Biddeford wastewater customers will now receive their wastewater (sewer) bills from Maine Water Company, a privately owned utility.
According to a recent press release, the city transitioned from in-house billing to using Maine Water’s billing and customer service expertise in order to “stabilize the administrative processes for sewer billing.”
As part of the new agreement, Maine Water Company will now handle all billing, collection and customer service inquiries for the city’s wastewater operations.
City officials and Maine Water representatives both described the transition as “complex,” changeover, requiring migrating large amounts of information from the city to Maine Water’s billing system.
Maine Water consistently receives high customer satisfaction ratings — averaging nearly 90 percent in independent surveys conducted annually since 2012.
“Maine Water takes pride in providing world-class customer service. We’re happy to extend our customer service expertise to Biddeford wastewater customers,” said Maine Water President Mark Vannoy. “We believe in the power of partnerships and look forward to continue working with the city of Biddeford to deliver solutions that make a lasting impact on our community.”
The company recently sent a letter to all wastewater customers in Biddeford, explaining the various payment options now available. Customers should not make any further wastewater payments via the city’s e-billing or e-payment system.
Maine Water offers e-billing, online payment, auto-payment, 24-hour pay by phone, pay by mail and in-person payments at Western Union or any Bangor Savings Bank location. Wastewater customers who are already Maine Water e-billing customers can link their sewer account to their water account to view both accounts in one place.
“It’s important for wastewater customers to know that the city still sets the rates for sewer charges,” said Pam Blackman, Maine Water Revenue Services Manager. “We are simply using the rates provided by the city to deliver efficient and professional billing services. Just like with customers’ water bills, at all times they will now have dependable and easily accessible information about wastewater charges.”
Blackman said if customers have questions about wastewater billing or customer service needs, they should now contact Maine Water, rather than the city of Biddeford.
The company’s customer service team can be reached at 1-800-287-1643 during business hours, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Customers can also email customerservice@mainewater.com.
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As part of his campaign promise to increase government transparency, accountability and citizen participation, newly-elected Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain unveiled his plan to create a new ad-hoc committee that will oversee all development on the University of New England’s Biddeford campus.
LaFountain’s plan was warmly received by both the city council and members of the public during the new city council’s first official meeting on Tuesday.
The new Biddeford City Council unanimously approved the creation of a new committee to provide oversight regarding development on the University of New England’s Biddeford campus (Seaver photo)
The new committee will focus on the city’s “Institutional Zone,” which includes all of the University of New England’s Biddeford campus.
According to LaFountain, the Institutional Zone (IZ) regulates university uses and requires that all campus development must strictly follow the outlines of the university’s approved Master Plan, which is updated every five years.
“Over time, the scale of institutional activity has increased and carries significant implications for transportation systems, utilities, public safety, neighborhoods and long-range planning,” LaFountain wrote in a memo to the city council.
According to the mayor, the Institutional Zone and Institutional Master Plan ordinances – first adopted in 2001 — have not been comprehensively reviewed in more than two decades.
Recent projects have highlighted the need for the committee, LaFountain said, pointing to the university’s controversial pier project, plans to develop a fire substation near the campus and a plan to convert a former convalescent home into new dormitories for the university.
LaFountain said the new ad hoc committee will conduct a focused review and return recommendations to the city council.
The mayor said the committee will “meet frequently, solicit public input and present initial recommendations by April 2026; and final recommendations by June 2026.”
Several representatives from the University of New England — including the school’s senior attorney and its vice president of operations — attended Tuesday’s meeting.
Ed Cervone, director of external affairs at UNE, said the university is supportive of the desire to review the Institutional Zone Ordinance.
“UNE hopes that the creation of an Institutional Zone Review Committee can bring additional clarity to, understanding of, and confidence in the ordinance,” Cervone said.
Cervone reminded the council that when the IZ was first created, a similar kind of committee was organized and included a representative from the university. He also suggested that the new committee should include a Hills Beach Association representative; the city planner and Ward One Councilor Patricia Boston because of her historical knowledge about the Institutional Zone.
“UNE is in a highly competitive economic sector and must quickly adapt to meet the demands of the market,” Cervone said. “This includes maintaining and improving its infrastructure to attract and retain students.”
“UNE takes seriously its responsibility as one of the city’s largest employers. We are proud to employ many community members from Biddeford and the surrounding region, offering them good paying jobs with excellent benefits for their families,” he added.
“This is not possible without regulatory clarity, predictability and a responsive partner in the city,” he said.
Resident Mark Robinson described the new committee as a “fantastic idea” and said it will squarely address citizen concerns that have been intensifying over the last few years.
When it comes to deciding who should serve on the new committee, Robinson said he had full faith and confidence in the mayor and the council’s ability to appoint members to serve on the committee.
Former city councilor Richard Rhames said creating the new committee is “more than appropriate” and “arguably long overdue.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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According to campaign finance reports, a total of more than $14,200 was spent by the three mayoral candidates in Biddeford’s Nov. 6 municipal election.
Yesterday (Dec.16) was the deadline for filing those reports with the city clerk.
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain (City of Biddeford photo)
Former Mayor Marty Grohman spent the most money in his campaign for a second term, a total of $6,539.31.
Mayor Liam LaFountain spent a total of $4,957.13, and former city councilor Norman Belanger spent $3,135 on his campaign.
In terms of votes, LaFountain edged Grohman by a margin of just 212 votes (2,626 – 2,414). Belanger finished in a distant third with 1,273 votes.
Based on data from the finance reports, Grohman also spent the most on a per-vote basis, roughly $2.71 per vote; Belanger spent $2.46 per vote and LaFountain spent the least on a per-vote basis at $1.89 per vote.
As required by state law, all candidates are required to file two reports regarding details about their campaigns, contributions and expenses. The first report must be filed in mid-October.
