A small contingent of downtown Biddeford business owners and residents filed into Mayor Marty Grohman’s office Wednesday morning to “brainstorm” and share ideas about how to soften the impact of an ongoing road construction project that sometimes snarls traffic.
Grohman set up the meeting last week after his voicing his own concerns about the situation in a Facebook post that showed him driving through the city.
Grohman started the meeting by pointing out the window of his second-floor office at City Hall, which overlooks the intersection of Adams and Main streets.
A small group of residents and downtown merchants meet with the mayor to discuss ways to help downtown business and soften the impact of a “massive” road construction project (Seaver photo)
“There is literally no traffic right now,” Grohman said, pointing to an absence of traffic at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
Just a few moments later, northbound traffic was backed up with a stream of vehicles, some of which were blocking the intersection, not allowing traffic to turn right or left onto Main Street from Adams Street.
Grohman described the sewer upgrade as a “massive job” mandated by the state in order to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Saco River.
Those attending the meeting said the city needs to change its “messaging” about the project.
“it really doesn’t matter why it has to be done,” said Jon Phillips, co-owner of Time & Tide Coffee on Main Street. “People either already know why the project has to be done or they don’t care.”
Peter DiPietrantonio, the owner of 3D’s Variety on Main Street, agreed with Phillips. “There are a lot of angry drivers out there,” he said. “And they are just making it worse for everyone.”
Although the group shared their frustrations, most of the conversation centered upon ways to possibly reduce the traffic impacts and help struggling business owners.
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown,” said Carolyn Schmidtke of Better Biddeford, a downtown advocacy group. “Our downtown businesses are really hurting.”
Phillips said his revenues are down roughly 30 percent, while DiPietrantonio said his business is down 10-15 percent. Ian Kern, co-owner of Nibblesford on Washington Avenue, reported his business is down roughly 40 percent.
“People are avoiding downtown because they don’t want to get stuck in traffic,” said resident Barbara Pelletier. “But the reality is that even when traffic is bad, it takes only a couple of extra minutes to get from one place to the next.”
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown.”
— Carolyn Schmidtke
The group discussed ideas such as a “downtown passport” program where downtown visitors could get a stamp in a booklet at different locations and then be entered for a raffle prize.
Other ideas suggested included holding additional downtown events and programs.
The group also discussed potential ideas aimed at easing traffic concerns, including allowing traffic to turn right on red at the intersection of Hill Street, possibly hiring traffic guards to direct traffic in high-volume areas, including near Mechanics Park and increasing signage about the project along the city’s outer perimeter near the entrance of the Turnpike.
Ted Sirois of Saco said he understands why motorists are frustrated. Sirois told the group that he has been avoiding downtown because of the project, saying he used to visit Dupuis Hardware on Elm Street but now uses the turnpike to go to Ace Hardware in Scarborough.
Public Work Director Jeff Demers said he does not understand that logic. “I’m not saying that things are easy, but I go to local merchants because I like the owners, I like the service and the products,” he said. “If it’s going to take me a few extra minutes, so what?”
Demers shared that the project was well coordinated in its planning stages and continues to be a collaborative project with city officials in Saco, the Maine Turnpike, the Maine Department of Transportation, fire and police services in both communities and the city’s engineering staff.
“Summer is coming,” said resident Amy Francouer. “But at what cost? We have worked so hard over the last few years to bring people into downtown. How do we get them to keep coming here?”
Phillips said he is hoping the community will rally as it did during the early weeks of the Covid pandemic. “We’re one community,” he said. “We can do this if we work together.”
Grohman said he is planning another public meeting next week.
“I think we heard some good stuff today, hopefully we can come up with some positive solutions,” the mayor said. “I’m pleased that we have people willing to help and I think we can be creative.
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Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman and members of the city council set aside some time at the beginning of Tuesday’s council meeting to remember and honor one of the city’s most iconic Irish residents.
Patrick “Vincent” Keely, a former city councilor and the owner of the Wonderbar, died on April 8 this year. He was 90.
According to his obituary, Keely was born on August 20, 1934, in Galway, Ireland, to John and Delia (Walsh) Keely. He moved to Boston, Massachusetts in 1960 and later to Biddeford in the early 1970s, according to his son, Brian.
Grohman described Keely as a bridge builder and community leader who had a special talent for bringing people together to resolve their differences. “He also could pour a perfect pint of Guiness,” Grohman fondly recalled, describing the downtown Wonderbar as a popular gathering spot for people of all backgrounds.
Members of Vincent Keely’s family pose with Mayor Marty Grohman (far right) and members of the Biddeford City Council to honor a man who has left a lasting legacy of respect and cordiality (Seaver )
Brian Keely told the council that his father “fell in love with Biddeford,” recalling how his father moved his family to Biddeford more than 50 years ago.
“It was a big change from Boston,” the younger Keely recalled. “There was no mass transit and we all kind of wondered why we were here, but we quickly fell in love with this community, too. My father made us see what Biddeford could become.”
“My father made us see what Biddeford could become.”
— Brian Keely
Brian Keely told the council that his father knew everyone who came into the Wonderbar by name, and everyone — regardless of their political differences — was treated the same by the smiling man behind the bar.
“We could all learn a lot from my father,” Brian told the council. “About being kind to one another, about treating everyone with respect.”
Brian told the council that his father always envisioned Biddeford as a “gem in the rough.” He would be proud of what the city has become today, the younger Keely said.
Keely was also known for doggedly ensuring the annual raising of the Irish flag at City Hall to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day each year
Patrick Vincent Keely
Grohman asked the council and members of the public to stand for a moment of silence to honor Keely’s legacy of community service in Biddeford.
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A new program is being launched in Biddeford to help find work opportunities for unhoused individuals in the community.
Organizers are calling it the “Biddeford Opportunity Crew,” and it is a collaborative effort between several organizations to help “champion a workforce with purpose.”
The Biddeford Opportunity Crew is a new initiative based on a nationwide model that provides paid, meaningful work for local residents who face barriers to traditional employment. Primary project partners include the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce, Seeds of Hope, the Heart of Biddeford and the city’s General Assistance office.
Organizers say the new program will “give participants purpose, income, job readiness, and a direct way to contribute to the community.”
In a notice released by the Chamber, organizers said that “many people in our city want to work — but are held back by housing instability, a prior record, lack of transportation or work clothes. The Opportunity Crew will give them a path forward.”
From June 1 through Labor Day, a supervised team of five individuals will be hired to complete beautification and maintenance projects throughout the city – from public parks to sidewalks to eligible clean-up tasks for small businesses. Workers will earn minimum wage, receive breakfast and lunch, and be supervised by a city staff member. The program will operate two days a week for the pilot year and be managed through the city of Biddeford’s General Assistance office.
This will be a city-run program, but it’s powered by community partnership, say organizers, hoping area businesses will help support the new program with donations, sponsorships and job opportunities. Participating businesses will be mentioned in press releases and updated social media posts about the initiative if desired.
“I’m really excited about this program,” said Vassie Fowler, executive director of the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center on South Street. “We’ve been talking about this for a few months, and I think it’s going to be a really great opportunity for people trying to put their lives back together.
“We want to help people restore their dignity and self-worth,” she added.
Fowler said the new program will not be mandatory or a requirement to receive benefits. Instead, the new program is intended to give unhoused people an opportunity to begin putting their lives back on track.
