last from our former city manager, Jim Bennett
I am excited to announce that Gail Toussaint of Biddeford has decided to join our team as a much-needed copy editor.
Gail told us that she really enjoys reading the Biddeford Gazette but noticed occasional typos and grammatical errors. When you’re basically running a one-man operation on a deadline, little mistakes can be expected, but they are never acceptable.
Gail Toussaint joins the Gazette (Facebook photo)
We strive to give you a quality, trustworthy product that is accurate, relevant and timely (ART). Gail actually volunteered to help us meet that mission. I was blown away by her offer to help us without any type of compensation.
“I love what the Gazette is doing,” Gail told us. “I think it’s an important part of our community, and I’m happy to help.”
It’s important to note that Gail will not be able to edit all of our stories, so if you see a typo, blame us, not her. Actually, we really do encourage our readers to contact us if they spot an error, have a complaint or a suggestion about a possible story.
A huge compliment:
Who doesn’t like being recognized for their efforts? A few days ago, I received an email from A Jay Higgins, one of Maine’s best known and respected journalists.
For more than 40 years, AJ has worked as a reporter and editor at the Bangor Daily News, at the Portland Press Herald’s former parent company (Blethen) and most recently at Maine Public Radio before retiring.
“I admire your tenacity as you undertake this project,” Higgins wrote. “I just don’t get it. People really do want local news: the council meetings, the school board meetings, the sewer district meetings, baked bean suppers, school sports, Elks Lodge, births, deaths etc.
A Jay Higgins (photo: Maine Public Radio)
“But they apparently don’t want to pay for it. “Just a thought, keep up the good work.”
When you get a compliment from a colleague, it reminds you that your work is worth the effort.
That said, I would also like to thank all the others who pass along well wishes and compliments on an almost daily basis.
For example, last week I took my truck for an oil change at Jiffy Lube in Biddeford. The man working at the counter asked, “are you Randy Seaver?”
Cautiously, I affirmed his query. “Cool,” he responded. “I really like what you’re doing with the Gazette.”
And there are so many others, former city councilors, teachers and former classmates. I cherish all of it. Thank you so much for your continued support!
New city manager
A lot of people have asked me what I think about the woman who will likely become Biddeford’s next city manager. I have yet to meet Truc Dever in person, but I am feeling quite optimistic about her taking over the helm at City Hall.
Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever
In my opinion, she is well-qualified for the position — both on paper and hands-on experience. But the biggest thing she offers Biddeford is a fresh set of eyes and a breath of fresh air. She has no allegiances to anyone or any institution. She has not been influenced by Biddeford’s culture, history or the often-negative narrative about our community.
In short, I am looking forward to seeing what she can do to help Biddeford achieve all the success we deserve.
What’s on the horizon?
I have a lot of stories in development. So, stay tuned. We are also approaching our six-month anniversary, when Laura and I plan to make some significant decisions about the Gazette’s future.
Later today, you can expect to read my exclusive feature story about Gen. Marquis de Lafeyette and the celebration of his visit to Biddeford 200 years ago.
In the meantime, stay safe, have fun and enjoy your summer!
Remember what Shakespeare said: “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”
***’
On a more personal note, you may want to check out my recent blog post about my time as a student at the JFK School in Biddeford: Fear and Loathing in Biddeford
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Eliza Doyon of Biddeford seems to be headed toward a very bright future. The 2025 BHS grad is a high achiever: a straight-A student and a very competitive field hockey player.
This fall, Doyon will be attending Saint Anslem College to study nursing and continue playing field hockey.
Eliza Doyon of Biddeford was able to snag a very competitive scholarship to study nursing at Saint Anslem College this fall. (Seaver photo)
Like all college-bound seniors, Doyon and her parents are facing significant tuition costs.
Trisha Doyon, Eliza’s mother, estimates that each year of college will cost her daughter roughly $70,000.
Fortunately, because of Eliza’s outstanding academic performance at Biddeford High School, she has been able to secure several scholarships, including one from FedPoint, a wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock Life & Health Insurance company.
In fact, Doyon was one of only four students from throughout New England who was chosen from a field of nearly 120 applicants for that particular scholarship.
“She’s worked very hard, and her good grades are really paying off.”
— Trisha Doyon
Eliza said she hopes to become a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse while working her way toward becoming a nurse anesthesiologist.
“I like the idea of providing direct care for babies that need extra help,” she said.
During the latter part of her high school career, Eliza took medical sciences classes and a CNA course at the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology.
This summer, before heading off to college, Eliza will be working as a CNA at the Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough.
“We are proud of her,” Trisha Doyon said of her daughter. “She’s worked very hard, and her good grades are really paying off.”
Eliza is also looking forward to playing field hockey at Saint Anslem, an opportunity that she says will give her a chance to make some new friends well before the start of classes in the fall.
“I’m a little bit nervous,” Eliza said during a recent interview. “But I’m also looking forward to what’s next.”
Eliza said her 14-year-old brother Evan often likes to tease her. “But I think deep down, he’s going to miss me when I leave,” she laughed.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Okay, so that’s not very funny, but maybe you are one of those people who can always make people laugh.
Have you ever thought about doing some stand-up comedy? If so, Patrick ‘Buzz Gordon’ Ouellette of Biddeford wants to talk with you.
For more than a year now, Buzz — as he is known to his friends and family — has been pouring his blood, sweat and tears into creating a vibrant comedy scene in southern Maine. He is a co-founder of the Comedy Mill, which promotes professional comedy shows and runs a weekly open-mic night for aspiring comics who want to perform before a live audience.
Patrick ‘Buzz Gordon” Ouellette of Biddeford (Facebook photo)
“It’s not as easy as it looks,” Buzz laughed during a recent interview. “Behind the scenes it’s a lot of work. We’re not getting rich, but we love it. We really love it.”
Buzz – a gregarious guy who always seems to be smiling – is especially excited about an upcoming show at Mulligan’s this weekend.
On Saturday, June 14, Brendan Eyre of New York will return to Biddeford to open for Connor McGrath, a nationally known comic who has appeared on the Comedy Channel and on the Late Night with Seth Meyers show.
“This is a big deal for us,” Buzz said. “We’ve been doing this for a year and now Brendan’s coming back to Biddeford to help us celebrate our one-year anniversary.”
That show will take place at Mulligan’s on Lincoln Street, beginning at 8 p.m.
When asked about the weekly open-mic nights on Wednesdays, Buzz says “there’s nothing like hearing a room full of people laughing.”
We’re not getting rich, but we love it. We really love it.”
— Buzz Gordon
“I think we could all use some laughs these days,” he said.
The Comedy Mill is also helping promote this year’s Portland Maine Comedy Festival, which takes place at several venues in Portland from July 17 – July 20.
“Sometimes, we barely break even on our shows,” Buzz said. “But we are driven by one thing: we want people to have fun.
“We’re all delinquents, just hanging out,” he added.
