A well-known community leader and volunteer, Craig Pendletonhas joined the Biddeford Gazette’s board of directors
CRAIG PENDLETON | Contributed Photo
BIDDEFORD | Biddeford Gazette, Inc. – the parent company of the Biddeford Gazette — is pleased to announce that Craig Pendleton of Old Orchard Beach has formally joined the Gazette’s board of directors as the corporation’s treasurer.
In his role as treasurer, Pendleton will have joint control and oversight of all financial accounts maintained by the Biddeford-based, non-profit news organization, serving as the corporation’s Chief Financial Officer.
The board of directors also voted Thursday to appoint Pendleton to serve as chair of the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Council.
“We are thrilled that Craig has agreed to share his time and resources with us as we continue our journey of building a community-driven, non-profit news organization,” said Laura Seaver, president and CEO of Biddeford Gazette, Inc.
“Craig brings to the table decades of proven and effective community leadership in the business, non-profit and government sectors,” Seaver added. “His resume is impressive and speaks for itself.”
Pendleton, a retired commercial fisherman and business leader, was the founder and coordinating director of the Northwest Atlantic Marine Alliance, a non-profit organization designed to bring together commercial fishing interests, academic researchers and government regulatory officials to help develop a collaborative approach in Gulf of Maine’s fisheries management.
Pendleton later served as executive director of the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also served as transportation director of Biddeford-Saco-Old Orchard Beach Transit.
“His resume is impressive and speaks for itself.”
— Laura Seaver, publisher
Today, Pendleton continues to serve on the PeoplesChoice Credit Union board of directors, a position he has held for over 30 years, including 20 years as board chair.
“I’m always ready for the next challenge and looking for new ways to improve our community,” Pendleton said. “I am excited about the Biddeford Gazette’s mission and its future potential as a valuable news resource and community partner.”
Pendleton – a native of Saco – grew up in Camp Ellis, a tight-knit neighborhood perched on the shores of Saco Bay. He graduated from Thornton Academy in 1978 and then graduated from the University of Rhode Island, earning a degree in Commercial Fishing and Marine Technology. In 2010, he completed his bachelor’s degree at Husson University.
For more information about the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Council and its other members | Community Advisory Council
One of the coolest things about doing something for more than 30 years is the memories you make along the way.
As a political junkie – especially in regards to the city of Biddeford – it is extremely rewarding for me to have an archive of local political news that dates back nearly 30 years to the mid-1990s.
DISCLOSURE | Because he is now a political candidate in Biddeford, Sam Pecor no longer serves on the Biddeford Gazette’s Community Advisory Board.
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I am the only active reporter who remembers another young man who was also very excited about serving on Biddeford’s Charter Review Commission more than 10 years ago.
That young man won his election to the Charter Review Commission and used that opportunity to launch a successful political career. Today, that once enthusiastic teenager is the Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives.
In fairness, Ryan Fecteau actually started his political career as a student representative on the Biddeford School Committee while attending Biddeford High School.
20162026
My wife, Laura – the Gazette’s publisher – was serving on the school committee at that time, and she was designated to be Fecteau’s coach and advisor.
That is one of our strengths at the Biddeford Gazette. We have unmatched institutional knowledge about the city of Biddeford, its politics and its people.
The Gazette can use and rely on that knowledge to offer our readers valuable context to important stories that impact our community.
I got thinking about all of this because the Gazette is still working on a feature story about Chuck Cote of Biddeford and his dedication to building and maintaining a fascinating archive of Biddeford’s sports and political history, especially when it comes to the former St. Louis High School.
The working title of that upcoming story is Taking A Walk Down Biddeford’s Memory Lane.
We interviewed Chuck last week. Why is it taking so long to publish a story that we know is being highly anticipated by many of our readers?
Primarily, because that story is complex and we consider it to be very important. Moreover, we care much more about doing a good job rather than doing a quick job.
What a long, strange trip it’s been
The Gazette’s historical archive comes primarily from my days as a reporter and editor for the Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier from 1997 to 2006; as a freelance reporter for Saco Bay News (2023-2024) and from my personal blog, All Along the Watchtower that started in 1999 as a weekly column in the Courier and continued until I launched the Biddeford Gazette in Nov. 2024
CAUTION | My personal website is somewhat messy and in the process of being revamped, so please temper your expectations. It also contains coarse language.
A MUCH YOUNGER EDITOR | Randy Seaver reports from the roof of Biddeford City Hall in 2000 about the efforts to save the Lincoln Mill Clocktower that has been now wiped away from the city’s skyline
There is other stuff on my website, dating back to the early 1980s when I was working as a temporary, non-paid, student intern at the Journal Tribune, Biddeford’s former daily newspaper.
There is also stuff there from my days as collaborative research reporter and communications director for the Northwest Atlantic Marine Alliance, a non-profit that covered fisheries in the Gulf of Maine and my time as senior associate at Barton & Gingold, one of Maine’s most respected political and public policy consulting firms.
While working at Barton & Gingold, I really enjoyed playing a role in shaping public policy issues that were sometimes controversial.
CONSULTANT RANDY SEAVER is flanked by former Biddeford City Manager John Bubier (left) and David Flood, publisher of Mainely Media (right) during a meeting at the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce about a new federal health insurance tax proposal in 2015.
Shortly after Barton & Gingold was sold in 2014, I launched my own political consulting firm, Randy Seaver Consulting.
I still operate my own consulting practice, but I do not work for any clients or projects that could be connected to the city of Biddeford. That would be a glaring and unacceptable conflict of interest.
In closing, if you so desire you can find my installment of my Then & Now updates (Ryan Fecteau) at this link | All The Young Dudes, Redux
CORRECTION | Though it is grossly ironic and thus difficult to admit, this story contained a typographical error regarding its own historical context. I worked as a freelance reporter at Saco Bay News from 2023 to 2024, not starting in 2003, before Saco Bay News even existed. I am fortunate and grateful that I can still rely on my former editor Liz Gotthelf and her eagle-eye and penchant for accuracy. In retrospect, perhaps it’s time for this old geezer to be put out to pasture. We sincerely apologize for the error.
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That’s our opinion, and we welcome yours. You may submit either a guest column of the same length or a letter to the editor by contacting us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com.
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MARCH 16, 2026 | The Greater Biddeford Saco Music Hall of Fame has announced its inductees for the class of 2026 among musicians throughout York County.
The class of 2026 inductees include: J.D. Drown; The ID; Johnny Martinez’ Lower East Side; Armand Paquette and The Tidal Waves.
The inductees will be celebrated at the induction ceremony and show on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 5pm at the Biddeford Performing Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased at MidTown Music in Biddeford for cash only; tickets can also be purchased online: Music Hall of Fame – Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center.
Tickets purchased online are $15 until 8 pm on May 1; the fee increases to $20 at the door on the day of the show.
The third annual event often sells out, attracting more than 800 people, and is a program of the Biddeford Cultural Heritage Center. The group’s mission is to “Celebrate, preserve, educate and promote Biddeford’s rich past and present historical culture, heritage and diversity.”
“Recognizing the influence of music in our lives is such an important part of our heritage and history,” said Diane Cyr, the center’s board president. “Growing up, there was always music whether it was in the church choir, gathering around the piano at family events and holidays, or just going out. Music was a part of our lives and it’s great to see how it continues to bring people together.”