The second cumulative report is due no later than 42 days after the election. The city maintains public records of all campaign spending by municipal candidates, including city councilors, school committee members and mayoral candidates.
You can view or download the final reports submitted by the mayoral candidates below.
Candidates are required to detail line-item totals for all money contributed to their campaigns by specific individuals or businesses.
Each candidate must also provide details about how they spent their money during the campaign.
All three mayoral candidates had similar expenses, including direct mail, lawn signs, website design and social media advertising.
Campaign signs are a major expense for most local campaigns.
CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story contained inaccurate information regarding former city councilor Norm Belanger’s mayoral campaign. Belanger spent a total of $3,135. His per vote total was $2.46. We apologize for the error. The story has been amended with the correct information.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Don Bisson of the Biddeford Food Pantry (far left) receives a $20,000 donation from the St. Louis Alumni Association, represented by (L-R) Richard Dutremble, Paul Therrien and Don Couture. The Association also donated $25,000 to the My Place Teen Center in Biddeford and $5,000 to Apex Youth Connection. (Contributed photo)
“The Association is pleased to provide funding to help these deserving organizations, and we are proud to recognize the much-needed services and support they provide to the community,” said John Thibault, chair of the association’s public information office.
The Alumni Association, known for its on-going support spanning more than 60 years to youth athletic programs and academic scholarship awards in the Biddeford-Saca area, expanded its financial awards in recent years to include other community non -profits like the Food Pantry and Teen Center.
“The Association’s history of giving back to city youth, programs and activities is the focus of our mission statement and we hope to be able to do so for years to come,” said Thibault.
The donations were formally made during a Dec. 6 meeting of the St. Louis Alumni Association.
Since then, the Alumni Association has also donated $5,000 to the Apex Youth Connection program in Biddeford, according to association member Patricia Boston.
St. Louis High School was a Biddeford-based parochial school steeped in Franco culture and heritage. The small school was opened in 1930 but financial strains led to its closure in 1970.
The school’s mascots – The Eagles – achieved near legendary status as an athletic powerhouse, especially during the 1960s as the small school faced local rivals including Biddeford High School and Thornton Academy with grit and determination.
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The first regular meeting of the new Biddeford Council — along with a new mayor — should give us a good preview and set the tone for what we can expect from these 10 individuals over the next two years.
I have been through this before. Many times.
Former Ward Five Councilor Neva Gross, one of the councilors I am going to miss as a new administration begins.
I should be better prepared for the transition. In fact, Liam LaFountain is the sixth Biddeford mayor I have covered as a journalist.
I have seen lots of change over the last three decades: Five city managers, six mayors and more finance directors than you can count.
All kidding aside, I am optimistic about this new group, and I expect we’re going to see rigorous and thoughtful debate as this new council tackles a wide range of issues.
I really believe that we are at the beginning of a new era at Biddeford City Hall, but I will miss a few of the councilors who decided not to seek reelection this year.
In particular, I am going to miss former Ward Five Councilor Neva Gross – especially during the roll call at the beginning of each meeting.
During the roll call, each councilor answers the city’s clerk’s question. Councilor Belanger? “Here.”
Councilor Beaupre? “Here.”
Councilor Whiting? “Here.” And so on . . . with one notable exception: Councilor Gross would invariably set her own mark. Instead of saying “here,’ she would always respond: “Present.”
For the better part of two years, her response irked me. I thought she was just being a smartass, making a joke of the roll-call process.
Before we proceed any further, it should be noted that I consider Neva Gross to be a friend. She and her partner are expected to attend my family’s annual Christmas Chaos party.
Neva Gross poses for a picture with Mayor Grohman and other councilors moments after being sworn into office (Seaver photo)
Shortly after she was appointed to the council to fill a vacancy in 2024, Neva agreed to an interview with me.
In that interview – published in Saco Bay News – I described Neva as “somewhat reserved.” I told readers that she “listens intently to discussion, often sitting back with her chair leaning away from the council dais.”
So finally — just a few weeks ago – I got up the courage to ask Gross why she always bucked the roll call trend during council meetings.
She smiled. “It’s something that was literally drilled into me by my drill instructor during basic training,” she said.
“He expected more from us than just showing up,” Gross explained. “He demanded that we were ‘present.’ We were expected to know what was happening next to us, behind us and ahead of us. We were expected to be aware, ready to take action and constantly examining the landscape.
“Simply being here was never good enough for him. I always wanted to be present during council meetings.”
I suspect that Neva will still be present in Biddeford, even though she is no longer a city councilor. Maybe we should all be present instead of just being here.
Regardless, I am going to miss Neva’s smile and her thoughtful approach to governance.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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A public hearing about the project remediation will be held Dec. 18
Contributed Story; Legal Notice
Fathom Companies — a development firm that will be building a mixed-use and housing project near the intersection of Lincoln and Pearl streets in Biddeford — has received a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) grant to be used for environmental remediation.
The funds are administered by the Southern Maine Planning & Development Commission (SMPDC). and will be used to support the remediation and redevelopment of Lot 3, a subdivided portion of the former Maine Energy Recovery Corporation (MERC) site located at 3 Lincoln Street, Biddeford.
Site of the Fathom Properties proposed housing/mixed-use development (Seaver Photo)
According to a required Legal Notice filed with the Biddeford Gazette, the funding will support cleanup activities on this historically industrial parcel, which previously housed a waste incineration facility.
Proposed remedial actions include soil excavation, installation of engineered cap-and-cover systems, and related environmental protection measures. These actions are necessary to support the redevelopment of the site for residential units and mixed-use buildings and common spaces featuring a restaurant.
