Let me ask you something: what do you do when you feel pain?
That’s a loaded question. So, let’s stick to the responsible move: see a doctor and establish the cause.
The answer is no different when it comes to a business, a city, a state or even a nation. Identifying the causes of our malaise is the first step toward remedying it. So why are we so averse to that conversation in public? We are unable to get past “something hurts” and identify what’s hurting and what’s causing it.
Biddeford has suffered years of preventable mismanagement that has persisted without anyone naming the specific, often boring, causes.
Sam Pecor
Take our Comprehensive Plan. You don’t need a comprehensive plan to exist as a city. You do, however, need the state’s approval, a finding of consistency, if you want the full set of planning tools, if you expect the state to take your zoning seriously, and if you want Biddeford to be competitive for the grant dollars and capital investment that reward communities that plan.
According to the state’s own planning incentives list (quoted verbatim), here’s all that we’ve given up by not receiving state approval for our Comprehensive Plan:
Enact legitimate zoning, impact fee, and rate of growth ordinances;
Require state agencies to comply with local zoning standards;
Qualify for preferred status with many of the state’s competitive grant programs;
Guide state growth-related capital investment towards locally-chosen growth areas;
Qualify for Site Location of Development Act exemptions for certain growth-area developments;
Qualify for relaxed MaineDOT traffic permit standards for certain growth-area developments;
Qualify for authority to issue Natural Resources Protection Act (NRPA) permits; and
Qualify for authority to issue Site Location of Development Act permits.
For the residents living beside the York Judicial Center: in practice, without a state-approved Comprehensive Plan, our zoning standards can be merely advisory to the state, weakening our ability to protect abutters.
Failure to adopt a state-approved Comprehensive Plan does far more than erode our ability to self-govern. It affects everyone. It weakens our competitiveness for state grant opportunities. That leaves significant money on the table and pushes more of the burden onto property taxpayers.
A consistent failing among city leadership has been communicating the connections between these problems and the pain we are feeling today. When people understand these connections, they are more likely to support real solutions: funding for staff, investments in technology and increased compliance oversight, to name a few.
Citizens of Biddeford understand cause and effect; we get that investing $1 to save $2 is a good deal. Establish the cause, determine the cost and implement a strategy that saves more than it costs. That’s it, that’s the whole ball game.
Sam Pecor is a Biddeford resident and serves on the Biddeford Gazette’s Advisory Board. We welcome submitted commentary from our readers.For more information, please CONTACT US
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This is the first installment of the five-part ‘Biddeford After Dark” series that was originally published in 2001 by the Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier
ByRANDY SEAVER, Editor
[Oct. 2001] A heavy and ominous fog — the precursor of a cold and damp weekend — rolled westward over Biddeford early on Friday evening, and it remained like a blanket over the city for at least the next 48 hours.
Halfway through the weekend, near midnight on Saturday, that fog seemed to be the perfect backdrop for a lone reporter wandering the city’s streets. A reporter looking for stories — the tales of the weary and the songs of those who make the darkness their kingdom.
I didn’t have to travel far.
The fluorescent, unearthly glow of the 7-Eleven sign cuts through the late night fog and mist like so many shards of shrapnel. The wail of a police siren can be heard in the distance and the downtown bars are packed and rocking.
The late-night bargains are being struck over shots of tequila, and the lonely hearts are growing more and more desperate with each passing minute.
Welcome to Biddeford after dark.
The 7-11 convenience store located at the intersection of Alfred and Jefferson streets continues today to serve as the epicenter of Biddeford’s late-night activity. (Seaver photo)
A cut-rate Statue of Liberty
Perhaps by default, the 7-Eleven store, at the corner of Alfred and Jefferson streets, has become the de-facto epicenter of night life in downtown Biddeford.
It’s not hard to blend in, but my notebook and pen make me a curious commodity in a parking lot full of late-night activity. The store’s neon signs and its bright interior lighting serve collectively as a beacon for both the downtrodden and those who have nowhere else to go at this hour. It is almost akin to a cut-rate Statue of Liberty: send me your intoxicated, your restless and your lonely.
The store and its parking lot become a social scene unto themselves as wannabe gangsters, mostly teenagers, strut in and out of the store, buying Marlboros and Mountain Dew. After waiting in line for up to five minutes, many of those same customers leave the cash register only to sit in their vehicles or loiter near the store’s front door for as much as 30 more minutes.
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Send me your intoxicated, your restless and your lonely.
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Many of those wandering in the front door know each other, and they greet one another as if they were victims of watching way too much MTV. Suddenly, this portion of southern Maine (the way life should be) resembles an imagined life in “the hood” or some dilapidated barrio.
“Yo, G-man, what up?,” hollers a young man to an acquaintance as he jumps out of a shiny SUV. Inside that Jeep Grand Cherokee, the man’s girlfriend, obviously intoxicated, mascara dripping from her eyelids, fumbles with the stereo. The throbbing pulse of rap music fills the lot and the Jeep seems to pulsate to the beat of a song that, from only a few feet away, seems indistinguishable.
Somehow, this music seems to comfort the young woman in the Jeep. She tosses her head back and closes her eyes, silently mouthing the lyrics of a Tupac Shakur song.
There is an undercurrent of violence and uncertainty hanging in the air, lending an ironic balance to the comforting quiet of the rolling fog.
Tough guys don’t dance
Across the street, in front of the Mahaney building, I approach two young men who are wearing oversized jackets and gold necklaces.
“What’s going on?” I inquire, trying to sound hip.
The men stop and look at me, puzzled by my presence and my notebook. Paper makes these tough guys nervous.
“Why do you want to know?” the shorter man asks.
“I’m doing a series of articles about Biddeford after dark,” I respond.
“Oh yeah,” the taller man says. “Make it a love story and kiss my ass.”
I keep pressing, firing off questions and promising anonymity for honest responses.
They seem to think that I am a cop. Each of them shifts from foot to foot, making hand gestures as if to proclaim that they are not intimidated. “I’ll tell you about Biddeford after dark,” the shorter man says. “Biddeford sucks.”
“Why?” I ask.
“. . . ‘cause it just does,” he responds, carefully watching me write down his response. “Hey, do you believe this [expletive]? He’s writing down what I’m saying,” the short man tells his friend. “I’m gonna be in the newspaper. I’m gonna be famous.”
The taller man is making his way toward the ‘50s Pub on Franklin Street. He wants nothing more to do with me or my five-part series.
A few moments later, I come across another man walking along Alfred Street.
Patrick, 24, is clean-cut, wearing faded blue jeans and a maroon pull-over sweatshirt. He pauses to answer my questions, carefully contemplating his responses.
“Why does Biddeford suck,” he asks, rhetorically. “Well, they put a garbage dump [MERC] right in the middle of town. Who would think to put a waste facility right in the middle of the city?”
“Why aren’t there other businesses open late at night?” I ask.
“The downtown is lousy to look at,” he replies. “and there’s not enough parking.”
The downtown parking lots are virtually empty.
There is no question that the downtown presence of the MERC waste-to-energy incinerator stunted Biddeford’s growth for more than three decades
Twenty-four, seven—
Back at the 7-Eleven, Karen stands outside the front door, smoking a cigarette.
Karen, 30, has just returned to full-time work after a six-month hiatus. She is a third-shift clerk who says the late-night hours seem to match her sleeping habits.
“I’d rather work second shift,” she says. “But this shift is still better than first shift. I can’t get up in the mornings.”
Stewart previously worked at the store, and she gives an air of being nonchalant when talking about the things she sees while most of the city sleeps. She tells of a homeless man who waits each night for her to throw the old donuts in the garbage dumpster. She sees college students with fake ID cards and high school kids stumbling into the store, drunk or stoned.
“All of the weirdos come here because we’re the only place open,” Stewart explains between puffs of her cigarette. “Last Thursday night, we must have had 20 people waiting in line.”
What do they buy?
“Hot dogs, sandwiches and cigarettes,” Stewart says. “Once the ‘50s [Pub] closes, they all wander over here ‘cause they got the munchies.”
As for the late-night beer runs, just moments before 1 a.m., Stewart confirms what we already suspected. The store becomes a madhouse of activity.
“We lock the beer coolers at 12:45,” she explains. “That way, people who are just wandering around in the store can’t buy alcohol after one.”