“This program recognizes those who made an impact on our community, and the energy of those attending is infectious. I’m so happy we can continue to do this,” she added.
The show has sold out the past two years, packing the more than 800-person auditorium.
“The music is incredible,” said show Deb Lombard, Selection Committee Chairman and member of the Greater Biddeford-Saco Music Hall of Fame. “The genres of music in Biddeford, Saco and greater York County run the gambit from classic rock and French-Canadian sounds to crooners reminiscent of Roy Orbison.”
Musicians perform both their own music and familiar tunes.
“The talent that exists in York County is phenomenal,” said Lombard, founder of The Dance Company, and whose background in musical theater and dance spans decades.
“This show is a must-see,” she added. “From the performers to the sound and lighting, you can expect a production that is professional, heartwarming and entertaining.”
It’s been another busy week at the Biddeford Gazette, capped off by last weekend’s annual spring conference of the New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA).
NENPA is a professional organization supporting the work of more than 450 media outlets throughout New England, including daily and weekly print publications; radio and television stations and digital media outlets like the Gazette.
A NEW DAY FOR THE GAZETTE (Contributed photo by Barbara Pelletier of Biddeford)
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I have attended this annual conference many times in the past, but always while working for someone else or representing a different publication.
This year was much different. This was the first year I attended the conference as the co-owner of a non-profit media outlet dedicated to covering just one community.
I was warmly embraced and welcomed by many of my colleagues, and I learned a ton of stuff. It was a watershed moment of my professional career, and I will do my best to pass on the lessons I learned to benefit the Gazette’s readers, subscribers and supporters.
The Biddeford Gazette started more than a year ago as a snarky blog, fueled by frustration about what is happening in Biddeford.
Amateur hour is now over
You’ll be seeing some big and not so big changes in the days and weeks ahead.
No matter what, we are dedicated to the Biddeford community. We serve you. That is our responsibility, and we must –and will — take that responsibility seriously.
CITY BUDGET | We will continue our ongoing coverage of the city’s annual budget process. The council is facing a daunting task. While a proposed increase of more than 12 percent seems frightening, it’s important to note that it is only a preliminary number subject to lots of debate and adjustment. We urge you to get involved. Go to meetings. Call your councilors.
MEMORY LANE | We had a blast last week meeting with Chuck Cote, the youngest child of legendary football coach and player Bob Cote. Today, Chuck is working to preserve and archive tons of the city’s political and sports memorabilia including an extensive collection of historical records from the former St. Louis High School in Biddeford.
RUNNING ON EMPTY | Gazette readers will be able to learn more this week about Biddeford’s Jessica Johnson, a deeply passionate community volunteer who will once again be running in the Boston Marathon to raise money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Research Institute.
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DID YOU MISS IT?
TIGER PRIDE SHINES IN SANFORD | The Biddeford Gazette was proud to offer our exclusive coverage of the thrilling, end-of-season UNIFIED basketball game between the Biddeford Tigers and Sanford Spartans last week.
UNE PRESIDENT Dr. James Herbert ended his silence and publicly expressed his frustration regarding the controversy that now surrounds the university’s proposed research pier.
The Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce congratulates Rousseau Insurance Agency on the recent purchase of the home, auto, and business insurance book of business from Maine Insurance Benefits Group, following the retirement of agency principal Rand Clark.
As part of this transition, Rousseau Insurance has welcomed the clients of Maine Insurance Benefits Group and will continue providing the same personalized service and professional guidance they have come to expect.
Matt Rousseau, Principal (Photo | Rousseau Insurance Agency
Rousseau Insurance was selected to assume responsibility for these clients because of its shared values as a local, independent insurance agency and its strong commitment to client advocacy and service. The transition also includes the addition of Michele Coffin Tobias, who has long served these clients and will continue working with them as part of the Rousseau Insurance team, helping ensure a smooth and familiar experience moving forward.
This transition reflects Rousseau Insurance’s continued growth and investment in serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout the York & Cumberland County regions, while maintaining the relationship-driven approach that defines local independent agencies.
Over the past decade, Biddeford’s property taxes have steadily climbed. In 2013 the city’s total tax rate was $16.54 per $1,000 of valuation. By 2022 it had reached $18.23, with several years above $19 and even $20 along the way.
That may not sound dramatic at first glance, but it represents roughly a 10 percent increase in the tax rate over ten years—and that figure doesn’t include the dramatic rise in property valuations that has pushed many homeowners’ actual tax bills much higher.
At the same time, many Biddeford residents are facing the same reality as everyone else: inflation, rising insurance costs, and household budgets that do not grow automatically each year.
That is why this moment—when the next Biddeford Charter Commission is being considered—is the right time to discuss a structural reform: tying property-tax increases to inflation.
Across the country, municipalities are experimenting with tax caps or inflation-indexed limits to ensure government grows at roughly the same pace as the economy that supports it. The principle is simple. If inflation is 3 percent, the default growth of government should not exceed 3 percent unless voters explicitly approve it.
Such a rule does not prevent the city from funding important priorities. If voters want expanded services, new schools, or large infrastructure projects, they can approve overrides at the ballot box. But it does create an important discipline: government must justify spending increases rather than assuming taxpayers will absorb them.
An inflation-linked property-tax cap would also force difficult—but healthy—budget conversations. When revenue growth is limited, cities must prioritize core services, reduce waste, and rethink programs that may no longer be essential. In other words, government must make the same choices that Biddeford families make every day.
“. . . growth should not automatically translate into ever-rising tax burdens for the people who built this community. . .”
Biddeford is in a period of remarkable growth. Downtown investment has surged, property values have increased, and new residents are discovering the city’s character and potential. But growth should not automatically translate into ever-rising tax burdens for the people who built this community long before the boom.
The upcoming Charter Commission presents a rare opportunity to place long-term guardrails on municipal finance. A charter provision tying property-tax increases to inflation—unless voters approve otherwise—would create predictability for homeowners, discipline for city government, and transparency for taxpayers.
Biddeford’s future is bright. The question now is whether the city will adopt policies that ensure prosperity growth does not come at the expense of affordability. The next Charter Commission should seize this moment and put a sensible inflation-based tax limit before the voters.
NOTE: The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE |A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
University of New England President Dr. James Herbert today released a formal statement to the Biddeford community regarding the school’s controversial research pier proposal.
Herbert’s statement was sent to area media outlets and city officials.
Herbert’s public statement is the first time he has publicly spoken about the research pier. Today’s statement follows increasing public frustration about the project, including a recent public hearing of the city’s newly formed Institutional Zone Review Committee.
Herbert was appointed to serve on that committee by Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain.
In his statement, Herbert expressed frustration, writing that “the public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources.”
UNE also released its own timeline of events connected to the pier project (See Below)
The following statement was taken directly from a press release issued by the university earlier today.
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Dear Members of the Biddeford Community,
“In recent months there has been significant discussion about the University of New England’s proposed research pier on the Saco River. I understand that projects affecting our waterfront and local environment naturally generate strong interest and thoughtful questions from the community.
I want to begin by acknowledging something directly. Despite our best efforts, UNE has clearly fallen short in our communication efforts.