To learn more or become a sponsor of the new program, please contact Jake Hammer, Biddeford’s General Assistance Supervisor at | 207.298.3913 or jacob.hammer@biddeformaine.org
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Word on the street is that the city of Biddeford is “pretty close” to hiring a new city manager.
City officials say they will likely be ready to make a formal announcement within the next few days.
The council is scheduled to conduct a closed-door executive session at its Tuesday night meeting to discuss “labor negotiations.”
Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, has been serving as acting city manager since late February, when embattled city manager James Bennett was removed from office well ahead of his planned resignation date.
A search committee, including citizen members, has reportedly interviewed “several” qualified candidates.
The new city manager will be the city’s fifth professional manager since 1996. Prior city managers include Bruce Benway, Ed Clifford, John Bubier and Bennett.
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Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman took to social media Saturday to express his own frustrations about an ongoing sewer update project and its impact on local traffic and downtown businesses.
In the short video clip that was posted to Facebook on Saturday, Grohman reminded residents that he too is sometimes frustrated by the work and hopes people will still support downtown business owners.
Beyond sharing his frustration about local traffic, Grohman will be hosting a public meeting on Wednesday morning in the mayor’s office at City Hall on Main Street. He says he is looking for a wide range of public “brainstorming.”
Grohman says he is hoping that members of the public will bring forward some creative ideas and constructive criticism to help the city as the ongoing project continues through the summer and into November.
“People need to remember that this is a project that could no longer be ignored,” Grohman said of the ongoing construction. “None of us want raw sewage seeping into the Saco River. We can no longer afford to keep kicking this can down the road.”
This photo, taken last month, shows the traffic impact of the ongoing sewer upgrade project (Seaver photo)
The mayor says he will make the meeting live on Zoom for people who want to participate online. He also says he will be joined by other city officials and downtown business advocates, including the Heart of Biddeford and Saco Main Street.
“I’m really hoping we can get sone good, positive feedback,” Grohman said during an interview on Sunday. “Downtown is open for business, and I’m confident that we can do some good brainstorming to make things just a bit easier.”
Wednesday’s public meeting will begin at 10 a.m.
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Mike Ramunno, a tuna fisherman from Biddeford, has owned his mooring in the Saco River for more than six years. He says no one from the city of Biddeford or the University of New England has contacted him about the university’s plan to build a large pier for their 60-foot research vessel.
The university’s plan is scheduled to go before the Biddeford Planning Board for review on Wednesday, May 21.
Ramunno is just one of many fishermen and recreational boaters who say they will be adversely impacted if the university is allowed to construct the pier in their preferred location near the mouth of the river.
Several mooring owners have made it clear that the University of New England will face legal battles if they keep demanding preferential treatment that will impact almost everyone who uses the Saco River for recreational and commercial use.
“If this plan goes through, they [UNE] will essentially be closing off the river to everyone else who uses the river,” Ramunno said. “When you plan to build a house and go to the planning board, you have to notify your abutters. Why doesn’t the university have to notify us about their plan?”
The mouth of the Saco River is a popular place for both commercial and recreational fisherman. Now a coalition of mooring owners are raising concerns about the impacts of a large pier the University of New England wants to build near its Biddeford campus (Seaver photo)
A UNE spokesperson declined an offer to comment on this story.
Ramunno is not alone in his concerns. He and six other mooring owners sent a notice of their concerns to the planning board earlier this week.
The university is hoping to construct a pier consisting of a 28-foot long by 24-foot-wide landing; a 90-foot long by 14-foot-wide approach pier; and an 80-foot long by 24-foot-long pier and a floating dock system.
UNE’s plan has already been approved by both the Saco River Corridor Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The mooring owners and others – including John Schafer, former chair of the Biddeford Harbor Commission and Daniel Chadbourne, Saco’s former harbormaster – have formed an informal alliance. They adamantly maintain that “the university has no power to compel them to move.”
“This might be checkmate,” said Schafer who has been pushing for more transparency in the regulatory process. “We shall see, but I can’t imagine any scenario in which UNE is able to steamroll these mooring owners out of the way. Except possibly in a courtroom, but that would take years. Private property is private property.”
Greg McPherson keeps his 21-foot vessel at a mooring that will be impacted by the university’s plans.
“If this plan goes through, they will essentially be closing off the river to everyone else who uses the river,”
— Mike Ramunno
“It’s already a very narrow part of the river,” McPherson said. “For the life of me, I cannot figure out why no one from the city or the university has contacted me.”
In addition to impacts on mooring owners, both Ramunno and McPherson say that if UNE is allowed to build the pier as it is currently configured recreational fishermen who troll the river will also be impacted.
“That’s a very popular area for striper fishing,” Ramunno added.
“It’s very shallow where they want to put their pier,” Ramunno said. “Why are they refusing to consider the alternative location that will give the depth they actually need? I have a 34-foot boat, and I sometimes find it challenging to turn about at low tide.”
Mooring owners often have to wait years to get a private mooring on the river. They also have to pay $150 per year to the city for their mooring.
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Victim says community needs to do more in addressing crime, mental health needs and homelessness in the downtown area
Although his story has been shared in several other media outlets over the past 48 hours, Joshua Wolfe contacted the Biddeford Gazette in hopes of ending rumors and speculation about a shooting that happened in Biddeford on Mother’s Day.
Wolfe, 32, was shot in the leg by someone he did not know outside of his Elm Street office. He was treated and released from the hospital that same afternoon.
Police arrested Derick Dorais, 34, of Elm Street, Biddeford, shortly after the shooting, said Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk
Shooting victim Joshua Wolfe says the community needs to do more to address downtown crime, homelessness, substance abuse and mental health concerns. (Contributed photo)
Fisk said that Dorais has been charged with reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon, a Class C felony and punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Dorais was unable to make bail, said Fisk. He was taken to the York County Jail in Alfred, where he remains as of press time.
Because of the intense media coverage, Wolfe says that too many people are reacting without understanding what actually happened. He says that he been “bothered” by some of the commentary he has seen on Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites.
Wolfe said people need to understand the “randomness” of the attack, and he wants the city to address the issues of rising crime, lack of mental health and substance abuse services and homelessness.
“If this happened to me in broad daylight it could happen to anyone,” Wolfe stressed during a Tuesday afternoon interview. “Imagine somebody leaving a downtown restaurant or attending the River Jam Festival and boom, you get shot. It’s not okay. People should not have to live in fear.”
A 2010 graduate of Thornton Academy, Wolf is a successful entrepreneur who works as a business consultant and stockbroker.
Now – just 51 hours after the incident — Wolfe is trying to figure out the best ways to build community awareness and advocacy for people suffering from addiction or mental health issues.
As he has done with other media outlets, Wolfe shared video footage of the incident that was recorded on security cameras near his Elm Street office, directly across from Rent-A-Center.
If this happened to me in broad daylight it could happen to anyone
— Joshua Wolfe
In the video footage, Wolfe can be seen turning into the driveway near his office while Dorais and another man were walking along the sidewalk. According to Wolfe, Dorais became upset because he thought that Wolfe had somehow disrespected his friend.
The video shows that Dorais walked by and then returned to the driveway just a few minutes later.
Wolfe walked out of his of his office and asked Dorais to leave his property, pointing to security cameras. The video shows Dorais holding both a cellphone and small handgun. Allegedly, Dorais said he was going to shoot Wolfe and post it on social media.
