A well-known community leader and volunteer, Craig Pendletonhas joined the Biddeford Gazette’s board of directors
CRAIG PENDLETON | Contributed Photo
BIDDEFORD | Biddeford Gazette, Inc. – the parent company of the Biddeford Gazette — is pleased to announce that Craig Pendleton of Old Orchard Beach has formally joined the Gazette’s board of directors as the corporation’s treasurer.
In his role as treasurer, Pendleton will have joint control and oversight of all financial accounts maintained by the Biddeford-based, non-profit news organization, serving as the corporation’s Chief Financial Officer.
The board of directors also voted Thursday to appoint Pendleton to serve as chair of the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Council.
“We are thrilled that Craig has agreed to share his time and resources with us as we continue our journey of building a community-driven, non-profit news organization,” said Laura Seaver, president and CEO of Biddeford Gazette, Inc.
“Craig brings to the table decades of proven and effective community leadership in the business, non-profit and government sectors,” Seaver added. “His resume is impressive and speaks for itself.”
Pendleton, a retired commercial fisherman and business leader, was the founder and coordinating director of the Northwest Atlantic Marine Alliance, a non-profit organization designed to bring together commercial fishing interests, academic researchers and government regulatory officials to help develop a collaborative approach in Gulf of Maine’s fisheries management.
Pendleton later served as executive director of the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also served as transportation director of Biddeford-Saco-Old Orchard Beach Transit.
“His resume is impressive and speaks for itself.”
— Laura Seaver, publisher
Today, Pendleton continues to serve on the PeoplesChoice Credit Union board of directors, a position he has held for over 30 years, including 20 years as board chair.
“I’m always ready for the next challenge and looking for new ways to improve our community,” Pendleton said. “I am excited about the Biddeford Gazette’s mission and its future potential as a valuable news resource and community partner.”
Pendleton – a native of Saco – grew up in Camp Ellis, a tight-knit neighborhood perched on the shores of Saco Bay. He graduated from Thornton Academy in 1978 and then graduated from the University of Rhode Island, earning a degree in Commercial Fishing and Marine Technology. In 2010, he completed his bachelor’s degree at Husson University.
For more information about the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Council and its other members | Community Advisory Council
One of the coolest things about doing something for more than 30 years is the memories you make along the way.
As a political junkie – especially in regards to the city of Biddeford – it is extremely rewarding for me to have an archive of local political news that dates back nearly 30 years to the mid-1990s.
DISCLOSURE | Because he is now a political candidate in Biddeford, Sam Pecor no longer serves on the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Board.
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I am the only active reporter who remembers another young man who was also very excited about serving on Biddeford’s Charter Review Commission more than 10 years ago.
That young man won his election to the Charter Review Commission and used that opportunity to launch a successful political career. Today, that once enthusiastic teenager is the Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives.
In fairness, Ryan Fecteau actually started his political career as a student representative on the Biddeford School Committee while attending Biddeford High School.
20162026
My wife, Laura – the Gazette’s publisher – was serving on the school committee at that time, and she was designated to be Fecteau’s coach and advisor.
That is one of our strengths at the Biddeford Gazette. We have unmatched institutional knowledge about the city of Biddeford, its politics and its people.
The Gazette can use and rely on that knowledge to offer our readers valuable context to important stories that impact our community.
I got thinking about all of this because the Gazette is still working on a feature story about Chuck Cote of Biddeford and his dedication to building and maintaining a fascinating archive of Biddeford’s sports and political history, especially when it comes to the former St. Louis High School.
The working title of that upcoming story is Taking A Walk Down Biddeford’s Memory Lane.
We interviewed Chuck last week. Why is it taking so long to publish a story that we know is being highly anticipated by many of our readers?
Primarily, because that story is complex and we consider it to be very important. Moreover, we care much more about doing a good job rather than doing a quick job.
What a long, strange trip it’s been
The Gazette’s historical archive comes primarily from my days as a reporter and editor for the Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier from 1997 to 2006; as a freelance reporter for Saco Bay News (2023-2024) and from my personal blog, All Along the Watchtower that started in 1999 as a weekly column in the Courier and continued until I launched the Biddeford Gazette in Nov. 2024
CAUTION | My personal website is somewhat messy and in the process of being revamped, so please temper your expectations. It also contains coarse language.
A MUCH YOUNGER EDITOR | Randy Seaver reports from the roof of Biddeford City Hall in 2000 about the efforts to save the Lincoln Mill Clocktower that has been now wiped away from the city’s skyline
There is other stuff on my website, dating back to the early 1980s when I was working as a temporary, non-paid, student intern at the Journal Tribune, Biddeford’s former daily newspaper.
There is also stuff there from my days as collaborative research reporter and communications director for the Northwest Atlantic Marine Alliance, a non-profit that covered fisheries in the Gulf of Maine and my time as senior associate at Barton & Gingold, one of Maine’s most respected political and public policy consulting firms.
While working at Barton & Gingold, I really enjoyed playing a role in shaping public policy issues that were sometimes controversial.
CONSULTANT RANDY SEAVER is flanked by former Biddeford City Manager John Bubier (left) and David Flood, publisher of Mainely Media (right) during a meeting at the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce about a new federal health insurance tax proposal in 2015.
Shortly after Barton & Gingold was sold in 2014, I launched my own political consulting firm, Randy Seaver Consulting.
I still operate my own consulting practice, but I do not work for any clients or projects that could be connected to the city of Biddeford. That would be a glaring and unacceptable conflict of interest.
In closing, if you so desire you can find my installment of my Then & Now updates (Ryan Fecteau) at this link | All The Young Dudes, Redux
CORRECTION | Though it is grossly ironic and thus difficult to admit, this story contained a typographical error regarding its own historical context. I worked as a freelance reporter at Saco Bay News from 2023 to 2024, not starting in 2003, before Saco Bay News even existed. I am fortunate and grateful that I can still rely on my former editor Liz Gotthelf and her eagle-eye and penchant for accuracy. In retrospect, perhaps it’s time for this old geezer to be put out to pasture. We sincerely apologize for the error.
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That’s our opinion, and we welcome yours. You may submit either a guest column of the same length or a letter to the editor by contacting us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com.
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE |A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
School Supt. Jeremy Ray is expected to make his annual presentation of the proposed school budget before the Biddeford City Council this evening, March 17.
The city council is already wrestling with a proposed municipal budget that was presented last week by municipal department heads. That early proposal – subject to rigorous public review and likely cuts — reflects an increase of more than 11 percent over last year’s budget.
JEREMY RAY | Biddeford School Superintendent (LinkedIn photo)
It is important to note that both the municipal and school budgets will likely be trimmed as the annual budget process begins in earnest later this month, including public hearings.
It is also important to note that the proposed city budget – even in its early and preliminary stage (which is likely to change significantly) — represents an increase over last year’s approved budget, not the actual spending that has been impacted this year by staff shortages and increased employee overtime costs.