The extensive public meetings, project updates and community outreach efforts conducted with a goal of full transparency still left some residents with questions in the face of rumors and misinformation. For that reason, we are sharing the accompanying timeline so members of the community can better understand how this project evolved and the steps that have led us to this point. While the timeline is not inclusive of every action or conversation related to the project, it provides an overview of key milestones to date.
The idea of a research pier at UNE’s Marine Science Center has been under study for many years. Marine engineers and environmental specialists evaluated multiple potential locations before identifying the site that best balanced safety, environmental protection, minimization of impacts to navigation, water depth, and operational needs.
Over time, the design has been refined to reduce its footprint and address concerns raised during the review process. The project has undergone extensive regulatory review and has received approvals from the appropriate federal, state, and local agencies.
Throughout this process, many residents have participated in meetings and conversations with university representatives, and we appreciate the thoughtful engagement of those who have shared their perspectives and concerns in good faith.
Unfortunately, the public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources. These communications do little to advance a constructive conversation and instead contribute to confusion, distrust, and an inaccurate understanding of the project. In some cases, that seems to be their intent.
“The public discussion has also included anonymous attacks, misinformation, and reckless accusations circulating through social media and emails from untraceable and unresponsive sources
— UNE President Dr. James Herbert
UNE has been part of the Biddeford community for generations. Our students, faculty, and staff live, work, volunteer, and contribute to the vitality of this city. UNE is proud to be one of Biddeford’s largest employers and a major contributor to the economic, educational, and cultural life of the region. The proposed research pier is intended to support marine science research, education, and stewardship of the Saco River and the Gulf of Maine.
Biddeford is our home, and we remain committed to being a good neighbor and a contributing member of this community. We will redouble our efforts to keep residents informed as this project moves forward and to provide clear, fact-based information about the project and its benefits. Please feel free to contact us directly with any questions you may have at researchpier@une.edu.
The mayor mentions that it is time to review the zone ordinance since it has not been updated in nearly 25 years. He refers to a need for clarity on “what is permitted, how impacts are evaluated, and how decisions are made.”
LaFountain adds that the “recently appointed institutional zone review committee will `review the ordinance, gather public input, and recommend whether revisions are warranted.”
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain
The committee, according to the mayor’s piece, was formed through a “regular public appointment process” and describes the background of the appointees.
His column refers to the possible need to update the ordinance, based [upon] infrastructure influence, traffic patterns, public safety demands and neighborhood character.
While the above is interesting, of greater interest, is what was not mentioned.
Given that this committee Is largely composed of Hills Beach residents, what exactly has been the “regular public appointment process” by which they were nominated? This is not just between Hills Beach and the university; this involves the entire city.
The mayor suggests the need for a comprehensive update referring to infrastructure influence, traffic patterns, public safety demands, and neighborhood character.
Largely missing is mention of the services of a professional city planner with the necessary expertise to balance the needs of the residents, the university and the city at large.
Finally, since it is time to update ordinances to accommodate the needs of our citizens, isn’t it also time to review the accessibility of our beautiful beaches to the residents at large?
All city residents pay taxes not just Hills Beach. These taxes pay for streets and public areas and should be accessible to all.
Those with homes in the most desirable areas of public interest should accommodate the need to share reasonable accessibility with others. The deliberate exclusion of available parking for beach access is reprehensible. It is time to correct this.
[Editor’s Note The city of Biddeford has been working on and deliberating the need to expand public parking opportunities in the city’s coastal neighborhoods over the last several weeks.]
Remove the no parking signs. Provide more public parking for beach accessibility.
If our city government is truly representative of the city at large, this can be done. Do our politicians really represent us? – or is it heavily weighed in favor of a particular group?
Diane Snow, Cumberland, Maine
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The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain told the Biddeford Gazette early Tuesday afternoon that he is optimistic about his proposal to bring in a temporary consultant to help city staffers and elected leaders address several critical issues that have been plaguing the city for more than two years.
The city council is expected to vote this evening to approve the hiring of Patricia Finnigan, a well-known and highly experienced municipal consultant for a six-month period.
The city of Biddeford continues to grapple with some difficult issues
Finnigan, whose experience includes more than a decade of serving as the city manager in Auburn, also served as the manager in the towns of Ogunquit and Camden; and served as the assistant city manager in Portland, Maine’s largest city.
“She is certainly qualified and up to the task,” LaFountain said during a brief telephone interview.
According to public documents, the city will pay no more than $36,000 for a six-month period in which Finnigan will help develop strategies and recommendations to address issues at City Hall, including long overdue financial audits that could impact the city’s future ability to borrow money.
Other issues the city is facing include a long overdue update of the city’s comprehensive plan and the potential for significant fines if the city is unable to address outstanding sewer separation projects that are mandated by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
“No one should view this as a lack of confidence in our current staff and their abilities,” LaFountain said. “These issues did not happen overnight, and it is not realistic to think that they can be easily solved after the city’s voters decided it was time for change just a few months ago.”
LaFountain said he wants to ensure that the city has all the resources it needs to finally address problems that have been developing over that last several years.
“No one should view this as a lack of confidence in our current staff and their abilities,”
Bennett, hired by the city in 2015, was a brash and outspoken city leader who left a tangled trail of problems in his wake.
“It’s not just important to fix the problems we’re now facing, it’s also critically important to ensure that we can put systems in place to prevent these problems from ever happening again,” LaFountain said.
LaFountain said that he and every member of the city council is dedicated to the idea of leaving the city in a better place than they found it a little more than 90 days ago.
“We are striving for accountability and transparency,” LaFountain added. “That’s not going to happen without some pain and a thorough examination of what’s needed to right the city’s ship.”
Tonight’s special meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall council chambers.
UPDATE | The full city council voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Finnegan.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Considering it was the first birthday I was dreading; it turned to be the best birthday week I can remember.
As we age, we are all reminded to focus on friends, family and doing what we love.
Because I love writing news about Biddeford, I was able to accomplish all three of those goals this week.
The Gazette featured some pretty interesting and exclusive content this week, including ourin-depth examination about a so-called buffer zonethat has found the city of Biddeford and the University of New England battling in York County Superior Court.
UNE President Dr, James Herbert and City Councilor Pat Boston listen to several angry residents who expressed frustration during Monday’s public hearing about development at UNE;s Biddeford campus (Seaver photo)
Our contributing writer Jim Krause also offered Gazette readers a carefully researched story that explains what you need to know when a door-to-door solicitor comes knocking on your door.
As an added treat, we had a blast providing video and print reporting of the first Coffee With A Copevent that was held Wednesday at the Community Center in Biddeford. Nice work by the Biddeford Recreation Department in organizing the event!
Joy to sorrow
The very best part of my week was being invited back to the Biddeford Primary School to read to some second-grade students in Jillian Palladino’s class on Monday. The kids surprised me with a special rendition of Happy Birthday to celebrate both my birthday and that of Dr. Seuss (also Jon Bon Jovi and writer John Irving).
But this week ended on a bittersweet note when I learned of Curtis Robinson’s passing while working on this week’s local obituaries.
I did not know Curtis. He was only a few years older than me, but he was a notable, old-school journalist who got to hang around with my idol Hunter S. Thompson.
‘One of the last great newspapermen” | Curtis Robinson (Aspen Daily News photo)
According to a recent feature story in the Aspen Daily News, Robinson was a journalist’s journalist: “dogged and irreverent kind of journalist — the type who wouldn’t take BS if it was served on a silver platter and knew a government meeting was good material if you could write about it with verve.”
