Students from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Sigma Sigma Phi (SSP) KAPPA Chapter continued a longstanding holiday tradition on Friday, Dec. 12, hosting their annual Holiday Giving Tree toy drive on UNE’s Biddeford Campus to support local families through the Biddeford Primary School.
Now in its seventh year, the drive has been held annually since 2019 and is coordinated in partnership with Biddeford school administrators and staff to ensure gifts reach families facing hardship during the holiday season.
This year’s effort resulted in the collection of more than 300 toys — twice the group’s target 150 — all donated by UNE students, faculty and staff and wrapped by student volunteers.
“The Christmas season is my favorite time of the year, and it was such a blessing to be a part of the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Sigma Sigma Phi KAPPA Chapter Holiday Giving Tree,” said event co-organizer Miranda Pomphrett (D.O., ’28). “I was touched by the generosity of the students and faculty as we came together to collect around 300 gifts during finals season, doubling our goal to support local families.”
Biddeford educators emphasized the importance of the partnership and its continuity.
“We are incredibly grateful to the University of New England students for coordinating this annual Toy Drive with our Resiliency Coordinator,” said Meghan Schrader, principal of Biddeford Primary School. “This partnership has allowed some of our families facing hardship to choose meaningful gifts for their children during the holiday season.
“The need in our community continues to grow, and we are so thankful for UNE’s commitment and for the many community members who step up year after year to make sure every child feels the joy of the season,” Schrader added.
Kin Ly, Pharm.D., Ed.D., advisor of UNE’s Sigma Sigma Phi chapter, said the toy drive reflects UNE’s broader commitment to service, care, and community well-being within its home communities, both during the holiday season and throughout the year.
“We are incredibly grateful to the University of New England students for coordinating this annual Toy Drive.”
– Megan Schrader, principal BPS
That relationship remains strong, she said, even as Maine’s only medical school has transitioned its primary location from UNE’s Biddeford Campus to a new home on the University’s Portland Campus for the Health Sciences — maintaining and strengthening its deep ties to the city and its residents.
“Our UNE COM students’ commitment to bridging the gap between our campus and the local community is truly inspiring,” remarked Ly, who is an associate clinical professor in the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Department of Biomedical Sciences. “By organizing this toy drive, they aren’t just distributing gifts — they are ensuring that every child in need at our partner Biddeford Primary School feels the warmth and joy of the season.”
That service ethos is echoed across the University, including within another annual holiday tradition in which UNE undergraduate students partner with Heart of Biddeford, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering an inclusive and sustainable downtown for the thriving former mill city, to decorate downtown with festive lights, helping bring warmth and cheer to Main Street during the winter months.
Throughout the semester, UNE’s medical students have also led additional service initiatives benefiting communities across southern Maine.
These include a ReSpectacle eyeglasses collection to support underserved individuals worldwide; a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater hosted by the American Geriatrics Society and Gerontological Society of America student chapter to raise funds for Southern Maine Hospice Center; and ongoing meal preparation by the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians student group for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Portland.
“(Our students’) commitment to serving others is commendable and reflects their strong sense of responsibility and empathy — great characteristics for our future osteopathic physicians,” Ly said.
Municipalities all across Maine are attempting to respond to the challenge of climate change, but in contrast to the “Maine Won’t Wait” dictum in the state’s plan, local advocates and government are finding it slow going.
That’s partly due to the nature of government, with its myriads of committees and boards and councils, and partly because adjusting to new realities has so many different aspects.
“Getting things from the proposal stage to legislation is a grind,” said one panelist at the Nov. 12 Climate Action Workshop held by the Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission (SMPDC) and the University of New England.
Every picture tells a story. Coastal property owners in Biddeford prepare for the next big storm
As we have all experienced, with rapidly changing weather patterns anything is possible and anything can happen at any time. Biddeford had one “wakeup call” set of storms in January of 2024, but no one knows when the next such event will arrive. But clearly, it will, in its own good time.
A small but dedicated group of citizens have been working on ways to address climate change in Biddeford, both to reduce the city’s carbon footprint and how to mitigate the worst effects of extreme weather. With a mandate from the city council, the Biddeford Climate Change Task Force has so far focused on three areas where rules or ordinances could be amended:
Solar, with an eye to making it easier to develop solar arrays that are large enough to actually cut local government energy costs or reduce electric bills for residents;
Electric Vehicle charging stations, with potential mandates or incentives to developers to provide more changing stations or at least make sure the infrastructure is in place for future installations;
Land use: finding the right balance between use of undeveloped land in Biddeford recognizing that the city’s abundance of forested land should not be developed and that large solar arrays are not appropriate for every site.