A Community Involvement Plan (CIP) and Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA) plan have been prepared. The CIP, ABCA, and additional environmental documents are available for public review through SMPDC, Raegan Young, 110 Main Street, Suite 1400, Saco, Maine. Electronic and printed reports can be provided upon request by contacting ryoung@smpdc.org or 207-746-3376. Documents can also be found on Maine DEP’s Online Remediation Sites portal (https://www.maine.gov/dep/maps-data/data.html) by searching for site number REM02179.
Public comments will be received over a 30-day comment period from December 11, 2025 until January 10, 2026.
A public meeting will be held at 6 pm on Thursday, December 18, at Richard Martin Community Center, 189 Alfred Street, Biddeford— First Floor, Room 8, to inform the public of the proposed cleanup plan and to receive public comments.
During this public meeting, project representatives will discuss the funding mechanisms, project requirements, and recommended cleanup strategies for the site.
There is little doubt that 2025 was a year of substantive change for the city of Biddeford. From political fallout to major infrastructure improvements and new business openings, this year featured a plethora of news stories about change.
In fact, even the news/media landscape changed as a new digital news source began operations, and a 36-year-old weekly newspaper ceased printing.
Like all other years, there was good news and bad news. Highs and lows.
So now we invite you to look back on what we believe were the Top-10 news stories in Biddeford during 2025. (Listed chronologically)
Bennett had announced his “phased retirement” in Oct. 2024, saying that he would leave his position in April 2025, with more than a year remaining on his contract.
Bennett subsequently filed a lawsuit against the city. The city opted to approve an out-of-court settlement of roughly $90,000.
Though the Courier is no longer published, its parent company now publishes a weekly, digital only newsletter.
The Courier was originally owned and operated by David and Carolyn Flood, Saco residents who later moved to Biddeford. David Flood was elected to and served briefly on the Biddeford City Council.
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.
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.”
Planning board approves UNE’s pier proposal
The Biddeford Planning Board held a site walk to review the University of New England’s proposed research pier (Seaver photo)
The approval of the controversial project drew the ire of several residents who attempted to appeal the decision. The Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals, however, voted unanimously (3-0) to stand by the planning board’s decision. The city — in November — filed a formal complaint about the project in York County Superior Court. A judicial review is pending.
During that meeting, residents raised concerns about how the city managed the review process of the University of New England’s controversial pier proposal. Residents’ concerns included the city’s decision to remove the harbormaster from the review process and unanswered questions about impacts on moorings held by commercial fishermen.
Voters choose new mayor, city councilors
Liam LaFountain (foreground, wearing glasses) celebrates his win on election night with several of his supporters. (Seaver photo)
Biddeford voters sent a clear message in November: They wanted a big change in city government.
In a three-way mayoral race, Mayor Marty Grohman was denied a second term by nearly two-thirds of those who cast ballots in Biddeford’s biennial, municipal election.
LaFountain campaigned and won on a platform of more transparency and accountability from City Hall.
Four new city councilors were also sworn into office, including Lisa Vadnais, Abigail Woods, David Kurtz and Jacob Pierson. Former councilors Patricia Boston and Brad Cote returned to the council after an extended hiatus of several years.
Other stories:
Of course, there were several other significant stories that took place over the last year, including a significant August fire that displaced two Biddeford families; a rather scathing report issued by the city’s financial auditors in August and the approval of two significant housing projects near the site of the former MERC trash-to-energy incinerator.
And I’ll go ahead and toot our own horn. The Biddeford Gazette formally began its operations in January and now features a roster of contributing writers, expanded community-based news coverage and weekly obituaries.
Vincent Keely
When Laura and I started the project, we weren’t sure whether the endeavor would last six months. We exceeded all of our expectations, even after breaking my right arm in August.
I also want to note that our community lost Vincent Keely earlier this year. Keely, a former city councilor, was a beloved downtown business owner and reliably ensured the “raising of the Irish flag” at City Hall every year on St, Patrick’s Day. His restaurant – the Wonderbar – was a favorite hangout for city officials, reporters and others who wanted to keep updated about city news and events.
Now we’re looking forward to what 2026 will bring.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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A small group of people gathered Sunday morning at the intersection of Foss and Fall streets in Biddeford, where a cyclist was killed on Sept. 26.
Patrick Conlon, a member of Bike BS, a local cycling advocacy group, helped organize the quiet ceremony to remember the life of Heather Hamilton with a permanent plaque and a white “ghost bike” adorned with blue flowers.
Patrick Conlon of Biddeford (left) and Chris Nucci of Saco install a memorial plaque at the intersection of Foss and Fall streets, where Heather Hamilton was struck and killed by a delivery truck in September. (Seaver photo)
Hamilton, 47, was killed in a collision involving a UPS delivery truck.
Hamilton’s daughter, Mallorie, made brief remarks about her mother during the brief ceremony.
“My mom didn’t have an easy life,” Mallorie said. “But she would give you the shirt off her back or the last penny in her pocket. She did so much for her family.”
Mallorie Hamilton, holding hands with her own daughter, Cora, said the last few months have been “very difficult.”
Several people tied blue flowers to the ghost bike because blue was Hamilton’s favorite color, according to her family.
Mallorie Hamilton and her five-year-old daughter Cora (center) join others in attaching blue flowers to the Ghost Bike that was placed to honor her mother’s death earlier this year.
Hamilton said neighbors have long expressed concerns about the safety of that intersection, which features dense housing and a narrow roadway.
Mayor Liam LaFountain and Ward Four City Councilor Dylan Doughty attended the brief ceremony.
Conlon says cycling accidents are on the increase in Maine.
As of late 2025, Maine is experiencing a surge in cyclist and pedestrian deaths, according to the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM), indicating 26 total pedestrian/bicyclist fatalities as of December 1.