But Buzz also has a soft spot. He and his partners regularly donate to the Biddeford Food Pantry. Earlier this year, they organized a comedy show that featured George Hamm, a nationally known comic and Marine veteran from Maine. All the proceeds from that show were donated to the Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance.
“We got to have each other’s backs, right?” Buzz said, saying the Comedy Mill would not have survived without the support of Mulligan’s. “This is a great city, chock full of great people.”
Buzz graduated in 2005 from Biddeford High School, where he was an avid football player. “Football was life when I was in high school,” he said.
Like most people, Buzz followed a winding path to get where he is today. “I remember thinking I wanted to be a cop, and then I thought I wanted to be a teacher,” he said during an earlier interview.
Today, Buzz works for a bio-tech firm near Portsmouth.
When asked what advice he would give to an aspiring comic, Buzz doesn’t hesitate. “Don’t wait. Just do it.”
“You want to make God laugh, Buzz asked. “Tell him your plans for the future.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Tuesday was an emotional day for teachers and staff at Biddeford’s John F. Kennedy Memorial School.
The original building was opened in 1965, but a long list of necessary and expensive repairs, upgrades and maintenance issues ultimately forced voters to approve a plan to close the school.
What will happen next to the building and its surrounding playground and parking lot is still unknown.
Earlier this year, the city council created a committee to consider future uses for the property, which is located near the intersection of West and Hill streets.
Photo by Maureen Grandmaison
Over the years, the school building has been expanded. The school once housed students from first to sixth grade, and then third, fourth and fifth grades. Today, the building serves kindergarten and Pre-K students only.
On Thursday, when the dismissal bell rings, the students walking out the door will board their buses and close the final chapter for a school that is fondly remembered by the community it served.
On Tuesday afternoon, current and former teachers and staff members gathered in the school’s gymnasium for an informal pot-luck dinner and an opportunity to share memories and experiences in the school.
“This school is filled with cherished memories for both staff and students,” said Meghan Schrader, JFK’s co-principal. “Although saying farewell is difficult, we are excited about what lies ahead for our students. The new space at BPS will allow for increased collaboration for teachers and create a community of Biddeford’s youngest learners.”
“This school is filled with cherished memories for both staff and students,”
— Meghan Schrader, JFK’s co-principal.
School Supt. Jeremy Ray said that moving the city’s youngest students to BPS will give those children more stability and a less fractured learning experience.
“Going forward, students will be in the same building from Pre- K to second grade,” Ray said. “This way, the kids have four years in one building with lots of familiar faces.”
Schrader agreed with Ray, saying that the new arrangement will also give second grade students the opportunity to be role models and mentors for their younger peers.
Retired teacher Pat Gagne attended Tuesday’s informal goodbye ceremony.
Gagne started teaching in 1977 and spent 16 years teaching at JFK. “It’s a sad moment, but it’s also nice to see our family here,” she said. “We all have so many great stories about working here.”
According to school officials, all kindergarten students will attend Biddeford Primary School while Pre-K students will temporarily be housed at Biddeford Intermediate School until construction of a new wing at the Primary school is fully complete.
The expansion project, launched in a September 2024 groundbreaking ceremony, is designed to bring PreK–2 students under one roof in a modern, developmentally supportive environment.
According to school officials, a 2002 assessment of the building determined that renovating JFK would cost significantly more than constructing a new space.
Last year, Biddeford taxpayers approved a $9 million construction bond to expand BPS—an investment estimated to save up to $16 million over the cost of renovating the aging JFK building.
“Closing JFK School is a significant milestone, not just emotionally but in terms of progress,” said Ray. “We’re incredibly grateful to the staff who have made JFK such a special place to Biddeford’s youngest learners.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Following a nationwide search, the Biddeford City Council is expected next week to confirm the hiring of Truc Dever as the city’s next professional manager.
Dever currently serves as the public works director for the city of Kirkland, Wash., a city with a population of roughly 93,000 people located about eight miles east of Seattle.
According to Mayor Marty Grohman, Dever will begin her new job in Biddeford in August. Details about her contract will not be available until her hiring is confirmed by the city council next week.
Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever
“Truc distinguished herself as the top candidate for the position for several reasons,” said Mayor Martin Grohman. “She brings over two decades of public sector leadership across a range of city operations, as well as experience in human resources and public health. The members of the city council and I are excited to welcome her to Biddeford.”
In her previous position as public work director in Kirkland, Dever oversaw a staff of more than “170 employees across multiple divisions, including utilities, transportation and capital projects,” according to the city’s website.
Dever held various leadership roles before becoming Kirkland’s public works director, including serving as human resources director in Kirkland; general manager at Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, and director of community affairs within the same agency, where she managed public health communication initiatives.
She also has experience as a small business owner and working in public relations and media roles. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications and political science from UCLA and a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Fullerton.
“I am honored to be considered for this position as Biddeford’s next city manager,” said Dever. “I look forward to working alongside city leaders and community members to continue building a future focused on opportunity, sustainability and resiliency.”
Dever will become the city of Biddeford’s fifth city manager, taking over the helm from acting City Manager Brian Phinney. Previous city managers include Bennett, John Bubier, Edward Clifford and Bruce Benway.
According to the Kirkland city website, as the city’s human resources director, Dever “helped negotiate six collective bargaining agreements with the city’s labor unions; spearheaded the effort to provide affordable, accessible, and quality childcare benefits to Kirkland employees.
Grohman said Dever was selected from a pool of 34 applicants in a nationwide search for candidates.
Dever will begin her tenure Monday, August 11. Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, will continue to serve as acting city manager until Dever’s contract begins.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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A small group of slightly more than 40 people attended a Biddeford Planning Board site walk near the location of where the University of New England wants to construct a new pier to dock its marine research vessel.
The proposed pier includes a 130-foot approach pier with an 80 by 20-foot pier head jutting out into the channel almost directly across from the Camp Ellis pier on the Saco River
UNE Vice President Alan Thibeault answers questions for planning board members (Seaver photo)
The university’s proposal has generated considerable controversy over the past several months. During a preliminary Planning Board meeting last month, several members of the public raised concerns about the proposal including its potential impact to existing moorings and impacts on navigation and recreational fishing during low tide.
No members of the public spoke in favor of the proposal at that May 22 meeting.
Monday’s site walk lasted almost 45 minutes, requiring board members and the public to hike through a wooded area behind the school’s marine sciences center.
There was no opportunity for public comment or questions, but planning board members did ask several questions about the project, including the proposed height of the pier, how river current and tides could impact the pier and how exactly the pier would be constructed.
Alan Thibeault, the university’s vice president of operations, led board members to a spot overlooking the Saco River to answer questions and point out the exact area where the university hopes to build their pier
.
Ken Buechs of Biddeford made his feelings about the project known during Monday’s site walk (Seaver photo.)
Behind Thibeault, critics of the pier were sharing their own information about the project. Two small boats were anchored near the shore; one boat closest to the school’s proposed location and another boat slightly downriver where the city’s harbormaster and others say the pier should be located.