All of these areas have the potential to bump up against property rights and to impede desired development. (And some issues — the example used at the SMPDC Workshop was about attempts to ban pesticide use — are simply too difficult for many local governments to handle.)
Will Kochtitzky, a professor at UNE who was speaking as the chair of Biddeford’s Sustainability Commission, noted that some of the commission’s work does not involve legislation. He later expanded on his comments in a Nov. 18 report to the Biddeford City Council.
The Sustainability Commission is charged with working with city departments where appropriate and advising the city council about implementing the Biddeford Climate Action Plan.
The Commission has applied for several grants, inventoried bike racks, is working to improve bike riding as an alternative to automobiles in Biddeford and assisted the city in reclassifying coastal areas as limited growth zones in its comprehensive plan.
The commission also conducted a second inventory of emissions from the city last summer.
“I am not pleased to report that we are going in the wrong direction,” Kochtitzky said.
While energy use in both residential and commercial buildings went down, automobile traffic in Biddeford was substantially up. Biddeford has committed itself to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 and must make more progress to meet this goal.
The new inventory from 2023 included more vehicles from other locations that came to Biddeford than the 2019 inventory — tourism is a “major industry” for Biddeford.
The commission has proposed legislation to increase electric vehicle charging stations in the city, and also a landscaping ordinance for new developments—both municipal and private.
The experience in other Maine cities was reviewed and integrated in the new draft ordinances. New legislation proposed affects property development and has been slow going. As local governments make sure that they do not drive away needed development, both of the proposed new laws are currently in committees to refine the wording and not discourage new projects.
“I am not pleased to report that we are going in the wrong direction.”
— Will Kochtitzky, UNE professor
Councilor Marc Lessard may have spoken for other council members at the Nov. 18 meeting when he stressed to Kochtitzky that he is mainly interested in things that either break even or lower city costs. He hoped these new proposals would include city costs to help the council make decisions, such as the municipal building energy audit.
Kochtitzky replied that the commission’s strategy, working with city staff, is to look for grants to facilitate this work. Unfortunately, federal grants are currently very limited and cannot be counted on for local projects.
Also, in Biddeford’s case, one of the most pressing issues is sea level rise with storm surge, that causes flooding and beach/dune erosion that affects beach front properties.
The Sustainability Commission is collaborating with SMPDC to get a grant to engineer a detailed beach management plan for southern Maine’s beaches that would make Biddeford’s beaches FEMA disaster assistance eligible.
While new construction — and some repair projects from the January 2024 storms — have opted to build or rebuild houses on stilts, most of the properties on or near Biddeford’s beaches are affected by Biddeford’s zoning ordinances and Maine’s beach and dune management ordinances (many through the Dept of Environmental Protection).
The city did obtain federal funding to rebuild roads that were washed out by those storms, and also to rebuild the granite boulder sea walls at Fortunes Rocks beach and Ocean Avenue in Biddeford Pool.
But some issues remain unresolved and apparently undiscussed.
Biddeford is one of the few municipalities in York County that has so far declined to sign on to a compact to use the dredge that York County purchased with federal funds.
According to a county report, the dredge is scheduled to remediate dunes and beaches in other coastal areas starting this month, beginning in Wells and moving on to the eroding beach at Camp Ellis, directly across Saco Bay from Biddeford Pool.
Municipal collaboration among the Saco Bay communities may be important in the next 10 years.
______________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
Although it may be hard to believe, we are now pushing up against the edge of the 2025 holiday season. Wow! Where did this year go?
Over the next 30 days, people in our community will celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice and Christmas.
For many people, this can be a stressful and lonely time of the year. So please try to be extra kind during these shortest days of the year.
The world could always use a bit more kindness.
Winter will soon knock upon our door
On the local news front, I am pleased to announce that the Biddeford Gazette will actually take a four-day break between today and Sunday.
We have been moving at a break-neck speed for a while now, so it will likely feel good to walk away from the keyboard for just a few days.
When I think about all the many ways I am blessed, I also think about all those who have helped the Biddeford Gazette get its sea-legs over the past year.