Life During Wartime
Inside the store, roughly a dozen people wander aimlessly through the narrow aisles, browsing the selection of potato chips, pastries and the six hot dogs at the bottom of a steamer.
The store is brightly lit, and a bag of garbage has spilled into one of the aisles. The coffee pots are full, and Stewart rings up each customer, many of whom toss crumpled dollar bills at her from across the counter.
The song playing on the store’s radio seems fitting. The Talking Heads’ “Life During Wartime”: I got some groceries — some peanut butter — to last a couple of days — but I ain’t got no speakers, ain’t got no headphones, ain’t got no records to play. . . I sleep in the daytime, work in the nighttime . . . this ain’t no party, this ain’t no disco — this ain’t no foolin’ around.
Outside, a teenager from Thornton Academy makes a deal in the parking lot. Within moments, a young man emerges from the store with a six-pack of Budweiser beer. A quick, bleary-eyed handshake later, and the student takes the beer and returns to the car where his friends wait.
Romeo and Juliet
On the edge of the parking lot, just beyond where the police cruisers roll past on Jefferson Street, a young couple is in the middle of a hushed conversation. I dub them Romeo and Juliet.
Romeo is nervous, and Juliet bravely walks alone across the parking lot. She is all of 15 and wearing braces. She buys Romeo a Mountain Dew and walks back to greet him across the street.
Romeo is wearing a baseball cap in reverse. I approach these kids.
What are you doing out this late?
“I fell asleep at my boyfriend’s house,” she explains. “My watch broke.”
“Yeah,” Romeo chimes in. “We’re cousins.”
I’m not buying what Romeo is selling tonight.
“No, we really are,” Juliet insists.
Where are your parents?
“Ain’t got no parents,” Romeo pronounces, growing more cocky with each passing second. “I live in hotels and work on a paving crew.”
Juliet thinks her father might be inside the ‘50s Pub, and she peers through the bar’s tinted windows to confirm her suspicions.
“He’s going to be pissed if he finds out I’m not home,” Juliet says of her father.
Why don’t you go home?
“Because he might be there,” she responds.
What about your mother?
“Don’t have one,” she shrugs.
Inside the bar, a cocktail waitress weaves through the sweaty crowd and a doorman stands his post near the door, keeping a careful eye on the crowded dance floor. I look for Juliet’s dad, but he’s nowhere to be found.
Juliet is in trouble, I surmise. And then, I walk home — past the closed pawn shops, nail polish parlors and restaurants. I can’t stop thinking about Juliet and her uncertain future.
This is Biddeford After Dark. Sleep well.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2026 All Rights Reserved
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[This story has been updated to include commentary from Alexa Plotkin, chair of Biddeford’s planning board.]
By RANDY SEAVER, Editor
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain won his campaign a few weeks ago by promising to prioritize transparency and accountability at City Hall.
As part of that pledge, LaFountain has been seeking and interviewing people who have expressed an interest in serving on any one of more than 20 committees, boards and commissions.
One of the most notable changes being proposed by LaFountain is a slight shakeup on the city’s planning board.
The Planning Board has seven members, including the chair and two non-voting, associate members.
Both Larry Patoine and Susan Deschambault will no longer be serving as regular members on the planning board because their terms expired in December.
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain says periodic “refreshing” can be valuable,
Deschambault said she was ready to step down after more than a decade of service, but Patoine says he would have enjoyed serving another term.
Patoine joined the planning board in 2007 during the Wallace Nutting administration and has been repeatedly reappointed over the last 18 years.
“I really enjoyed it,” Patoine said of his tenure on the board. “Yes, I would have liked another term, but it’s the mayor’s prerogative about who is appointed. I think he (LaFountain) wants to be headed in a different direction.”
A few weeks before he announced his bid to become Biddeford’s next mayor, LaFountain – then city council president — was clearly troubled by the review process of several large projects that came before the planning board.
During a June 17, 2025 city council meeting, LaFountain and other councilors were visibly upset about how two major projects were being presented to the city council.
Both Fathom Development and Westbrook Development Corp. appeared before the council for final approval of credit enhancement agreements connected to two projects near the city’s Pearl Street parking garage.
After a tense, marathon council meeting that lasted until after midnight, the council was evenly split in a 4-4 tie, and credit enhancement agreements were approved after then mayor Marty Grohman broke the tie.
“This makes me ridiculously uncomfortable,” LaFountain said during the meeting, frustrated that City Planner David Galbraith appeared to be taking direction from the developers who were seated in the audience. “This is not a good look for the city.”
The site where Westbrook Development Commission wants to build 90 units of senior housing near the intersection of Lincoln and Pearl streets (Seaver photo)
Within days after winning his election, LaFountain pushed for further review of how the University of New England’s controversial pier proposal was handled.
The pier project was narrowly approved in a 3-2 vote before the planning board on August 6.
Planning board member Roch Angers appeared before the council on the previous day and said “something smells fishy” about how UNE’s application was reviewed by city officials.
Today, LaFountain says there is a benefit to having “periodic changes” on city boards and commissions.
“I think it’s good to refresh things from time to time,” the mayor said.
During his first council meeting as mayor in December, LaFountain appointed former city councilor John McCurry to the planning board.
McCurry – a former city councilor, council president and former School Committee member – said he is looking forward to serving on the planning board. “This mayor is focused on data-driven solutions,” McCurry says. “I think that’s right up my alley.”
On Tuesday, the city council will review LaFountain’s appointment of Leah Schaffer to the planning board.
LaFountain told the Gazette that he is “impressed” by Schaffer’s resume and qualifications.
According to her application, Schaffer is an architect and has a “strong interest in city planning.”
Schaffer has served on the city’s Historic Preservation Commission since 2016 and currently serves as that organization’s chair. She also serves as chair on the Citizen’s Advisory since 2023.
Schafer served as chair and member of the Heart of Biddeford’s Design Committee from 2016 to 2024.
Other members of the planning board include Chair Alexa Plotkin; voting members Roch Angers and Matt Dubois; and associate member Kayla Lewis.
Plotkin told the Gazette that the planning board has experienced a significant increase in both the pace and volume of items requiring review.
“We are seeing a big spike in the number of applications that have come before us,” Plotkin said, pointing to both large-scale housing projects and increasing rebuild/redesign applications from coastal homeowners who are either preparing for future storms or trying to repair weather-related damages to their homes.
“Being on the planning is a constant learning process,” Plotkin said, pointing to numerous policy changes and updated zoning ordinances at both the local and state level.
Plotkin said she feels “a bit sad’ that Larry Patoine will no longer be on the board. “I can see the value of a fresh set of eyes, but I also see tremendous value in having people with lots of institutional knowledge, Plotkin added.
Plotkin’s term expires in December 2027; Angers and Dubois both have terms that expire in December.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2026 All Rights Reserved
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The West Brook skating rink in Biddeford was first opened to the public roughly four weeks before Warren G. Harding was inaugurated as the 29th president of the United States in 1921.
Although the outdoor rink has undergone some dramatic changes over the last century, the heart of its mission has remained unchanged, and it has become an embedded part of the city’s cultural heritage — kept alive by a small team of dedicated volunteers and the generosity of local businesses.
A recent photo shows a wide age range of kids enjoy the West Brook Skating Rink (Seaver photo)
Mike Bouthillette is one of those volunteers. In fact, Bouthillette – a lifelong resident who grew up skating at West Brook – is today serving as president of the small group of older volunteers who work to keep the facility alive.
“It’s a lot of work, and we really need more volunteers,” he explains.
Bouthillette says the rink is almost part of his DNA, pausing during our interview to remember his late father, Norman who loved skating at West Brook.
“My dad was a big piece of this rink,” Bouthillette explained. “In fact, over there is the spot where he reportedly first kissed my mother,” he said pointing to the far western side of the outdoor rink.
“When I moved back here in 2018, I knew I wanted to give back to the community,” Bouthillette said. “That’s what drives our core group of volunteers. It’s the love of kids and seeing their smiles. That’s what drives us. That’s why we keep doing it.”
Some things have not changed since the rink first opened more than 100 years ago. There is no charge to use the rink. Ice skates – in a variety of sizes – can be borrowed for free.
The rink does accept donations but it’s the concession sales that keep the lights on and the building heated.
But even the concessions are sold with the needs of working families in mind.
“This is basically the only place in Biddeford where you can get in and out for under $10,” Bouthillette explains. “You can get a hot dog or slice of pizza, some popcorn, hot chocolate and candy all for under $10.”