Biddeford Schools | Challenges & Opportunities
According to documents already available for public inspection, Ray will be giving councilors a detailed preview and assessment of the school department’s needs over the next fiscal year.
Ray’s planned presentation will include discussion of various “cost drivers” impacting the school department’s FY 2027 budget. Those increasing costs include salaries, increasing health insurance costs and the need for new positions.
Ray is also expected to detail the impacts of the state’s current school funding formula and review proposed legislation that would benefit communities such as Biddeford, where rising property value assessments trigger a requirement for a larger local share of public education costs.
Tonight’s Biddeford City Council meeting begins at 6 p.m. and can be viewed remotely online, or via the city public access cable television station.
Ray’s slideshow presentation is included below as a PDF file.
MARCH 16, 2026 | The Greater Biddeford Saco Music Hall of Fame has announced its inductees for the class of 2026 among musicians throughout York County.
The class of 2026 inductees include: J.D. Drown; The ID; Johnny Martinez’ Lower East Side; Armand Paquette and The Tidal Waves.
The inductees will be celebrated at the induction ceremony and show on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 5pm at the Biddeford Performing Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased at MidTown Music in Biddeford for cash only; tickets can also be purchased online: Music Hall of Fame – Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center.
Tickets purchased online are $15 until 8 pm on May 1; the fee increases to $20 at the door on the day of the show.
The third annual event often sells out, attracting more than 800 people, and is a program of the Biddeford Cultural Heritage Center. The group’s mission is to “Celebrate, preserve, educate and promote Biddeford’s rich past and present historical culture, heritage and diversity.”
“Recognizing the influence of music in our lives is such an important part of our heritage and history,” said Diane Cyr, the center’s board president. “Growing up, there was always music whether it was in the church choir, gathering around the piano at family events and holidays, or just going out. Music was a part of our lives and it’s great to see how it continues to bring people together.”
“This program recognizes those who made an impact on our community, and the energy of those attending is infectious. I’m so happy we can continue to do this,” she added.
The show has sold out the past two years, packing the more than 800-person auditorium.
“The music is incredible,” said show Deb Lombard, Selection Committee Chairman and member of the Greater Biddeford-Saco Music Hall of Fame. “The genres of music in Biddeford, Saco and greater York County run the gambit from classic rock and French-Canadian sounds to crooners reminiscent of Roy Orbison.”
Musicians perform both their own music and familiar tunes.
“The talent that exists in York County is phenomenal,” said Lombard, founder of The Dance Company, and whose background in musical theater and dance spans decades.
“This show is a must-see,” she added. “From the performers to the sound and lighting, you can expect a production that is professional, heartwarming and entertaining.”
Earlier today, I spent some time with Chuck Cote at the Biddeford Community Center reviewing his amazing archive of local sports and political newspaper clippings and other fascinating memorabilia.
We plan to publish a full story tomorrow, including an interview, some fun pictures, video and a really fun walk down Biddeford’s memory lane as Chuck tells us about the Glory Days of St. Louis High School, and when a presidential candidate visited Biddeford more than 50 years ago.
In the meantime, take a quick look back at these young punks who ran — and won –seats on the Biddeford City Council on Mayor Babe Dutremble’s ticket in 1977.
THEN . . .
Roch AngersAlan CasavantDick Lambert
Wow . . . time goes so fast (I was 13 back then and delivering the Journal Tribune in my neighborhood.)
TODAY . . .
AngersCasavantLambert
If you love Biddeford history, check back with us tomorrow!
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Members of the Biddeford High School Tigers Unified Basketball Team faced their opponents Thursday with steely gazes and wide grins.
The Biddeford Tigers take the court just before the start of Thursday’s season final in Sanford (Seaver photo)
It was a thrilling game that ended the regular season for the Unified Basketball program in southern Maine.
The Tigers traveled to Sanford and took on the mighty Spartans with determination and grit, and when the final buzzer sounded, Biddeford walked off the court with a solid 90 – 84 win.
“We took it the end with Brandon Lambert throwing several three-pointers and teammates Bentley and Ayden continuously scoring their two-pointer shots back-to-back,” said Biddeford Coach Lauren Cote.
“We finished the season with a bang,” the coach said excitedly just minutes after the final buzzer.
Junior Dexter Orifice (27) celebrates a teammate’s two-pointer (Seaver photo)
Both teams offered a packed house of spectators a thrilling sporting event that encapsulated the spirit of players who each demonstrated pure, unfiltered joy in simply being able to play on the hardwood in front of their cheering parents, friends and family members.
An enthusiastic crowd of supporters enjoyed Thursday’s game (Seaver photo)
Players from both teams offered each other numerous high-fives and exploding fist bumps. The smiles were unmistakable, and the Tiger Pride spirit filled the Sanford gymnasium.
The Spartans also played their hearts out and were able to repeatedly close some big gaps as Biddeford’s offense capitalized on vulnerabilities under the boards.
The Spartans never slowed or showed any diminishing enthusiasm. They deployed some stunning break-away defensive moves that gave them opportunities for another drive down the court for wide open two-pointers.
Every picture tells a story (Photo by Coach Lauren Cote)
Cote and fellow coach Craig Chamberlain both said the Tigers had “a great season with many wins and some losses also, but our players and partners always go into a game with the greatest team spirit and they always play to the best of their abilities,” Cote said.
“They love the game so much — with all of their hearts and Tiger Pride shines through every time,” the coach added. “We are so proud of every single one of them.”
VIDEO
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Over the past decade, Biddeford’s property taxes have steadily climbed. In 2013 the city’s total tax rate was $16.54 per $1,000 of valuation. By 2022 it had reached $18.23, with several years above $19 and even $20 along the way.
That may not sound dramatic at first glance, but it represents roughly a 10 percent increase in the tax rate over ten years—and that figure doesn’t include the dramatic rise in property valuations that has pushed many homeowners’ actual tax bills much higher.
At the same time, many Biddeford residents are facing the same reality as everyone else: inflation, rising insurance costs, and household budgets that do not grow automatically each year.
That is why this moment—when the next Biddeford Charter Commission is being considered—is the right time to discuss a structural reform: tying property-tax increases to inflation.
Across the country, municipalities are experimenting with tax caps or inflation-indexed limits to ensure government grows at roughly the same pace as the economy that supports it. The principle is simple. If inflation is 3 percent, the default growth of government should not exceed 3 percent unless voters explicitly approve it.
Such a rule does not prevent the city from funding important priorities. If voters want expanded services, new schools, or large infrastructure projects, they can approve overrides at the ballot box. But it does create an important discipline: government must justify spending increases rather than assuming taxpayers will absorb them.