“I didn’t know what he was going to do,” Wolfe said. “For all I know he was going to execute me inside my office.”
Wolfe was able to overcome Dorais in a scuffle, but Dorais allegedly refused to surrender his gun. During the scuffle, the gun was fired.
Wolfe says he is still “processing” the incident, but now wants to turn a bad event into “something good for the community.”
Wolfe says he is considering working with other downtown business owners and approaching the Biddeford City Council about growing “concerns in the downtown area.”
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman said he looks forward to meeting with Wolfe and helping him in his quest for increased public awareness about the city’s need to provide services.
“I really commend him,” Grohman said Tuesday afternoon. “He’s taking what could have been a much worse incident and turning it around to increase public awareness. That’s a really good thing, and I look forward to meeting with him if he wants.”
Editor’s Note:In a previous version of this story, Wolfe was identified as Jason Wolfe. His name is actually Joshua Wolfe. It was my error, and I apologize for the mistake.
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A 21-year-old Biddeford resident is now in police custody after being spotted with some type of firearm near the entrance of Biddeford High School on Maplewood Avenue early Friday morning.
After receiving a report from an unnamed student, the school’s police resource officer was able to arrest Mohammed Hussein Kamalulldeen without incident.
The high school went on an immediate “lock down” and other schools in the city were placed on “hold” out of an abundance of caution, according to Superintendent Jeremy Ray.
Police declined to say what type of weapon was spotted.
“This is still an active and ongoing investigation, Police Chief JoAnne Fisk said during a brief press conference at the high school just three hours after the incident.
School Superintendent Jeremy Ray speaks to the media just hours after a man was arrested with a firearm near Biddeford High School (Seaver photo)
Fisk said Kamaluldeen has been charged with possession of a firearm near a school building. She said the suspect is in custody and may face additional charges.
Police declined to speculate about the suspect’s motives for having a firearm so close to a public school.
High School Principal Martha Jacques declined to confirm that Kamalulldeen was a former student at Biddeford High School, saying the situation is still under investigation.
“This was another clear example of our community stepping up to a challenge by working together.
— Mayor Marty Grohman
The police chief, the superintendent and Mayor Marty Grohman all expressed gratitude that the situation did not escalate and that the student made the right decision and followed the school’s guidelines of “If you see something, say something.”
“I am very proud of our community and the way everyone responded to this situation,” Grohman said. “This was another clear example of our community stepping up to a challenge by working together.
Ray also praised parents and the community for giving police and the school an opportunity to dismiss students in an orderly fashion.
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Editor’s note:The following is a response that Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain sent to a resident who expressed concerns about this year’s municipal budget.
By Liam LaFountain
Thank you for taking the time to write and for your thoughtful engagement with this year’s city budget. Your questions about affordability, sustainability, and fiscal discipline are essential. I appreciate the opportunity to respond and provide additional context on this year’s proposed budget.
Your recognition of the value that organizations like Heart of Biddeford, McArthur Library, and our food security and cultural institutions bring to the city is deeply appreciated. These organizations stretch every dollar and are actively engaged in fundraising and collaboration. They are not resting on municipal support alone.
For example, Heart of Biddeford, to which the Budget Committee awarded $110,000 this year (a 10% increase from last year), operates on a total budget of $270,500—meaning the City’s share is approximately 41%. In return, they run 16 community events (many spanning multiple days or weeks), manage the Art of Biddeford initiative, conduct business training, and support downtown vibrancy year-round.
Biddeford City Councilor Liam LaFountain
McArthur Library, a private nonprofit that functions as Biddeford’s public library, requested $1.25 million, and the Budget Committee awarded $1 million (a 33% increase from last year). That represents 48% of its $2.081 million annual budget. With 4,825 active cardholders and 6,500 in-person visits each month from Biddeford residents, it remains one of our city’s most widely used public services.
While the library holds a $6 million endowment, it’s my understanding that they are only able to draw down 4–5% annually per the terms of Robert McArthur’s will, and those funds are restricted in their use. I recognize the City’s contribution is substantial, but so is the library’s role in our city’s physical and social infrastructure.
Particularly in times of economic strain, the library’s value as one of the few free and welcoming places to access books, the internet, programming, and essential public services becomes even more critical. Every time I reflect on its role and its municipal funding, I am reminded of both childhood memories of the library and a quote from President Franklin D. Roosevelt: “I have an unshaken conviction that democracy can never be undermined if we maintain our library resources and a national intelligence capable of utilizing them.” With reduced federal and state support for libraries, Biddeford is fortunate to have one so deeply rooted in public service. Without the McArthur Library, Biddeford would need to build, staff, and maintain a municipal library from the ground up—a much more expensive alternative.
On the question of duplication and collaboration in food services, I believe the three food-related nonprofits supported by the City provide distinct, highly targeted services and collaborate extensively:
In-A-Pinch Non-Food Pantry: The Budget Committee awarded $4,500 (18% of their total budget). 100% of funding goes to supplies and services, and there is no paid staff.
Bon Appétit Community Meal Program: the Budget Committee awarded $24,000 (40% of their budget); volunteer-run, serving 26,000 hot meals in 2024—about 92 cents per meal for the City’s contribution.
Youth Full Maine: the Budget Committee awarded $10,000 (3% of their budget), supporting food distributions at Rotary Park and downtown, and direct deliveries to school pantries and teen programs. They served over 600 Biddeford residents last year—about $16 per person served in City funds.
Altogether, the Budget Committee awarded $38,500 to these these three organization and their food security efforts this year. I wish we did not have to allocate a single dollar to these programs. But the alternative—letting people go hungry—is not one I can support.
Biddeford Community Gardens, which the Budget Committee awarded $17,871 (28% of their budget), served over 500 residents in 2024. They operate in city parks and Housing Authority properties, charge no fees (but require a work service component for beneficiaries), and provide Bon Appétit Community Meal Program and Youth Full Maine with fresh produce (another key example of their collaborations). They also collaborate with over a dozen organizations across Biddeford and help maintain and beautify portions of Biddeford parks and public spaces.
Regarding holiday lighting, the Budget Committee awarded $5,000, not $20,000. These funds allow Heart of Biddeford and La Kermesse to install battery-powered lights in areas without electric access, helping create a welcoming winter atmosphere throughout the downtown without drawing on City staff time.
On local history and cultural preservation, the Budget Committee awarded:
$7,875 to the Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center (29% of their budget), which maintains archives and offers year-round programming.
$7,500 to the Biddeford Historical Society (33% of their budget), which maintains our area’s oldest meetinghouse (7 Meetinghouse Road) and several historic cemeteries.
$2,625 to the Biddeford Mills Museum (6% of their budget). The museum is entirely volunteer-run and has no paid staff. In 2024, the Museum logged 1,213 volunteer hours, welcomed 525 museum visitors, led 438 standard tours, 16 special tours, and provided guided educational tours to 418 students about Biddeford’s industrial history.
The Budget Committee awarded $18,000 in total to preserve and promote Biddeford’s history through these three organizations—about 78 cents per resident.
In summary: The Budget Committee received $1,974,957 in funding requests from social service and nonprofit partners and awarded$1,376,486.50—about 69.7% of what was requested. Some requests were partially funded, and others not funded at all.