I am grateful for the hundreds of subscribers who want the latest updates and news (You can subscribe here)
But I also thankful for all the people who stop me at the grocery store, downtown or in one of my favorite haunts just to simply express appreciation for what we are doing. It means a lot to me and keeps me motivated.
A look back
My friend Craig Pendleton and I decided to attend a campaign rally for U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner at the Biddeford Middle School. I decided to go as an observer, not a reporter. I did not bring a notebook or pen.
Five minutes into the event and I was scribbling notes with a borrowed pencil and scraps of paper. It was a big crowd of more than 1,000 people. The energy in the room was unmistakable.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner brough his campaign to Biddeford last week (Seaver photo)
We also learned that Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, submitted his notice of resignation. Phinney served as acting city manager for several months after the city council opted to give Jim Bennett the boot in February.
We wrapped up the week with a story about the St. Joseph’s Convent on Pool Road and the plan to transform it into housing for University of New England students.
If you think the seats in the Biddeford City Council chamber are uncomfortable, try sitting three hours on a metal, folding chair under the glare of fluorescent lights.
We are also planning to publish an in-depth story about the Age-Friendly programs in Biddeford and Saco.
The Age Friendly program is a national initiative focused on helping seniors live independently in their own homes.
And, one week from tonight (Dec. 2), the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor.
On Tuesday, December2, the city of Biddeford will celebrate the inauguration of Liam LaFountain as the city’s next mayor
On a final note, in terms of gratitude. Words cannot express my gratitude for all the people helping the Gazette from behind the scenes.
Gail Toussaint of Biddeford serves as a copy-editor on many (not all) of our stories. She always responds within an hour. News does not happen on a 9-5 schedule, and Gail is always ready to help.
She takes the time to meticulously scan each story, sending her edits back within minutes. She does this – always on call – because she “loves the Gazette and what we’re doing.” She does not get paid.
On a similar note, Contributing Writer Jim Krause is always ready to help cover a story or an event. He is a gifted writer and a news junkie. Again, all of his work is done without pay.
And let’s not forget the nine members of our advisory board who stand ready with input, ideas, suggestions and constructive feedback. They are a power-house team (Check their profiles here)
And we simply cannot overlook or take for granted our publisher, Laura Seaver. Laura is our biggest champion and staunchest defender. We literally could not exist without her support and guidance.
My apologies for being long-winded. Enjoy the holiday and the comfort of family or friends. Drive carefully and be nice to one another.
____________________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
The Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) voted 9-2 Monday to approve a plan that will allow the University of New England to transform a former convent on the Saco River into a student dormitory.
The Biddeford convent was built in 1986 and features a 57-bed nursing home on a 21.4-acre parcel along the banks of the Saco River.
According to a university representative, only upper-class students will be housed at that site, which is roughly 1-1/2 miles northwest from UNE’s Biddeford campus. Their plan is to provide housing for 126 students.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning addresses members of the Saco River Corridor Commission on Monday (Seaver photo)
According to the SRCC, the Pool Road facility is located within a Limited Residential District.
At least one property abutter has raised concerns about the plan, noting a likely increase in noise and traffic that would fundamentally alter the character of the area.
“The resulting noise, traffic and parking pressures would meaningfully alter the character of this quiet, residential and rural stretch of the corridor,” wrote Carla Ouellette in her objection to the plan.
Andrew Philippe, UNE’s director of campus planning, told commissioners Monday that the school will plant several trees along the river frontage to augment the vegetative buffer that is now somewhat sparse.
A prior review of the project last month resulted in commissioners voting to table the plan, asking university officials to provide more detailed information about the capacity of the existing septic system and a current lack of vegetation.
Commissioner Amy Safford raised concerns about erosion and noted that location includes swift river currents. “I see this as over-crowding and altering the character of the neighborhood. Putting that many people so close to the river is not a good idea. I am not convinced.”
Other commissioners asked questions about parking at the facility. The facility currently has 55 parking spaces, and Philippe said there is no plan to increase the parking footprint.
The St. Joseph’s nursing facility in Biddeford could soon become student housing for UNE students near the banks of the Saco River (Seaver photo)
Philippe said the school will provide a “shuttle” service between the complex and the university’s Biddeford campus in order to reduce traffic and the need for more parking.
Philippe told commissioners that on-campus housing is at capacity. He said the university was approached by the convent roughly two years ago.