During the chilly days of winter – especially on the weekends – you can expect to find anywhere from 300 to 500 people skating on the large outdoor rink.
“The rink is bigger than our parking lot, and our parking lot is pretty big,” Bouthillette laughed.
Mike Bouthillette talks about the generations of families that have enjoyed West Brook skating rink (Seaver photo)
Fond memories and a lasting legacy
Former Biddeford City Councilor Clement Fleurent has fond memories of skating at West Brook skating rink when he was a teenager in the late 1950s.
“Oh yes, it was quite the spot for young people,” he laughed during a recent interview. “That’s where the boys met the girls.”
Beyond socialization, Fleurent recalled fierce skating competitions on West Brook’s ice.
“I never won,” he laughed. “I always came in second or third. My older brothers – J.P and Jerry — would often win, but not me. They used to laugh a lot about that.”
Fleurent said he recalled hearing about another skating rink across the street from West Brook on the side of Pool Street known as Silver Skate, which was dominated by girls’ skating while the boys raced and did barrel jumping at West Brook.
Fleurent said he learned to skate the same way he learned to swim: trial and error.
“I remember skating at the airport,” he laughed. “There would be a little bit of rain, and it would glaze over. We lived just behind the woods at the airport, so I would just walk over and skate.”
Fleurent also recalled skating on Wilcox Pond near the cemetery on West Street. “We used to skate, regardless of the weather,” Fleurent said. “I remember skating as early as Thanksgiving back then. I would come home basically frozen.”
Fleurent, 90, says he still has his skates, but says his speed skating days are now behind him.
“What great memories we had there,” Fleurent explained. “I remember the parking lot was full and you would see cars parked up and down Pool Street.”
Even then, it was all volunteers who kept the rink operating,” Fleurent said, pointing out that the Laverriere family had a home near the Knights of Columbus Hall, and they would help maintain the ice.
“Kids like Danny Gagne and Henry Paradis were the local legends,” Fleurent recalled. “The only time I come in first is when I’m driving in traffic. I’m always first at the red light.”
A framed collection of photos from the 1940s adorns one of the walls at the West Brook skating rink
Keeping the lights on, and the ice clear
Maintaining the property and keeping the rink open is a challenge, and Bouthillette points out that West Brook is the city’s only self-sufficient recreational facility.
Over the past few years, several improvements have been made at the facility, thanks to the generosity of some local businesses and work completed by students at Biddeford’s Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT).
Bouthillette is a master electrician and a teacher at the BRCOT. He says his students helped install new parking lot lights and a sound system at West Brook.
Students from the carpentry program helped repair the rotting floors in the concession building and built new stairs leading down from the parking lot to the ice, he said.
Jim Godbout, owner of Godbout Plumbing and Heating, donated and installed a new heat pump system. The St. Louis Alumni Association donated roughly $26,000 to obtain a tractor that can be used to clear the rink after a snow storm.
Kim Cocharane, the owner of Biddeford Painting, took care of repainting the building’s interior and never sent an invoice for the services or supplies. Jeff Brochu of Camille’s Electric also donated time and supplies for electrical upgrades.
“It’s just incredible,” Bouthillette says. “We have received so much support from the community, but there is still so much we need to do. A lot of things were put off for many years, and so we’re sort of in a catching-up phase.”
West Brook skating rink is a resource free to use for families and skating enthusiasts
A big bang for the buck
In November, Biddeford voters approved a $6.1 million bond package to be used for improvements and updates at more than a dozen recreational facilities across the city.
How and where those funds will be used has yet to be determined by the Biddeford City Council, which is planning to solicit broad-scale public comment about where and how the money will be used.
Bouthillette is keeping his fingers crossed that West Brook skating rink will get just a small sliver of that money, estimating he needs less than $50,000 to make much-needed repair to the building’s doors and windows, which are made of plexiglass.
“Right now, we’re pretty much heating the outside,” he said, pointing to a visible gap in the building’s main doorway.
While other facilities, including the Biddeford Ice Arena, the Community Center and the shuttered outdoor skate park near Rotary Park, are each asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars in needed repairs, West Brook has a rather modest funding request.
Plenty of skates — in a variety of sizes — are available for community use at West Brook skating rink
City Councilor Marc Lessard – an outspoken advocate for the city’s recreational facilities – says the city can get a “big bang for its buck” by investing a comparatively small amount at the popular skating rink.
“They are doing it all with volunteers,” Lessard said of West Brook skating rink. “When you look at how many people use that facility, it becomes quickly apparent that we can get a lot of citywide value for a pretty modest investment.”
Bouthillette says he knows there are other things that will be much more expensive to repair at West Brook including the dam under Pool Street that is used to help keep the water in the rink.
“We’re trying to be realistic,” he said. “We’re just trying to stay open to serve another generation of Biddeford families.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2026 All Rights Reserved
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Kevin Roche — a former Saco city councilor and current member of the Saco School Board — has publicly criticized Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain and the Biddeford City Council for the way they are handling the review of a large pier being proposed by the University of New England.
In addition to serving on the Saco School Board, Roche is also the president of SOS Saco Bay, an organization formed to address erosion issues in Saco’s Camp Ellis neighborhood.
In a Dec. 19 email to LaFountain that was also sent to Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever and Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail, Roche begins by suggesting that Biddeford and Saco officials should be working collaboratively on issues regarding the Saco River.
Kevin Roche (right) stands near a piece of dredging equipment (Facebook photo)
He then asserts that the city of Biddeford is being unduly influenced by a few residents who have raised concerns about UNE’s large-scaled pier project.
Specifically, Roche harshly criticized the city’s decision to file a formal complaint against the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) regarding that agency’s approval of the proposed pier.
The city filed the complaint after learning that a 250-foot buffer zone was created more than 20 years ago through an agreement between UNE and the SRCC.
Roche described the city’s complaint as a “fruitless endeavor” that will surely be rejected by the court.
“We are greatly troubled that the city of Biddeford has now taken the position that NO pier should be allowed due to a misreading of the 250-foot buffer zone,” Roche wrote in his email.
In his email, Roche strongly defended the university against complaints from residents who raised questions about the controversial project.
A view from the Camp Ellis Pier across the river to where the University of New England is hoping to construct a large-scale pier to support its marine research activities (Seaver photo)
Roche pointed out that UNE students regularly volunteer to help put up holiday lights in downtown Biddeford, and how the university is involved in monitoring coastal issues as well as projects to replace dune sands on both sides of the river.
Roche describes the university as a “key partner” in a planned dredging project on the Saco River that is scheduled to begin next year.
In his email, Roche said a “larger pier research vessel is critical in providing even more benefit to our greater shoreline communities.”
Roche says the goal of those opposed to the pier project was never about the location of the pier, “they simply did not want UNE to have any presence on the river.”
It is unclear whether Roche spoke to or communicated with any of those who raised concerns about the pier project.
Roche said opponents of the project “utilized slick PR guys, often posing as the press” in their attempt to derail the pier proposal.
He went on to say that the city of Biddeford has chosen to “govern based on hate and lies.” He provides no details or documentation regarding the “lies.”
Roche advised the city to do things “the right way” and should “follow facts, not fiction.” He also suggested that Biddeford should get rid of its own harbormaster and instead share Saco’s harbormaster for joint jurisdiction of river activities.
LaFountain told the Gazette that he has no plans to change the city’s current course in regard to review of UNE’s proposal or moving ahead in creating an ad-hoc Institutional Zone Review Committee to review development at UNE’s Biddeford campus.
“Our complaint with the SRCC is now before the court, so it would not be appropriate for me to comment on that matter until the court renders its decision,” LaFountain said.
“I believe we did the right thing and we are fully committed to moving forward by following criteria based upon fact, process and law, not inflammatory rhetoric.”
According to their March 20, 2025 quarterly report to their members and affiliates, SOS Saco Bay stated “We have grown our relationship with the University of New England which is doing some amazing work.”
According to that report, SOS Saco Bay was “also invited to participate in the UNE Summer Sustainability Fellowship Program, and stated that “UNE has committed to be a Platinum Supporter at our October Conference.”
Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail told the Gazette that it would be inappropriate to comment on the views of a private organization, saying only that she is looking forward to working with Biddeford’s new mayor.