An inflation-linked property-tax cap would also force difficult—but healthy—budget conversations. When revenue growth is limited, cities must prioritize core services, reduce waste, and rethink programs that may no longer be essential. In other words, government must make the same choices that Biddeford families make every day.
“. . . growth should not automatically translate into ever-rising tax burdens for the people who built this community. . .”
Biddeford is in a period of remarkable growth. Downtown investment has surged, property values have increased, and new residents are discovering the city’s character and potential. But growth should not automatically translate into ever-rising tax burdens for the people who built this community long before the boom.
The upcoming Charter Commission presents a rare opportunity to place long-term guardrails on municipal finance. A charter provision tying property-tax increases to inflation—unless voters approve otherwise—would create predictability for homeowners, discipline for city government, and transparency for taxpayers.
Biddeford’s future is bright. The question now is whether the city will adopt policies that ensure prosperity growth does not come at the expense of affordability. The next Charter Commission should seize this moment and put a sensible inflation-based tax limit before the voters.
NOTE: The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE |A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
According to multiple sources, Biddeford City Clerk Robin Patterson will be resigning her position, effective April 10 this year.
City Manager Truc Dever sent an email message to all city staff and elected officials, notifying them of Patterson’s decision.
City Clerk Robin Patterson (City photo)
There was no information available at press time about why Patterson decided to resign.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Patterson was hired as Biddeford’s City Clerk, in May 2023. She was nominated for the position by former mayor Alan Casavant at the recommendation of former city manager James Bennett — who was abruptly removed from his position last year, Feb. 10.
Prior to working in Biddeford, Patterson was the town clerk and registrar of voters for the town of Benton, Maine, a small central Maine community where she also served as deputy clerk for one year.
CORRECTION | An earlier version of this story misidentified the name of City Clerk Robin Patterson. It was a typographical error, and we apologize for the mistake.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
University of New England President Dr. James Herbert today released a formal statement to the Biddeford community regarding the school’s controversial research pier proposal.
Herbert’s statement was sent to area media outlets and city officials.
Herbert’s public statement is the first time he has publicly spoken about the research pier. Today’s statement follows increasing public frustration about the project, including a recent public hearing of the city’s newly formed Institutional Zone Review Committee.
Herbert was appointed to serve on that committee by Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain.
In his statement, Herbert expressed frustration, writing that “the public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources.”
UNE also released its own timeline of events connected to the pier project (See Below)
The following statement was taken directly from a press release issued by the university earlier today.
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Dear Members of the Biddeford Community,
“In recent months there has been significant discussion about the University of New England’s proposed research pier on the Saco River. I understand that projects affecting our waterfront and local environment naturally generate strong interest and thoughtful questions from the community.
I want to begin by acknowledging something directly. Despite our best efforts, UNE has clearly fallen short in our communication efforts.
The extensive public meetings, project updates and community outreach efforts conducted with a goal of full transparency still left some residents with questions in the face of rumors and misinformation. For that reason, we are sharing the accompanying timeline so members of the community can better understand how this project evolved and the steps that have led us to this point. While the timeline is not inclusive of every action or conversation related to the project, it provides an overview of key milestones to date.
The idea of a research pier at UNE’s Marine Science Center has been under study for many years. Marine engineers and environmental specialists evaluated multiple potential locations before identifying the site that best balanced safety, environmental protection, minimization of impacts to navigation, water depth, and operational needs.
Over time, the design has been refined to reduce its footprint and address concerns raised during the review process. The project has undergone extensive regulatory review and has received approvals from the appropriate federal, state, and local agencies.
Throughout this process, many residents have participated in meetings and conversations with university representatives, and we appreciate the thoughtful engagement of those who have shared their perspectives and concerns in good faith.
Unfortunately, the public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources. These communications do little to advance a constructive conversation and instead contribute to confusion, distrust, and an inaccurate understanding of the project. In some cases, that seems to be their intent.
“The public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources
— UNE President Dr. James Herbert
UNE has been part of the Biddeford community for generations. Our students, faculty, and staff live, work, volunteer, and contribute to the vitality of this city. UNE is proud to be one of Biddeford’s largest employers and a major contributor to the economic, educational, and cultural life of the region. The proposed research pier is intended to support marine science research, education, and stewardship of the Saco River and the Gulf of Maine.
Biddeford is our home, and we remain committed to being a good neighbor and a contributing member of this community. We will redouble our efforts to keep residents informed as this project moves forward and to provide clear, fact-based information about the project and its benefits. Please feel free to contact us directly with any questions you may have at researchpier@une.edu.
The mayor mentions that it is time to review the zone ordinance since it has not been updated in nearly 25 years. He refers to a need for clarity on “what is permitted, how impacts are evaluated, and how decisions are made.”
LaFountain adds that the “recently appointed institutional zone review committee will `review the ordinance, gather public input, and recommend whether revisions are warranted.”
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain
The committee, according to the mayor’s piece, was formed through a “regular public appointment process” and describes the background of the appointees.
His column refers to the possible need to update the ordinance, based [upon] infrastructure influence, traffic patterns, public safety demands and neighborhood character.
While the above is interesting, of greater interest, is what was not mentioned.
Given that this committee Is largely composed of Hills Beach residents, what exactly has been the “regular public appointment process” by which they were nominated? This is not just between Hills Beach and the university; this involves the entire city.
The mayor suggests the need for a comprehensive update referring to infrastructure influence, traffic patterns, public safety demands, and neighborhood character.
Largely missing is mention of the services of a professional city planner with the necessary expertise to balance the needs of the residents, the university and the city at large.
Finally, since it is time to update ordinances to accommodate the needs of our citizens, isn’t it also time to review the accessibility of our beautiful beaches to the residents at large?
All city residents pay taxes not just Hills Beach. These taxes pay for streets and public areas and should be accessible to all.
Those with homes in the most desirable areas of public interest should accommodate the need to share reasonable accessibility with others. The deliberate exclusion of available parking for beach access is reprehensible. It is time to correct this.
[Editor’s Note The city of Biddeford has been working on and deliberating the need to expand public parking opportunities in the city’s coastal neighborhoods over the last several weeks.]
Remove the no parking signs. Provide more public parking for beach accessibility.
If our city government is truly representative of the city at large, this can be done. Do our politicians really represent us? – or is it heavily weighed in favor of a particular group?
Diane Snow, Cumberland, Maine
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The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain told the Biddeford Gazette early Tuesday afternoon that he is optimistic about his proposal to bring in a temporary consultant to help city staffers and elected leaders address several critical issues that have been plaguing the city for more than two years.
The city council is expected to vote this evening to approve the hiring of Patricia Finnigan, a well-known and highly experienced municipal consultant for a six-month period.
The city of Biddeford continues to grapple with some difficult issues
Finnigan, whose experience includes more than a decade of serving as the city manager in Auburn, also served as the manager in the towns of Ogunquit and Camden; and served as the assistant city manager in Portland, Maine’s largest city.