In fact, the BCM says that Maine is on track for one of its deadliest years for pedestrians and cyclists.
Conlon and other biking advocates say that speeding and distracted driving are major issues, highlighting the need for better infrastructure, like protected bike lanes, and increased visibility for cyclists.
Conlon has testified before the Maine Legislature about the need for increased awareness, and policy changes such as “Vision Zero” commitments, to prevent further deaths of pedestrians and cyclists.
As one of the most rural states in the country, the state of Maine is well known for its so-called “heritage industries” that rely on outdoor occupations, such as farming, fishing and logging.
Those industries have long driven Maine’s economy but they also present a few — somewhat hidden – challenges.
Overall, the bulk of those working in Maine’s “heritage” industries are men, and those physically-demanding jobs often come attached with significant mental health strains.
Workers in Maine’s “heritage industries” face lack of mental health resources. (Associated Press Photo)
“We know from years of statistical data that men are far less likely to reach out for mental health assistance than women,” explains State Sen. Henry Ingwersen (D-Biddeford). “And that is having an impact on our economy and our overall quality of living.”
Ingwersen is the senate chair of the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee. He is also a member of the Joint Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.
Those two roles intersect when it comes to addressing the health needs of those who work in one of Maine’s often rigorous and demanding heritage industries.
“Simply put, there are not a lot of mental health resources for people employed in small farming and fishing operations,” Ingwersen said. “Furthermore, men are often reluctant to ask for help.”
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), the suicide rate among males in 2023 was approximately four times higher than the rate among females.
Men make up roughly 50 percent of the population but nearly 80 percent of suicides.
To address this issue, Ingwersen plans to submit new legislation when the Legislature reconvenes in January.
State Sen. Henry Ingwersen (D-Biddeford)
That legislation will focus on creating a subcommittee to examine and address the lack of mental health resources in Maine’s heritage industries.
The bill — “Resolve, to Establish a Working Group to Prioritize Mental Health and Wellness Resources Within Maine’s Heritage Industries,” — was approved for introduction by a majority of the Legislative Council in a November 20 meeting.
“As senate chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and a member of the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee, I’ve had a front row seat to the ways health intersects with our heritage industries,” Ingwersen said. “We all know that farming, fishing and logging are physically demanding industries. But there is less awareness of the significant mental strain on these workers, which leads to burnout, stress — or worse.
“It is critical that we take care of the people who power our economy, help us put food on tables and provide the material to build our homes.”
As proposed, the bill would create a working group to convene and work on policy recommendations to address the mental health needs of Maine’s workers in heritage industries.
Earlier this year, Ingwersen attended and spoke at Maine’s first-ever Land and Sea Farmer Wellness Forum, which was rooted in the work of The University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
The Extension recently conducted a survey, revealing that 61 percent of respondents from agriculture, aquaculture and wild-harvest fisheries identified the need for increased public education to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health.
Survey data showed that suicide rates remain higher for agriculture, fishing and forestry occupation groups. Many farmers and fishermen have no employer-provided health insurance.
“These industries are critical to Maine’s economy and yet we are facing some serious vulnerabilities that – as a cumulative effect – could disrupt the flow of the food we eat and the materials we use to build our homes,” Ingwersen said.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Technically speaking, it’s still autumn but it sure feels like winter here in southern Maine.
We’re now deep into the holiday season, and you probably have a growing laundry list of chores and preparations for the season.
But there is also lots of fun and joy to be had in Biddeford. Check our EVENTS page for the latest updates, including Santa’s planned visit on Sunday, Dec. 14 at Biddeford’s Central Fire Station on Alfred Street.
Santa is expected to visit the Biddeford Fire Department on Sunday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.
We experienced the first significant snowstorm of the season and the Biddeford Public Works Department once again stepped up to the plate to make sure the roads were cleared as soon as possible.
Public works director Jeff Demers says his department is ready for whatever Mother Nature brings
For example, did you know that Jeff and his crew plow 292 miles of roadways in Biddeford? That’s the equivalent of driving from City Hall in Biddeford to Albany, New York. Also, the city is expecting to use as much as 250 tons of salt on roadways this winter season.
Tuesday’s storm also impacted local politics. For the first time, the city’s biennial inauguration ceremonies were not held in City Theater. The event was online only because of slippery driving conditions and an active snow parking ban.
And even single-digit temperatures didn’t stop this year’s ‘Merry & Bright’ night in downtown Biddeford, complete with a tree lighting ceremony and a visit by Santa Claus.
We have more exclusive news stories on deck. We’re also working on a retrospective of the news and events that shaped 2025 in Biddeford, including our list of the year’s Top-Ten local stories.
Also, we are going to keep tradition alive, and publish our exclusive interview with Santa Claus on Christmas eve.
The Apex Youth Connection in Biddeford offers a wide range of programs to help teens transition to adulthood
ByRANDY SEAVER,Editor
It’s quite common to hear about after-school programs that get kids off the streets and into a productive, structured setting.
Apex Youth Connection (AYC) in Biddeford, however, takes a different approach to nurturing and empowering teens. Apex is all about getting kids on the street and engaged in their community.
APEX is a nonprofit organization that grew from rather humble roots and today serves hundreds of kids between the ages of 10 and 18 with after school programs between 3 and 6 p.m.; and a variety of free programs throughout the summer.
Founded in 2001, Apex was formerly known as the Community Bike Center (CBC), a project that began in founder Andy Greif’s garage, where kids could earn a bicycle by helping rebuild donated bicycles with spare parts.
Students learn valuable life skills while repairing and rebuilding bicycles at the Apex Youth Connection facility in Biddeford (Courtesy photo)
With broad support from the community, the CBC was able to grow and purchase its current facility on Granite Street in Biddeford. The property encompasses six acres, abutting Clifford Park. It includes a rock-climbing wall and a bike skills course.