These awards make up 2.9% of the City’s $47,821,494 municipal appropriation. In contrast, the largest cost drivers of the municipal budget and use of tax dollars remain Public Safety ($14,773,566) and Public Works ( $6,051,410)—with $20,824,976 budgeted this year across Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, sanitation, and city infrastructure. The largest portion of those costs is for salaries and wages for the essential staff who protect public safety, plow and maintain roads, pick up trash, and keep the city’s systems functioning year-round.
On the education side, while the overall budget increased by 5.84%, 4.18% of that growth comes from the School Department. The City’s portion rose 1.44%, and County expenses increased 0.22%. Education costs are rising due to higher wages for teachers and support staff, increased needs for student services, and a sharp reduction in state funding.
With 60% of students economically disadvantaged and 21% qualifying for special education, the state covers just 37% of Biddeford’s total school budget—leaving 63% to local taxpayers. At the same time, Biddeford educates students at a cost of $15,273 per pupil, below the state average of $17,028 and significantly less than South Portland ($19,592) and Saco ($17,347).
That efficiency also means we are investing less per student than many of our peers—not necessarily a point of pride, but a reflection of the financial constraints the School Committee and City Council must navigate. While local taxpayers may experience some relief from lower education spending per student compared to the state average and our peers, the consequences are borne by our students and educators through reduced resources and increased strain. These students are not only learners today—they are the future leaders, workers, and contributors to the strength of this city tomorrow.
Through more than 10 public meetings, several other councilors and I proposed dozens of amendments to the budget to improve efficiency and reduce the tax commitment.
I’d be remiss if I did not also mention that over the past nine weeks, through more than 10 public meetings, several other councilors and I proposed dozens of amendments to the budget to improve efficiency and reduce the tax commitment. Some succeeded—such as reducing expenses for conferences and training, dues and memberships, user licenses, advertising, and cutting a transfer that subsidized the mooring program. Others, like adjusting development-related fees, were partially successful.
Efforts to raise dispatch service fees charged to other municipalities did not gain traction. I also advocated for increased funding for municipal building maintenance and capital investments—a line item that decreased this year despite growing need—but that, too, was not adopted. Unfortunately, the consequence of underfunding this area is often deferred maintenance that becomes more expensive to address later and can disrupt basic services if not resolved in time.
These were difficult calls. None of us entered this process expecting it to be easy. But every amendment offered reflected an attempt to balance long-term responsibility with today’s fiscal realities.
I understand the concern that the continued growth of the city budget is not sustainable for many Biddeford residents. That is why I believe it is critical that both City government and the organizations we support continue to ask tough questions, pursue efficiencies, and seek out alternative funding sources. This year’s process included many of those conversations.
While the final outcome is not perfect, it reflects real attempts to prioritize essential services while holding the line where we could. The choices ahead will continue to be difficult, and the pressure to do more with less is real. But I believe that preserving affordability and maintaining the services that support our city’s well-being are not mutually exclusive goals—both are part of what it means to meet these fiscal challenges head-on.
In closing, thank you again for raising these questions and for participating in this process. Thoughtful public input like yours plays a meaningful role in shaping how our city is governed and funded. I hope the information I’ve shared helps clarify how and why certain allocations were made, even if not everyone agrees with every outcome. I don’t agree with every allocation in this budget either.
I apologize for the length of this reply—it is difficult to capture two months of Budget Committee work, and the many hours of staff time that went into crafting this document. This year’s budget, like everyone I’ve been part of, is imperfect, but it reflects an earnest effort to balance what we value with what we can realistically sustain.
Thank you again for writing. Please reach out at any time.
__________________
NOTE: If you would like to submit a column to the Biddeford Gazette, please contact us
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They say that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results.
That’s how I felt on Tuesday evening, sitting in the back row and watching the second and final public hearing on Biddeford’s proposed budget for the upcoming year.
In fact, Tuesday’s meeting was almost a carbon copy of last year’s public hearing on the city’s budget.
On Tuesday, former city councilor Stephen St. Cyr was the only member of the public who spoke in favor of trimming the projected $65.5 million budget, an increase of 5.83 percent, which would require a tax (mil) rate of $15.05.
Sure, a handful of other people spoke up, but they were there asking the council to not cut their requests for funding, including representatives from the Heart of Biddeford, the McArthur Library and the Biddeford Community Gardens.
Council President Liam LaFountain, Mayor Marty Grohman, Acting City Manager Brian Phiiney and City Clerk Robin Patterson listen intently to a member of the council.
By my count, the council saw a 4-1 margin of support for the budget.
Last year, only one member of the public spoke on behalf of beleaguered taxpayers. That’s right, it was Stephen St. Cyr. Not a peep from any other member of the public, except for those who had their hands outstretched for some municipal pork.
And then, autumn comes and people begin to open their property tax bills. Now residents go ballistic, clutching both their hearts and their wallets.
“This is outrageous,” they scream. “I can’t afford to live in my own house! Before you know it, dogs and cats will be living together.”
A total meltdown with all sorts of apoplectic flair, flooding social media accounts from near and far.
As St. Cyr pointed out on Tuesday, this latest increase comes on the back of similar increases last year and the year before, a sum impact of nearly 20 percent in local taxes.
A somewhat innocuous zoning change got obliterated, preventing another pizzeria from opening across the street. But it was about traffic flow . . . Right. Whatever (wink, wink).
Every year, it’s the same thing. I encourage people to get involved. I urge them to call their councilors or go to a meeting. And what do I get? Mostly crickets and some lame ass excuses.
“It doesn’t matter what I say. The council doesn’t listen to me.”
“The council doesn’t care about the little people, and they’ll just do what they want.”
“I’m too busy to go a meeting.”
“I didn’t know there was a meeting.”
My response? Bullshit.
You wanna see the council turn on a dime? Do what the owner of Pizza by Alex did last year. Flood the council chambers with people wearing Pizza By Alex t-shirts, including the owner and scores of employees and local fans.
A somewhat innocuous zoning change got obliterated, preventing another pizzeria from opening across the street. But it was about traffic flow . . . Right. Whatever (wink, wink).
City councilors are just like anybody else. Their opinions can be swayed, and for a stipend of $85 a month (net) you can’t expect any of them to be fierce profiles in courage.
Politicians know which way the wind blows. My grandmother always told me that the squeaky wheel gets the grease. That’s just the way it works. It’s damn hard to raise your hand and say no when you’re looking over a sea of angry and hopeful faces. Please tell me you won’t support slaughtering puppies
Bitching on Facebook doesn’t cut it.
So, let’s look at those excuses. 1.) The council will and does listen to the people who actually show up, call or send an email. It happens all the time. 2.) The council does care. They’re just in the difficult position of trying to make the right decision. 3.) Too busy? Too busy to send an email or make a phone call, but you have plenty of time to bitch on Facebook? Please. 4.) I didn’t know. You are a member of a community. You have an inherent responsibility to be an engaged and informed citizen.
Since I have probably pissed off Pizza By Alex (a felony offense in Biddeford), allow me to get a couple of other things off my chest.
To the Heart of Biddeford, the McArthur Library, the Community Gardens, the teen center and the food pantries and all the other social service groups who help make our community a great place to live: thank you for your work and service. But I also hope you guys are looking for efficiencies and alternative sources of funding.