“She is certainly qualified and up to the task,” LaFountain said during a brief telephone interview.
According to public documents, the city will pay no more than $36,000 for a six-month period in which Finnigan will help develop strategies and recommendations to address issues at City Hall, including long overdue financial audits that could impact the city’s future ability to borrow money.
Other issues the city is facing include a long overdue update of the city’s comprehensive plan and the potential for significant fines if the city is unable to address outstanding sewer separation projects that are mandated by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
“No one should view this as a lack of confidence in our current staff and their abilities,” LaFountain said. “These issues did not happen overnight, and it is not realistic to think that they can be easily solved after the city’s voters decided it was time for change just a few months ago.”
LaFountain said he wants to ensure that the city has all the resources it needs to finally address problems that have been developing over that last several years.
“No one should view this as a lack of confidence in our current staff and their abilities,”
Bennett, hired by the city in 2015, was a brash and outspoken city leader who left a tangled trail of problems in his wake.
“It’s not just important to fix the problems we’re now facing, it’s also critically important to ensure that we can put systems in place to prevent these problems from ever happening again,” LaFountain said.
LaFountain said that he and every member of the city council is dedicated to the idea of leaving the city in a better place than they found it a little more than 90 days ago.
“We are striving for accountability and transparency,” LaFountain added. “That’s not going to happen without some pain and a thorough examination of what’s needed to right the city’s ship.”
Tonight’s special meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall council chambers.
UPDATE | The full city council voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Finnegan.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Considering it was the first birthday I was dreading; it turned to be the best birthday week I can remember.
As we age, we are all reminded to focus on friends, family and doing what we love.
Because I love writing news about Biddeford, I was able to accomplish all three of those goals this week.
The Gazette featured some pretty interesting and exclusive content this week, including ourin-depth examination about a so-called buffer zonethat has found the city of Biddeford and the University of New England battling in York County Superior Court.
UNE President Dr, James Herbert and City Councilor Pat Boston listen to several angry residents who expressed frustration during Monday’s public hearing about development at UNE;s Biddeford campus (Seaver photo)
Our contributing writer Jim Krause also offered Gazette readers a carefully researched story that explains what you need to know when a door-to-door solicitor comes knocking on your door.
As an added treat, we had a blast providing video and print reporting of the first Coffee With A Copevent that was held Wednesday at the Community Center in Biddeford. Nice work by the Biddeford Recreation Department in organizing the event!
Joy to sorrow
The very best part of my week was being invited back to the Biddeford Primary School to read to some second-grade students in Jillian Palladino’s class on Monday. The kids surprised me with a special rendition of Happy Birthday to celebrate both my birthday and that of Dr. Seuss (also Jon Bon Jovi and writer John Irving).
But this week ended on a bittersweet note when I learned of Curtis Robinson’s passing while working on this week’s local obituaries.
I did not know Curtis. He was only a few years older than me, but he was a notable, old-school journalist who got to hang around with my idol Hunter S. Thompson.
‘One of the last great newspapermen” | Curtis Robinson (Aspen Daily News photo)
According to a recent feature story in the Aspen Daily News, Robinson was a journalist’s journalist: “dogged and irreverent kind of journalist — the type who wouldn’t take BS if it was served on a silver platter and knew a government meeting was good material if you could write about it with verve.”
Robinson’s sister lives in South Portland. Our condolences to his family and friends
And that’s a wrap for this week! Some good stuff on the horizon, so keep reading and checking back for the latest updates.
Better yet, subscribe to the Biddeford Gazette today! It’s free and certainly worth it.
CORRECTION | In the first photo caption above, one of our readers alerted us that we mistakenly identified Biddeford City Councilor Pat Boston as “Bat’ Boston. It was a typographical error, and we apologize for the mistake.
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
The York/Biddeford/Old Orchard Beach Boys Hockey Co-Op hockey team won the state championship today, defeating Hampden Academy 3-2 in a thrilling game at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland.
The team has earned rounds of praise from throughout the Biddeford community, including congratulatory remarks on social media platforms by Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain and School Supt Jeremey Ray.
Below are photos shared with the Gazette from Eric Parent of Biddeford, one of the proud parents who attended today’s game!
The new state champs celebrate with their coaches on the ice (Photo provided by Eric Parent of Biddeford)
Connor Parent (left) celebrates Saturday’s championship win with Goalie Connor Thibault (Photo by Eric Parent)
The Biddeford Fire Department helped the new state champs celebrate (Eric Parent photo)
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
A former Biddeford resident who now lives in Ada, Mich., recently sent an email to the Gazette complaining that we have been “unfair and biased” toward the University of New England.
In his March 6 email, Bernard Roy – a 1971 Biddeford High School graduate – expressed disappointment regarding the Gazette’s coverage of issues connected to UNE.
Roy also expressed outrage that the Gazette “ignored” a letter-to-the-editor he sent to us on Feb. 28, somehow missing the fact that his letter was actually published by the Biddeford Gazette three days later, on March 2, 2026. LETTER | City is Treating UNE Unfairly
Is the Gazette’s coverage of UNE biased?
The Gazette regularly and frequently publishes a high volume of news focused on the city of Biddeford. Thus, it is understandable how Roy could have missed seeing his letter published on our site.
The Gazette strongly encourages and promotes transparency and reader feedback regarding our coverage. Go here to submit your own letter
In the interests of transparency and full disclosure, the Gazette is sharing its unedited emailed response to Mr. Roy today, March 7.
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Dear Mr. Roy,
I would advise you to tread carefully before you accuse me and/or the Biddeford Gazette of any negative “bias” toward the University of New England.
1.) We did, in fact, publish your letter to the editor on Monday, March 2, which coincidentally was my birthday and a very busy news day. Here is the link to your piece in the Gazette: LETTER: City is treating UNE unfairly – BIDDEFORD GAZETTE
2.) I did feel compelled to attach an “editor’s note” to your submission. I know that you grew up in Biddeford and graduated from Biddeford High School (Class of 1971) so I was quite surprised that you would complain about how poorly your sister was treated by parking enforcement at Goose Rocks Beach. Most Biddeford folks know that Goose Rocks Beach is located in the town of Kennebunkport, not in the city of Biddeford. I also was left scratching my head, trying to figure how that particular incident has any bearing on the issue at hand.
Numerous Biddeford residents shared concerns about development at UNE during a March 2, public hearing, the same day that the Gazette published Mr. Roy’s letter to the editor.
3.) Not only did I publish your letter, I also published your sister’s letter — and another guest column from someone else who is equally upset about how “unfairly the city is handling issues connected to UNE.” If you visit the Gazette’s website and simply use the “Search” function, you will find everything we have ever published about the university.