People on each of the small boats held up large placards to display the data from their depth-finding equipment. During the site walk, at low tide, the vessel closest to the school’s preferred location showed a water depth of six feet, while the other vessel showed a water depth of 12-feet.
Former City Councilor Patricia Boston was one of those who attended the site walk. Although water depth is technically not part of the criteria for the planning board, Boston said the board should pay attention to that issue.
A private boat owner holds up a placard showing a water depth of only six feet during low tide where the university hopes to build their pier. Another boat, slightly downstream, showed a water dept of 12 feet at the location where Biddeford’s harbormaster says the pier should be built. (Seaver photo)
“To me, it seems like a simple issue to objectively address,” Boston said. “This project is going to have significant impacts on the Saco River for generations to come. I’m hoping the planning board will consider all of the issues – from a planning perspective, it’s important to know all the information.”
“This project is going to have significant impacts on the Saco River for generations. I’m hoping the planning board will consider all of the issues”
— Patricia Boston, former city councilor
Boston said she is disappointed by how the university has been pushing the project forward. “Based just on what I have been reading and hearing, there seems to be some missed opportunities for collaboration, and I find that sad,” she said.
A few people from Saco also attended Monday’s site walk, including Kevin Roche, the president of SOS Saco Bay, a non-profit group focused on erosion issues in the Camp Ellis area. Roche did not return a phone call for comment, as of press time.
Matt Dubois, the newest member of the planning board, described the site walk as “informative and comprehensive.”
Former city councilor Kyle Noble — an outspoken critic of the project, holds a pole to demonstrate the height of UNE proposed pier
Susan Deschambault, another Planning Board member, said she appreciated the opportunity to see the exact location and ask questions about the project. “There are still more questions to be asked,” she said.
Members of the public paid close attention to UNE’s presentation during Monday’s site walk. (Seaver photo)
Earlier in the day, a group of private mooring owners who would be impacted by the proposal, issued a press release stating that they “are ready to be sued by the university” because they are unwilling to give up their mooring locations.
“I guess they don’t understand the English language over there at the college,” said Capt. Shawn Tibbetts, a commercial fisherman with a mooring location that would need to be moved. “We’re not moving. The site they want for their pier is unavailable to the University of New England.”
Planning board chair Alexa Plotkin described the site walk as somewhat unique. “This is not like driving into a parking lot and looking around,” she said. “I’m glad we had the opportunity to see the area that is not really visible on a daily basis.”
Plotkin said she was pleased by the turnout and said the university’s proposal will be back on the planning board’s agenda for its next meeting on June 18.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Several members of the Biddeford City Council expressed significant and pointed concerns during Tuesday’s council meeting about a proposed affordable housing project near the corner of Lincoln and Pearl streets.
Westbrook Development Corp. is hoping to construct approximately 90 units of affordable housing for residents over the age of 55. The developers say the monthly rent would range between $1,100 and $1,300, including all utilities.
Mayor Marty Grohman described the two-phase project as a “large and complex” deal that will finally culminate the end of an era when that site was the home of the MERC waste incinerator, which was closed in 2012.
Another proposed development project that would offer market-rate apartments, retail and other commercial spaces is being proposed in the same area. The two projects would essentially wrap around the Pearl Street parking garage.
Tyler Norod of Westbrook Development Corporation addresses the Biddeford City Council Tuesday about his company’s hopes to build an affordable housing complex adjacent to the city’s Pearl Street parking garage. (Seaver photo)
The developer is proposing to give the city roughly $680,000 to secure needed parking spaces in the parking garage and is required to make an $840,000 contribution to help fund sewer upgrades throughout the city,
George Gervais, the city’s economic development director, told the council that the project would bring more than $30 million in direct and indirect benefits to the city, including a $200,000 contribution to the city’s Affordable Housing Trust fund.
Despite those benefits, several councilors said they are not yet ready to pull the trigger.
Because the city currently owns the 1.6-acre parcel, councilors expressed concerns about parking, the project’s timing and what might happen if the project falls through.
Tyler Norod of Westbrook Development told the council that his company is facing a tight timeline because they are hoping to secure project funding from the Maine State Housing Authority (MSHA) in order to make the project viable.
“I hate to have a gun held to my head,” said Councilor Marc Lessard. “That type of approach never leaves us in a good position.”
Though Lessard said he supports the need for more affordable housing, he says taxpayers expected the city to replace the former MERC site with commercial development that would create jobs and tax revenue.
Lessard said the city “cannot afford any more credit enhancement agreements. “We need to be more focused on generating more money on the tax rolls to ease pressure on taxpayers,” he said.
Councilor Norman Belanger, however, said the development landscape has changed significantly since MERC was closed 13 years ago.
“This project would be a tremendous win for the city. There’s so much benefit if this passes, and so much to lose if it fails.”
— George Gervais, economic development director
“We had a plan and a vision for that space,” Belanger said. “But then COVID hit, and the world as we know it changed.”
Belanger expressed frustration about a mixed message coming from the city council, saying he feels bad for city staff who put a lot of time and effort in bringing projects forward.
“This council is acting in a schizophrenic manner,” Belanger said. “We say we want affordable housing here, but not there. We’re sending a mixed message.”
Councilor Doris Ortiz said she supports the development of more affordable housing, but also expressed some concerns about the proposal. “The parking garage has been a thorn in the city’s side for a very long time,” she said. “Overall, I think it’s a good project, but there is a lot to work through. It’s not an easy lift for us.”
Citing the need for more information, the council voted 8-1 to table the proposal until the next council meeting on June 17.
The site where Westbrook Development Corp. wants to build 90 units of affordable housing for residents over the age of 55. (Seaver photo)
Following the meeting, Norod said he appreciated the council’s diligence and its commitment to develop more affordable housing.
“We feel as if we are partners with the city,” Norod said. “It’s clear that the council really wants more affordable housing. We have some homework to do before the next meeting, but we are happy to do it.”
For his part, Gervais said he was feeling a bit disappointed about the delay, pointing out that he and other city staffers have been working on this project for more than a year. He also said he has repeatedly offered to meet with individual councilors to answer any questions about the proposal.
“This project would be a tremendous win for the city,” Gervais said. “There’s so much benefit if this passes. and so much to lose if it fails.”
RELATED: Click here to view or download the project’s executive summary:
Biddeford voters will soon be asked whether they approve a $49.3 million budget for operation of Biddeford’s public schools during the next fiscal year.
The $49,269,781 school budget was ratified by the city council on May 8 and represents what School Supt. Jeremy Ray describes as a “carefully managed” expenditure increase of slightly more than 4 percent.
The election will be held on Tuesday, June 10, at Biddeford High School’s Tiger Gymnasium located at 20 Maplewood Avenue. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The last date for an absentee ballot request is Thursday, June 5, according to the Biddeford City Clerk’s office.