Do we really need three food pantries? Are there opportunities for you guys to work together, collaborate?
We are funding a museum and a cultural and heritage center. Another opportunity for collaboration?
And how many years in a row do we need to fork over $20k on downtown Christmas wreaths and lights?
To the McArthur Library, when are you guys actually going to start that capital fundraising campaign you’re always talking about? Maybe this is the year when you want to tap into you rather comfortable source of private endowments?
In the movie Scarface, narcotics king Tony Montanna is negotiating with a bank president who launders the drug money. At one point, Tony gets frustrated and says, “I know how this goes: you go high, I go low.”
Thus, if you really need $750,000, you ask the city for $1 million at budget time. That way the council can slash your funding request and you still get your $750,000. Otherwise known as a win-win scenario.
What do I want?
The world, and everything in it.
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During a sometimes terse and heated meeting, Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman defended the way the city has acted during the review of a controversial pier that the University of New England wants to construct on the Saco River.
The nearly hour-long meeting was held at the request of John Schafer, the former chair of the Biddeford Harbor Commission and a Hills Beach resident who has been outspoken about the need for transparency during the review process.
City Attorney Harry Center also took part in the late Monday morning meeting in Grohman’s second-floor office at City Hall.
Center stressed that the meeting was strictly informal and not part of the review process. “The mayor has simply set aside some time to listen to the concerns of a constituent,” he said.
Hills Beach resident and former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission John Schafer points to a diagram that shows inadequate depth where UNE is hoping to build a 177-foot pier to dock its research vessel near the mouth of the Saco River (Seaver photo)
No one from the university was at the meeting, and other media outlets declined invitations to attend, according to Schafer.
Schafer’s concerns center on three essential points: the impact and necessary removal of at least seven private moorings on the river if the project is approved; concerns about the water depth where the university wants to construct its pier; and the process that has been used to review the university’s proposal.
The permitting process for the proposed pier is complex and multi-layered, requiring the review and approval by several state, federal and local agencies.
Earlier this year, UNE cleared two major hurdles in the review process, winning approval from both the Saco River Corridor Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
But a very critical part of the review process is expected to begin in just a few weeks when the Biddeford Planning Board begins its formal review of the proposal.
“I don’t have any say over what the Planning Board does or doesn’t do,” Grohman said during Monday’s meeting. “I simply appoint members, and those appointments are then confirmed by the council. I think we have a really good planning board, and I have full confidence in them.”
But Schafer said he is concerned about the lack of public input during the review process and how the city has approached the project thus far. He also criticized the university for its “lack of transparency” and for “bullying those who raise questions and concerns” about the proposed pier.
“I think [UNE’s] application is both incomplete and full of misinformation,” Schafer told the mayor. “Don’t you think it’s a bit presumptuous for a private entity to dictate how the city will review its application; to show no regard for those who have private moorings in that area just so they can construct a vanity pier?”
When contacted by the Biddeford Gazette, a university spokesperson declined an opportunity to address Schafer’s remarks.
“Since this was not an open meeting and a representative from UNE was not present, it would not be appropriate to comment on the conversation that took place,” wrote Sarah Delage in an email response. “UNE will continue to follow the public regulatory process, and we look forward to presenting our application to the Planning Board.”
Schafer said he and “a growing coalition of residents” have no problem with the university building a pier to dock its 60-foot research vessel. Instead, he says, all the concerns boil down to the exact location of the pier and the dismissal of public concerns about the project.
Survey says?
Schafer roundly criticized Grohman for allowing former City Manager James Bennett to “silence” the city’s harbormaster and assistant harbormaster last year, preventing them from participating in the city’s review of the proposal simply because they voiced concerns about the pier’s location.
But Grohman shot back and said Bennett was simply trying to avoid the appearance of bias. He also reminded Schafer that the harbormaster’s role – as outlined in city ordinances – is strictly an “advisory position,” a change that was first proposed by Schafer himself last year when he was chair of the harbor commission.
Schafer said a growing number of residents have serious concerns about a review process that seems to have a pre-ordained outcome, pointing to the results and comments found in a recent public survey about the project.
Nearly 40 percent of respondents indicated that they had a “very low” level of confidence in the city’s handling of the review process, while roughly 30 percent of respondents indicated that they had “moderately low” confidence in the city’s handling of the matter.
The online survey was conducted over several days in late April on a Facebook page called “UNE Pier Review,” a group that Schafer has helped organize.
The survey asked respondents a wide range of questions about the proposed pier and the review process thus far. The survey allowed respondents to maintain their anonymity.
The multi-question survey included feedback from 156 respondents, showing an overwhelming lack of public confidence on the issues of transparency and the mayor’s handling of the issue.
Nearly 40 percent of respondents indicated that they had “very low” level of confidence in the city’s handling of the review process. And roughly 30 percent of respondents indicated that they had “moderately low” confidence in the city’s handling of the matter.
City Attorney Harry Center (left) and Mayor Marty Grohman listen as John Schafer details his concerns about UNE’s proposal
Fewer than 10 percent of respondents indicated that they had “very high” confidence in the process, while slightly less than 20 percent of respondents indicated that they are not sure.
Many respondents added comments saying the city has been “too secretive” while other questioned the motives of city officials, speculating that some members of the city seem to have a “cozy relationship” with the university.
Grohman described the survey as “interesting,” but also said it was not a professional survey conducted by a polling firm.
“An anonymous survey is not something that a public permitting process could use, as it does not include an opportunity for all parties involved to publicly comment,” Grohman wrote in a text message to the Gazette after the meeting.
Schafer told the mayor that several mooring owners have already written to regulatory authorities stating quite plainly that they have “no intentions of moving their moorings where UNE wants to build their pier.”
Schafer also said that UNE has threatened the city with litigation if its desired location for the pier is not approved, referencing a letter sent to the city by Ron Schneider, the university’s lead attorney, several months before the university had submitted its application for review.
Grohman described Schafer as a good friend, and said he was happy to hear the concerns that were raised.
In a moment of levity during the meeting, Grohman pointed out that the mayor does not vote on or control the regulatory review process. “I don’t have the authority to change what sodas are sold in the vending machines downstairs,” Grohman laughed.
After the meeting Schafer said he very much appreciated the opportunity to share his concerns with the mayor. “Nothing in the meeting surprised me,” he said. “It’s about what I expected.”
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Tucked away in one of Biddeford’s former mill buildings on Pearl Street, there is a growing and thriving display of underwater life – from tropical coral reefs to freshwater rivers and lakes.
The Northeast Aquarium Science Center attracted hundreds of visitors Saturday during its grand-opening event that showcased several species of sea life and an opportunity to learn more about marine ecosystems.
Emma Balboni is the president of the science center, and she says the aquarium’s mission is to help educate people about the environmental importance of marine life and also raise awareness about the challenges being faced by working waterfronts all over the globe.
“We’re really excited to offer the public access to a world that is often overlooked,” Balboni said. “We want the next generation to know and appreciate where seafood comes from.”
Hannah Bonaventura and her daughter, Maeve, take in the views of a freshwater ecosystem. (Seaver photo)
Balboni grew up in Cape Cod and spent summers in Maine. Her great grandfather is from the coastal, fishing town of Cutler, Maine. “These are issues that are near and dear to my heart,” she explains. “It’s basically in my blood.”
Balboni says it is critically important to protect both the fishing industry and the ecosystems that have fueled Maine’s economy for centuries.