Executive Director Michael Chapman said several programs have been added over the years. Apex today is much more than a clubhouse for kids who love to ride and work on bicycles, he said.
Chapman said the majority of kids served at Apex are students at either Biddeford Middle School or Saco Middle School.
“That age group seems to be the real sweet spot for us,” Chapman said during a recent interview. “We are all about building relationships, teaching kids the skills they will need as adults.”
The organization’s mission statement is straightforward
“Apex is dedicated to enriching the lives of youth through hands-on activities and outdoor adventure, while fostering meaningful mentorships in an environment where every child feels safe and valued.”
Chapman says Apex relies on a wide range of community partners, local businesses and donors to keep their programs accessible for all kids.
“If you’re thinking about Giving Tuesday, we’d love to have your support,” Chapman said.
Chapman says Apex offers young people an opportunity to get a head start on job readiness, providing the larger community with young people who are prepared for workforce development.
“It’s about much more than turning a wrench,” Chapman said. “We teach responsibility, goal setting and even customer service. You cannot teach anyone unless they respect you. We earn that respect by empowering these kids.”
Sarah Hoover is the program manager at Apex, one of four full-time employees.
Hoover said Apex is constantly looking for community partnerships. “Our goal is to be embedded in the fabric of this community,” she said. “To do that, we rely on volunteers and community connections.”
“You cannot teach anyone unless they respect you. We earn that respect by empowering these kids.”
— Michael Chapman
Kids at Apex learn much more than about how to rebuild or repair bicycles. They learn about good behavior; and about being good citizens within the community.
Although Apex offers several different programs and events, they are perhaps best known for their Apex Bike Factory program.
The Bike Factory program is at the center of Apex’s ongoing activities and skills training programs and “is the core of our Job Readiness Program.”
The bike factory is a full-service bike shop run by middle and high school students and is open to the public for bicycle repairs and tune-ups.
“We’re able to provide work experience and skills that these kids can take forward into their adult lives,” Chapman says. “Every kid has a spark. You just need to light that spark and watch them grow into the person they were meant to be.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The Heart of Biddeford will once again host the city’s Merry & Bright Night on Friday, December 5th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Adams Street in downtown Biddeford.
The annual event offers families and friends to gather downtown and enjoy an evening filled with holiday performances, joyful activities, festive lights and delicious treats that will warm even the coldest winter night.
Last year’s celebration drew a big crowd to the downtown area (Seaver photo)
This year’s celebration includes an exciting new highlight: the Merry Makerfair, running from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., inside the previous York County Courthouse.
Featuring more than 50 local vendors, the Merry Makerfair offers gifts for the whole family and adds a vibrant marketplace to the evening’s festivities.
Organizers say that the evening’s entertainment lineup offers something for everyone.
Performances will include the Academy of Dance, spreading holiday cheer through dance, and the Salvation Army Brass Band, bringing classic holiday tunes to Main Street.
The evening’s centerpiece—the downtown tree lighting—will take place at 6 p.m., when Santa will officially light the city’s holiday tree.
2025 Merry & Bright Poster – FINAL
Santa Claus will be available for picture taking in the Merry Makerfair from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Merry & Bright Night is packed with activities for younger attendees and the young at heart.
Kids can enjoy cookie decorating with materials donated by Reilly’s Bakery, hands-on art projects aboard the Common Roots Studio Art Bus, festive games, trolley rides, and visits with real reindeer.
The evening will also feature mascots mingling throughout the event, bringing extra fun and photo opportunities for families. Biddeford Recreation Department will offer popcorn and s’mores, and hot cocoa will be available for the community to enjoy.
Heart of Biddeford’s Merry & Bright Night is the perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones and celebrate the season in our beautiful downtown. With lights, laughter, music, and a strong sense of community, this event brings holiday joy to everyone.
Although it may be hard to believe, we are now pushing up against the edge of the 2025 holiday season. Wow! Where did this year go?
Over the next 30 days, people in our community will celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice and Christmas.
For many people, this can be a stressful and lonely time of the year. So please try to be extra kind during these shortest days of the year.
The world could always use a bit more kindness.
Winter will soon knock upon our door
On the local news front, I am pleased to announce that the Biddeford Gazette will actually take a four-day break between today and Sunday.
We have been moving at a break-neck speed for a while now, so it will likely feel good to walk away from the keyboard for just a few days.
When I think about all the many ways I am blessed, I also think about all those who have helped the Biddeford Gazette get its sea-legs over the past year.
I am grateful for the hundreds of subscribers who want the latest updates and news (You can subscribe here)
But I also thankful for all the people who stop me at the grocery store, downtown or in one of my favorite haunts just to simply express appreciation for what we are doing. It means a lot to me and keeps me motivated.
A look back
My friend Craig Pendleton and I decided to attend a campaign rally for U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner at the Biddeford Middle School. I decided to go as an observer, not a reporter. I did not bring a notebook or pen.
Five minutes into the event and I was scribbling notes with a borrowed pencil and scraps of paper. It was a big crowd of more than 1,000 people. The energy in the room was unmistakable.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner brough his campaign to Biddeford last week (Seaver photo)
We also learned that Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, submitted his notice of resignation. Phinney served as acting city manager for several months after the city council opted to give Jim Bennett the boot in February.
We wrapped up the week with a story about the St. Joseph’s Convent on Pool Road and the plan to transform it into housing for University of New England students.
If you think the seats in the Biddeford City Council chamber are uncomfortable, try sitting three hours on a metal, folding chair under the glare of fluorescent lights.
We are also planning to publish an in-depth story about the Age-Friendly programs in Biddeford and Saco.
The Age Friendly program is a national initiative focused on helping seniors live independently in their own homes.