Their operation, he said, was struggling to remain financially feasible.
In a prior interview with the Gazette, newly appointed Biddeford Commissioner Jim LaBelle described the project as a win-win scenario.
“We’re basically switching one housing facility to another housing facility,” LaBelle said.
LaBelle voted with the majority to approve the plan. Donald Furman, Biddeford’s other representative, was absent.
Saco representative Amy Safford was one of only two commissioners who voted against the proposal. Don Pilon, Saco’s other SRCC commissioner, was also absent.
_______________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
More than 1,000 people gathered Wednesday at Biddeford Middle School to see and hear U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, and to learn more about his campaign to replace incumbent Republican Susan Collins.
Platner, 40, took the stage wearing blue jeans and a flannel shirt, He was warmly received by a diverse crowd of supporters and onlookers.
U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner was warmly received during a town hall campaign stop in Biddeford. (Seaver photo)
His message relied on current populist ideas from the left flank of the Democratic Party.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills is also seeking her party’s nomination to replace Collins, and she is widely viewed as a more moderate member of the party. Platner has been endorsed by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who has long embraced being described as “a socialist.”
Although Platner has found himself at the center of controversy about his past statements on social media, none of those issues were raised Wednesday.
Instead, the former combat marine and current oyster farmer stuck to a message about empowering people who have “no voice” within the hallways of Washington D.C.
“The system isn’t broken,” Platner told the crowd. “It’s working exactly how it was designed; to keep the power reserved for the few.”
A diverse crowd of roughly 1,000 people attended Graham Platner’s campaign stop in Biddeford
Before taking questions from the audience, Platner spent nearly 30 minutes introducing himself and outlining the core messages of his campaign.
His speech centered mostly upon a core principle of his campaign: to make life better for Maine’s working-class citizens.
Platner drew rousing applause when he talked about making wealthy Americans “pay their fair share.”
“Every single person in this state knows in their bones that they are getting screwed,” Platner said. “Things will not change until the Democratic Party stops serving the very same interests served by the Republicans.
“The only way we will see change is from the ground up. No one is coming to save us. We need an organized working class.”
Platner said he is planning several more town hall meetings across the state. He also pledged that, if elected, he will continue holding town hall meetings in order to increase “public access” for the working class, jabbing at Collins for her poor performance in meeting with “everyday Mainers’
“Every single person in this state knows in their bones that they are getting screwed,”
— Graham Platner, U.S. Senate candidate
He described himself as a “New Deal” Democrat and invoked the legacy of Frances Perkins, a Maine native who became the first female cabinet member.
Perkins served as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She is credited for drafting the creation of Social Security among many other programs aimed at improving the lives of working Americans.
“I’m not just asking for your vote,” Platner told the audience. “I’m asking for your time, your energy and even your discomfort as you share our message with your friends and neighbors.”
_____________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
On Tuesday, I sat in my usual seat in the Biddeford City Council Chamber — back row and closest to the door.
With my back against the wall, I can see and monitor almost everything happening in the room.
That perch also provides a quick exit in the event that the shit hits the fan.
I almost didn’t go to the meeting. I had a pretty bad headache, and Laura suggested that I could just stay home and watch the meeting online.
Nope, I said, reaching for my jacket. This would be the last meeting for this current group of city councilors.
It would also be the last council meeting for Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman.
The last regular meeting of the 2023-2025 Biddeford City Council (Seaver photo)
Tuesday’s council meeting was yet another significant moment in our city’s history. The transition process has begun. A new administration will take over the reins in less than two weeks, during the Dec. 2 inauguration ceremony at City Theater.
I am excited about the change, but I am also feeling some trepidation and even some sadness.
Over the last two years, this current council has become akin to a favorite chair that is a tad worn, a bit stained — but always a good fit and comfortably familiar.
Yes, it’s time for a new chair. But I am going to miss this one.
Waiting for the meeting to start, I began pondering all the ups and downs that this council and mayor have faced over the last two years.
There were some high points and some low points. There was anger and there was laughter. I suppose the same could be said for any governing body, but you simply cannot deny that this council was battle-tested during the last two years.
You simply cannot deny that this council was battle-tested during the last two years.
Change is an unavoidable part of life. We have to let go of the familiar in order to discover new opportunities. That is often easier said than done.