Although Ray described this as an “exciting time for our school district,” he also noted that Biddeford will see a sharp decrease in state aid for education this year because of the city’s recent spike in property valuations.
Biddeford High School. Photo via Wikipedia
“It’s important to understand just how efficiently Biddeford manages taxpayer dollars compared to other communities,” Ray wrote in a recent open letter to the Biddeford Community.
According to Ray, Biddeford spends $15,274 per student, nearly $1,800 less per student than the state average of $17,029.
When compared to neighboring communities, the difference is even more striking, Ray said.
For example, the town of Old Orchard Beach spends $25,440 per student, while the city of Saco spends $17, 348 per student — $2,074 more than Biddeford. Kennebunk, Scarborough and South Portland all spend much more per student than Biddeford.
Despite spending significantly less per student, Ray said Biddeford schools continue to provide “quality education, maintain modern facilities, and offer diverse programming including our new vocational opportunities.”
Biddeford’s “exceptional fiscal efficiency” also comes with challenges,” Ray explained.
Biddeford is facing what Ray described as” a significant reduction in state aid,” only because Biddeford’s property values have increased substantially.
“Our dedicated teachers and staff continue to provide the excellent education that makes Biddeford schools a source of community pride.”
— School Supt. Jeremy Ray
“While rising property values are positive for our community’s economic health, they create a funding challenge under Maine’s school funding formula, as higher valuations result in reduced state support,” Ray said. “Although we spend $1,800 less per student than the state average, we must ask our taxpayers to shoulder more of the burden due to this state funding formula”
Ray says that it is becoming increasingly difficult to provide all the academic supports and programs that “our students truly need to reach their full potential.”
“The gap between what we spend and what our neighboring districts invest creates real limitations,” Ray said. “Additional reading specialists, mental health counselors, technology support staff, and enrichment programs that other communities take for granted are luxuries we must carefully weigh against our budget constraints.
“Our teachers and staff work tirelessly to bridge these gaps, but there are limits to what can be accomplished with significantly fewer resources per student,” he said.
On the positive side of things, Ray says Biddeford’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond the classroom.
“Our students consistently demonstrate success in academics, athletics, the arts, and our renowned band and marching band programs that compete at the highest levels,” he said.
“Whether our graduates choose to enter the workforce with career-ready skills from our vocational programs or pursue higher education at local colleges or prestigious national universities, they leave Biddeford well-prepared for their next chapter.”
Ray noted that the new addition at Biddeford Primary School will be completed this winter, “providing modern learning spaces for our youngest learners.”
School Superintendent Jeremy Ray
“Infrastructure investments represent our commitment to providing 21st-century educational facilities for all our students,” Ray said. “Our school committee’s long-range vision for maintenance and improvement of the physical plant is a prudent investment.”
“So many districts wait for a crisis and then ask their communities to float large bonds to fix problems that are compounded by can-kicking and neglect,” he added.
Ray pointed out that Biddeford Middle school is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, and is still “an amazing facility that offers a breadth of curricular and cocurricular opportunities that would be the envy of most.”
The Biddeford School Committee, Ray said, is committed to investing at least $250,000 or more in the Biddeford Intermediate School as it begins its fourth decade of service to the city.
Ray described the recently completed Biddeford Regional Center of Technology as one of Maine’s premier vocational centers, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and direct pathways to high-demand careers.
“Our vocational programs not only serve our own students but also generate revenue by serving students from neighboring districts who choose Biddeford for their technical education,” Ray said.
Ray also serves as the superintendent for the city of Saco and the town of Dayton, and he said Biddeford’s collaboration with those neighboring communities has yielded significant savings of roughly $500,000 annually for Biddeford taxpayers.
“While we face challenges with reduced state support, our district continues to thrive,” Ray said. “Our dedicated teachers and staff continue to provide the excellent education that makes Biddeford schools a source of community pride.”
RELATED: To see or download the full text of the superintendent’s letter to the community, click on this link:
A crowd of roughly 50 people gathered Monday for the raising of the Pride flag at Biddeford City Hall.
Monday’s ceremony kicks off at a month-long celebration of activities and events, all aimed at promoting the ideals of inclusivity, respect and diversity — especially for members of the LGBTQIA+ community — in Biddeford and beyond.
Mayor Marty Grohman addressed the crowd just before the flag was raised, telling them that he will later read an official proclamation regarding Pride month at the city council’s next regular meeting on Tuesday.
Colin McKauge (left) and Jeniece Wilder of Tiger Allies help raise the Pride flag at Biddeford City Hall to kick off the city’s annual celebration of Pride month as Micayla Budd, president of Tiger Allies, look on.
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol—not just of visibility, but of belonging. In Biddeford,” Grohman said. “We believe that everyone deserves to live openly and be celebrated for who they are.”
Grohman said the flag represents a community that is vibrant, resilient, and proud. “[This flag] represents our shared values of inclusion, dignity, and respect. And it reminds us that progress is made not just through big milestones—but through everyday acts of support and solidarity.”
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol —not just of visibility, but of belonging in Biddeford
— Mayor Marty Grohman
“We raise this flag together, let it be a message to all—especially our youth—that you are seen, you are valued, and you are welcome here.” the mayor added.
Jamie and Krista Shaw attended Monday’s event. The couple recently moved to Biddeford from the city of Westbrook. As members of the LGBTQIA+ community, they say they feel welcomed in Biddeford.
“There is no such thing as safe, just safer” Jamie Shaw said.
Krista Shaw said they have found Biddeford to be “a very warm and welcoming community.”
Delilah Poupore, executive director of the Heart of Biddeford, said there are a number of activities and celebrations scheduled throughout Pride month in Biddeford.
For more information about Pride events in Biddeford, the Heart of Biddeford has created a web page that includes information and details regarding Pride month activities and events. For more information, please visit https://heartofbiddeford.org/pride-3/
Flag raised at City Hall (Seaver photo)
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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I view this past week in Augusta as transitional. Committees, including my own, finished their work on bills and the bulk of the activity began moving from the committee room to the floors of each chamber.
The week began on a stressful note personally. I went to the Memorial Day ceremony at Waterhouse Field, but had to leave before it began due to a family health matter (not to worry – everyone is okay now). This same issue kept me from being able to attend session on Tuesday, making it the first session day I have missed this term.
My absence Tuesday from roll call votes is excused due to the compelling personal reasons for my absence. Still, I hate missing any vote. Fortunately, it does not appear that my vote alone would have swung the outcome on any measures on Tuesday.
State Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford)
Among the measures I would have supported on Tuesday (and look forward to supporting on enactment) are two bills for active transportation and trails along defunct rail corridors.
As the Maine Sunday Telegram noted in their lead editorial today, these measures are modeled off the economic success of the Eastern Trail which runs through our community. While I am supportive of expanding rail transit where it is viable, I have not seen compelling evidence that these corridors would be viable anytime soon, and this is an excellent use for them. I am proud to support the Transportation Committee’s bipartisan work on this issue.