No Apologies
4.) I make absolutely no apologies for being a reporter and for rigorously covering this issue, which has been almost virtually ignored by every other media outlet in southern Maine. In fact, I am often the only reporter covering meetings about UNE, including the very first meeting of the newly formed Institutional Zone Review Committee on February 19, coincidentally my mother’s birthday. New UNE oversight committee begins work – BIDDEFORD GAZETTE
UNE Is a Big Part of Biddeford
5.) Frankly, I do not understand why issues connected to UNE do not receive more attention from other media outlets, besides the Biddeford Gazette. As you, your sister and others have pointed out — the University is a major and vibrant part of the Biddeford community.
The university is one of the city’s largest employers and offers numerous and quite tangible economic benefits to its neighbors throughout the city. Development on UNE’s campus — most notably its proposed and controversial research pier — will have numerous impacts (positive and negative) on the community, from environmental impacts to public recreation on the Saco River and impacts to commercial fishermen who now lease moorings in proximity to the proposed pier. No one from the university has seen fit to return calls or answer questions from these mooring owners. They remain consistently ignored.
Criticism With a Familiar Theme
6.) Your recent letter has somewhat familiar fingerprints. The same recurring themes — and almost verbatim language — have been used repeatedly to criticize the city. It almost feels as if it’s part of a coordinated attack. You, your sister and others should relax. Despite being told repeatedly that the recent, temporary moratorium on development at UNE’s Biddeford campus has absolutely no bearing on the St. Joseph’s Convent — located roughly two miles away from the campus main entrance — that issue has become a red herring that you and others are trying to exploit. As a Catholic, I find such a move to be offensive.
City of Biddeford is Being Fair to UNE
7.) When he decided to establish a new committee to comprehensively review and evaluate potential changes to UNE’s master plan (last updated nearly a quarter century ago), Mayor Liam LaFountain took great pains to be fair. In fact, his first pick for the committee was Dr. James Herbert, the university’s president. All of the IZ Review meetings are held publicly, televised, and available to watch online. The media and all citizens have complete and unfettered access to the committee’s work and comments. Does this really strike you as unfair, or somehow nefarious?
The Gazette’s Real Relationship with UNE
UNE students help with dune grass restorationUNE students help string downtown holiday lights
8.) It should be noted that I have a friendly, cordial and cooperative relationship with UNE, including its leadership team and members of its communications department including both Vice President Alan Thibeault and Sarah Delage, the university’s senior spokesperson. Over the past few weeks, the Gazette has published several “news releases” sent to us by the university, including a recent announcement about students helping to restore dune grass: COMMUNITY NEWS – BIDDEFORD GAZETTE
9.) I was recently invited to have lunch on UNE’s campus by Dr. Michael Cripps, a professor at UNE’s School of Arts and Humanities. Dr. Cripps and I had a thoroughly enjoyable discussion that culminated with a conversation about having UNE students who are interested in journalism and communications serve as unpaid interns with the Biddeford Gazette. Do you suppose Dr. Cripps was aware of my horrific bias toward the university when he bought me lunch? (In fairness, I only had a salad).
UNE President Dr. James Herbert was appointed by Mayor LaFountain to serve on a new committee tasked with reviewing development on the Biddeford campus
News, Not Public Relations
10.) Yes, I have covered UNE rigorously. There is absolutely no question that the Gazette has taken a leadership role in ensuring rigorous public conversation and overview of these important issues in our community. I am aware that my reporting has perhaps made some folks connected to UNE feel disquieted or otherwise uncomfortable. Tough cookies. I am a journalist, not a PR hack for the university. You may be interested to know that my reporting on these issues has earned accolades and praise from many of colleagues across the state of Maine.
Shoreline Buffer Concerns Are Not Random
Mayor Liam LaFountain is bending over backward to be fair to UNE
11.) Concerns about the “buffer” that will be impacted by the pier have been shared by Mayor LaFountain and each and every member of the Biddeford City Council who voted unanimously to seek relief on that issue in York County Superior Court, an argument supported by City Attorney Harry B. Center, esq. Hardly “random grievances” from one man, who happens to be the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission
As with everything I publish on the Biddeford Gazette website, I am completely comfortable with my fair, reasonable and dogged approach to covering important issues. If you have a problem with that, I invite you to send us another letter to the editor.
Cheers,
Randy Seaver, editor
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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BIDDEFORD, Maine — For the second year in a row, University of New England students will help the Biddeford Pool Conservation Trust plant dune grass along a section of beach in Biddeford Pool to help make the beaches more climate resilient.
UNE students help with dune grass restoration
On Tuesday, March 10, from 11:30 to about 1:40 p.m. about 16 students from Assistant Professor Will Kochtitzky’s Geographic Information System (GIS) course will aid Biddeford Pool Conservation Trust President Lucie Fontein and around 10 volunteers from the nonprofit to plant dune grass in the three-day effort.
The same volunteer effort was taken last year to address the dune loss that resulted from the 2024 back-to-back January storms that caused an estimated $90 million in damages along the Maine coast, according to the state. This year, the Conservation Trust purchased 66% more dune grass: 20,000 stalks that will cover an estimated 20,000 square feet of beach.
The dune-grass initiative also will launch a new research project. This year dune grass stalks will be planted at both 18 inches and 12 inches apart, two different approaches that Kochtitzky’s classes will study in the years ahead using drone analysis and GPS surveys to determine the most effective method.
The Biddeford Pool Conservation Trust’s volunteer dune grass planting initiative is unique in that many nonprofits and coastal homeowners hire companies to plant dune grass to make beaches more resilient, but the Conservation Trust bought the dune grass independently and then recruited volunteers to assist in planting the grass.
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Spring and summer 2026 are right around the corner. In fact, Daylight Saving Time begins on March 8. Along with melting snow, muddy driveways and yards, and the first flowers of the season, another familiar trend returns to Biddeford: an increase in door-to-door sales.
Each year brings a new wave of sales pitches—solar panels, replacement windows, driveway or roof repairs, house painting, “faster and better internet,” and whatever the latest sales trend happens to be.
It’s the season of door-to-door salespeople
While researching this article, we quickly realized how complicated the issue of door-to-door solicitation can be.
What started as a simple topic turned into a deep dive into city ordinances, state regulations and company practices. Before getting into the details, there’s one key takeaway everyone should remember:
Never invite strangers into your home, and don’t be afraid to say “No, thank you.”
During my research for this story, I spoke with a young woman who knocked on my door and was very persistent about selling solar panels.
To be fair, she seemed polite and professional—much more so than many door-to-door salespeople I’ve encountered. However, it became clear that she likely knew little beyond the basic instructions she had been given: knock on doors, promote solar panels, and try to earn commission.
Through her, I was eventually able to speak with one of her supervisors. That conversation led me to even more research—and more confusion.
I already knew this wasn’t accurate, because the city website lists the companies currently allowed to solicit. Still, it’s very possible she simply didn’t know.