You say hello, and I say goodbye
The mayor seemed somewhat somber during Tuesday’s council meeting. He smiled and laughed during some of the meeting’s light-hearted moments, but you could almost feel his sadness.
And who could blame him? Marty put his heart and soul into the job. When he took over the reins two years ago, he was brimming with ideas and energy.
He was a fresh voice following a 12-year run by his predecessor and mentor, Alan Casavant.
Mayor Marty Grohman (right) chairs the final city council meeting of his term while mayor-elect Liam LaFountain (left) reviews an agenda item during Tuesday’s meeting
Marty pledged to hit the ground running. And he made good on that promise. So, naturally, it’s easy to understand why his loss for a second term stings – and will probably sting for a long time to come.
When Marty took over, he inherited some challenges that were not his fault. Former city manager James Bennett was acting like a petulant overlord at City Hall, and he would treat city councilors like a group of adolescents learning how to French kiss.
There were other challenges: a skyrocketing unhoused population, a finance department in chaos and the hemorrhaging of city staff.
Marty rolled up his sleeves and jumped immediately into the deep end of the pool. He never checked the water temperature or whether there were other swimmers in his path.
You have to go back more than 30 years to find another mayor who only served one term in office. Talk about a lonely-hearts club.
During a break of Tuesday’s council meeting, Mayor Marty Grohman invited the public and city councilors to join him for a ceremonial piece of cake to mark the last meeting of the 2023-2025 Biddeford City Council (Seaver photo)
The perfect storm
Two years ago, the city’s elections could easily be described as a “sleeper” affair. Only two city council seats were being contested. Every sitting councilor sought another term.
By contrast, this year’s elections saw contests in five of the seven ward council seats and a three-way contest for the two at-large council seats.
Moreover, Councilors William Emhiser, Scott Whiting and Neva Gross decided to step down this year. Councilors Norman Belanger and Liam LaFountain gave up their seats to run for the mayor’s chair.
There was some excitement in the air this year. Six political newcomers decided to run for council and three of them won their respective campaigns (Abigail Woods, David Kurtz and Jake Pierson).
This last election also broke records in voter turnout for off-year, municipal elections.
What was behind that groundswell of interest in Biddeford’s municipal affairs?
The short answer is: a lot.
But I think the real reason is a bit nuanced and somewhat complex. There is no denying that there has been a cloud of discontent hanging over Biddeford for almost two years.
There was some excitement in the air this year.
What’s the frequency, Kenneth?
Almost out of the gate, Marty and the current council were knocked on their heels by back-to-back resignations. Both former Ward Four Councilor Bobby Mills and then — two weeks later – former Ward Five Councilor Julian Schlaver resigned, both citing “personal reasons.”
Dyland Doughty won a special election to take over Mills’ vacated seat; and Neva Gross was appointed to serve the remainder of Schlaver’s term.
Only a few weeks ago, former at-large councilor Doris Ortiz announced her resignation because she was moving to a new home outside of the city.
Three resignations in one term? That seems like a record to me.
Two years ago, Councilor Liam LaFountain jockeyed to become council president, ousting Councilor Norm Belanger from that role in a 6-3 vote.
Affordable housing became the focus of the new administration.
Earlier this year, the council received a blistering report about its delayed financial audits from an outside accounting firm.
Wade Goldthwait addresses the city council during a citizens grievance meeting about the University of New England’s planned research pier
Former city manager James Bennett was finally ousted from his office and then filed a lawsuit against the city.
The city hired Truc Dever to become the new city manager.
A major sewer upgrade project along Elm Street drew the ire of residents and downtown business owners who were impacted by the seven-month construction project.
In the background – beyond the council’s purview – there was increasing tension and controversy brewing about a proposed pier that the University of New England hopes to build on the Saco River.
The city ramped up efforts to address the issues of homelessness, clearing out a large encampment near Mechanics Park.
Planning Board Member Roch Angers spoke at a city council meeting regarding his concerns about the UNE pier. The mayor then tried to have Angers removed from his position on the planning board.
Citizens circulated petitions and collected enough signatures to trigger a “citizens grievance” meeting about the UNE pier.
In July, residents saw one of the most heated and tense council meetings in recent memory, calling into question two major development projects on Pearl Street.
Of course, there were many other things that shaped this current council and Marty’s term as mayor but now it is time for us to turn and face the winds of change.
It’s time to recycle that old, comfortable recliner. Let’s see what the future brings.