According to the organization’s website, the aquarium is “currently home to a variety of different species of aquatic fauna, invertebrates, and fish, including an alien-like sea apple, a genetically distinct clownfish and even a mimic octopus.”
The overall goal, Balboni said is “to take these extraordinary exhibits with us through our growth and allow for many other exhibits to join them along the way.”
Once finished, the aquarium will feature exhibits from the Gulf of Maine, Maine’s lakes and rivers, the Caribbean, Indo-Pacific, major rivers, and major lakes across the world.
But beyond the dazzling aquatic displays, there is also emerging educational opportunities, including microscopes that visitors can use to study microscopic seal life.
“We’re really excited to offer the public access to a world that is often overlooked”
— Emma Balboni
Balboni says the center hopes to bring exhibits and information about Maine’s lobstering, aquaculture and ecotourism industries to Biddeford.
Rick Oellers of Saco heads up the education programs at the science center. A master aquarist, Oellers was a former adjunct professor at the University of New England.
“I have been keeping tropical fish for 62 years,” Oellers said. “I have been blessed because now I am living my dream. My hobby is now my business.”
Oellers says that science-based hobbies, such as astronomy and other subjects are quickly disappearing as a new generation connects primarily to their smart phones for both recreation and information.
“We want to get kids interested in marine life, starting at an early age including elementary schools and even daycares,” he said. “We want to give kids and others a chance to explore what is happening just below the surface.”
The non-profit aquarium is located at 22 Pearl Street and does not have a set admission price, asking visitors to donate whatever they can afford.
(From city personnel and previous stories by the Biddeford Gazette)
Biddeford city officials say that a new partnership between the city and the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center is delivering “real results” in addressing homelessness, with 43 individuals successfully housed since November through a “coordinated, compassionate approach.”
At the core of this success is what Mayor Marty Grohman describes as a “Weekly Homeless Huddle,” where city and Seeds of Hope staff come together with outreach workers and service providers to identify and assist those most in need. This focused, whole person-centered effort has led directly to dozens of people moving into stable, permanent housing, according to a press release distributed Monday
“This is what progress looks like,” said Grohman. “Thanks to the dedicated team at Seeds of Hope and strong coordination across agencies, we are actively finding solutions to homelessness, one person at a time. All Biddeford residents deserve the opportunity for a safe and healthy existence indoors, and our partnerships are allowing us to make that a reality.”
The partnership model was launched in July 2024 after the closure of a major encampment near Mechanics Park on Water Street. That encampent was highly visible and located across the river from a new, upscale housing development in Saco.
This is a photo of a homeless encampment that was destroyed by the city last year (Seaver photo)
The Biddeford City Council authorized the creation of a temporary overnight center at Seeds of Hope to offer safety and stability. Through a generous grant award, MaineHousing provided additional support to the overnight center throughout the winter months, enabling daytime services on weekends. Connections with key service providers such as The Opportunity Alliance’s PATH program help neighbors access critical resources such as mental health and substance use treatment services.
Although the city was planning to use Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to renovate the Seeds of Hope, that funding mechanism hit a snafu earlier this year.
This significant increase in services available at Seeds of Hope since July has enabled staff to develop relationships with neighbors, a key factor for building trust and paving the way for long-term housing placements, according to the mayor’s office.
As more individuals are housed, the organization anticipates a decrease in the number of people needing services, marking a hopeful turning point for the community.
“We are finally seeing the kind of change that comes from sustained, collaborative commitment,” said Vassie Fowler, Executive Director of Seeds of Hope. “When we meet people with dignity and consistent support, housing becomes not just possible, but permanent.”
As spring arrives, we expect to serve fewer people—not because needs are going unmet, but because more and more people are into permanent housing.”
When we meet people with dignity and consistent support, housing becomes not just possible, but permanent.”
__ Vassie Fowler, executive director, Seeds of Hope
Spokespersons for the city and Seeds of Hope say that they remain committed to this partnership and to expanding opportunities for every resident to live with dignity and stability.
In late April, financial support from MaineHousing for extended weekend hours will conclude, though the City-supported overnight program will continue to operate. Seeds of Hope will build on the strong foundation of success already achieved by providing more focused and intensive coordination of services, and guiding individuals through housing, substance use disorder treatment and mental health resources. There is also on-the-street outreach planned to connect with unhoused neighbors who are not already seeking services.
But there are still funding challenges to provide these services for unhoused residents.
“The work we’ve done so far is just the beginning,” Grohman said. “We’re proving that when we work together with compassion and dedication, real change is possible. Biddeford is building a future where no one is left behind, and we’re going to keep pushing forward until everyone has a place to call home.”
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A few days, ago, a major road construction project commenced on the lower end of Elm Street in Biddeford. As expected, the project has created delays and other impacts for drivers because of necessary detours.
A lot of people have been complaining and asking questions about the project, so the Biddeford Gazette decided to do a little digging. We reached out to the Biddeford’s Public Works, Fire and Police departments
Here are answers to some of the most discussed questions and complaints.
It should also be noted that we reached out to these individuals on Saturday evening, and our e-mails were answered only a few hours later. Do you answer work emails on your day off?
Why not do the project at nighttime when there is less traffic?
According to both the city and the contractor, doing the work at night would triple the project cost. The noise would also adversely impact residential neighborhoods, and the detours would still need to be in place.
Detoured traffic backs up on Main Street last week (Seaver photo)
Why keep the detours in place 24/7 even when there is no work being done?
According to Public Works director Jeff Demers: “There is no room to stack vehicles on Elm, causing side street and business entrances being blocked if we opened and closed daily and weekends. Also, it would require contractor to close hole tightly and would be very time consuming, to say the least. The decision was made to keep detour through out project. Patience will be key.”
How will this project impact emergency responders near the project area?
According to Biddeford Fire Chief Lawrence Best, “we have access to all the areas around the construction site. We also worked with Saco to have the SFD respond jointly with us to the area north of the railroad bridge on Elm Street. This is a joint response for both fire and EMS calls to try and ensure there are no delays.
“With regards to getting through standing traffic, we have special traffic pre-emption lights on our vehicles which turn the traffic lights to green in the direction we are traveling which helps move cars forward and out of the way. We have also preplanned alternate routes to try to avoid some the traffic congestion if possible.
How much will the project cost?
Biddeford is estimating $3 million; the Maine Water company is estimating $2 million for its role in the project.
How long will the project last?
It is anticipated that this project will be completed in early November.
Why not have an automated traffic light near the project site to allow alternating traffic flow?
Public Works Director Jeff Demers: “Lights on Elm was thought through, but there would be no room to stack vehicles on Elm Street, causing side street and business entrances being blocked. Motorists would have gotten confused if we opened and closed daily and weekends. Also causing contractor to close hole tightly.”
What is this project, and why do we have to do it now?
Major road construction projects cannot be done during winter months. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has been pushing Biddeford to do this state-mandated project for several years.
Ultimately, this project is designed to separate sewer and storm water.
Editor’s Note: If you have questions or concerns about the project, please contact us, and we’ll do our best to get you timely and accurate information.
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Blackout Percussion earns first place while Blizzard Winds secures second place.