Roche did not answer any of the questions sent to him by the Biddeford Gazette. He did, however, offer a brief statement, saying “SOS Saco Bay takes no formal position on the pier location debate, but we maintain that a research pier would be a huge asset in our fight against coastal erosion.
“We feel that anyone standing in opposition to the pier is in opposition of what we are trying to do. We have not heard any arguments that a research pier will cause undue harm to our coastal waterways and shorelines.”
You can view/download a copy of Mr. Roche’s Dec. 19 email here:
What’s it like to be unhoused and hungry on Christmas Day
By TOM McPHEETERS,Contributing Writer
“What I miss most is bacon and eggs,” he said.
I see this gentleman every week at Seeds of Hope and have struck up a bit of a relationship. He agrees that breakfasts at Seeds of Hope are pretty good, and around this time of year, the lunches are often really, really good. As the weather turns and people become more aware of the plight of people without a home of their own, we are favored with all sorts of good food.
Meals like Shepherd’s Pie, pasta and meatloaf, even complete turkey or ham dinners; pretty much something different every day.
These days, that’s breakfast and lunch for upwards of 100 people, moving in and out of a dining room that holds, maybe, 50 people at a time. People can hang out downstairs, where the food is served, all day now and in cold weather the place is jammed from morning until afternoon, when people are encouraged to go across the street to Second Congregational Church, where a sister program, Bon Appetit, serves dinner.
But we don’t serve bacon and eggs. I point out to my friend that eggs are really expensive these days, and bacon is also, besides being messy and hard to cook in large quantities in a small kitchen. He agrees, and stresses that he’s not complaining.
It’s just a memory of better times for him. I have to agree. Better times.
A simple breakfast of Bacon & Eggs makes it feel a bit more like Christmas at the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center in Biddeford. (Stock photo, Wiki Commons
Breakfast at Seeds is generally pretty utilitarian — simple foods that us volunteers can serve and which will fill you up — cereal, donuts and muffins, toasted English muffins or waffles, plus juice and all the coffee you can drink.
But Christmas morning is special. Breakfast this morning, cooked by our executive director and a small group of staff and volunteers, would put a Dennys Big Man breakfast to shame. Sausage and bacon, eggs (in the form of a quiche), plus biscuits and toast. A plate crowded with the favorites.
It’s as festive as we can make it, including gifts for the residents, and people are appreciative. Unfortunately, my friend who loves bacon and eggs has been sick all week and care barely swallow a piece of toast. His friends are trying to get him to go to the ER, but he resists.
It’s also a reminder to me that everybody I meet at Seeds of Hope has their own stories and their own memories. The holiday brings that same mixture of joy and sadness that we all experience.
Seeds of Hope, in an old church on South Street, is the only game in town (or anywhere in the vicinity) for people who are homeless or precariously housed. Technically, Seeds of Hope is a warming center, not a shelter, because of local and state regulations, but it functions as a full-service shelter with paid staff who are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week until spring.
In addition to a place to spend the night and food, you can get other things as well: mail, charge your phone, referrals for health and counseling services, leads on housing and jobs, and (most of all) companionship and a friendly ear..
A woman finds shelter at a Biddeford bus stop. (File photo)
According to the latest count from the York County Homeless Response Hub, there are roughly 347 individuals in York County who are unhoused. Of that number, 157 are what is known as “chronic,” which means they have been homeless for a year or more.
Since Seeds of Hope is currently the only functioning shelter in the county, a good share of those folks end up here. That still leaves an unknown but quite significant number of people living outside, in tents and encampments in the wooded areas in and around Biddeford,
At least this time of year the homeless are on people’s minds. Food and clothing pour in. The need is year-round but it’s the cold weather that will force more people inside.
Seeds of Hope (and many other locally based programs) always run on volunteer help.
Before the crunch this fall, the Seeds staff, the city’s General Assistance office and their partner organizations were finding housing for at least one person a week — more than 75 — since the Mechanics Park encampment was closed a year and a half ago.
That is high- intensity work, with getting to know each individual and their needs, and then networking to find an appropriate next step.
Right now, the focus is on keeping people safe. The upstairs, where people sleep, is at capacity, which is 50 “gravity chairs” that double as cots. There are usually three or four more people shoehorned in because it is so hard to regulate the comings and goings. It’s been that way all fall, and now winter has set in and Seeds is struggling to meet the demand.
Vassie Fowler, executive director of Seeds of Hope, says one of her biggest problems right now is rumors and misinformation, which makes it harder to find the right option for people in need, and much harder to turn people away. If in doubt, she says, call (207) 571-9601 before sending somebody expecting to spend the night.
And that many people in close quarters brings its own set of issues. No one really wants to live like this. But at least, at Christmas, the people staying at Seeds or coming in during the day know that they are not forgotten.
As in any family, food is one of the first ways we show we care.
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Tom McPheeters is a life-long lover of Maine and a year-round resident of nearly three years. After a journalism career or 25 years at three newspapers in Ohio and New York State, Tom spent the last 30 years as a community organizer and advocate in Albany, NY. He lives in Biddeford Pool.
The Biddeford Gazette welcomes commentary and feedback from our readers. To learn more, please CONTACT US
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He’s known by many names. Some call him Father Christmas; others call him St. Nicholas or Kris Kringle. But here in North America, he is best known as Santa Claus.
Just two days before the Christmas holiday this year, Santa made time to sit down for an exclusive interview. He declined to give his age. In fact, he artfully dodged many of the questions our readers have asked.
Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for a photo during a recent visit to Saco.Photo: Joanie Fox
For this interview, we decided to let our readers pose the questions for Santa to answer.
Kelley B. wants to know what you view as major changes to your mission, specifically your annual stop at the Island of Misfit toys that started in 1964?
“Well, let’s get real. In my view, that was a very recent change, and I really owe a debt of gratitude to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer for tipping me off about that place. Honestly, we are all misfits – every one of us, even me. We are all different. None of us is perfect. We are not defined by our flaws. We are defined by our capacity to love one another.”
Mark J. wants to know if Hermey the Elf is still practicing dentistry.
“Oh sure. His practice is thriving. In fact, he offers an advanced dental graduate program here at the North Pole. He’s always up my butt about the importance of flossing; as if I need another thing to worry about. (Laughs).
Celeste T. wants to know why she didn’t get an Easy Bake oven when she was a little girl.
“I get that question a lot.”
About Easy Bake ovens?
“No, silly. Lots of people wake up disappointed by something on Christmas morning. I remember when Celeste asked for that toy oven. It sort of broke my heart to see her disappointed that morning. But that was a tough year for Easy Bake ovens. There was a huge demand, and unfortunately my elves just could not keep pace.
“But you know what? Today, Celeste has a wonderful oven that she uses to cook her meals and to make treats for her family and friends.
“Many people all around the world do not have an oven. In fact, many people don’t even have a home. I’m just super pleased that Celeste is still willing to be nice to other people, even though she didn’t get exactly what she wanted on one particular Christmas morning.”
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We are not defined by our flaws.
We are defined by our capacity to love one another.”
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Deborah P. wants to know what kind of cookies are your favorite. She also wants to know whether she should leave carrots or sugar out for the reindeer.
“Well, she’s a very thoughtful young lady. I like all kinds of cookies. Dude, look at me. I didn’t get to be this size by licking icicles. There’s no such thing as a bad cookie, in my humble opinion.
“As for the reindeer, they prefer carrots. Carrots are rich in both calcium and Vitamin K. They promote good bone density and help with your vision, something that is very important if you’re flying all over the world at night.”
Suzanne C. wants to know more about Mrs. Claus and whether she helps you?
“There is no way I could do what I do without lots of love, help and support. Mrs. Claus and I have been married a long time. A very long time. I mean like centuries . . . you get my gist?
“Like most wives, Mrs. Claus is always willing to give advice. Over the years, I have learned that it’s best to listen to your partner. Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is to listen when someone is speaking to you.”
Jeff R. wants to know your favorite Christmas movie.
“I like all of them, but let’s get real. Die Hard is not a Christmas movie. I suppose, my favorite Christmas movie is “It’s A Wonderful Life.” That movie really underscores the true meaning of this holiday.
“Mrs. Claus likes all those Hallmark Christmas movies. Let’s just say I’m quite grateful that we have two televisions and a Netflix subscription.”
Larry M. wants to know how you leave presents at homes without a chimney or fireplace.
“It’s magic.”
Magic? What do you mean magic ?