________________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
A little more than two weeks ago, Biddeford voters sent a clear message that they wanted change and more accountability from City Hall.
In fact, nearly two thirds of the people who cast ballots in the Nov. 4 municipal election chose candidates other than incumbent Mayor Marty Grohman for the city’s top job.
Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain was able to tap into that voter discontent, but he was also a late entrant — and a somewhat unlikely candidate — in the three-way mayoral race.
Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain
Skeptics said LaFountain, 28, was “too young” for the job. Others questioned his experience and his ability to effectively lead the city because he has a full-time job.
But many other voters saw LaFountain’s candidacy as a breath of fresh air, and his youthful energy appealed to younger voters in a city that has become Maine’s youngest municipality.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median age of all Biddeford residents is 35, and it’s even younger — just 29 — in the city’s downtown area.
Typically, only 30 percent of registered voters participate in Biddeford’s off-year municipal elections. And those consistent voters are typically over the age of 50.
But this year saw a marked change and an elevated level of interest in local elections, especially among younger voters. In fact, turnout exceeded 43 percent for the first time in the last 30 years.
Many younger voters said they came to vote because of their concerns about a statewide referendum regarding voter identification and absentee voting. One woman waiting in line said, “We can’t let [President] Trump and his supporters eat away at our democracy. I felt it was important to take a stand.”
LaFountain says he is honored and humbled by the support he received, but he is quick to point out that 57 percent of voters did not choose him to be the next mayor.
“I am honored by the support I received but my job now is to lead the entire city, and that includes everyone, not just those who voted for me,” LaFountain said. “It was not a landslide. I won the race by only 210 votes.”
As is usually the case, LaFountain was eager to share his thoughts and opinions with us. During our interview, he was simultaneously self-deprecating and equally passionate about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Biddeford.
Has the reality of being Biddeford’s next mayor set in yet?
“Oh yeah. I quickly went from being excited about the results and then had a sense of dread wash over me. You spend so much time on the campaign trail that you don’t give a lot of thought to what will happen if you win. (Laughs)
“That night – while we were celebrating at Pizza By Alex – the reality set in pretty quickly.”
You are not only going to be the city’s youngest mayor in recent memory but also the first mayor who will simultaneously hold a full-time job. Is your employment going to impact your leadership of the city?
“I don’t think it’s going to be much different than how I handled serving as council president and a city councilor.
“Most people in Biddeford have full-time jobs, and I think it helps my perspective about many issues through the lens of someone who is still working and facing many of the same challenges.
“As mayor, my top priority is to the people of Biddeford. I want to meet people where they are. I’m thinking about things like holding open hours at City Hall so constituents can meet with me informally. Being accessible and accountable will continue to be my focus.”
During your campaign, you talked a lot about accountability, accessibility and affordability. How do you plan to put those goals into action?
“The talking points I used during the campaign primarily came from the people I was talking with as I was campaigning. We need to make sure that residents are able to access the services they need and get information and news that is important to them.
“We need budgets that reflect both the values and needs of the public. We heard a lot about transparency this year. We need to make sure people are aware of what is happening in city government and how those things may impact them, and how they can be part of the process.
“The affordability issue stretches across the spectrum of Biddeford residents, whether you’re a property owner worried about tax increases, or a tenant who is seeing your rental payments increase each year – even downtown business owners are experiencing rapidly increasing lease payments.”
“As mayor, my top priority is to the people of Biddeford. I want to meet people where they are”
— Mayor Elect Liam LaFountain
Voters also approved a $6 million bond for upgrades and repairs to the city’s recreational assets. That money is not going to cover all of the city’s needs. How do you propose those funds should be allocated?
“That is going to be one of our top priorities in the coming year. I think we’re going to need a process that includes a lot of public input, working with the Recreation Commission and the [city] council to identify how we use those funds because Biddeford residents wanted us to use that money to improve recreation opportunities.
“Obviously, we cannot fix everything, so we need a good process to identify the priorities from the public’s perspective and look for ways to capitalize on our existing resources.
“As an example, we still haven’t made any decisions about what to do with the JFK School. When we think about all the challenges we have, it’s going to involve looking at how we can use existing resources to make sure we’re addressing challenges without missing existing opportunities.”
What do you consider as the challenges facing the city of Biddeford?