Robinson’s sister lives in South Portland. Our condolences to his family and friends
And that’s a wrap for this week! Some good stuff on the horizon, so keep reading and checking back for the latest updates.
Better yet, subscribe to the Biddeford Gazette today! It’s free and certainly worth it.
CORRECTION | In the first photo caption above, one of our readers alerted us that we mistakenly identified Biddeford City Councilor Pat Boston as “Bat’ Boston. It was a typographical error, and we apologize for the mistake.
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Spring and summer 2026 are right around the corner. In fact, Daylight Saving Time begins on March 8. Along with melting snow, muddy driveways and yards, and the first flowers of the season, another familiar trend returns to Biddeford: an increase in door-to-door sales.
Each year brings a new wave of sales pitches—solar panels, replacement windows, driveway or roof repairs, house painting, “faster and better internet,” and whatever the latest sales trend happens to be.
It’s the season of door-to-door salespeople
While researching this article, we quickly realized how complicated the issue of door-to-door solicitation can be.
What started as a simple topic turned into a deep dive into city ordinances, state regulations and company practices. Before getting into the details, there’s one key takeaway everyone should remember:
Never invite strangers into your home, and don’t be afraid to say “No, thank you.”
During my research for this story, I spoke with a young woman who knocked on my door and was very persistent about selling solar panels.
To be fair, she seemed polite and professional—much more so than many door-to-door salespeople I’ve encountered. However, it became clear that she likely knew little beyond the basic instructions she had been given: knock on doors, promote solar panels, and try to earn commission.
Through her, I was eventually able to speak with one of her supervisors. That conversation led me to even more research—and more confusion.
I already knew this wasn’t accurate, because the city website lists the companies currently allowed to solicit. Still, it’s very possible she simply didn’t know.
Many companies that rely on door-to-door sales—regardless of the industry—hire temporary local workers, often younger people or college students looking for flexible ways to earn money.
They’re given a clipboard and sometimes a bright vest to appear official, then sent out to knock on doors.
One company involved in these efforts is Freedom Forever, which is currently in the process of merging with another solar company, VITL Power. However, neither company is currently registered to solicit in Biddeford.
Both companies previously held licenses but allowed them to expire or canceled them—VITL Power in June 2025 and Freedom Forever in April 2024.
During a phone call with a manager from Freedom Forever/VITL Power, Owen Haglund stated that the company operates in Maine as “commercial travelers” or “transient sellers,” and therefore believes they do not need a solicitation permit in Biddeford.
However, according to the Maine Attorney General’s website, transient sellers must still be licensed by the stateand must follow the regulations of any municipality where they operate.
Which companies are permitted to knock on doors in Biddeford?
Biddeford City Clerk Robin Patterson confirmed that neither Freedom Forever nor VITL Power is currently permitted to solicit within the city. She also clarified that even transient sellers must obtain permits for each employee who plans to go door-to-door under the city’s ordinance.
Residents can check the city website at any time to see which companies are properly permitted.
The city website also advises residents to ask to see a solicitor’s permit. Anyone legally going door-to-door is required to carry one.
A sample of the permit is available on the website so residents know what to look for.
If you believe someone is soliciting without a permit, behaving aggressively, or failing to provide a required buyer’s rights statement, residents can contact the Biddeford Police Department’s non-emergency line at 207-282-5127.
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Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk emphasized one key safety point during our conversation: never allow a solicitor into your home.
When asked about “No Solicitation” signs, Fisk noted that signs can help discourage law-abiding salespeople, but many solicitors simply ignore them.
In most cases, door-to-door solicitation is regulated by city ordinance rather than criminal law. However, that doesn’t mean problems can’t arise—which is why it’s important to keep interactions at the door and never invite strangers inside.
Fisk also encouraged residents to review both the city’s solicitation ordinance and the information provided by the Maine Attorney General’s Office to better understand their rights as consumers.
So, here’s the short version:
Door-to-door solicitation in Biddeford can be frustrating, but it isn’t going away.
The city has rules in place to regulate it, and reputable companies will follow those rules. Those regulations are designed to protect residents.
However, residents also need to take steps to protect themselves. Don’t invite solicitors into your home, ask to see permits when appropriate and know your rights under the city ordinance.
Salespeople are supposed to show their permit. They’re supposed to respect your decision if you say no. And if you do sign a contract, there are specific consumer protections they must follow before work can begin.
A “No Solicitation” sign can help, but it’s not a guarantee.
As the saying goes, signs keep honest people honest—just like locks keep honest people out.
In the end, the best protection is simple: know your rights, use common sense and don’t be afraid to close the door.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Jim Krause is a freelance writer living in Biddeford. He can be contacted at jiggyjim@live.com
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THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | A Legacy of Trusted, Independent Journalism
Despite the well-known urban legend that no cop can resist a donut, several witnesses who attended Wednesday’s Coffee With a Cop event at the Biddeford Community Center say none of the officers even touched one of the fine donuts that were provided by Reilly’s Bakery.
Wednesday’s event was coordinated by Recreation Director Lisa Thompson who said she was pleased by the robust public turnout for the event.
Lt. Normand Allaire; Deputy Chief Steve Gorton and Police Chief JoAnne Fisk answered a variety of questions and offered some sage advice, including the hazards of distracted driving. (Seaver photo)
“This is something that has been done in many other communities across the country,” Thompson said. “Many communities – including right here in Biddeford – host Night Out events and other ways to get residents better connected to the law enforcement officers who serve the community.”
Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk, Deputy Chief Steve Gorton and Lt. Normand Allaire attended the event, fielding a variety of questions from the public and then later posing for photos with folks who were anxious to have their picture taken with a uniformed officer.
“It’s a lot of fun for us, and we enjoy the opportunity to connect with people in the friendly way – in a more relaxed and casual setting,” Gorton said. “Things like this are really the foundation of community policing.”
Roughly 25 people attended the 90-minute event, and the questions were rapid-fire and sometimes complex.
The officers answered questions on topics ranging from appropriate medication disposal to traffic accident investigations and how police handle protection from harassment orders.
Officers pose with a few of the residents who attended the Coffee With a Cop event (Seaver photo)
The mood in the room was friendly. And residents listened intently – even when officers were forced to decline talking about specific personal matters or ongoing investigations.
Officers also shared some of their pet peeves.
“For goodness’s sake, please put down your phones when you’re driving behind the wheel,” Allaire told the group of residents. “Even, when I’m off duty, I see it happening all the time – and I yell out ‘somebody call the police.’
Thompson said she was pleased that the event proved popular and said she would like to do another event with the officers.
“I always think it’s a good idea for us to collaborate with other city departments to promote community engagement and hopefully increase understanding of what’s happening in our city.”
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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A Grassroots Celebration of Food, Flavor & Community — with a New Digital Passport
Contributed Story | Heart of Biddeford
From bánh mì to barbecue, specialty coffee to steak frites, arcade combos to raclette, Biddeford–Saco Restaurant Week returns March 15–22, 2026, inviting residents and visitors to explore the region’s dynamic and ever-growing food scene.
Organized by Saco Main Street, Heart of Biddeford, and the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce, Restaurant Week in Biddeford and Saco has its own personality — distinct from statewide programs that focus primarily on prix-fixe dinners.