Though I missed session on Tuesday, things stabilized enough for me to be able to remotely attend and participate in the last full meeting of the Housing and Economic Development Committee later that day. We worked and voted on three bills dealing with very important issues.
After long, occasionally challenging conversations regarding two bills to amend the Growth Management Act, I joined a majority of the committee in supporting a compromise version of LD 1940, which makes badly needed updates to the Act to enable smarter growth principles and development where it makes sense. The compromise incorporates feedback from municipalities and their planners and gives them options rather than mandating one pathway from the state.
There was also merit to LD 1751, which proposed more modest changes and would still be a step forward, but while I wanted to support both I believe LD 1940 is the better policy and that is what I decided to throw my full support behind. These measures took us deep into the weeds of policymaking over development and how Maine can align its goals on housing, economic development, and our environment. While it was charged at times, I believe we landed in a very good place.
“Overall, the Housing and Economic Development Committee was very productive this session, and it benefited from the thoughtfulness of all of its members (from both parties).”
— Marc Malon
I also was proud to cast my vote in favor of LD 1829, sponsored by Speaker Ryan Fecteau, which makes needed updates to zoning requirements and makes the laws clearer for folks interested in creating more housing.
The Speaker worked hard with Rep. Amanda Collamore (R-Pittsfield) on a compromise which makes sense for all Maine communities while respecting their differences. The vote was unanimous, which is significant given the history of bills dealing with zoning. Building more housing remains imperative, and this bill will help.
Overall, the Housing and Economic Development Committee was very productive this session, and it benefited from the thoughtfulness of all of its members (from both parties). Perhaps it was due to the subject matter and the fact that we kept the culture wars out of the committee room, but even members whom I have sharp disagreements with on other subjects engaged in good faith discussions over the bills we worked. Not everything was unanimous of course, but we never disagreed on the underlying facts behind the policies we debated. When facts matter, good process is possible we can accomplish a great deal.
I was able to return to Augusta on Wednesday and Thursday, which were spent in the House Chamber. We voted on a number of items. These included:
– Very close votes on a measure, LD 301, to clarify the Public Utilities Commission’s authority to engage in performance-based ratemaking. Like many bills from the Energy Utilities and Technology Committee (EUT) this bill is highly technical and dense. It takes a lot of studying to understand! But these bills are very important as they deal with the vital and sensitive issues of how to best regulate utilities, protect consumers, and meet state economic development and climate goals. I believed LD 301 made sense and voted in favor.
* We voted 108-33 (making it bipartisan) to support funding for the University of Maine System, whose importance needs no explanation.
* We opposed a wholly unnecessary measure out of my other committee, Veterans and Legal Affairs (VLA), which proposed a constitutional amendment stating that only citizens can vote in our elections. We opposed this for a very good reason: it is already the case that only citizens can vote in our elections. Statute makes it crystal clear that only citizens can vote in all Maine elections, including municipal (and town ordinances cannot change that as state law supersedes them). This bill was brought forward to perpetuate a myth and spread disinformation. It failed, as it should have.
* Bills from the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee (IFW) don’t normally garner a ton of attention, but three did on Thursday. On a mostly party-line vote, we approved a budget initiative from the Department to support their programs, which bolster sportsmen and our outdoor economy. This measure was strongly backed by the Sportsmen’s Alliance of Maine (SAM).
It remains unclear why there was opposition, but the few arguments I heard against it were not compelling to me.
A bipartisan majority of us rejected a bill which would allow youth hunters to hunt on Sundays. For those unaware, Sunday hunting has long been a touchy issue. It is not currently allowed, and that is not simply due to old-fashioned “blue laws.” To make a long story short, most hunting in Maine is conducted on privately-owned land as allowed by the landowner. Multiple surveys and studies have shown that both landowners and hunters alike enjoy (reasonably, in my view) having one day each week where there is a reprieve and precautions are not needed for folks enjoying the land for non-hunting purposes. If Sunday hunting were to be allowed, more landowners would post their land and prevent hunting. This would be a blow to our hunting traditions. This is why I opposed the measure.
I also voted against a measure to establish a Constitutional Right to hunt and fish in Maine. For one, I do not think it is at all necessary. Mainers enjoy broad hunting and fishing rights (as they should!) and they are not at risk. This measure is also broad and vague, which creates confusion that will surely lead to litigation. We don’t need that. It also could open the door to Sunday hunting.
I was in the minority voting in opposition, but it is unclear whether or not this measure will move forward because a constitutional amendment needs to receive a two-thirds vote on enactment and it did not receive that on Thursday (though it was close). I support our hunting and fishing traditions, and am likely to oppose any restrictions on what is currently allowed. But this measure went too far and was poorly drafted.
I also would like to note that one of my bills, LD 641 which bolsters the Housing Problem Solving Program at MaineHousing in support of homelessness diversion efforts, was unanimously enacted by the House and now goes to the Special Appropriations Table, where all bills with fiscal notes go. I am working on ways to secure the funding for this vital program which prevents people from becoming unhoused in the first place.
These next few weeks will be busy as we move through the remainder of our work. We will have some late nights and will tackle some very important and sometimes-controversial issues. I’ll keep you posted as we go.
In the meantime, let’s remember to take good care of each other, respect our neighbors, and support our community.
State Rep. Marc Malon is currently serving his second term representing a portion of Biddeford in the Maine House of Representatives. He is also the party affairs director for the Maine Democratic Party. He may be contacted at: Marc.Malon@legislature.maine.gov
The views and opinions presented here are solely those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Biddeford Gazette or its publisher.
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Just a few days after hearing several negative comments from the public about their proposed research and docking pier, officials from the University of New England distributed a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document with the media and community leaders.
The university (UNE) says the FAQ document is intended to clarify “a variety of misunderstandings [that] have emerged about the project” and to “clear up misinformation that has circulated about the (proposal).”
That meeting drew scores of people, filling the council chamber while several other members of the public overflowed into the hallway.
During the public comment period, several people took to the podium, raising concerns about the plan and criticizing the university. No one at the meeting spoke in support of the proposal.
Former City Councilor Michael Swanton – who previously represented the city’s coastal area on the city council – told the board that he is neutral about the proposed pier.
An aerial photo showing the area where the University of New England wants to construct a new research/docking pier. (UNE photo)
During a telephone interview Wednesday, Sarah Delage, a university spokesperson, reiterated that UNE wants to be proactive and follow a review process that includes addressing public concerns, listening to opponents and responding to every regulatory agency’s particular request for information.
“From our perspective, we have clearly communicated with all the regulatory agencies,” Delage said. “We are absolutely committed to working in good faith with everyone and listening to all voices.”
UNE President James Herbert did not mince words about his frustrations regarding “misinformation” in a letter he sent to community leaders on Tuesday.
“Unfortunately, a great deal of misinformation has been spread about the proposal,” Herbert wrote. “UNE cannot continue to allow the level of misinformation and, in some cases outright false statements, to go unanswered.”