By KAREN GARNETT
Biddeford’s Marching Arts program is closing out a remarkable season with top honors at the New England Scholastic Band Association (NESBA) Winter Percussion Finals. BlackOut Percussion earned first place, while Blizzard Winds secured a strong third-place finish, solidifying Biddeford’s standing as a powerhouse in the region.
Biddeford’s Marching Arts program was revived in 2019 after a decade-long hiatus and now bolsters 57 students from Biddeford High School and Biddeford Middle School. The program not only consists of BlackOut Percussion and Blizzard Winds but also BlackOut Percussion-B, a middle school concert-style percussion ensemble that represents the district’s commitment to cultivating musical excellence from an early age.
Biddeford’s Marching Arts Program, which consists of BlackOut Percussion (in white), BlackOut Percussion B (in black), and Blizzard Winds (in red). BlackOut Percussion earned first place, while Blizzard Winds secured a strong second-place finish, solidifying Biddeford’s standing as a powerhouse in the region. {Photo by Maureen Grandmaison Photography)
“We are so proud of what these students have accomplished this season,” said Michael Murphy, Biddeford High School Band Teacher and Marching Arts Director. “They’ve dedicated countless hours to rehearsals, shown tremendous growth as musicians and performers, and supported each other every step of the way. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their hard work recognized at such a high level.”
“We are so proud of what these students have accomplished this season.”
— Michael Murphy, BHS Band Teacher and Marching Arts director
Both BlackOut Percussion and Blizzard Winds have consistently placed first throughout the season in competitions on the NESBA and Maine Band Directors Association (MBDA) circuits. Their talent recently earned regional acclaim at the Dartmouth High School Winter Guard International (WGI) Regional Championships, with BlackOut Percussion placing first in percussion and Blizzard Winds taking second in the winds category. This season marks BlackOut Percussion’s second appearance on the national stage and Blizzard Winds’ first-ever performance at a Regional Championship, making their achievements even more remarkable.
For those who haven’t had the chance to experience these talented performers in action, the ensembles will cap off their season with a Friends and Family Finale Performance on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the Biddeford High School Steve White Gym.
The community is invited to come celebrate these student musicians and their incredible accomplishments.
Karen Garnett is the communications director for the Biddeford-Saco school system. She can be reached atkgarnett@biddefordschools.me
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The city of Biddeford is launching a “Carry-in, Carry-out” pilot program at Rotary Park for the 2025 season.
When the new initiative begins this spring, Rotary Park will not have trash receptacles in any outdoor areas of the park and visitors are asked to bring home any of their trash, including pet waste, after spending time in the park.
According to a press release from the city, the new policy is intended to “remove unsightly trash from parks that wildlife can get into and make a mess,”
City officials say the new policy also discourages pests from the parks in picnic and play areas. “Wasps, bees and other rodents are naturally attracted to trash, which can create an unpleasant environment for visitors,” according to the press release.
Rotary Park is located on outer Main Street and includes recreational facilities, including a dog park and small boat launch area (City of Biddeford photo)
“We are excited to launch this new initiative in our community and hope to see both environmental and financial benefits from the change,” said Lisa Thompson, the city’s recreation director.
“It currently takes two city employees two to three days per week to empty all the trash cans that are located throughout the city,” Thomson said. “By reducing the number of city trash cans, our staff’s time and the cost savings from paying to dispose of garbage can be redirected to improve our parks in other ways.”
The pilot program will be assessed throughout the season, with a goal of extending it to all city parks and beaches in future years if the desired outcomes from the program are met.
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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers last week approved an application from the University of New England (UNE) for the construction of a controversial pier proposal on the Saco River in Biddeford.
Although UNE is still required to clear several more permitting hurdles before construction can begin, the Army Corps approval represents a significant boost for the pier project.
Earlier this year, the Saco River Corridor Commission also gave its approval for the project, which includes a permanent pier consisting of a 28-foot long by 24-foot-wide landing; a 90-foot long by 14-foot-wide approach pier; and an 80-foot long by 24-foot-long pier and a floating dock system.
The proposed pier is intended to serve and dock UNE’s 60-foot marine research vessel.
UNE Spokesperson Sarah Delage said the university is “pleased to be moving forward” through the permitting process.
Construction of the pier relies upon a $3.5 million federal grant the university received last year.
When asked about the uncertainty of federal funding created by the Trump Administration, Delage said UNE is monitoring President Trump’s executive orders, but the project is expected to stay on track.
“Like all colleges and universities, as well as other research organizations, UNE is monitoring executive orders and other federal actions closely for potential impacts on the university,” Delage said. “Having said that, we have no reason to believe the funding for the project is at risk.”
But not everyone is celebrating the Army Corps’ decision to approve the project, including John Schafer, a Hills Beach resident and former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission.
“I do not know why, but in this case several ‘powers that be’ seem absolutely determined to exclude local knowledge from the permitting process. That is just wrong.”
— Dan Chadbourne, Saco’s former harbormaster
During a recent telephone interview, Schafer said he is “extremely disappointed” by the Army Corps’ decision.
Schafer — who has been doggedly seeking information about the pier and its review process for more than a year — said the Army Corps made its decision without public comment and without input of “local knowledge,” most notably from the city’s harbormaster, Paul Lariviere.
Schafer also shared several letters from people who have existing moorings that would be impacted by the pier proposal.
As of press time, the Army Corps has not responded to our request for public comment.
However, in an email response to Schafer’s questions about the lack of public comment during the Army Corps’ review, Project Manager Jana Jacobson of the Army Corps wrote that “the project was reviewed for verification under the Maine General Permit, which are issued for use on a five-year cycle. Therefore, there was no public comment period.”
Dan Chadbourne, Saco’s former harbormaster, sent a pointed letter to Jacobson, disputing UNE’s claims that the pier would only impact one existing mooring.
Chadbourne said seven moorings will be impacted if UNE is allowed to build its pier.
“There is absolutely no substitute for local knowledge when evaluating such a sizeable intrusion into a popular waterway like the Saco River,” Chadbourne wrote. “I do not know why, but in this case several ‘powers that be’ seem absolutely determined to exclude local knowledge from the permitting process. That is just wrong.”
Delage said once all regulatory approvals are received — including from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the Biddeford Planning Board – the university must then obtain a building permit from the Biddeford Code Enforcement Office.
Delage said UNE will continue to follow the review process, but declined to speculate about how long that process will take.
Randy Seaver is the editor of the Biddeford Gazette. He can be contacted at randy@randyseaver.com
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Scores of Biddeford residents turned out Tuesday for the first of two public hearings on the city’s proposed budget.
Only one resident — former City Councilor Michael Swanton — suggested a budget cut, calling on the council to close and sell the city’s public access television station on Pool Road.
“Technology has zoomed by cable television,” Swanton told the council. “That’s $300,000 each year for something that only a handful of people use.”
Nearly 40 other people approached the podium one-by-one to voice support for various social service agencies, including the McArthur Library, Biddeford Community Gardens and the Heart of Biddeford.
Although there are more than 30 social service agencies requesting funding from the city, only three of them were mentioned during the public comment period — and once again — public support for the library dominated the 45-minute public hearing.
In a repeat of last year, the majority of comments came from people asking to fully fund the library’s budget request, which is just over $1 million this year, mainly to support ongoing renovations at the 160-year-old building. According to documents filed with the city, the library’s board of directors indicated that only 25 percent of their funding request would be used for salaries.