“Listen, Jimmy Olsen. There’s a lot you don’t know about magic. Magic is real as the nose on your face. Magic is simply the proper combination of love, faith and hope.
“Imagine a world without magic. A world where every single thing has to be analyzed, studied and proven? What a sad world that would be. Childhood is often described as ‘magical’ because children are willing to believe in things they don’t necessarily understand.
“Whenever you get on a plane or whenever you get in your car, you have faith. At least enough faith that you are going to arrive at your destination. You don’t have to understand aeronautics or how an engine works. You just need faith and a bit of hope. Magic is all around us if we focus on love. If we open our hearts and our eyes, each of us can see unlimited potential in each other and in ourselves.”
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“Imagine a world without magic.
A world where every single thing
has to be analyzed, studied and proven? “
_________________
So, I suppose you’re going to say that magic makes the reindeer able to fly or that you can visit every country in the world in just one night?
“Absolutely. Magic is a wonderful gift. Every time you smile at a stranger, you are spreading love. Every time you pet a dog or hold the door for an elderly person, you are acting out your love. Everyone – – and I mean every one of us – has the power to love. Love does not require anything. It costs nothing but is the most valuable thing in the world.”
Some people say you’re not real.
“Those people are right, but they are also wrong. I am as real as you want me to be. I don’t care if you’re four years old or 40, you can believe in me if you choose. Again, love is a choice. That’s the whole meaning of presents, a practice of showing love. You can’t buy love at the store; it lies within each of us.
“Look; I gotta run. The elves are working overtime, and I need to get ready for a very, very busy night.”
But I have so many more questions. Who are you? And why do you do this?
“Who am I? Take a look in the mirror, sonny. I am you; if you choose to be me. I am your neighbor. I am your co-worker, your classmate, your friend and your enemy.
“I am the guy you are argue with on Facebook. I am your grandfather, your favorite aunt. I am a man, and I am a woman. I am very young and very old. I am simply the personification of love. That’s why I exist.
“Why do I do this? Because I can. Because I choose to love. Because this day – no matter what you call it – no matter your religion, culture or education – – it’s all about hope. About the possibility of a new start, about the potential of unconditional love. Today is a call for us to love one another.
“Now, if you will excuse me, I need to put some fresh batteries in Rudolph’s nose. Ho, ho, ho . . . I’m almost ready to go.”
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Editor’s Note: On behalf of all of us at the Biddeford Gazette, we wish you a safe, warm and festive holiday! Merry Christmas!
Biddeford wastewater customers will now receive their wastewater (sewer) bills from Maine Water Company, a privately owned utility.
According to a recent press release, the city transitioned from in-house billing to using Maine Water’s billing and customer service expertise in order to “stabilize the administrative processes for sewer billing.”
As part of the new agreement, Maine Water Company will now handle all billing, collection and customer service inquiries for the city’s wastewater operations.
City officials and Maine Water representatives both described the transition as “complex,” changeover, requiring migrating large amounts of information from the city to Maine Water’s billing system.
Maine Water consistently receives high customer satisfaction ratings — averaging nearly 90 percent in independent surveys conducted annually since 2012.
“Maine Water takes pride in providing world-class customer service. We’re happy to extend our customer service expertise to Biddeford wastewater customers,” said Maine Water President Mark Vannoy. “We believe in the power of partnerships and look forward to continue working with the city of Biddeford to deliver solutions that make a lasting impact on our community.”
The company recently sent a letter to all wastewater customers in Biddeford, explaining the various payment options now available. Customers should not make any further wastewater payments via the city’s e-billing or e-payment system.
Maine Water offers e-billing, online payment, auto-payment, 24-hour pay by phone, pay by mail and in-person payments at Western Union or any Bangor Savings Bank location. Wastewater customers who are already Maine Water e-billing customers can link their sewer account to their water account to view both accounts in one place.
“It’s important for wastewater customers to know that the city still sets the rates for sewer charges,” said Pam Blackman, Maine Water Revenue Services Manager. “We are simply using the rates provided by the city to deliver efficient and professional billing services. Just like with customers’ water bills, at all times they will now have dependable and easily accessible information about wastewater charges.”
Blackman said if customers have questions about wastewater billing or customer service needs, they should now contact Maine Water, rather than the city of Biddeford.
The company’s customer service team can be reached at 1-800-287-1643 during business hours, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Customers can also email customerservice@mainewater.com.
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As part of his campaign promise to increase government transparency, accountability and citizen participation, newly-elected Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain unveiled his plan to create a new ad-hoc committee that will oversee all development on the University of New England’s Biddeford campus.
LaFountain’s plan was warmly received by both the city council and members of the public during the new city council’s first official meeting on Tuesday.
The Biddeford City Council unanimously approved to revise a new Institutional Zone Review Committee to make recommendations regarding development at UNE’s Biddeford campus.
The new committee will focus on the city’s “Institutional Zone,” which includes all of the University of New England’s Biddeford campus.
According to LaFountain, the Institutional Zone (IZ) regulates university uses and requires that all campus development must strictly follow the outlines of the university’s approved Master Plan, which is updated every five years.
“Over time, the scale of institutional activity has increased and carries significant implications for transportation systems, utilities, public safety, neighborhoods and long-range planning,” LaFountain wrote in a memo to the city council.
According to the mayor, the Institutional Zone and Institutional Master Plan ordinances – first adopted in 2001 — have not been comprehensively reviewed in more than two decades.
Recent projects have highlighted the need for the committee, LaFountain said, pointing to the university’s controversial pier project, plans to develop a fire substation near the campus and a plan to convert a former convalescent home into new dormitories for the university.
LaFountain said the new ad hoc committee will conduct a focused review and return recommendations to the city council.
The mayor said the committee will “meet frequently, solicit public input and present initial recommendations by April 2026; and final recommendations by June 2026.”
Several representatives from the University of New England — including the school’s senior attorney and its vice president of operations — attended Tuesday’s meeting.
Ed Cervone, director of external affairs at UNE, said the university is supportive of the desire to review the Institutional Zone Ordinance.
“UNE hopes that the creation of an Institutional Zone Review Committee can bring additional clarity to, understanding of, and confidence in the ordinance,” Cervone said.
Cervone reminded the council that when the IZ was first created, a similar kind of committee was organized and included a representative from the university. He also suggested that the new committee should include a Hills Beach Association representative; the city planner and Ward One Councilor Patricia Boston because of her historical knowledge about the Institutional Zone.
“UNE is in a highly competitive economic sector and must quickly adapt to meet the demands of the market,” Cervone said. “This includes maintaining and improving its infrastructure to attract and retain students.”
“UNE takes seriously its responsibility as one of the city’s largest employers. We are proud to employ many community members from Biddeford and the surrounding region, offering them good paying jobs with excellent benefits for their families,” he added.
“This is not possible without regulatory clarity, predictability and a responsive partner in the city,” he said.
Resident Mark Robinson described the new committee as a “fantastic idea” and said it will squarely address citizen concerns that have been intensifying over the last few years.
When it comes to deciding who should serve on the new committee, Robinson said he had full faith and confidence in the mayor and the council’s ability to appoint members to serve on the committee.
Former city councilor Richard Rhames said creating the new committee is “more than appropriate” and “arguably long overdue.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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According to campaign finance reports, a total of more than $14,200 was spent by the three mayoral candidates in Biddeford’s Nov. 6 municipal election.
Yesterday (Dec.16) was the deadline for filing those reports with the city clerk.
Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain (City of Biddeford photo)
Former Mayor Marty Grohman spent the most money in his campaign for a second term, a total of $6,539.31.
Mayor Liam LaFountain spent a total of $4,957.13, and former city councilor Norman Belanger spent $3,135 on his campaign.
In terms of votes, LaFountain edged Grohman by a margin of just 212 votes (2,626 – 2,414). Belanger finished in a distant third with 1,273 votes.
Based on data from the finance reports, Grohman also spent the most on a per-vote basis, roughly $2.71 per vote; Belanger spent $2.46 per vote and LaFountain spent the least on a per-vote basis at $1.89 per vote.
As required by state law, all candidates are required to file two reports regarding details about their campaigns, contributions and expenses. The first report must be filed in mid-October.
The second cumulative report is due no later than 42 days after the election. The city maintains public records of all campaign spending by municipal candidates, including city councilors, school committee members and mayoral candidates.