Biddeford-Saco Restaurant Week returns March 15 – 22 (Photo: Heart of Biddeford)
“Our Restaurant Week is a little more grassroots,” said Delilah Poupore, executive director of Heart of Biddeford. “Not all of our food businesses are sit-down restaurants. We have breweries, bakeries, sandwich shops, sushi counters, an arcade, coffee roasters — you name it. So we leave room for creativity in how businesses participate.” Saco’s executive director, Angie Presby added, “Honestly, we may need to rename it ‘Foodie Week’ because it’s about restaurants but so much more.”
That flexibility allows each business to design an offering that fits their style, their space, and their customers.
A Taste of This Year’s Offerings
With more than 20 participating businesses, Restaurant Week highlights the full spectrum of the local food scene. Diners can find everything from raclette poured over toasted baguette at Nibblesford to a secret Peruvian Steak Frites special at Magnus on Water, comfort classics like Frito Pie at Ore Nell’s Barbecue, and creative multi-course meals at Jin Sushi and Ramen.
Nibblesford in Biddeford will be one of more than 20 participating businesses in this year’s event.
It’s not just restaurants, though. Participants can enjoy bracket-style “Mocha Madness” at Time & Tide Coffee, gameplay-and-dinner combo deals at Rift Arcade, and special deals at Banded Brewing Co. The range reflects what makes Biddeford and Saco unique: a food culture that blends serious culinary talent with creativity, comfort, and fun.
New in 2026: The Brightr Passport
To encourage diners to explore multiple locations, this year introduces the Brightr Restaurant Week Passport — a simple, web-based experience (no app required).
Customers register by scanning a QR code displayed at participating businesses. Once registered, they can view all Restaurant Week offerings and “check in” at each location they visit by scanning that business’ unique QR code. Each day of Restaurant Week, one winner will be randomly selected from that day’s Passport check-ins to receive a $25 gift card, for a total of eight daily winners. At the end of the week, one participant who checked in at three or more businesses will be awarded the $100 grand prize.
Alex MacPhail, the executive director of the Biddeford Saco Chamber explains, “The more places that participants explore, the more chances they have to win — and the more local businesses they support!”
Restaurant Week also features two dynamic ticketed events that bring the community together in creative and unexpected ways.
Food Collider: March 12
An early kick-off to Restaurant Week, the Food Collider transforms Pizza by Alex into a one-night pop-up gallery and storytelling experience. Presented by Art of Biddeford in partnership with Pizza by Alex, the March 12 event blends art, food, and story inside one of Biddeford’s most iconic spaces.
Part art exhibition, part live gathering, each ticket includes pizza nibbles, entry to a curated food-themed gallery, and eight creative “collisions” — five-minute presentations weaving together storytelling, music, history, and reflections on everything from family tables to farms to the systems that bring food to our plates. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Biddeford Food Pantry.
FYOOD Cooking Competition: March 18
BRCOT culinary students will be participating in this year’s event
The week continues with FYOOD (pronounced “feud”), a high-energy cooking competition hosted at the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology Culinary Program kitchen.
Amateur home chefs team up to face off in two mystery ingredient challenges (one savory, one sweet) with just one hour to create and plate their dishes before a panel of professional chefs, local personalities, and Culinary Program Director Chef Steve.
Audience members enjoy front-row views from the dining room, a live video feed from inside the kitchen, and a made-to-order pasta meal from the culinary students.
Meanwhile, competitors battle for the FYOOD trophy and serious bragging rights. Limited to four teams, the event highlights both the creativity of local home cooks and the real-world experience gained by BRCOT culinary students preparing and serving guests in a fast-paced environment.
Tickets and team registrations for both events are available via Eventbrite.
More Than a Meal
Biddeford–Saco Restaurant Week is about connection as much as cuisine. It’s about supporting small businesses, celebrating creativity, and giving people a reason to explore both downtowns — one check-in, one meal, one shared table at a time.
For the full list of participating businesses and complete details, visit the official Restaurant Week webpage
BIDDEFORD, Maine – The Biddeford High School (BHS) Drama Club is proud to announce its upcoming production of Mean Girls: High School Version, a bold, high-energy musical that brings humor, heart, and sharp social commentary to the stage. Show times are Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Biddeford Middle School Performing Arts Center.
Based closely on the original hit film Mean Girls, this stage adaptation stays true to the spirit and storyline audiences know and love while being thoughtfully tailored for student performers. Rated PG-13, the high school version makes the story more appropriate for teen and family audiences without losing its signature wit and authenticity.
“At its core, Mean Girls is about identity, belonging, and the courage to be yourself,” said Ellie Joseph, head of Vocal and Theatre Arts at Biddeford High School. “Our students have embraced both the humor and the heart of this story. They’ve grown tremendously — not just as performers, but as collaborators and leaders. Watching them support one another, take creative risks, and bring these characters to life has been incredibly rewarding. This production showcases their talent, resilience, and the powerful sense of community we build through the performing arts.”
At Biddeford High School, the performing arts program is committed to creating meaningful theatrical experiences that both challenge and inspire students. This production offers opportunities for growth not only in performance, but also in collaboration, confidence, and storytelling — skills that extend well beyond the stage.
Community members are invited to attend and celebrate the incredible hard work of the cast and crew. The shows are general admission with tickets sold at the door for $10 for adults and $5 for students. Audiences can expect a show that is bold, funny, and full of heart — and a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, identity, and finding your voice.
One by one, more than a dozen area residents approached the podium to offer comments and concerns about development at the University of New England’s Biddeford campus during a public hearing held by members of the newly created Institutional Zone Review Committee.
The committee, which includes UNE President Dr. James Herbert, listened carefully to some often-heated public testimony during the hour-long hearing.
UNE President Dr. James Herbert and IZ Review Committee Chair Pat Boston listen to public testimony during Monday’s public hearing regarding the city’s Institutional Zone (Seaver photo)
Several residents said they were not there to “bash the university,” but rather to urge the committee for a more thoughtful and deliberate review process when it comes to the city’s Institutional Zone residents.
Many residents expressed anger, frustration and concerns about recent development projects planned by the university.
Gary McMullen of Biddeford told the committee that he hopes they can “do something to improve the process” regarding how development at UNE’s campus is approved.
“I don’t have anything against UNE,” McMullen said. “It’s about the process.”
McMullen talked about how Paul Lariviere – the city’s harbormaster – was removed from the review process of a controversial, large-scale research pier the university is hoping to soon construct on the Saco River.
McMullen cautioned the committee from accepting a false narrative that Lariviere was opposed to the project, saying the harbormaster was only opposed to the exact location being proposed by UNE.
Bunny Wermenchuk of Biddeford told the committee that her family’s property – which they first purchased in the mid-1970s – was then located near the former St. Francis College.
Over the years – Wermenchuk said – her family’s home became surrounded by sprawling growth, after St. Francis College became the University of New England.
“I’m not here to bash the university,” Wermenchuk said. “I’m here to talk about our ordinances for development at the university.”
Wermenchuk remined the committee that it has been more than 25 years since the university’s master development plan has been updated and approved by the Biddeford Planning Board.
“Over the last 24 years, there has been a lot of growth at UNE,” she said. “I support that growth, but I want to make sure it is happening the right way.”