“We really need to get back to basics. Our finance department is making good progress on correcting some of the things that caused a variety of problems. We need to make sure that we have adequate reporting, timely audits and reconciliations. We need continuous improvement because our financial position impacts everything the city does.
“I also believe we need to pursue a regional approach when it comes to addressing the needs of our unhoused population. My basic perspective on that issue is rooted in providing dignity for all residents, whether they live in a home or not.
“It’s a regional issue, and I want us to work closely with county officials and the state of Maine because we cannot do it all on our own.
Have you spoken yet with Saco’s mayor about opportunities for collaboration between the two cities?
“Yes, we had a good conversation, and I’m excited about how we can work together and leverage our shared strength when it comes to advocating on both a regional and state level.
“We have a new city manager, and they are about to welcome a new city manager so I think we have a nice, clean slate to work from.”
What do you think about the new council that you will be working with?
“I am really excited about the council. I think we have a really good mix, including experience and fresh perspectives. I think Lisa Vadnais will bring a valuable perspective about our city’s schools to her new role on the council. We also have three councilors who will be serving for the first time.
“I really look forward to working with them and our new school committee as we collectively chart the city’s future.”
What will be your mantra as Biddeford’s mayor?
“My primary goal will be focused upon putting the public interest at the center of all our decisions. That means making decisions that primarily benefit Biddeford residents.
“We need a data-driven decision-making process, and we also need to listen to Biddeford residents to reflect their goals, needs and wants when it comes to policies, budgets and ordinances that we pass.
“I want to be accessible and available to listen. I will readily admit that I don’t have all the answers, but I am ready to work with residents, city staff and the council to address our direction going forward.”
__________________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
New mayor; changing business hours at City Hall and approaching holidays
The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but it feels good to approach the holiday season with some enthusiasm and contentment.
This week, we are asking our readers to tell us what they believe were the Top-Ten news stories in Biddeford for 2025.
We are also soliciting ideas about holiday coverage and feature stories that you may enjoy learning about.
Of course, we expect to once again offer an exclusive, sit-down interview with Santa Claus, but we also want to highlight and celebrate the diversity of Biddeford’s holiday season.
This is a great opportunity for you or your organization to share news and events about the holidays and community celebrations. CONTACT US
Now that the local elections are over, we are returning to a much more manageable schedule, focused on original, in-depth reporting.
For the time period between Oct. 1 and Nov. 12, we published an average of more than one story per day. Now, we anticipate two-to-three stories per week, not including obituaries, public events or business profiles.
Nutting was always very bullish about both cities, and he was perpetually on the hunt for partnership opportunities. It seems only fitting that a bridge connecting the two cities would be named in his honor.
The council’s chamber was packed for Thursday’s ZBA meeting
Biddeford’s Policy Committee tackled both next steps for an updated Comprehensive Plan and a review of the council’s Code of Ethics.
From our friends at Saco Bay News, we learned this week that three former York County corrections officers were indicted on charges that they facilitated the delivery of contraband items to prisoners.
What’s on deck:
On Saturday, we sat down with Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain for an exclusive, free-ranging interview about a number of issues facing the city.
Biddeford Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain
We also met with folks from the Age Friendly Saco program to highlight the many services they provide to seniors and how they hope to work closely with the Age Friendly Biddeford program.
On Tuesday, the Biddeford City Council will tackle the issue of business hours at City Hall.
Currently, City Hall is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7 a.m. to 5 pm; and on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In an effort to minimize public confusion, the council will consider streamlining business hours at City Hall to 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
Changing hours at City Hall?
And that’s a wrap for this week.
Remember: What do you think were the Top-Ten news stories in Biddeford this year? Drop us a line at BiddefordGazette@gmail.com
___________________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
The University of New England cleared another hurdle Thursday when the Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) voted unanimously to reject an appeal of the university’s proposed research pier.
Although the Biddeford Planning Board narrowly approved the controversial pier in August, a group of private citizens – led by the former chair of the Biddeford Harbor Commission – filed an appeal of the planning board’s approval.
Thursday’s meeting lasted only a few minutes, despite an agenda packet of more than 3,000 pages of information related to the project.
The Biddeford City Council Chamber was packed for Thursday’s Zoning Board of Appeals meeting regarding the University of New England’s proposed pier. (Seaver photo)
ZBA members did not discuss specifics about the pier, its location or the city’s review process of the project. The discussion instead centered on whether the citizen appellants had legal standing to appeal the planning board’s prior approval.