Herbert told community leaders that “most, if not all, of the comments that were presented to the Planning Board [during last week’s meeting] are irrelevant to the criteria that the Planning Board must apply to UNE’s application for site plan approval.”
UNE cannot continue to allow the level of misinformation and, in some cases outright false statements, to go unanswered.”
— James Herbert, president of the University of New England
What do the critics say?
John Schafer, the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission and a retired engineer, has been an outspoken critic of the project for several months.
Schafer and other critics of the proposed pier created a Facebook page known as UNE Pier Review.
For more than a year, Schafer and others have been doggedly tracking the review process, raising concerns about “a lack of transparency” and other issues, most notably stating that the proposed pier should be located in a different location, closer to shore primarily because of water depth issues and impacts to existing moorings in the Saco River.
Schafer received a copy of the university’s FAQ document, describing it as “polished spin.”
“The public finally had an opportunity to speak at last week’s meeting, and apparently the university didn’t like what it heard,” Schafer said. “No one from the university reached out to me,” he added, saying it has been more than difficult to obtain documents from the university, including a copy of their request for $3.5 million in federal funding for the project.
“While reading this thing, my bullshit meter pegged the needle off the charts,” Schafer said.
Schafer raised several specific objections to the items listed on the university’s document, including the actual number of mooring owners who would be impacted; statements regarding whether the university has threatened to sue the city if their plan is not approved, and contrary statements issued by the university regarding the potential impact on federal funding if the review process is delayed.
“While reading this thing, my bullshit meter pegged the needle off the charts,”
— John Schafer, former chair, Biddeford Harbor Commission
“How can they with a straight face say that only two moorings will be impacted?” Schafer said. “Were they not at the same meeting as the rest of us?”
Schafer says that seven moorings will be impacted, dismissing the university’s offer to swap, purchase or relocate other moorings. “Exactly where would they be relocated?” Schafer asked. “There is not unlimited room on the river and there is a substantial waiting list of people hoping to get a mooring on the river.”
Delage, however, said the university has been making good faith efforts to identify and contact all mooring owners who may be impacted by the pier.
“The harbormaster previously indicated that only two moorings would be impacted in his communication to the (Maine Department of Environmental Protection) DEP” Delage said, adding that “there is no official record of mooring owners.”
While much of the public conversation about the proposed pier has centered upon water depth issues, the FAQ document provides more details about why the university picked their preferred site over an alternative that was offered by the city’s harbormaster.
According to the FAQ document, the university’s preferred site location (Site 7) “best meets the combined criteria (required). It is located where there is a small intertidal zone, comprised primarily of rock without sea grass, and the currents are slower because it is farther from the river channel.
“The dock’s main berth would be aligned with the current in the river and would be deep enough to provide all-tide access for the range of vessels expected to use the facility with the smallest overall footprint, thereby minimizing environmental impacts.”
Other issues
UNE’s FAQ document also addresses several other issues, including whether the university threatened to sue the city, claims about an ongoing FBI investigation and why Biddeford Harbormaster Paul Lariviere was removed from review of the proposal.
Almost exactly one year before Wednesday’s Planning Board meeting, former Biddeford City Manager James Bennett sent a letter to Lariviere, saying the harbormaster had been biased in his review of UNE’s proposal as evidenced by “several” public comments he has made outlining his steadfast objections to the project.
Schafer says that the city’s move to quash both the harbormaster and the assistant harbormaster was simply part of an effort to grease the skids for the university. “Now look at where we are,” Schafer said. “The city spent $2,800 to hire a guy without any local knowledge or previous experience as a harbormaster to simply check the box and say that UNE had filed all the right paperwork. Heck, the city clerk could have done that.
Did UNE threaten to sue the city?
Ron Schneider, the university’s chief legal counsel, did send a letter to Biddeford City Attorney Harry Center on February 13, 2024, several months before the university submitted its formal proposal to the city.
In that letter, Schneider wrote “It is our sincere hope that UNE is not forced to resort to litigation to avoid the delay and expense that will result if Mr. Lariviere were to insist on obstructing the building of the pier.”
UNE’s document describes that communication between the two attorneys as an opportunity to “raise concerns about serious due process errors” to Biddeford’s attorney. “The goal of this communication was to correct these errors to avoid having to appeal to a court.”
Another item that the university describes as misinformation, is a claim that the FBI is investigating the review process.
“After others claimed that the FBI was investigating UNE, the university reached out to the FBI and offered to meet with them, which they said was not necessary,” the university wrote in its FAQ document. “UNE has no reason to believe that the FBI is investigating the university.”
Schafer, however, said he and others were, in fact, questioned last year by the FBI about “the review process, not specifically about the university.”
Where do we go from here?
Despite some controversy, UNE’s proposal has received approval from every regulatory agency that has reviewed the project, including the Saco River Corridor Commission, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
The review of the project by the Biddeford Planning Board is expected to be extensive. During last week’s meeting, board members asked UNE representatives for additional information and then voted unanimously to conduct both a site walk and a “boat tour” near the proposed location.
Schafer and others have praised the Planning Board’s “obvious commitment” to fairness and transparency. He says he will continue to keep a close watch on the project.
Delage says that the university is willing to meet with critics or others who would like more information about the proposal.
“The university really appreciates any opportunity to put more information out there for the public.” Delage said. “We are acting in good faith for everyone involved, especially those who use and cherish the river like we do.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Hundreds of people turned out for this year’s Biddeford-Saco Memorial Day ceremony, which was held this year at Waterhouse Field in Biddeford.
Because of an ongoing sewer/road repair project, Main Street in Biddeford and Saco could not be closed to traffic for a parade,
A big crowd began gathering more than 30 minutes before the start of this year’s Biddeford-Saco Memorial Day celebration. (Seaver photo)
Organizers of this year’s ceremony — who have been working together for several weeks — say they were pleased by the turnout, the good weather and the participation of local high school and middle school marching bands.
The Rev. Shirly Bowen gave this year’s invocation, reminding attendees that Memorial Day is about much more than barbecues and the unofficial beginning of summer.
“We begin by giving thanks,” Bowen told the crowd. “Those lost in battle demonstrated the kind of courage that most of us could not imagine.”
“Those lost in battle demonstrated the kind of courage that most of us could not imagine.”
— Rev. Shirley Bowen
Don Chretien, a Biddeford native, recalled his days as a young helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.
Chretien told the crowd that he joined the U.S. Marine Corps right after graduating from the University of Maine in 1967. Chretien pointed out that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War in April 1975.
More than 58,000 American men and women lost their lives in combat during that war.
Chretien recalled some of his painful losses, telling those gathered that his helicopter squadron lost three pilots and an entire five-man crew.
Don Chretien of Biddeford shares his experiences in Vietnam where her served as Marine Corps helicopter pilot
He also shared a personal story about a close friend, who died when he was just 23 years old. Chretien described Marty Benson as a “warm and friendly man,” a person always willing to step up to a challenge. Benson died only three months after arriving in Vietnam.