And, one week from tonight (Dec. 2), the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor.
On Tuesday, December2, the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor
On a final note, in terms of gratitude. Words cannot express my gratitude for all the people helping the Gazette from behind the scenes.
Gail Toussaint of Biddeford serves as a copy-editor on many (not all) of our stories. She always responds within an hour. News does not happen on a 9-5 schedule, and Gail is always ready to help.
She takes the time to meticulously scan each story, sending her edits back within minutes. She does this – always on call – because she “loves the Gazette and what we’re doing.” She does not get paid.
On a similar note, Contributing Writer Jim Krause is always ready to help cover a story or an event. He is a gifted writer and a news junkie. Again, all of his work is done without pay.
And let’s not forget the nine members of our advisory board who stand ready with input, ideas, suggestions and constructive feedback. They are a power-house team (Check their profiles here)
And we simply cannot overlook or take for granted our publisher, Laura Seaver. Laura is our biggest champion and staunchest defender. We literally could not exist without her support and guidance.
My apologies for being long-winded. Enjoy the holiday and the comfort of family or friends. Drive carefully and be nice to one another.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) voted 9-2 Monday to approve a plan that will allow the University of New England to transform a former convent on the Saco River into a student dormitory.
The Biddeford convent was built in 1986 and features a 57-bed nursing home on a 21.4-acre parcel along the banks of the Saco River.
According to a university representative, only upper-class students will be housed at that site, which is roughly 1-1/2 miles northwest from UNE’s Biddeford campus. Their plan is to provide housing for 126 students.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning addresses members of the Saco River Corridor Commission on Monday (Seaver photo)
According to the SRCC, the Pool Road facility is located within a Limited Residential District.
At least one property abutter has raised concerns about the plan, noting a likely increase in noise and traffic that would fundamentally alter the character of the area.
“The resulting noise, traffic and parking pressures would meaningfully alter the character of this quiet, residential and rural stretch of the corridor,” wrote Carla Ouellette in her objection to the plan.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning, told commissioners Monday that the school will plant several trees along the river frontage to augment the vegetative buffer that is now somewhat sparse.
A prior review of the project last month resulted in commissioners voting to table the plan, asking university officials to provide more detailed information about the capacity of the existing septic system and a current lack of vegetation.
Commissioner Amy Safford raised concerns about erosion and noted that location includes swift river currents. “I see this as over-crowding and altering the character of the neighborhood. Putting that many people so close to the river is not a good idea. I am not convinced.”
Other commissioners asked questions about parking at the facility. The facility currently has 55 parking spaces, and Philippe said there is no plan to increase the parking footprint.
The St. Joseph’s nursing facility in Biddeford could soon become student housing for UNE students near the banks of the Saco River (Seaver photo)
Philippe said the school will provide a “shuttle” service between the complex and the university’s Biddeford campus in order to reduce traffic and the need for more parking.
Philippe told commissioners that on-campus housing is at capacity. He said the university was approached by the convent roughly two years ago.
Their operation, he said, was struggling to remain financially feasible.
In a prior interview with the Gazette, newly appointed Biddeford Commissioner Jim LaBelle described the project as a win-win scenario.
“We’re basically switching one housing facility to another housing facility,” LaBelle said.
LaBelle voted with the majority to approve the plan. Donald Furman, Biddeford’s other representative, was absent.
Saco representative Amy Safford was one of only two commissioners who voted against the proposal. Don Pilon, Saco’s other SRCC commissioner, was also absent.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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If the new Biddeford mayor really wants to serve the public, he needs to revamp City Hall’s hours, which are an insult to every city taxpayer.
“In an effort to minimize public confusion, the council will consider streamlining business hours at City Hall,” the Biddeford Gazette reported.
Minimize public confusion? There is no public confusion.
Blaming the public for being “confused” is a cynical stunt by city officials to accuse taxpayers of being too simple-minded to understand what hours a building is open, even if the hours vary from day to day.
So, let’s drill down on the insanity before us.
Reducing hours on Mondays and Tuesdays, besides opening a half hour later on those days, makes it harder for people who need to get to work early and would appreciate the 7 a.m. start to be able to get into City Hall.
Better yet why don’t they open at 6 a.m.?
On those same days, meanwhile, the elected cynics are proposing to reduce by a half hour the closing time by which a taxpayer must get in and conduct business.
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, it’ll open and close a half hour earlier. Again, just complicating the lives of taxpayers who can’t get there in the morning and need to come later in the day.
And City Hall is not open on Fridays? WTF is that all about?
Does the average working stiff in Biddeford get to work a four-day week?
Who do these clowns think they are?
The government should be serving the taxpayers, ergo, it should be open late at least one night a week until 9 and maybe also Saturday mornings from 8 until noon.
The [Biddeford] Gazette needs to ask the mayor some real questions such as proposed above.
If he’s really claiming to serve his constituency then he’ll expand the hours of City Hall in favor of those who need to use it and not in deference to those who “work* inside it.
If the mayor had any real balls, he would do it by executive action and just ignore whatever the council considers to be its role in setting City Hall hours.
And if the councilors want to sue him for exceeding his authority, then God bless him – let them do it.
They never will. They’re too busy blaming taxpayers for being too stupid to understand the definition of operating hours.
Let’s see a mayor who actually has some leadership ability rather than just standing by and accusing taxpayers of being too dumb to understand when City Hall is open.
Again, it’s not the alternating hours that’s the problem. That’s a canard – just a convenient distraction from the real issue that city officials don’t want to talk about: failing to serve the public so the people who staff the counters inside City Hall can get their beauty sleep.
The problem is that city workers couldn’t give a rat’s ass about serving the needs of the good hard-working taxpayers of Biddeford.
That means they have something in common with the City Council.