You can view or download the final reports submitted by the mayoral candidates below.
Candidates are required to detail line-item totals for all money contributed to their campaigns by specific individuals or businesses.
Each candidate must also provide details about how they spent their money during the campaign.
All three mayoral candidates had similar expenses, including direct mail, lawn signs, website design and social media advertising.
Campaign signs are a major expense for most local campaigns.
CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story contained inaccurate information regarding former city councilor Norm Belanger’s mayoral campaign. Belanger spent a total of $3,135. His per vote total was $2.46. We apologize for the error. The story has been amended with the correct information.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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In his letter to the editor, this Red Cross volunteer offers a stark reality about the need for blood donations during this time of year.
Editor:
A few hours into the blood drive, Nancy walked out of the Biddeford Eagles Facility in tears.
I hurried to meet her and asked what was wrong. Through her sobs, she said, “It happened again, my iron count was too low. I wanted so badly to give blood and help.”
Her disappointment was clear, and I gently reminded her that she was already helping simply by showing up. The truth is, I’ve seen this before, no matter how willing someone is, their iron or hemoglobin levels just aren’t high enough to donate that day.
But here’s what’s important: even when you can’t give blood, you can still give hope. A financial donation to the Red Cross helps ensure our lifesaving mission continues every single day.
As a volunteer in the Red Cross Biomedical Services, I see firsthand the difference your support makes. The Red Cross provides lifesaving blood to 38 Maine hospitals and medical centers, and we must collect 130 donations every day to meet patient needs.
The reality is this: The need for blood and platelets never stops. Cancer patients, accident victims, and surgical patients depend on it every day.
Blood can’t be manufactured; it must come from volunteer donors. Any pause in donations puts patients at risk. You can make a lifesaving difference right now.
Donate blood or platelets this month to help hospitals care for patients as we head into the holidays.
Make your appointment today. Visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or download the Blood Donor App to schedule your donation.
The holidays are also a time when emergencies increase such that home fire responses rise by
nearly percent nationwide, and many Mainers need help recovering. Because of caring donors and volunteers, the Red Cross is always there, providing shelter, financial support, first aid and comfort to families in crisis and to our military members facing challenges.
This holiday season, you can be the reason someone finds hope again. If you’re unable to give blood, please consider making a financial donation at redcross.org.
Together, we can ensure that no one faces their darkest moment alone, whether it’s after a disaster, in a hospital room or right here in our community.
Don Bisson of the Biddeford Food Pantry (far left) receives a $20,000 donation from the St. Louis Alumni Association, represented by (L-R) Richard Dutremble, Paul Therrien and Don Couture. The Association also donated $25,000 to the My Place Teen Center in Biddeford and $5,000 to Apex Youth Connection. (Contributed photo)
“The Association is pleased to provide funding to help these deserving organizations, and we are proud to recognize the much-needed services and support they provide to the community,” said John Thibault, chair of the association’s public information office.
The Alumni Association, known for its on-going support spanning more than 60 years to youth athletic programs and academic scholarship awards in the Biddeford-Saca area, expanded its financial awards in recent years to include other community non -profits like the Food Pantry and Teen Center.
“The Association’s history of giving back to city youth, programs and activities is the focus of our mission statement and we hope to be able to do so for years to come,” said Thibault.
The donations were formally made during a Dec. 6 meeting of the St. Louis Alumni Association.
Since then, the Alumni Association has also donated $5,000 to the Apex Youth Connection program in Biddeford, according to association member Patricia Boston.
St. Louis High School was a Biddeford-based parochial school steeped in Franco culture and heritage. The small school was opened in 1930 but financial strains led to its closure in 1970.
The school’s mascots – The Eagles – achieved near legendary status as an athletic powerhouse, especially during the 1960s as the small school faced local rivals including Biddeford High School and Thornton Academy with grit and determination.
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The first regular meeting of the new Biddeford Council — along with a new mayor — should give us a good preview and set the tone for what we can expect from these 10 individuals over the next two years.
I have been through this before. Many times.
Former Ward Five Councilor Neva Gross, one of the councilors I am going to miss as a new administration begins.
I should be better prepared for the transition. In fact, Liam LaFountain is the sixth Biddeford mayor I have covered as a journalist.
I have seen lots of change over the last three decades: Five city managers, six mayors and more finance directors than you can count.
All kidding aside, I am optimistic about this new group, and I expect we’re going to see rigorous and thoughtful debate as this new council tackles a wide range of issues.
I really believe that we are at the beginning of a new era at Biddeford City Hall, but I will miss a few of the councilors who decided not to seek reelection this year.
In particular, I am going to miss former Ward Five Councilor Neva Gross – especially during the roll call at the beginning of each meeting.
During the roll call, each councilor answers the city’s clerk’s question. Councilor Belanger? “Here.”
Councilor Beaupre? “Here.”
Councilor Whiting? “Here.” And so on . . . with one notable exception: Councilor Gross would invariably set her own mark. Instead of saying “here,’ she would always respond: “Present.”
For the better part of two years, her response irked me. I thought she was just being a smartass, making a joke of the roll-call process.
Before we proceed any further, it should be noted that I consider Neva Gross to be a friend. She and her partner are expected to attend my family’s annual Christmas Chaos party.
Neva Gross poses for a picture with Mayor Grohman and other councilors moments after being sworn into office (Seaver photo)
Shortly after she was appointed to the council to fill a vacancy in 2024, Neva agreed to an interview with me.
In that interview – published in Saco Bay News – I described Neva as “somewhat reserved.” I told readers that she “listens intently to discussion, often sitting back with her chair leaning away from the council dais.”
So finally — just a few weeks ago – I got up the courage to ask Gross why she always bucked the roll call trend during council meetings.
She smiled. “It’s something that was literally drilled into me by my drill instructor during basic training,” she said.
“He expected more from us than just showing up,” Gross explained. “He demanded that we were ‘present.’ We were expected to know what was happening next to us, behind us and ahead of us. We were expected to be aware, ready to take action and constantly examining the landscape.
“Simply being here was never good enough for him. I always wanted to be present during council meetings.”
I suspect that Neva will still be present in Biddeford, even though she is no longer a city councilor. Maybe we should all be present instead of just being here.
Regardless, I am going to miss Neva’s smile and her thoughtful approach to governance.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain is floating the idea of hiring an “in-house” city attorney, a significant departure from the current model of operating under a retainer contract with a local law firm.
Although the concept of hiring an attorney as a full-time city employee was discussed and rejected more than 30 years ago, LaFountain says it makes sense today to at least “explore” the idea.
Currently, Harry B. Center serves as the city’s attorney when needed. Center also has several other clients and is a managing partner at Woodman Edmands, a small Biddeford-based law firm located on Main Street.
City Attorney Harry B. Cnter, II (Courtesy photo)
During the Dec. 16 council meeting, LaFountain will ask the council to approve a six-month contract renewal for Center. Typically, the city’s attorney is appointed for two years.
LaFountain said it only makes sense to keep Center on board while the council digs deeper in consideration of the proposed change.
“We need to make sure that we have stability moving forward,” LaFountain said during an interview with the Gazette. “We have lots of items and issues under consideration. I am not proposing to make any changes without fully vetting the plan with the city council.”
LaFountain said it may turn out that hiring an in-house attorney would not be a good idea. “I just want us to consider the possibility and think about potential benefits and advantages.”
In a memo to the city council, LaFountain wrote: “Biddeford is entering a period of increased legal activity across land use, development agreements, personnel matters, and policy implementation.”
Center says he will continue to serve the city to the best of his ability, regardless of whether the council decides to make a change at the beginning of the next fiscal year on July 1, 2026.
Center says he bills the city at a rate of $225 per hour, a fraction of the billable rates of attorneys working in larger Portland firms.
“It’s just a matter of what makes the best overall sense for the city,” LaFountain explained. “We are in a transition period. We have six new councilors coming on board, a new city manager and we’re looking to hire a new economic and development director and new chief operating officer.
“This may be the exact time to consider making a change in how we handle our legal services,” the mayor added.
On the advantage side, LaFountain says having an in-house attorney could improve efficiency, responsiveness and long-term cost management, similar to models used in other municipalities of comparable size. Both Portland and Bangor have an in-house attorney, he said.
Shortly after graduating from law school, Center was hired by the late Mayor Roger Normand in 1992.