Many companies that rely on door-to-door sales—regardless of the industry—hire temporary local workers, often younger people or college students looking for flexible ways to earn money.
They’re given a clipboard and sometimes a bright vest to appear official, then sent out to knock on doors.
One company involved in these efforts is Freedom Forever, which is currently in the process of merging with another solar company, VITL Power. However, neither company is currently registered to solicit in Biddeford.
Both companies previously held licenses but allowed them to expire or canceled them—VITL Power in June 2025 and Freedom Forever in April 2024.
During a phone call with a manager from Freedom Forever/VITL Power, Owen Haglund stated that the company operates in Maine as “commercial travelers” or “transient sellers,” and therefore believes they do not need a solicitation permit in Biddeford.
However, according to the Maine Attorney General’s website, transient sellers must still be licensed by the stateand must follow the regulations of any municipality where they operate.
Which companies are permitted to knock on doors in Biddeford?
Biddeford City Clerk Robin Patterson confirmed that neither Freedom Forever nor VITL Power is currently permitted to solicit within the city. She also clarified that even transient sellers must obtain permits for each employee who plans to go door-to-door under the city’s ordinance.
Residents can check the city website at any time to see which companies are properly permitted.
The city website also advises residents to ask to see a solicitor’s permit. Anyone legally going door-to-door is required to carry one.
A sample of the permit is available on the website so residents know what to look for.
If you believe someone is soliciting without a permit, behaving aggressively, or failing to provide a required buyer’s rights statement, residents can contact the Biddeford Police Department’s non-emergency line at 207-282-5127.
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Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk emphasized one key safety point during our conversation: never allow a solicitor into your home.
When asked about “No Solicitation” signs, Fisk noted that signs can help discourage law-abiding salespeople, but many solicitors simply ignore them.
In most cases, door-to-door solicitation is regulated by city ordinance rather than criminal law. However, that doesn’t mean problems can’t arise—which is why it’s important to keep interactions at the door and never invite strangers inside.
Fisk also encouraged residents to review both the city’s solicitation ordinance and the information provided by the Maine Attorney General’s Office to better understand their rights as consumers.
So, here’s the short version:
Door-to-door solicitation in Biddeford can be frustrating, but it isn’t going away.
The city has rules in place to regulate it, and reputable companies will follow those rules. Those regulations are designed to protect residents.
However, residents also need to take steps to protect themselves. Don’t invite solicitors into your home, ask to see permits when appropriate and know your rights under the city ordinance.
Salespeople are supposed to show their permit. They’re supposed to respect your decision if you say no. And if you do sign a contract, there are specific consumer protections they must follow before work can begin.
A “No Solicitation” sign can help, but it’s not a guarantee.
As the saying goes, signs keep honest people honest—just like locks keep honest people out.
In the end, the best protection is simple: know your rights, use common sense and don’t be afraid to close the door.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Jim Krause is a freelance writer living in Biddeford. He can be contacted at jiggyjim@live.com
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Even as a lawsuit filed by the city of Biddeford against both the University of New England and the Saco River Corridor Commission continues winding its way through York County Superior Court, a Biddeford resident is ramping up his own efforts to raise awareness about the issue.
John Schafer, the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission, claims the university misled the public during the application review process of a large-scale and somewhat controversial research pier that UNE is hoping to construct on the Saco River.
Moreover, Schafer is also raising questions about a $3.5 million grant that UNE secured through the efforts of U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
U.S. Senator Collins (R-Maine) ,chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee
Schafer points out that more than three years ago, UNE released a map called “Restrictions on Developable Areas.”
While Schafer says that map clearly shows where construction on the UNE campus was “illegal,” UNE representatives adamantly denied those claims, saying that it is Schafer who is misleading the public.
“The suggestion that we deliberately misled anyone is simply untrue,” said Sarah Delage, a university spokesperson. “UNE has been open and honest with all government agencies throughout this process, including Senator Collins’ office and the federal agency that awarded the grant.”
Buffer Zone | A matter of semantics?
Schafer and others – including Biddeford’s city attorney Harry Center – say the 250-foot buffer zone shown on the map illustrates an agreement that UNE made with the SRCC in 2001 when it wanted to build two new dormitories.
In fact, the so-called buffer zone is a central argument in the city’s lawsuit against UNE and the SRCC.
The map provided by the University of New England
Delage and other UNE officials describe the buffer zone as a “vegetative buffer” that does not preclude certain activities, such as the need to construct a paved access for the proposed pier.
“This type of buffer is not a “No-Build” buffer,” Delage told the Gazette during a March 4 telephone interview. “It designates an area where additional permits and oversight are required for approval to build anything new.
“It is not prohibited to build within a buffer, provided you obtain the proper permits,” Delage added. “This is standard practice under Maine’s shoreland zoning rules and is not unique to UNE’s property.”
Center, speaking as Biddeford’s chief legal counsel, told the Gazette that the buffer has indeed become a matter of semantics.
“What’s the point of a ‘vegetative buffer’ if it doesn’t preclude development within that area?” Center asked.
“They [UNE] admitted and acknowledged the existence of that buffer as recently as 2022,” Center said. “It’s an issue that the SRCC ignored in their own review of the proposed pier project.”
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“What’s the point of a ‘vegetative buffer’ if it doesn’t preclude development within that area?”
— Harry Center, Biddeford’s attorney
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Center says the issue will be a statutory matter for a Superior Court judge to decide later this year.
For his part, Schafer points to an Oct. 14, 2025 Biddeford Gazette story and the comments then offered by Delage, saying that the Saco River Corridor Commission did not impose a ‘no-build’ or ‘no construction’ zone within a 250-foot zone from the river.”
“Well, I guess at least now the university is finally admitting that there actually is a buffer zone,” Schafer said, pointing to the university’s own map.
Federal law | Was Collins wrong to provide funding?
Schafer said he is troubled by the fact that Senator Collins’ office announced a $3.5 million grant for the research pier roughly one month after the university released its own map clearly showing the buffer zone.
“Federal grants typically take many months or even years to secure,” Schafer says.
“Two scenarios are possible,” he added. “Either Susan Collins and federal authorities are incompetent, or UNE deliberately withheld information from Collins and the feds as the university chased taxpayer funding.”
Phoebe Keller, a spokesperson for Senator Collins, told the Gazette today that the senator’s office would be unable to provide any “on-the-record” comments regarding this story.
Schafer says he does not believe that Collins or any other member of Congress did anything wrong in supporting the university’s funding request.
Instead, Schafer says he believes the university withheld information about the buffer zone when applying for the federal grants.
Delage, however, says there was no deliberate plan to omit any factual information during the federal application process.
“We did not get into any of those types of specifics because it’s not part of the process of seeking funding for a project,” Delage said. “The use of grant funds for any project is predicated on securing required local and regulatory approvals and securing a grant does not circumvent or negate the need for securing approvals.”