Let’s see if the new mayor can change that narrative.
It’ll never happen.
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Ted Cohen is a veteran Maine journalist and contributing writer at the Maine Wire. He lives in Owls Head, Maine.
The Biddeford Gazette welcomes reader-submitted letters and guest columns on any topic related to the city of Biddeford. For more information, please contact us
City attorney finds new info, says UNE pier should go back to planning board
By RANDY SEAVER, Editor
Biddeford City Attorney Harry Center says that the Biddeford Planning Board should reconsider its prior approval of the University of New England’s controversial research pier.
Although the planning board narrowly approved the university’s proposal in August, Center now says the Planning Board should reconsider that approval based on new information that came to light a few weeks ago.
An aerial view of where UNE wants to build its research pier (Courtesy photo)
As first reported in the Biddeford Gazette, the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) failed to consider a previous ruling that created a 250-foot, no-development, vegetative buffer zone on the university’s campus in 2001.
Shortly after the Planning Board approved the controversial project, a group of residents filed an appeal with the Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
The ZBA is expected to take up the matter at its next meeting on Thursday.
Center, representing the city’s Planning Board, filed a request Monday with the ZBA on behalf of the planning board and Biddeford’s planning department.
Center also discovered that the permit issued to UNE by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may have expired.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised.”
— City Attorney Harry Center
A university spokesperson said the permit they received from the Army Corps is still in effect, and said the 250-foot no-development zone does not preclude appropriately permitted development.
Sarah Delage, vice president for communications at UNE, said the university received clarification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August that their permit remains in effect.
“The project was required to start prior to October 14, 2025, and the [Army Corps] has confirmed that the design and permitting process, which was underway well before that date, satisfies this condition.
Delage also said that “there is no inconsistency between UNE’s master plan –which was previously approved by the Biddeford Planning Board — and development within this buffer zone.
When asked about the legality of the SRCC’s permit, Delage said the SRCC’s executive director recently clarified that the approval remains valid and is neither under review nor in question at the SRCC office.
“The [SRCC] executive director sent her letter after consulting with the Maine Assistant Attorney General, who represents the SRCC,” Delage said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so,” she added.
Center said he has also researched prior versions of UNE’s master plan, and that those records reveal “that the University of New England’s master plan also references a 250-foot, no-development buffer.”
Red Flags Raised
Center said major red flags were then raised when Cheri Dunning, the executive director of the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC), wrote an unsolicited letter on October 20 to Roby Fecteau, Biddeford’s code enforcement officer.
In that letter to Fecteau, Dunning created the impression that the SRCC — while issuing UNE a permit for the pier — had deliberately overridden the 2001 order creating the buffer. She implied that present-day commissioners consciously intended to create new law. “The condition was created by, and thus can be altered by, the Commission,” she wrote.
Dunning specifically stated that the 2001 order was not discussed during the SRCC hearing. The current commissioners absolutely did not engage in any deliberative process to override the law created in 2001, according to the minutes from the August 2024 meeting.
Since the buffer was never even mentioned, the commissioners were flying blind, Center said.
“My legal analysis is that the order creating the 250-foot buffer remains in place, at least until the Attorney General’s office tells us that it has been rescinded by the commission,” Center said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so.”
— Sarah Delage, UNE spokesperson
Center said the ZBA has the jurisdiction to send UNE’s application back to the planning board, and given all the new information that has surfaced, it should do so.
Furthermore, Center said the city may ask a judge to overrule the SRCC’s approval of a permit for UNE’s pier, and recent statements by Dunning that the 250-foot buffer and other SRCC decisions can be ignored by regulatory authorities.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised,” he said.
Center said he has the full support of Mayor Martin Grohman and the Biddeford City Council to advise the ZBA as he did today.
Last week, the Biddeford City Council unanimously voted to seek clarification and guidance from the Maine Attorney General’s office regarding the 250-foot buffer zone.
The council’s resolution stated that the city “will withhold further permitting or authorization related to the proposed UNE pier to ensure full compliance with applicable state law.”
Center says he firmly stands by his previous legal advice on other issues related to UNE’s application.
“I have one duty, and that is to properly advise my client on legal issues at all times. New information has come to light, and I’ll continue to execute my professional responsibilities accordingly,” Center said.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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The McArthur Library’s board of directors today announced that Nicole Clark has been hired as library director.
Clark, who first joined McArthur Library as Adult Services Supervisor in December 2024, has been serving as Interim Director since earlier this year.
Nicole Clark (Seaver Photo)
“It is with great excitement that we announce the hiring of Nicole Clark to lead McArthur Library as its new director,” said McArthur Library Board Chair Victoria Foley.
“In her time as Interim Director, Nicole has strengthened the library’s community relationships and expanded program offerings, delivering on McArthur’s mission to enrich the lives of its patrons. The board looks forward to working with Nicole to continue to serve the Biddeford community.”
“Libraries are incredibly special places, and McArthur exemplifies what a public library should be,” Clark stated. “Over the past year, I have been absolutely blown away by the dedication the staff and board put in every day to create a space that is warm, creative, and deeply connected to the people it serves. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to continue to support them in this official capacity.”
Before joining the McArthur team, Clark worked at Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library in Sanford, Maine, where she held the positions of Youth Services Librarian, Assistant Director, and Interim Director throughout her tenure. Prior to her library career, she taught English and Theater at Sanford High School.
Clark holds a master’s degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons University and a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education/English from the University of Maine at Farmington.
Originally from Kittery, Clark now lives in Berwick with her partner, Jake, and a lively household of pets—a bunny, two guinea pigs, and two cats. The guinea pigs are frequent visitors at the library, where patrons enjoy reading to them and saying hello during visits.