Center resigned his position as city solicitor in 2004 to pursue a new job in the private sector. Center returned as the city’s attorney after being appointed by Mayor Alan Casavant to replace Keith Jacques upon his retirement in 2022.
Over the years, Center has served under five mayors (Normand, Grattelo, Dion, Casavant and Grohman).
A Biddeford native, Center attended St. Mary’s School and graduated from Biddeford High School in 1980.
“I have seen a lot of changes over the years,” Center said. “There are always ups and downs. The bottom line is that I serve at the pleasure of the mayor and city council.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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A public hearing about the project remediation will be held Dec. 18
Contributed Story; Legal Notice
Fathom Companies — a development firm that will be building a mixed-use and housing project near the intersection of Lincoln and Pearl streets in Biddeford — has received a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) grant to be used for environmental remediation.
The funds are administered by the Southern Maine Planning & Development Commission (SMPDC). and will be used to support the remediation and redevelopment of Lot 3, a subdivided portion of the former Maine Energy Recovery Corporation (MERC) site located at 3 Lincoln Street, Biddeford.
Site of the Fathom Properties proposed housing/mixed-use development (Seaver Photo)
According to a required Legal Notice filed with the Biddeford Gazette, the funding will support cleanup activities on this historically industrial parcel, which previously housed a waste incineration facility.
Proposed remedial actions include soil excavation, installation of engineered cap-and-cover systems, and related environmental protection measures. These actions are necessary to support the redevelopment of the site for residential units and mixed-use buildings and common spaces featuring a restaurant.
A Community Involvement Plan (CIP) and Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA) plan have been prepared. The CIP, ABCA, and additional environmental documents are available for public review through SMPDC, Raegan Young, 110 Main Street, Suite 1400, Saco, Maine. Electronic and printed reports can be provided upon request by contacting ryoung@smpdc.org or 207-746-3376. Documents can also be found on Maine DEP’s Online Remediation Sites portal (https://www.maine.gov/dep/maps-data/data.html) by searching for site number REM02179.
Public comments will be received over a 30-day comment period from December 11, 2025 until January 10, 2026.
A public meeting will be held at 6 pm on Thursday, December 18, at Richard Martin Community Center, 189 Alfred Street, Biddeford— First Floor, Room 8, to inform the public of the proposed cleanup plan and to receive public comments.
During this public meeting, project representatives will discuss the funding mechanisms, project requirements, and recommended cleanup strategies for the site.
There is little doubt that 2025 was a year of substantive change for the city of Biddeford. From political fallout to major infrastructure improvements and new business openings, this year featured a plethora of news stories about change.
In fact, even the news/media landscape changed as a new digital news source began operations, and a 36-year-old weekly newspaper ceased printing.
Like all other years, there was good news and bad news. Highs and lows.
So now we invite you to look back on what we believe were the Top-10 news stories in Biddeford during 2025. (Listed chronologically)
Bennett had announced his “phased retirement” in Oct. 2024, saying that he would leave his position in April 2025, with more than a year remaining on his contract.
Bennett subsequently filed a lawsuit against the city. The city opted to approve an out-of-court settlement of roughly $90,000.
Though the Courier is no longer published, its parent company now publishes a weekly, digital only newsletter.
The Courier was originally owned and operated by David and Carolyn Flood, Saco residents who later moved to Biddeford. David Flood was elected to and served briefly on the Biddeford City Council.
In her previous position as public work director in Kirkland, Dever oversaw a staff of more than “170 employees across multiple divisions, including utilities, transportation and capital projects,” according to the city’s website.
School Supt. Jeremy Ray said that moving the city’s youngest students to BPS will give those children more stability and a less fractured learning experience.
“Going forward, students will be in the same building from Pre- K to second grade,” Ray said. “This way, the kids have four years in one building with lots of familiar faces.”
Planning board approves UNE’s pier proposal
The Biddeford Planning Board held a site walk to review the University of New England’s proposed research pier (Seaver photo)
The approval of the controversial project drew the ire of several residents who attempted to appeal the decision. The Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals, however, voted unanimously (3-0) to stand by the planning board’s decision. The city — in November — filed a formal complaint about the project in York County Superior Court. A judicial review is pending.
During that meeting, residents raised concerns about how the city managed the review process of the University of New England’s controversial pier proposal. Residents’ concerns included the city’s decision to remove the harbormaster from the review process and unanswered questions about impacts on moorings held by commercial fishermen.
Voters choose new mayor, city councilors
Liam LaFountain (foreground, wearing glasses) celebrates his win on election night with several of his supporters. (Seaver photo)
Biddeford voters sent a clear message in November: They wanted a big change in city government.
In a three-way mayoral race, Mayor Marty Grohman was denied a second term by nearly two-thirds of those who cast ballots in Biddeford’s biennial, municipal election.
LaFountain campaigned and won on a platform of more transparency and accountability from City Hall.
Four new city councilors were also sworn into office, including Lisa Vadnais, Abigail Woods, David Kurtz and Jacob Pierson. Former councilors Patricia Boston and Brad Cote returned to the council after an extended hiatus of several years.
Other stories:
Of course, there were several other significant stories that took place over the last year, including a significant August fire that displaced two Biddeford families; a rather scathing report issued by the city’s financial auditors in August and the approval of two significant housing projects near the site of the former MERC trash-to-energy incinerator.
And I’ll go ahead and toot our own horn. The Biddeford Gazette formally began its operations in January and now features a roster of contributing writers, expanded community-based news coverage and weekly obituaries.
Vincent Keely
When Laura and I started the project, we weren’t sure whether the endeavor would last six months. We exceeded all of our expectations, even after breaking my right arm in August.
I also want to note that our community lost Vincent Keely earlier this year. Keely, a former city councilor, was a beloved downtown business owner and reliably ensured the “raising of the Irish flag” at City Hall every year on St, Patrick’s Day. His restaurant – the Wonderbar – was a favorite hangout for city officials, reporters and others who wanted to keep updated about city news and events.
Now we’re looking forward to what 2026 will bring.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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As hunger relief organizations report an increase in demand heading into the winter months, Hannaford Supermarkets is partnering with Youth Full Maine and Wayside Food Programs to provide a critical boost to food access programs this holiday season, according to a company press release.
Dozens of Hannaford associates joined non-profit leaders and volunteers at two events over the past week to pack and distribute 1,000 meal boxes filled with fresh, nutritious and high-quality food for individuals and families across southern Maine.
Hannaford associates assemble food boxes in partnership with Youth Full Maine in Biddeford. In addition to donating more than 10,000 pounds of food, including produce and pantry staples, Hannaford invested $10,000 to bolster Youth Full Maine’s efforts to expand food access this holiday season.(Courtesy photo)
In addition to donating more than 20,000 pounds of food, including produce and pantry staples, Hannaford invested $20,000 to bolster Youth Full Maine and Wayside’s efforts to expand food access this holiday season.
“The holiday season is a time to reflect on the importance of community, and we take our responsibility to care for our communities very seriously,” said Sherri Stevens, Community Impact Manager for Hannaford Supermarkets. “Ensuring everyone has access to fresh, quality food is one of the simplest ways we can nourish our neighbors. We thank Youth Full Maine and Wayside Food Programs for their partnership in fighting hunger in our communities – both during the holiday season and throughout the year.”
Based in Biddeford and serving families throughout York County, Youth Full Maine manages school food pantries and conducts community-wide free food mobile distributions each month.
The organization will host numerous food distribution events this holiday season and will distribute holiday meal boxes to families through school-based pantries.
“We’re grateful to our partners at Hannaford Supermarkets who understand the importance of making sure all Mainers can access food this holiday season,” said Katie Brown, Executive Director of Youth Full Maine. “Throughout the year, Hannaford helps Youth Full Maine get nourishing foods to people of all ages who don’t get enough to eat, from seniors living alone to families with kids who are struggling to make ends meet.”
Hannaford has invested more than $1.8 million in food security programs in its communities over the past year. In 2024, Hannaford donated more than 27.6 million pounds of food to hunger relief organizations – the equivalent of 23 million meals – and is on track to meet the same amount this year.
Tomorrow night – Dec. 9 – the new members of the Biddeford City Council will be getting some required “training” for their new roles in city government.
The city council workshop –– ostensibly open to the public, but why? — will feature four breakout sessions, including updates from City Manager Truc Dever, City Attorney Harry Center, City Clerk Robin Patterson and Executive Assistant Shelly MacNeill – the person who answers calls and schedules appointments for the mayor and city manager.