The McArthur Library is once again seeking roughly $1 million from the city.
“How we fund these things should reflect our values,” one man told the council.
More than 30 people spoke in support of the library, but 12 people expressed support for Biddeford’s Community Gardens; and one person spoke in favor of the funding request from the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center.
New Bathhouse Should be Ready on Memorial Day
Although the iconic Biddeford Pool Bathhouse in the Gilbert Boucher Park was destroyed during a January 2024 coastal storm, a new bathhouse is expected to be ready by Memorial Day.
After reviewing several bids from private contractors, the city council was poised to spend roughly $222,000 to build a 24 x 24-square foot replacement facility. Councilor Marc Lessard, however, suggested having the city’s Public Works Department submit their own proposal for the project.
Public Works Director Jeff Demers said his department could complete the task and construct a larger facility for roughly $135,000., a savings of roughly $87,000.
According to Recreation Director Lisa Thompson, the new bathhouse will be a 28 x 32-square foot structure that will include two regular bathrooms, a family bathroom, an accessible bathroom for persons with disabilities and outdoor showers.
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With a “challenging” budget hanging over their heads, members of the Biddeford City Council and the Biddeford School Committee participated in a joint workshop meeting Monday to examine the proposed budget.
Monday’s joint meeting was a rare occurrence that has happened only once before over the past 10 years.
“This is an unusual opportunity,” said Mayor Marty Grohman during his opening remarks. “We all share the same goals.”
School Superintendent Jeremy Ray said both the council and the committee are all in a “difficult situation, but we are being very conservative.”
In its current form, the proposed budget for next year shows an increase of 0.53 percent for the city; a 5.10 percent increase in school funding and an 0.08 percent increase in county taxes.
According to Acting City Manager Brian Phinney, every $100,000 of spending requires 2.3 cents on the tax rate.
As it stands now, the proposed budget would require an increase in the mil rate, from $14.22 last year to $15.03 this year.
Members of the Biddeford City Council and Biddeford School Committee discuss the proposed budget for next year. (Seaver photo)
Grohman said Monday’s evening was designed to bring both groups together under one roof so that they could each share their concerns and collaborate with one another about ways to soften the impact on taxpayers.
School Committee member Marie Potvin is a retired teacher who spent many years working in Biddeford schools.
“I was born and raised here,” Potvin said. “Our demographics have been changing significantly, and I am feeling somewhat anxious about all the things happening outside of the city that is creating so much uncertainty.”
School Committee member Megan Desjardins is a social worker. “Every single decision we make is in the best interest of our students,” she said. “Every day, we are being asked to do more for less.”
John McCurry, a former city councilor and current school committee member, described the budget as “quite high” McCurry said the city’s schools are always seeking ways to drive down costs, but he is worried about public perception.
“How do we get citizens involved?” McCurry asked, recalling previous budget debates when members of the public filled the council chamber, spilling out into the hallway.
Almost everyone at Monday’s meeting agreed that an 11.5 percent increase in the overall school budget is going to be a hard sell to voters.
“People just react to the numbers,” said School Committee member Chad Barrs. “There’s often a stark difference between perception and reality. It is much more complicated than it looks on paper.”
“Every day, we are being asked to do more for less.”
— Megan Desjardins, School Committee member
City Councilor Marc Lessard said the council needs to make some “painful decisions,” reminding the group that Biddeford taxpayers have seen a 20 percent increase over the last three years.
“If everyone here is okay with a 5.7 percent increase, then let’s just go home,” Lessard said. “Our work is done,” adding that he will not support a 5.7 percent increase.
“Do we take money away from kids who need funding or do we take it from McArthur Library and the Heart of Biddeford?” Lessard asked rhetorically, suggesting that the city could slash all of its funding for social services requests.
Councilor Doris Ortiz rebuked Lessard. “A lot of those social service agencies help our kids,” she said.
Councilor Norman Belanger said the council should avoid creating an “us versus them mentality.”
What’s driving the school budget?
School Supt. Jeremy Ray pointed to what he described as a “seriously flawed” school funding formula that is used for determining state subsidy amounts.
During his presentation, Ray walked through several charts and spreadsheets that demonstrate how increasing valuations hurts the city’s schools.
One of those spreadsheets shows Biddeford being well behind many other communities when it comes to per pupil cost for education.
Biddeford’s per pupil cost last year was $9,904.76, compared to $16,085.68 in the town of Falmouth or $15, 936.72 in South Portland.
“Our focus is always about what our students deserve,” Ray said. “A child in Biddeford doesn’t deserve less than a kid in Cape Elizabeth. We have a tough population, but people still want excellence.”
Ray also provided an 11-year comparison for Biddeford’s school budget, which shows an average expenditure increase of 3.82 percent.
Last year, the school budget came in with a 6.1 percent increase in expenditures. This year’s requested increase is 5.39 percent.
City Council President Liam LaFountain said there is still a long road ahead in what the final budget will look like, including public hearings and additional council review.
“Some of this feels premature,” LaFountain said. “I want to make sure that we’re not just thinking about the short term, but are also considering a lot of long-term impacts.”
Councilor Dylan Doughty said “everyone is being asked to do more with less” on both the city and school side of the budget.
Barrs said the proposed budget is going to be a “tough pill to swallow” for taxpayers and voters who will ultimately decide on whether to approve the school budget in June.
Click on the link below to view/download a copy of the Biddeford School Budget Presentation
An iconic, but long neglected, sign post in Biddeford may be getting a new lease on life.
The former MOBIL gas station sign – nearly 40 feet tall- sits near the center of the Five Points intersection. It is visible to commuters traveling on both Route One and Route 111. It is also visible to drivers entering or exiting the city on both West and Graham streets.
Earlier this week, the city issued an invitation for artists to submit ideas for how the sign could be redesigned as an entry point into the city.
The former Mobil gas station sign may be revitalized (Seaver photo)
In its request, the city says it is seeking an artist to “create a welcoming, community-inspired design for the historic” sign.
According to Mayor Marty Grohman, improvements made to the sign will not involve public funds.
Grohman says he is confident that a private fundraising campaign and perhaps some grant funds could be used to revitalize the sign, which has been an eyesore for more than a decade.
“We’re talking about a project that is located in a key gateway to our community,” Grohman said, pointing out that the city’s growth is edging outward.
Grohman said that the Downtown Development Commission (DDC) has embraced the concept that the city’s downtown area extends well beyond the lower end of Main Street.
The proposed project is getting a mixed reaction on social media. Some residents say the sign should be scrapped, while others say they are excited to see some creativity and new ideas.
According to a press release from the city, the DDC hopes to “transform a key gateway into the downtown with an engaging, vibrant visual statement that reflects Biddeford’s rich industrial and cultural heritage, its creative energy and its commitment to public art.”
“We’re talking about a project that is located in a key gateway to our community.”
— Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman
The project is a direct response to Biddeford’s Cultural Plan and Public Art guidelines.
According to the public invitation, the final design should foster a sense of place, welcome visitors and celebrate the evolving identity of Biddeford as a hub for creativity and cultural exchange.
“This is an open call for anyone interested in making a lasting impact on the city’s visual landscape,” Grohman said.
The selected artist will work closely with city officials and the Downtown Development Commission to ensure that the final piece resonates with community values and meets site-specific requirements, according to the press release.
For more information on how to submit a design, please click this link.
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