If you’re looking for a friendly, relaxed place to watch the Patriots game; or if you just want to gather with some of your friends and enjoy a wide array of pub-style food, search no more because Champion’s Sports Bar in Biddeford is the place to be.
Champions was first opened in Saco in 1993. Seven years later, the popular tavern moved to its current location on Thornton Street in Biddeford.
Manager Carly McDermott has worked at Champions for 17 years, and says the tavern has a big base of regular customers who would drive through a building to get to their favorite sports bar.
Manager Carly McDermott says Champions offers something for everyone. (Seaver photo)
“It’s our die-hard regulars who have kept us alive over the last few months,” McDermott said, pointing to the ongoing sewer upgrade project on Elm Street.
“We’ve definitely taken a big hit since that project started,” she said.
McDermott says regular Champions customers are “tight-knit,” and enjoy the tavern’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Despite its name, Champions is not just a sports bar, McDermott explains. The tavern is also one of the area’s most well-known destinations for karaoke singing on Sunday through Thursday nights.
Trivia contests are featured on Sundays and Thursdays and live musical performances take place on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays. McDermott says Champions has the best sound system in the area.
Feeling hungry? Champions is ready to help — offering a menu of affordable appetizers and entrees, including their famous chicken wings and hand-made, half-pound burgers that are made fresh to order.
The wings come in a variety of flavors, but the big news is that they are half-priced on Monday evening. Champions also serves “stone-baked” pizzas, wraps and sandwiches.
Champions offers ample parking and is open from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m., Monday through Saturday; and between noon and 1 a.m. on Sundays during football season.
So, if you want to relax in a fun and friendly environment, Champions is the place for you.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Although I am a junkie when it comes to local politics, I must confess I am quite relieved that Biddeford’s municipal elections are now over.
This year’s election had a certain energy. There was a sense of enthusiasm among those waiting in line to cast their votes.
Mayor-elect Liam LaFountain (left) talks with his supporters on Election Night at Pizza by Alex (Seaver photo)
Unlike the 2023 election, this year’s contest saw seven council seats being contested. People were ready for a change.
There was also a big uptick in voter participation this year. In fact, a record was broken for municipal turnout. Typically, 29 to 33 percent of registered voters make the effort to cast a ballot in Biddeford’s off-year elections.
This year, roughly 43 percent of registered voters cast a ballot.
Speaking of numbers, I am proud of our in-depth and comprehensive reporting.
The Biddeford Gazette began its political coverage on Oct. 1. During the month of October, we published a total of 51 stories. Forty-three of those stories were connected to the election. We also created a special section on our website that provided easy-to-find news and information about the election.
As many of you know, in late August I broke my right arm in two places and shattered my elbow. I am pleased to say that it’s getting better with each passing day, but it certainly impacted the Biddeford Gazette.
An X-Ray of my shattered elbow
Between my broken arm and my somewhat manic approach to covering the elections, I let a lot of other things slide.
So, I think it’s time for me to get back to basics and remind myself that the Gazette is supposed to be fun. It does not (as of today) generate any income or revenue.
We’re going to focus on quality, not quantity
I don’t need to chase down every wailing siren. I have the luxury of deciding what stories I will cover.
When I formally launched the Gazette in January, I wrote that this project was designed to “fill gaps in local media coverage by developing and publishing original news and opinion pieces about the city of Biddeford.”
What does that mean? Basically, we’re going to focus on quality, not quantity. We’re going to be more selective and put more emphasis on publishing contributed stories from the community.
Thank you so much for reading the Biddeford Gazette! Please feel free to drop us a line to offer your thoughts about our coverage or to suggest story ideas and news tips.
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously Thursday to seek guidance from the Maine Attorney General’s office about a new wrinkle that was recently discovered in the University of New England’s proposal to build a large, research pier on the Saco River.
In order to build their pier, the university needed approvals from multiple agencies, including the Saco River Corridor Commission, a quasi-state agency that has jurisdiction regarding development along the length of the river’s shoreline.
The Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) approved UNE’s project on Sept. 13, 2024. Biddeford’s representative on the SRCC abstained from the vote.
In 2001, the university agreed to the creation of a 250-foot buffer zone as a compromise to build two dormitory buildings that would exceed a 35-foot height limit.
The university’s current proposal requires the construction of an access road for the pier. That road needs to accommodate large trucks, including rescue vehicles. The road would cut through the 250-foot vegetative buffer.
When contacted by the Biddeford Gazette in October, the SRCC’s executive director said the contradiction was an oversight.
“It does appear that there was an omission of relevant information provided to the commissioners before last year’s vote,” said Cherie Dunning, the SRCC’s executive director.
Following the Gazette’s story — Just two weeks before local elections — several city councilors said they want the advice of the state attorney general before the city issues any construction permits for the project.
“We want to make sure that we have done our due diligence” said Council President Liam LaFountain during a previous interview.
LaFountain won his bid Tuesday to become the city’s next mayor. His core campaign message focused on transparency and accountability.
Thursday’s resolution passed without any discussion or comments by council members.
LaFountain and Councilor Marc Lessard tried unsuccessfully to have an agenda item about the university’s proposal discussed at the Oct. 21 council meeting,
Mayor Marty Grohman said he did not realize the item was not on the agenda for that meeting.
A portion of Thursday’s resolve reads as follows:
“Questions have arisen as to whether the SRCC’s Permit #20-491 approval is consistent with, or in conflict with the SRCC Permit #20-209, and whether the existence of a vegetative buffer zone may affect the legal validity of the current pier permit.”
“This situation has created uncertainty for the city, the university, and the public regarding the . . . the city’s obligations under state law.”
Sarah Delage, a university spokesperson, said the school “does not oppose the council’s pursuit of clarification from the AG’s office.”
The full text of the council’s resolution may be viewed or downloaded here:
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 