Furthermore, Delage said that “singling out” the SRCC misses the point that the project also required approvals from the Biddeford Planning Board, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Each of those review agencies, Delage noted, approved the university’s proposed pier project.
And Delage said that the map now being circulated by Schafer and others concerned about the project is not a smoking gun.
“It simply shows standard environmental zoning boundaries routinely used by the city of Biddeford, the SRCC and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection,” Delage said.
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“We did not get into any of those types of specifics because it’s not part of the process of seeking funding for a project,”
— Sarah Delage, UNE spokesperson
Schafer says he will continue raising concerns and asking “tough questions” about the university’s pier project.
“I’ve asked the president of UNE [Dr. James Herbert] three times to release the application they filed with the feds,” Schafer said. “The Biddeford Planning Board also asked them to release an exact copy of that application. They [UNE] have consistently refused to answer that question.”
Schafer says that UNE’s consistent refusal to discuss whether they specifically included mention of the buffer zone likely explains how the project received a $3.5 million federal grant.
“Senator Collins is not incompetent, nor is the federal agency that issued the grant, but they were intentionally deceived,” Schafer said.
UPDATE | Phoebe Keller, a spokesperson from Sen. Susan Collins’ Washinton, DC office, contacted the Gazette following the publication of this story, asking to provide updated information .
““Sen. Collins and Sen. King secured $3.5 million for the University of New England to construct a coastal research deployment facility to be located somewhere in Biddeford, Maine,” Keller wrote. “ The senators do not determine the specific location of the project, which is set by the grantee in coordination with all relevant local and state authorities.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
Despite the well-known urban legend that no cop can resist a donut, several witnesses who attended Wednesday’s Coffee With a Cop event at the Biddeford Community Center say none of the officers even touched one of the fine donuts that were provided by Reilly’s Bakery.
Wednesday’s event was coordinated by Recreation Director Lisa Thompson who said she was pleased by the robust public turnout for the event.
Lt. Normand Allaire; Deputy Chief Steve Gorton and Police Chief JoAnne Fisk answered a variety of questions and offered some sage advice, including the hazards of distracted driving. (Seaver photo)
“This is something that has been done in many other communities across the country,” Thompson said. “Many communities – including right here in Biddeford – host Night Out events and other ways to get residents better connected to the law enforcement officers who serve the community.”
Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk, Deputy Chief Steve Gorton and Lt. Normand Allaire attended the event, fielding a variety of questions from the public and then later posing for photos with folks who were anxious to have their picture taken with a uniformed officer.
“It’s a lot of fun for us, and we enjoy the opportunity to connect with people in the friendly way – in a more relaxed and casual setting,” Gorton said. “Things like this are really the foundation of community policing.”
Roughly 25 people attended the 90-minute event, and the questions were rapid-fire and sometimes complex.
The officers answered questions on topics ranging from appropriate medication disposal to traffic accident investigations and how police handle protection from harassment orders.
Officers pose with a few of the residents who attended the Coffee With a Cop event (Seaver photo)
The mood in the room was friendly. And residents listened intently – even when officers were forced to decline talking about specific personal matters or ongoing investigations.
Officers also shared some of their pet peeves.
“For goodness’s sake, please put down your phones when you’re driving behind the wheel,” Allaire told the group of residents. “Even, when I’m off duty, I see it happening all the time – and I yell out ‘somebody call the police.’
Thompson said she was pleased that the event proved popular and said she would like to do another event with the officers.
“I always think it’s a good idea for us to collaborate with other city departments to promote community engagement and hopefully increase understanding of what’s happening in our city.”
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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A Grassroots Celebration of Food, Flavor & Community — with a New Digital Passport
Contributed Story | Heart of Biddeford
From bánh mì to barbecue, specialty coffee to steak frites, arcade combos to raclette, Biddeford–Saco Restaurant Week returns March 15–22, 2026, inviting residents and visitors to explore the region’s dynamic and ever-growing food scene.
Organized by Saco Main Street, Heart of Biddeford, and the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce, Restaurant Week in Biddeford and Saco has its own personality — distinct from statewide programs that focus primarily on prix-fixe dinners.
Biddeford-Saco Restaurant Week returns March 15 – 22 (Photo: Heart of Biddeford)
“Our Restaurant Week is a little more grassroots,” said Delilah Poupore, executive director of Heart of Biddeford. “Not all of our food businesses are sit-down restaurants. We have breweries, bakeries, sandwich shops, sushi counters, an arcade, coffee roasters — you name it. So we leave room for creativity in how businesses participate.” Saco’s executive director, Angie Presby added, “Honestly, we may need to rename it ‘Foodie Week’ because it’s about restaurants but so much more.”
That flexibility allows each business to design an offering that fits their style, their space, and their customers.
A Taste of This Year’s Offerings
With more than 20 participating businesses, Restaurant Week highlights the full spectrum of the local food scene. Diners can find everything from raclette poured over toasted baguette at Nibblesford to a secret Peruvian Steak Frites special at Magnus on Water, comfort classics like Frito Pie at Ore Nell’s Barbecue, and creative multi-course meals at Jin Sushi and Ramen.
Nibblesford in Biddeford will be one of more than 20 participating businesses in this year’s event.
It’s not just restaurants, though. Participants can enjoy bracket-style “Mocha Madness” at Time & Tide Coffee, gameplay-and-dinner combo deals at Rift Arcade, and special deals at Banded Brewing Co. The range reflects what makes Biddeford and Saco unique: a food culture that blends serious culinary talent with creativity, comfort, and fun.
New in 2026: The Brightr Passport
To encourage diners to explore multiple locations, this year introduces the Brightr Restaurant Week Passport — a simple, web-based experience (no app required).
Customers register by scanning a QR code displayed at participating businesses. Once registered, they can view all Restaurant Week offerings and “check in” at each location they visit by scanning that business’ unique QR code. Each day of Restaurant Week, one winner will be randomly selected from that day’s Passport check-ins to receive a $25 gift card, for a total of eight daily winners. At the end of the week, one participant who checked in at three or more businesses will be awarded the $100 grand prize.
Alex MacPhail, the executive director of the Biddeford Saco Chamber explains, “The more places that participants explore, the more chances they have to win — and the more local businesses they support!”
Restaurant Week also features two dynamic ticketed events that bring the community together in creative and unexpected ways.
Food Collider: March 12
An early kick-off to Restaurant Week, the Food Collider transforms Pizza by Alex into a one-night pop-up gallery and storytelling experience. Presented by Art of Biddeford in partnership with Pizza by Alex, the March 12 event blends art, food, and story inside one of Biddeford’s most iconic spaces.