Wermenchuk said UNE’s waterfront location impacts many things that affect the community – from the environment and fisheries to the concerns of mooring owners in proximity to the campus.
Biddeford resident Kelly Mourmouras addresses the IZ Review Committee (Seaver photo)
Kelly Mourmouras told the committee that there is a long history of UNE doing things differently than what was told to Hills Beach residents.
Mourmouras — who graduated from UNE — said her husband served as vice president of the Hills Beach Neighborhood Association when the city’s first Institutional Zone Review Committee was formed in the mid-1990s.
“I want to thank Mayor [Liam] LaFountain for establishing this committee,” she said. “The transparency and honesty in the process are important. We had numerous meetings with the university, and it was always very challenging.”
Diane Doyle, a Saco resident, told the committee she was concerned about UNE’s plans to purchase the former St. Joseph’s convent property, which is located on the shores of the Saco River, roughly two miles west of UNE’s main campus.
Doyle said she and her neighbors across the river have now noticed many “bright lights” being erected on what was once a relatively quiet and hidden property.
“We are concerned about how UNE is going to develop that particular property,’” Doyle told the committee.
City Councilor Pat Boston – the committee’s chair – reminded the audience that the convent property is not located within the city’s Institutional Zone, and thus concerns about that specific property are not relevant to the committee’s work.
Does UNE benefit Biddeford?
Over the last few weeks, the Biddeford Gazette has received and published several letters to the editor and guest columns related to the University of New England and its numerous benefits to the community.
But Biddeford resident Joe Emmons challenged many of those positive assumptions.
“How, exactly, do Biddeford residents benefit from what is happening at UNE?” Emmons asked rhetorically.
Lori Nerbonne described herself as a newer Biddeford resident and raised concerns about a property that the university recently purchased near her Red Oak Lane neighborhood.
Resident Paul Brady, a residential waterfront property owner said Biddeford needs a “watchdog” to monitor “all of us on the river.” He said he hopes communication between UNE and its neighbors can improve. (Seaver photo)
“There has always been a buffer between the university and our residential neighborhood via UNE’s access road’ (to the beach),” Nerbonne told the committee. “Now, there is no buffer because the property they purchased is a home inside the residential zone in our very small neighborhood.”
Shawn Tibbetts – one of seven mooring owners who could be impacted by the university’s pier – blasted the city for a lack of communication about ongoing development at the university campus.
Tibbetts, a commercial fisherman, said no one from the city or the university would even return his calls and emails about how the proposed pier could impact his livelihood.
“At no point, were local harbormasters involved in the review of the pier UNE wants to build, and that was a huge mistake,” Tibbetts told the committee. “This is the stuff UNE doesn’t want to talk about.”
Tom Hatch, another Biddeford mooring owner, said his concerns and questions last year about UNE’s proposed pier project were ignored by the city.
“I reached out to the former mayor, the former city manager and even Senator [Susan] Collins.” Hatch told the committee. “I got a grand total of zero response.
“As a taxpayer and a stakeholder, you expect—at least – to get some kind of response.”
Hatch told the committee he hopes to see a “dramatic improvement” in how the city and the university communicate with residents.
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“As a taxpayer and a stakeholder, you expect—at least – to get some kind of response.”
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Resident Paul Brady – a waterfront property owner – told the committee that “the city needs a watchdog to watch all of us on the river.”
Approximately 30 people attended Monday’s public hearing about development at UNE’s campus. (Seaver photo)
Following the hour-long public hearing, the committee opted to immediately go back to its ongoing review and examination of development issues within the Institutional Zone.
Boston reminded the audience and those watching online that additional comments and concerns can be sent to the committee via a group email at InstitutionalZoneReview@biddefordmaine.org
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Brian Phinney — Biddeford’s former chief operating officer, who also served several months as acting city manager – is today retired “and enjoying it,” but wants to make sure that the current city council will be using correct information at their next meeting, especially regarding materials that contain his signature
Phinney, who retired in January, recently sent a letter to Mayor Liam LaFountain, City Manager Truc Dever and each member of the city council to provide detailed information about an item that the city council is scheduled to consider at tonight’s (March 3, 2026) meeting,
In order to “ensure accuracy,” Phinney also sent a copy of his letter to the Biddeford Gazette and copied Finance Director Gerry Matherne and City Clerk Robin Patterson on his correspondence to provide “verification” of his statement in case questions are raised at tonight’s meeting.
Former Acting City Manager Brian Phinney (center) listens as former Mayor Marty Grohman reads an item during a 2025 council meeting. City Clerk Robin Patterson is seated at Phinney’s right side. (Seaver photo)
Clarifying the city’s audit process
Specifically, Phinney wants to ensure that the council has historical details regarding the city’s FY 2024 audit related to the possible hiring of CBIZ, an accounting firm, that the council is considering for conducting the overdue audit.
The council will be asked whether to approve spending $103,000 to conduct the audit, including both the city and school department.
Phinney says the city is on the verge of a “duplicate” approval.
“The executive summary section states that this is a retroactive approval and discusses compliance with the purchasing policy rules as the basis for the retroactive approval,” Phinney wrote in his message to the council.
“[This] item was brought to the Finance Committee for discussion on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 in the Other Business section [of the meeting] and was subsequently approved by the full council, unanimously, that same evening.”
Phinney suggested that council members review the video transcript of the Finance Committee’s Sept 2, 2025 meeting, suggesting that current city officials to the video time stamp of 22 minutes, 58 seconds.
“At [that] meeting, Gerry Matherne is asked by Mayor LaFountain (at that time, council president) to provide an update,” Phinney said. “She [Matherne] did and the committee members asked questions.
“Funding was discussed as coming from the city’s audit account with an understanding that the expense would exceed the budgeted amount,” Phinney wrote. “This is the same account that is referenced in the March 3 [council] packet.”
Phinney points out that then Council President LaFountain made a motion to forward the item to city council for approval based on the dollar amount.
The motion passed unanimously (Lafountain, Beaupre, Lessard), Phinney noted, emphasizing that item was listed in the Finance Committee’s packet under Other Business as a discussion item.
The Finance Committee, Phinney said, voted on the item and advanced it to the council agenda.
Later that same evening (Sept. 2, 2025) – during the City Council meeting — Mayor Marty Grohman made an adjustment to the agenda, adding the item at the request of the Finance Committee, Phinney wrote, again suggesting that councilors watch the video transcript of that meeting, beginning at timestamp 7 minutes, 55 seconds.
“The item was discussed at timestamp 30 minutes, 28 seconds,” Phinney wrote, adding that the vote of the full council was unanimous. “Because this item was advanced by the Finance Committee the Order was created in series after the fact.
Phinney says the he signed the CBIZ agreement later that evening, but only after Finance Committee and City Council approval — and in full compliance with the purchasing rules in effect at that time.
“I am bringing this to your attention so that you do not waste time at the meeting duplicating previous approvals,” Phinney wrote. “And [I want] to ensure that the record accurately reflects the conditions supporting my signature.”
Following the city council’s decision to suddenly remove former City Manager James Bennett from office, Phinney served as Biddeford’s acting city manager from Feb. 20, 2025, until City Manager Truc Dever began her duties in August 2025.