Notable dignitaries at this year’s event included all the members of the Biddeford-Saco legislative delegation; members of the Biddeford and Saco city councils; Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman and Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail.
Kayla Lewis, a U.S. Navy veteran, served as master of ceremonies; and the event’s Grand Marshal was Ray Hallczuk — a U.S. Air Force veteran — who laid a Memorial wreath as the crowd took to their feet while Taps was played and the U.S flag was lowered to half-mast.
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman shares a few laughs with some local veterans just before the start of this year’s Memorial Day celebration (L-R) Rick St. Onge, American Legion commander; Ted Sirois, adj. commander; Michael Goulet, Grohman and Grand Marshal Ray Hallczuk. (Seaver photo)
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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It’s been a while since my last newsletter, but I am feeling good about the Biddeford Gazette’s trajectory and its future.
From time to time, I have to keep reminding myself that this publication is only four months old. We have come quite a way in just the last few weeks.
We also have some pretty big – and interesting – stories on the immediate horizon, but I am quite glad to be taking a bit of a breather during this holiday weekend. This last week, especially, has been a whirlwind.
Speaking of the holiday, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the local volunteers, veterans, city officials and non-profit organizations who work so hard every year to pay a somber and meaningful tribute to all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
Although the major sewer/road project is preventing a parade this weekend, there will be a very special ceremony held at Waterhouse Field, complete with marching bands and everything else you would see in a parade. As Marshall Archer – Commander of Biddeford AMVETS Post No. 1 – said, ‘It will be just like a parade without all the walking.”
You can find more information about this year’s ceremony by clicking this link
I am also quite proud of what the Gazette has been able to accomplish, and I really appreciate all the great feedback I have been receiving.
Unlike other media sites, we publish local obituaries from area funeral homes every Sunday at no charge to the families or the public. People seem to appreciate the service, and according to our analytical indicators it remains as one of the Gazette’s most popular features.
With the help of our social media partners, we have access to more than 35,000 people in the Biddeford-Saco area.
People also seem to enjoy our Community Voices page, where we feature things written and submitted to us from other people. Over the past few weeks, we have published stories from others about a project to preserve dune grass at local beaches, the accomplishments of Biddeford students. — including the undefeated Biddeford Middle School math teams — and the perspective of a volunteer at the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center.
We plan to be expanding this section in the coming weeks, including coverage of legislative issues that are being shaped in Augusta.
A unique approach to sharing news
There is also one thing we do that is pretty unique in the competitive world of gathering and sharing news.
We actually highlight stories about Biddeford from other media sites. We use our social media page to share stories about Biddeford from other journalists and publications, including Saco Bay News, the Portland Press Herald, Maine Biz, Spectrum News, WGME-TV and WMTW-TV.
We help direct more traffic directly to their websites or social media pages.
Why do we do this? We do it for you so that you can have all of the latest news and information about Biddeford, all gathered and easy to find in one place.
To the best of my knowledge, no other news site does this.
Lots happening in Biddeford
As I said near the top, we have some pretty exciting news stories on the horizon, including the fact that Biddeford is close to hiring a new city manager and my suspicion is that we have yet to hear the last from former City Manager James Bennett who was ousted from his office in February.
Over the past several days, we have been averaging one new – and often exclusive – news story per day.
For example, this week we continued our ongoing coverage of a massive sewer/road project that will be continuing until November. (Please try to support downtown merchants. Many of them are hurting because people are avoiding the area)
I think that about covers it. As always, thank you for reading! And if you haven’t yet, please join hundreds of others and subscribe to our site. Also, please like and follow us on Facebook. Tell your friends and family, too!
Enjoy your weekend, and let’s all hope that we can enjoy a few sunny days this summer.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) fifth and sixth-grade Math Meet teams earned first place at all four meets this season, finishing undefeated in the Southern Maine Elementary Math League. The seventh-grade team also delivered a strong performance in the Southern Maine Math League, consistently placing in the top half of competitors across four meets.
The fifth and sixth-grade teams’ undefeated run was bolstered by multiple individual students finishing in the top five at each event, highlighting both team and individual achievement. Top-performing students included Maddox Keddy, Ollie Long, Murphy Adams, Aurora Wilson, Nora LeBlanc, Josie LeBlanc, Charles Larsen, Tyler Blais, Kay Pierson, and Noah Villiora, who consistently ranked among the highest scorers throughout the season, a testament to their consistent performance and preparation.
Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) sixth-grade Math Meet placed first at their last meet of the year! Pictured: (L-R) Kaden Hinson, Noah Villora, Nora LeBlanc, Kay Pierson, Josie LeBlanc, and Charles Larsen. (Contributed Photo)
The seventh-grade team, competing in the Southern Maine Math League, also had a commendable year. They secured 2nd place at the first meet, followed by 4th place finishes at both the second and third meets, and 6th place at the season’s final meet.
“We are so proud of our students’ dedication and perseverance throughout the year,” said Suzanne Tighe, BMS Math Meet Coach. “They put in the effort week after week, and their results reflect not only talent, but also teamwork and a true love of learning.”
Biddeford Middle School Principal Scott Descoteaux added, “It’s exciting to see our students thriving in such a challenging academic setting. The success of these teams is a reflection of the hard work by our staff, families, and—most importantly—our students. We look forward to seeing what they accomplish next.”
Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) fifth grade Math Meet team earned first place at all four meets this season, finishing undefeated in the Southern Maine Elementary Math League. Pictured: (Front Row, L-R) Kalina Simard, Ollie Long, Theodore Pierson, Carson Charland; (Middle Row, L-R) Julia Pettyjohn, Natalie Deschambault, Libby Loranger, Aurora Wilson; and (Back Row, L-R) Murphy Adams, Joe LeBlanc, Tyler Blais, Maddox Keddy. (Contributed Photo)
Biddeford Middle School is proud to celebrate the success and hard work of its students. These young mathematicians demonstrated strong teamwork, critical thinking, and academic excellence. Their achievements set a positive example for peers and reflect the vibrant academic culture at BMS.
Karen Garnett is the communications director for the Biddeford School System. She can be contacted at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me
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During Wednesday’s Planning Board meeting, not a single member of the public spoke in favor of the proposed location for a research-docking pier that the University of New England wants to build on the Saco River.
Although several people told the board that they supported the idea of UNE building a new pier, they also said the proposed location for the pier is a bad plan and would adversely impact public recreation, nearby mooring owners and commercial fishing operations near the mouth of the river.
During the public comment period, which lasted nearly an hour, several people also complained about what they said is “a lack of transparency” about the project and the university’s closed-ranks approach to building the pier in their preferred location.
Alan Thibeault, the university’s vice president of operations, introduced the project to the board, stressing that prior boards “approved the pier concept, design and location” as part of the university’s overall master plan.