Part art exhibition, part live gathering, each ticket includes pizza nibbles, entry to a curated food-themed gallery, and eight creative “collisions” — five-minute presentations weaving together storytelling, music, history, and reflections on everything from family tables to farms to the systems that bring food to our plates. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Biddeford Food Pantry.
FYOOD Cooking Competition: March 18
BRCOT culinary students will be participating in this year’s event
The week continues with FYOOD (pronounced “feud”), a high-energy cooking competition hosted at the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology Culinary Program kitchen.
Amateur home chefs team up to face off in two mystery ingredient challenges (one savory, one sweet) with just one hour to create and plate their dishes before a panel of professional chefs, local personalities, and Culinary Program Director Chef Steve.
Audience members enjoy front-row views from the dining room, a live video feed from inside the kitchen, and a made-to-order pasta meal from the culinary students.
Meanwhile, competitors battle for the FYOOD trophy and serious bragging rights. Limited to four teams, the event highlights both the creativity of local home cooks and the real-world experience gained by BRCOT culinary students preparing and serving guests in a fast-paced environment.
Tickets and team registrations for both events are available via Eventbrite.
More Than a Meal
Biddeford–Saco Restaurant Week is about connection as much as cuisine. It’s about supporting small businesses, celebrating creativity, and giving people a reason to explore both downtowns — one check-in, one meal, one shared table at a time.
For the full list of participating businesses and complete details, visit the official Restaurant Week webpage
One by one, more than a dozen area residents approached the podium to offer comments and concerns about development at the University of New England’s Biddeford campus during a public hearing held by members of the newly created Institutional Zone Review Committee.
The committee, which includes UNE President Dr. James Herbert, listened carefully to some often-heated public testimony during the hour-long hearing.
UNE President Dr. James Herbert and IZ Review Committee Chair Pat Boston listen to public testimony during Monday’s public hearing regarding the city’s Institutional Zone (Seaver photo)
Several residents said they were not there to “bash the university,” but rather to urge the committee for a more thoughtful and deliberate review process when it comes to the city’s Institutional Zone residents.
Many residents expressed anger, frustration and concerns about recent development projects planned by the university.
Gary McMullen of Biddeford told the committee that he hopes they can “do something to improve the process” regarding how development at UNE’s campus is approved.
“I don’t have anything against UNE,” McMullen said. “It’s about the process.”
McMullen talked about how Paul Lariviere – the city’s harbormaster – was removed from the review process of a controversial, large-scale research pier the university is hoping to soon construct on the Saco River.
McMullen cautioned the committee from accepting a false narrative that Lariviere was opposed to the project, saying the harbormaster was only opposed to the exact location being proposed by UNE.
Bunny Wermenchuk of Biddeford told the committee that her family’s property – which they first purchased in the mid-1970s – was then located near the former St. Francis College.
Over the years – Wermenchuk said – her family’s home became surrounded by sprawling growth, after St. Francis College became the University of New England.
“I’m not here to bash the university,” Wermenchuk said. “I’m here to talk about our ordinances for development at the university.”
Wermenchuk remined the committee that it has been more than 25 years since the university’s master development plan has been updated and approved by the Biddeford Planning Board.
“Over the last 24 years, there has been a lot of growth at UNE,” she said. “I support that growth, but I want to make sure it is happening the right way.”
Wermenchuk said UNE’s waterfront location impacts many things that affect the community – from the environment and fisheries to the concerns of mooring owners in proximity to the campus.
Biddeford resident Kelly Mourmouras addresses the IZ Review Committee (Seaver photo)
Kelly Mourmouras told the committee that there is a long history of UNE doing things differently than what was told to Hills Beach residents.
Mourmouras — who graduated from UNE — said her husband served as vice president of the Hills Beach Neighborhood Association when the city’s first Institutional Zone Review Committee was formed in the mid-1990s.
“I want to thank Mayor [Liam] LaFountain for establishing this committee,” she said. “The transparency and honesty in the process are important. We had numerous meetings with the university, and it was always very challenging.”
Diane Doyle, a Saco resident, told the committee she was concerned about UNE’s plans to purchase the former St. Joseph’s convent property, which is located on the shores of the Saco River, roughly two miles west of UNE’s main campus.
Doyle said she and her neighbors across the river have now noticed many “bright lights” being erected on what was once a relatively quiet and hidden property.
“We are concerned about how UNE is going to develop that particular property,’” Doyle told the committee.
City Councilor Pat Boston – the committee’s chair – reminded the audience that the convent property is not located within the city’s Institutional Zone, and thus concerns about that specific property are not relevant to the committee’s work.
Does UNE benefit Biddeford?
Over the last few weeks, the Biddeford Gazette has received and published several letters to the editor and guest columns related to the University of New England and its numerous benefits to the community.
But Biddeford resident Joe Emmons challenged many of those positive assumptions.
“How, exactly, do Biddeford residents benefit from what is happening at UNE?” Emmons asked rhetorically.
Lori Nerbonne described herself as a newer Biddeford resident and raised concerns about a property that the university recently purchased near her Red Oak Lane neighborhood.
Resident Paul Brady, a residential waterfront property owner said Biddeford needs a “watchdog” to monitor “all of us on the river.” He said he hopes communication between UNE and its neighbors can improve. (Seaver photo)
“There has always been a buffer between the university and our residential neighborhood via UNE’s access road’ (to the beach),” Nerbonne told the committee. “Now, there is no buffer because the property they purchased is a home inside the residential zone in our very small neighborhood.”
Shawn Tibbetts – one of seven mooring owners who could be impacted by the university’s pier – blasted the city for a lack of communication about ongoing development at the university campus.
Tibbetts, a commercial fisherman, said no one from the city or the university would even return his calls and emails about how the proposed pier could impact his livelihood.
“At no point, were local harbormasters involved in the review of the pier UNE wants to build, and that was a huge mistake,” Tibbetts told the committee. “This is the stuff UNE doesn’t want to talk about.”
Tom Hatch, another Biddeford mooring owner, said his concerns and questions last year about UNE’s proposed pier project were ignored by the city.
“I reached out to the former mayor, the former city manager and even Senator [Susan] Collins.” Hatch told the committee. “I got a grand total of zero response.
“As a taxpayer and a stakeholder, you expect—at least – to get some kind of response.”
Hatch told the committee he hopes to see a “dramatic improvement” in how the city and the university communicate with residents.
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“As a taxpayer and a stakeholder, you expect—at least – to get some kind of response.”
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Resident Paul Brady – a waterfront property owner – told the committee that “the city needs a watchdog to watch all of us on the river.”
Approximately 30 people attended Monday’s public hearing about development at UNE’s campus. (Seaver photo)
Following the hour-long public hearing, the committee opted to immediately go back to its ongoing review and examination of development issues within the Institutional Zone.
Boston reminded the audience and those watching online that additional comments and concerns can be sent to the committee via a group email at InstitutionalZoneReview@biddefordmaine.org
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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