Correction: In an earlier version of this story, we indicated that Phinney served as the city’s chief financial officer. That is incorrect. Phinney — in addition to briefly serving as acting city manager — was Biddeford’s chief operating officer. We apologize for the error.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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I understand there is a moratorium on UNE initiated by the mayor and city council. UNE is an institution that is a huge plus for Biddeford. They hire professionals as professors, adjunct professors and administrators who live in our community. More importantly, UNE educates young people from Maine who aspire to better themselves and get good paying jobs.
In addition, UNE provides jobs for residents from Biddeford and surrounding areas to maintain the building, grounds and services. UNE is not a burden to residents of Biddeford.
The Portland Press Herald had an article (Biddeford Committee plans public hearing, Feb. 24, 2026) about the moratorium, which revealed the hidden agenda for this moratorium.
It appears the Hills Beach residents want to constrain development and growth of UNE. They are more interested in keeping people out and the coastline to themselves for nothing more than selfish reasons.
Biddeford has failed to provide public parking at every beach in Biddeford for all the residents. When I drive through Biddeford Pool these days, I noticed all the places I had parked to go scuba diving when I was in high school are now blocked or have no parking signs, essentially keeping city residents out.
The Biddeford City Council recently enacted a six-month moratorium on continued development at the University of New England’s Biddeford campus to allow city officials and a new subcommittee time to review and recommend potential changes
If you drive to Goose Rocks Beach, you are welcomed with a sign that says, “welcome to Goose Rocks Beach, no parking on any street any time”. When you drive through, you can see a beautiful beach near the road.
Most of the time there are very few people on the beach. But there is no public parking anywhere. Instead, you find a pseudo security guard following you to make sure you leave. He essentially chases you out.
My sister stopped there last year to show her daughter the beach and was rewarded very quickly with a parking ticket. I thought, here I am a resident of Biddeford and could not go to one of our beaches.
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Editor’s Note:Goose Rocks Beach is located in and controlled by the town of Kennebunkport, not Biddeford)
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Driving through, I noticed most of the license plates are from out of state. Is this where Hills Beach is going to not provide any public parking?
We see our coastline being bought up by many who are from out of state and moving to Maine to retire. If you read the Portland Press Herald article on February 18, Maine has become the oldest state, where people over 65 outnumber the people under 18 in Maine.
It is one thing to buy up the coastline, but another when these people do whatever they can to prevent Maine residents from accessing the beaches in order to keep the coastline to themselves. I have 22 nieces and nephews and only two still reside in Maine. The others all had to go out of state to find good paying professional jobs.
If you watch the video of the public hearing meeting just before the city council voted for the moratorium, you will see there was absolutely no interest of any city council member to listen to public inputs. They were simply going through the motions and had their minds made up.
It will be interesting to see if the public hearing meeting (March 2) will be a repeat of that or whether anyone on the city council will listen to public inputs and take them into account.
Council members should be representing all city residents, not just a handful in Hills Beach.
When one sees the committee made up of three city council members who live in Hills Beach and Patricia Boston, a Hills Beach resident heading up the committee, there is little faith they will do their job of representing all residents of Biddeford, but more for their own benefit.
I believe this committee is a serious conflict of interest and unethical. I hope the mayor and other city council members choose to do that right and just thing and abandon this moratorium.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Bernard Roy is a former Biddeford resident, and 1971 graduated of Biddeford High School. Today, he resides in Ada, Michigan
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NOTE: The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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On Monday, March 2 at 6 p.m., the Institutional Zone Review Committee will hold its first public hearing at City Hall. The meeting begins the public input phase of a broader review of how Biddeford regulates institutional development.
For many residents, the term “Institutional Zone” may not be familiar. In practical terms, it is the zoning framework that governs development at the University of New England’s Biddeford campus.
UNE’s campus sits largely within an area that, under typical zoning rules, is generally limited to single-family houses.
In 2001, the city created a dedicated zoning district to allow the university to build and grow in ways that no other entity could within that setting. The ordinance established a structured process requiring a comprehensive Institutional Master Plan, a document outlining anticipated growth over five to ten years and analyzing impacts on traffic, parking, infrastructure, municipal services, and campus design standards.
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain, City of Biddeford photo
The University of New England has long been an important part of Biddeford’s civic and economic fabric. It is one of the city’s largest employers and contributes to the local economy, research activity and cultural life.
Students, faculty, and staff are neighbors and active participants in Biddeford. The relationship between Biddeford and UNE has evolved over time, shaped by growth on both sides.
The City’s zoning has long provided a clear pathway for institutional growth. However, the Institutional Zone ordinance has not been comprehensively updated in nearly 25 years. As both the university and the city have evolved, it is reasonable to review whether that framework remains aligned with current conditions and future expectations.
In recent years, several development projects within the Institutional Zone have generated strong reactions. Often, disagreements have centered less on whether development should occur and more on how clearly the ordinance defines what is permitted, how impacts are evaluated, and how decisions are made. When expectations among the university, the city, and residents are not fully aligned, even well-intended projects can become contentious.
That context, in part, led the city council to establish the Institutional Zone Review Committee at the beginning of this council term.
The committee serves in an advisory capacity. It does not approve projects, determine property sales, or make final legislative decisions. Its responsibility is to review the ordinance, gather public input, and recommend whether revisions are warranted. Any proposed changes will proceed through the standard public legislative process before the Planning Board and City Council.
Formed through the regular public appointment process, the committee operates in open session under Maine’s Freedom of Access laws. All members are Biddeford residents. The membership includes two city councilors, the president of the University of New England, the president of the Hills Beach Neighborhood Association, a facilities manager who previously worked for UNE and is a UNE graduate, and a local real estate professional. Together, they reflect a range of civic, professional, and neighborhood perspectives within the city.
Meetings are open to the public, materials are posted online, and the process is structured to ensure transparency, accountability, and broad participation before any ordinance changes are considered.
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The process is structured to ensure transparency, accountability,
and broad participation before any ordinance changes are considered.
As part of this review, the City Council adopted a temporary six-month moratorium on new institutional development and university uses. The pause is not directed at any single proposal and does not prohibit the purchase or sale of property within the Institutional Zone, nor does it prevent any property owner, including the University of New England, from entering into a real estate transaction.
It applies only to new development activity or changes of use during the review period, allowing the city to evaluate and, if necessary, update the ordinance before additional projects proceed under standards that may soon change.
Zoning ordinances shape municipalities for decades, influencing infrastructure investments, traffic patterns, public safety demands and neighborhood character.
Recent institutional projects have underscored the need for clearer expectations and a more consistent and transparent framework. As public interest has grown, so too has the expectation that development decisions be predictable and participatory. Reviewing the ordinance openly and deliberately is a responsible step toward that goal.
Public comment from Biddeford residents on March 2 and in the months ahead will help inform this work and strengthen the final recommendations. The objective is a regulatory framework that provides clarity, consistency, and confidence as institutional growth continues in Biddeford.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Liam LaFountain is serving his first term as Mayor of Biddeford and previously served two terms on the Biddeford City Council. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org. The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author.
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City is on the right track in its thoughtful, measured review of UNE development plans
I read the recent letter regarding the University of New England review committee with concern, but also with a sense that the issue deserves a more balanced perspective.
It is important to remember that residency alone does not disqualify someone from serving fairly or objectively. Hills Beach residents are citizens of Biddeford, just as much as anyone living downtown, in the mills district, or elsewhere in the city. Suggesting that they are inherently incapable of acting in the broader public interest risks dividing our community rather than strengthening it.