No, I am not making this up.
It’s probably safe to say that veteran councilor Marc Lesard will not be required to attend the Tuesday workshop meeting, given the fact that he’s been serving on the council since before Abraham Lincoln was shot, back in the days before Alan Casavant was Biddeford’s mayor.
(Photo from Wiki commons)
It remains unclear whether Councilors Patricia Boston and Brad Cote will need a refresher course in protocol, since they both previously served on the council – back when Barack Obama was president.
But newbie councilors Lisa Vadnais, David Kurtz, Jake Pierson and Abigail Woods will likely enjoy the various breakout training sessions, learning new skills such as how to control your gag reflexes during public meetings, the secret handshakes used during closed-door executive sessions and the limit of eyerolls that can be used whenever Richard Rhames approaches the podium.
But seriously, there are some protocols and procedures that city councilors must follow. So, it makes sense to learn the ground rules before you can actually start doing some serious damage to the city.
One thing blatantly missing from Tuesday’s training session: how to deal with the media.
A photo of downtown Biddeford taken shortly after Marc Lessard was first sworn into office as a city councilor. This is satire, feel free to smile.
The point Edmund Burke was trying to make back in the late 1700s was that the press held almost as much power and influence in policy as government officials, both elected and appointed.
But let’s turn the tables for a moment and examine first what our new councilors should expect from the media.
First and foremost, government officials should expect members of the media to be accurate. Secondly, responsible journalists should always be fair and strive for objectivity. Thirdly, journalists should treat government officials with respect and basic civility.
Now what does the media expect of government officials?
The top-three things? (in order) 1.) Honesty. 2.) Honesty and 3.) Honesty.
Seriously, always be honest, even if it means you’re not able to offer a comment because of state or local laws and ordinances. No one can fault you for following the law.
If a member of the press takes the time to call you, return the call. If you’re busy, ask the reporter if he or she is on a deadline. If you don’t know the answer to a reporter’s question, simply say, “I don’t know.”
Finally, on your way home from Tuesday night’s workshop meeting, maybe swing by Kohl’s and get yourself a pair of big boy pants.
You – despite logic and common-sense – signed up for public office, which means you are now fair game for public criticism. For your own sanity, you’re gonna have to learn how to let some stuff just roll of your backs.
Actually, Marc Lessard provides an excellent example of how to deal with media criticism: You just ignore it. Seriously. It’s not personal. It’s business.
No city official – past or present – (okay, maybe Joanne Twomey) has endured more media criticism and bloviating from me than Marc Lessard.
City Councilor Marc Lessard (official photo)
For nearly three decades, Marc and I have sparred on several issues. I have publicly called him to task on countless occasions and roundly scolded him in long-winded, poorly-written editorials for his positions, comments and actions.
“That’s billion with a B, boys.” (Inside joke probably only remembered by Lessard and Harry Center)
Nevertheless, Lessard always returns my calls promptly. He’s always ready to defend and explain his positions. He is invariably cordial and professional.
Make no mistake. Reporters – especially this one – can be a pain in the ass, but we could all learn a lot from Marc Lessard.
Now, is a zebra white with black stripes or black with white stripes?
Good luck, newbies! And thanks for stepping up to serve the city!
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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A small group of people gathered Sunday morning at the intersection of Foss and Fall streets in Biddeford, where a cyclist was killed on Sept. 26.
Patrick Conlon, a member of Bike BS, a local cycling advocacy group, helped organize the quiet ceremony to remember the life of Heather Hamilton with a permanent plaque and a white “ghost bike” adorned with blue flowers.
Patrick Conlon of Biddeford (left) and Chris Nucci of Saco install a memorial plaque at the intersection of Foss and Fall streets, where Heather Hamilton was struck and killed by a delivery truck in September. (Seaver photo)
Hamilton, 47, was killed in a collision involving a UPS delivery truck.
Hamilton’s daughter, Mallorie, made brief remarks about her mother during the brief ceremony.
“My mom didn’t have an easy life,” Mallorie said. “But she would give you the shirt off her back or the last penny in her pocket. She did so much for her family.”
Mallorie Hamilton, holding hands with her own daughter, Cora, said the last few months have been “very difficult.”
Several people tied blue flowers to the ghost bike because blue was Hamilton’s favorite color, according to her family.
Mallorie Hamilton and her five-year-old daughter Cora (center) join others in attaching blue flowers to the Ghost Bike that was placed to honor her mother’s death earlier this year.
Hamilton said neighbors have long expressed concerns about the safety of that intersection, which features dense housing and a narrow roadway.
Mayor Liam LaFountain and Ward Four City Councilor Dylan Doughty attended the brief ceremony.
Conlon says cycling accidents are on the increase in Maine.
As of late 2025, Maine is experiencing a surge in cyclist and pedestrian deaths, according to the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM), indicating 26 total pedestrian/bicyclist fatalities as of December 1.
In fact, the BCM says that Maine is on track for one of its deadliest years for pedestrians and cyclists.
Conlon and other biking advocates say that speeding and distracted driving are major issues, highlighting the need for better infrastructure, like protected bike lanes, and increased visibility for cyclists.
Conlon has testified before the Maine Legislature about the need for increased awareness, and policy changes such as “Vision Zero” commitments, to prevent further deaths of pedestrians and cyclists.
As members of the Baby Boom generation continue to age, a relatively new organization is dedicated to helping seniors maintain their independence and remain in their own homes.
The ‘Age Friendly’ program is an initiative launched by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and offers program services in several states across the country.
In Maine, cities and towns from Berwick to Fort Kent have been designated as Age Friendly communities and offer local chapters that provide services for aging residents.
Becky Hadiaris was recently named as executive director of the Age Friendly Saco program. (Seaver photo)
According to the AARP, the population of the United States is “rapidly aging.” By 2030, one out of five people in the U.S. will be 65 or older; and by 2034, the number of adults over the age of 65 will be greater than the number of children under 18.
On a local level, both Biddeford and Saco have an Age Friendly program in place.
Becky Hadiaris was recently hired as the executive director of Age Friendly Saco; and across the river, Betsy Martin is leading a small group of volunteers and trying to keep up with an increasing demand for services offered by Age Friendly Biddeford.
Both Hadiaris and Martin say more volunteers are needed; and they are both working to increase public awareness about the services provided by the Age Friendly program.
“Our program started in 2016, but we got disbanded by Covid in 2020,” Martin said. “We’re stretched thin, but we are trying to rebuild because there is a growing need in our community.”
The Age Friendly Saco program is standing on more solid ground and has 104 volunteers.
Martin said the two groups work closely, and she credits her Saco colleagues for their help in keeping the Age Friendly Biddeford program moving forward.
The Biggest Need
Hadiaris and Martin both say transportation for seniors is a dominant issue in Biddeford and Saco.
Mona Grandbois and Betsy Martin say the Age Friendly Biddeford program has a big need for volunteer drivers (Seaver photo)
Although both communities are served by a public transit system, many seniors still face challenges in getting to medical appointments.
“If you’re 80 years old, using a walker, you probably can’t get to the bus stop,” said Mona Grandbois, transportation director for Age Friendly Biddeford. “It’s just not practical.”
So far this year, Age Friendly Biddeford has provided 829 rides, and Martin says the need is only growing. “We need volunteers who are able to give just a few hours each week to help fill in the gaps. You can make your own schedule. It’s very flexible.”
In Saco, Hadiaris describes her group’s transportation program a shuttle akin to a free Uber ride for seniors.
“But there is only so much we can do,” she said. “We really need more volunteers.”
Beyond transportation services, both organizations offer other programs all designed to help seniors age in their own homes.
For example, Biddeford residents over the age of 55 can have a bucket of sand delivered to their homes for free.
In both cities, seniors are eligible to receive free handyman services, ranging from smoke detector installation to weather-proofing windows and doorways to increase heating efficiency.
Age Friendly Saco also offers free technical/IT services and guidance as well as opportunities for social interaction and activities.
“It’s all about helping people stay in their homes,” Martin said. “We’re moving forward, and that feels good, but we could sure use some more volunteers.”
Hadiaris agreed, pointing out that both programs are continually looking for ways to collaborate. “We’re not looking to reinvent the wheel,” she said. “And we’re always looking for ways to serve our older neighbors.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved
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BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 