Thibeault told the board that UNE has spent many years planning and designing the proposed pier, considering nine different locations along the shoreline near the school’s Marine Sciences Center building.
Former city councilor Kyle Noble addresses the Biddeford Planning Board about the University of New England’s proposed research pier on the Saco River (Seaver Photo)
“We are here tonight to listen,” Thibeault said during his opening remarks, pointing out that project has already been approved by the Saco River Corridor Commission, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
But many residents saw Wednesday’s meeting as their first opportunity for a bite at the apple for public comment and feedback of the project, which includes a 130-foot approach pier with an 80 by 20-foot pier head jutting out into the channel.
Former city councilor Kyle Noble who lives near UNE’s Biddeford campus, described UNE’s application as “incomplete.” Are you going to side with the public or UNE?” Noble asked the board. “If they were good neighbors as they so often claim, they would have designed this differently.”
Thibeault told the board that the university’s current research vessel is only 32-feet long, despite prior talk of a new, much larger vessel of more than 60-feet in length.
Dan Chadbourne, Saco’s former harbormaster, told the board, “You don’t build an 80-foot pier for a 32-foot boat.”
Chadbourne said he thinks the university has needed a more adequate pier for a long time, going back decades to when the school was St. Francis College. “The location is the issue,” he said. “Where they want it is gonna catch ice, and they’re gonna be disappointed when they are unable to turn because of inadequate depth in that area.”
Although Thibeault told the board that mooring impacts would be minimal and that the university had tried to obtain maps of private moorings, several local mooring owners approached the podium one-by-one to say that their moorings would be adversely impacted and that UNE has done nothing to contact them.
Walter Alexander of Biddeford is the son of former harbormaster Marshall Alexander who was the city’s harbormaster for 37 years before retiring a few years ago and then died late last year.
The younger Alexander told the board: “My father was the one who gave UNE what he thought was a much better plan for their pier, closer and parallel to the shore,” he said.
“The university has deep pockets, and they have threatened the city with litigation if they don’t get the location they want,” Alexander said. “There has been a lack of transparency, and this whole thing has turned into little more than a big dock contest.”
Peter Mourmouras, the owner of Saco Bay Tackle, told the board that the proposed pier would essentially close off a very popular fishing area that generates revenue for the local economy from chartered recreational fishing trips.
John Schafer, the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission, has been an outspoken critic of the project. He reminded the board that Biddeford’s former city manager “silenced both the city harbormaster and assistant harbormaster” from the review process last year. “Since then, there has been no local knowledge evaluating this proposal,” Schafer said. “The university has twice threatened to sue the city, as outlined in letters from February 2024 and again in March 2024.”
Other representatives from the university attended Wednesday’s meeting, seated together in the back row, including the school’s senior attorney and a public relations representative. None of them addressed the board.
“There has been a lack of transparency, and this whole thing has turned into little more than a big dock contest.”
— Walter Alexander
At the end of the public comment period, several board members said they felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the project, including the school’s submission that is reportedly more than 1,000 pages of information.
Board members voted unanimously to conduct a site walk of the area, and a possible boat tour of the river area at low tide, stressing that the public would be notified and invited to participate.
Board chair Alexa Plotkin asked the university to provide some more details, saying the board would appreciate more than just “four or five days” to review additional information.
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A small contingent of downtown Biddeford business owners and residents filed into Mayor Marty Grohman’s office Wednesday morning to “brainstorm” and share ideas about how to soften the impact of an ongoing road construction project that sometimes snarls traffic.
Grohman set up the meeting last week after his voicing his own concerns about the situation in a Facebook post that showed him driving through the city.
Grohman started the meeting by pointing out the window of his second-floor office at City Hall, which overlooks the intersection of Adams and Main streets.
A small group of residents and downtown merchants meet with the mayor to discuss ways to help downtown business and soften the impact of a “massive” road construction project (Seaver photo)
“There is literally no traffic right now,” Grohman said, pointing to an absence of traffic at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
Just a few moments later, northbound traffic was backed up with a stream of vehicles, some of which were blocking the intersection, not allowing traffic to turn right or left onto Main Street from Adams Street.
Grohman described the sewer upgrade as a “massive job” mandated by the state in order to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Saco River.
Those attending the meeting said the city needs to change its “messaging” about the project.
“it really doesn’t matter why it has to be done,” said Jon Phillips, co-owner of Time & Tide Coffee on Main Street. “People either already know why the project has to be done or they don’t care.”
Peter DiPietrantonio, the owner of 3D’s Variety on Main Street, agreed with Phillips. “There are a lot of angry drivers out there,” he said. “And they are just making it worse for everyone.”
Although the group shared their frustrations, most of the conversation centered upon ways to possibly reduce the traffic impacts and help struggling business owners.
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown,” said Carolyn Schmidtke of Better Biddeford, a downtown advocacy group. “Our downtown businesses are really hurting.”
Phillips said his revenues are down roughly 30 percent, while DiPietrantonio said his business is down 10-15 percent. Ian Kern, co-owner of Nibblesford on Washington Avenue, reported his business is down roughly 40 percent.
“People are avoiding downtown because they don’t want to get stuck in traffic,” said resident Barbara Pelletier. “But the reality is that even when traffic is bad, it takes only a couple of extra minutes to get from one place to the next.”
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown.”
— Carolyn Schmidtke
The group discussed ideas such as a “downtown passport” program where downtown visitors could get a stamp in a booklet at different locations and then be entered for a raffle prize.
Other ideas suggested included holding additional downtown events and programs.
The group also discussed potential ideas aimed at easing traffic concerns, including allowing traffic to turn right on red at the intersection of Hill Street, possibly hiring traffic guards to direct traffic in high-volume areas, including near Mechanics Park and increasing signage about the project along the city’s outer perimeter near the entrance of the Turnpike.
Ted Sirois of Saco said he understands why motorists are frustrated. Sirois told the group that he has been avoiding downtown because of the project, saying he used to visit Dupuis Hardware on Elm Street but now uses the turnpike to go to Ace Hardware in Scarborough.
Public Work Director Jeff Demers said he does not understand that logic. “I’m not saying that things are easy, but I go to local merchants because I like the owners, I like the service and the products,” he said. “If it’s going to take me a few extra minutes, so what?”
Demers shared that the project was well coordinated in its planning stages and continues to be a collaborative project with city officials in Saco, the Maine Turnpike, the Maine Department of Transportation, fire and police services in both communities and the city’s engineering staff.
“Summer is coming,” said resident Amy Francouer. “But at what cost? We have worked so hard over the last few years to bring people into downtown. How do we get them to keep coming here?”
Phillips said he is hoping the community will rally as it did during the early weeks of the Covid pandemic. “We’re one community,” he said. “We can do this if we work together.”
Grohman said he is planning another public meeting next week.
“I think we heard some good stuff today, hopefully we can come up with some positive solutions,” the mayor said. “I’m pleased that we have people willing to help and I think we can be creative.
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