The committee’s role is to review plans and gather input — including through a public hearing — not to act as “plaintiffs” or to obstruct progress. The public hearing itself is evidence of a transparent process that invites participation from the entire community.
The University of New England is indeed an asset to Biddeford. Its educational, economic, and cultural contributions are significant. At the same time, thoughtful review of development proposals is not the same as impeding progress. Responsible growth benefits from careful consideration of environmental impact, neighborhood character, traffic, infrastructure, and long-term planning. That is not obstruction — that is governance.
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“Thoughtful review of development proposals
is not the same as impeding progress.”
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If residents are concerned about representation, the solution is engagement. Attend the hearing. Submit comments. Volunteer for boards and committees. Run for office. Democracy functions best when more voices participate — not when we question the legitimacy of neighbors simply because of where they live.
Biddeford is stronger when we work together — university community, beach residents, mill district entrepreneurs, and long-time families alike. Let’s focus on collaboration rather than division.
Mark Poirier,Biddeford
NOTE: The Biddeford Gazette strongly encourages reader feedback and public commentary regarding our coverage and issues directly related to the city of Biddeford. To submit a letter to the editor or guest column, please contact us at biddefordgazette@gmail.com
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David Kurtz takes in a deep breath – pauses – and looks away, toward the coffee shop’s window before answering one of our questions during an informal and candid interview.
Kurtz, 39, is one of the three new Biddeford city councilors who were each first elected to office in November.
Despite the relaxed setting on a Tuesday afternoon at the Time & Tides coffee shop on Main Street, Kurtz approaches our questions with the same style of deliberative and thoughtful responses that are becoming his public trademark.
He is a serious man but is also equally funny and somewhat self-deprecating.
Biddeford City Councilor David Kurtz (Seaver photo)
Our hour-long conversation is free-wheeling. At times the mood is light and jovial. But Kurtz also doesn’t pull any punches when talking about growing up as “a geek” with divorced parents in southern Maine.
And he is as serious as a heart attack when discussing some of the issues now facing the city of Biddeford.
“There is absolutely no question,” he said. “We need to do better, but I also think we’re on the right track.”
Kurtz’s childhood was much less than anything that could be described as idyllic. His father struggled with a drug addiction. His mother did her best to raise her son alone on a meager income.
Despite those somewhat gritty circumstances, Kurtz heaped praise on both of his parents.
“They both loved and supported me unconditionally,” he recalled. “They were doing the best that they could do. Yes, my father had a substance use disorder, but he read to me every night when I visited him on weekends or vacation days.”
Here are three things everyone should know about David Kurtz.
First, he wore open-toed sandals to the interview, despite piles of frozen snow on the sidewalks and mid-February freezing temperatures.
A few hours later, he was dressed in a jacket and necktie for a meeting with his constituents at City Hall to discuss priorities for the city’s recreational assets. No sandals. Polished shoes.
Secondly, Kurtz worked in a liquor store when he was just 17 years old. “I looked more like 39 back then, than I do today,” he laughed.
Finally, Kurtz is often accompanied by his mother, Cynthia, during public events, including last week’s ward meeting and while enjoying the city’s annual downtown Winterfest celebration.
Sometimes people need to be willing to grab a shovel and help pick up some shit.”
In his very first bid for public office, Kurtz was unopposed in his quest for the council’s Ward Five seat.
Kurtz received 553 votes – a little less than 73 percent of the total ballots cast in that council race. According to the city clerk’s office, 211 voters in Ward Five left that particular ballot choice blank.
Ward Five – previously represented by Neva Lance, Julian Schlaver, Victoria Foley and Amy Clearwater – includes the city’s downtown area and a sprawling collection of repurposed former mill buildings.
While Biddeford is, in fact, Maine’s youngest city (35.6 median age), Ward Five is also arguably the most diverse, youngest and politically progressive of Biddeford’s seven voting wards.
Kurtz is a corporate lawyer. He graduated from the University of Southern Maine’s Law School in 2016.
Today, Kurtz is employed as a corporate lawyer for Robert S. Gitmeid & Associates, a New York-based firm with offices in all 50 states. Kurtz runs the firm’s Maine and Vermont offices.
Kurtz “shares a bed and custody of two cats” with his girlfriend, Dani, a veterinarian. The couple lives in a newly constructed residential building on Upper Falls Road (formerly Gooch Street).
Meet the new guy
Kurtz takes a sip from his coffee as we begin the Q & A portion of our meeting.
“Okay, I’m ready,” he laughed. “Let me have it.”
You double-majored in economics and bio chemistry at Hampshire College. Bio chemistry?
“All my friends were pre-med. I couldn’t keep up with their conversations, so I decided to try a new tact.” (Laughs)
How and why did you get involved in city politics?
“I served on the Recycling & Waste Management Commission. I found it fascinating. I got to work closely with [Public Works Director] Jeff Demers. Man, that guy knows a lot.”
“On that committee, I worked alongside [city councilors] Brad Cote, Jake Pierson and Abigail Woods and with Liam [LaFountain] before he became mayor.”
You’re not a Biddeford native.
“No. Almost, but not quite.” (Laughs) “I wasn’t born here, and I’m a bit self-conscious about that. I am from Maine, if that helps. (Laughs). My dad lived in Biddeford. My mom lived in Kennebunk. I commuted between the two communities during my childhood.”
You say you grew up in a financially challenged household, yet you ended up at Waynflete, a prestigious private high school. How did that happen? Good grades?
“Exactly. I was as shocked as anyone that I got in.”
Serving on the city council is often a thankless and tedious endeavor. Did you think it through before taking out nomination papers?
“Oh sure. I talked with [former Mayor] Marty Grohman and Norm [Belanger] and Liam – the three guys running for mayor. They didn’t try to talk me out of it.”
What motivated you to run?
“I saw where the city was heading, and I had my own concerns, I’m of the belief that sometimes people need to be willing to grab a shovel and help pick up some shit.”
What are your current committee assignments?
“I serve on the Policy Committee, the Citizens Advisory Committee and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. I also serve as the city council liaison on both the Biddeford Housing Authority and the Heart of Biddeford.”
You’re keeping busy.
“Pretty much. I also have a pretty time-consuming job. Dani and I are planning a vacation in 2028.” (Laughs)
You seem to be a good fit for this particular ward.
“Well. Thank you for that, kind sir. I feel at home in this ward. Many of my constituents are just like me – – relatively new arrivals in the city. I want to make sure their voices are heard.”
Future political plans?
“Nope. This is the end of the line for me.”
Your father read to you nightly. What books?
“Rudyard Kipling, Robert Heinlen, Issac Asimov – all the good Jewish writers.” (Laughs)
Hobbies? Background?
“I’m a big fan of long-distance hiking. I was actually a ‘ridge runner’ with the Appalachian Mountain Club.”
Is gentrification a concern for Biddeford?
“I think so, and I’m part of the issue. Higher-income, newer professional resident. We have to work through it without denying the challenges.”
You describe yourself as a “political leftie.” What’s your mission statement as a city councilor?
“I want the lowest taxes possible without cutting essential services.”
Note:The Biddeford Gazette will be conducting similar interviews with the other eight members of the city council over the next few weeks.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He has been covering Biddeford news and politics for nearly three decades. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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