Ron Schneider – the university’s senior attorney – told ZBA members that the citizen appellants had “no standing” to file an appeal because they were not injured by the planning board’s earlier approval.
Biddeford resident Matt Haas, a former UNE employee, spoke for the appellants and said the citizens group was made up of an “organic” group of citizens, including property abutters and mooring owners who will be displaced by the large pier.
Schneider rejected that argument, pointing out that only Schafer’s name was listed on the appeal filed in September.
“You cannot just add names as you go along,” Schneider argued before the ZBA, pointing out that Schafer lives more than a mile away from where the large pier will be built. “Otherwise, this just becomes a game of whack-a-mole.”
City Attorney Harry Center told the ZBA that they should send the issue back to the planning board for further review.
“New information has recently come to light,” Center said. “The appellants do have standing.”
Center previously supported the planning board’s decision but now says new information about a 250-foot, non-development buffer zone created nearly 25 years ago should trigger a reconsideration of that decision.
“This just becomes a game of whack-a-mole.”
— Ron Schneider, UNE’s senior attorney
As originally reported in the Biddeford Gazette, that buffer zone was overlooked and not raised as an issue of concern during the nearly two-year review process.
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously last week to seek guidance and advice from the Maine Attorney General’s Office about the buffer zone and its impact on the university’s plans.
When asked for comment about Thursday’s ZBA decision, a university spokesperson said the zoning board followed the city charter’s requirements for appeals.
“These rules exist to ensure fairness and clarity in the appeals process,” said Sarah Delage, vice president of communications.
“UNE looks forward to moving ahead with this important research facility that will benefit Maine’s marine environment, economy and students for generations to come,” she added. “We remain committed to being good neighbors and responsible community partners.”
When asked about next steps for the citizen’s coalition, Haas said the group has to rely on the city council for relief.
“The city seems to understand the significance of the buffer zone, and it is heartening to see them pursue that issue with the attorney general’s office,” he said.
“This is not the end of the story,” Haas said.
______________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
Gen. Wallace Nutting’s children attended the dedication ceremony of a bridge named in their father’s honor. (L-R) Sally Nutting Somes, John Nutting, Katherine Haughs and Elizabeth Hood.
Nutting’s four children were on hand for the dedication of the bridge at the base of York Hill.
This year’s parade featured marching bands from Thornton Academy, Biddeford High School, and Saco Middle School.
Members of the Biddeford High School marching band played Taps during the opening ceremony.
A small crowd on the Biddeford side of the bridge awaits the start of the annual parade
Local leaders pose with members of Gen. Nutting’s family moments after the bridge was dedicated (L-R) State Rep. Marshall Alexander (D-Saco), Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail, State Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford), Katherine Haughs, John Nutting, Sally Nutting Somes, Elizabeth Hood and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman (Randy Seaver photo)
Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman attended the ceremonies.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 310 raised the American flag
City attorney finds new info, says UNE pier should go back to planning board
By RANDY SEAVER, Editor
Biddeford City Attorney Harry Center says that the Biddeford Planning Board should reconsider its prior approval of the University of New England’s controversial research pier.
Although the planning board narrowly approved the university’s proposal in August, Center now says the Planning Board should reconsider that approval based on new information that came to light a few weeks ago.
An aerial view of where UNE wants to build its research pier (Courtesy photo)
As first reported in the Biddeford Gazette, the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) failed to consider a previous ruling that created a 250-foot, no-development, vegetative buffer zone on the university’s campus in 2001.
Shortly after the Planning Board approved the controversial project, a group of residents filed an appeal with the Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
The ZBA is expected to take up the matter at its next meeting on Thursday.
Center, representing the city’s Planning Board, filed a request Monday with the ZBA on behalf of the planning board and Biddeford’s planning department.
Center also discovered that the permit issued to UNE by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may have expired.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised.”
— City Attorney Harry Center
A university spokesperson said the permit they received from the Army Corps is still in effect, and said the 250-foot no-development zone does not preclude appropriately permitted development.
Sarah Delage, vice president for communications at UNE, said the university received clarification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August that their permit remains in effect.
“The project was required to start prior to October 14, 2025, and the [Army Corps] has confirmed that the design and permitting process, which was underway well before that date, satisfies this condition.
Delage also said that “there is no inconsistency between UNE’s master plan –which was previously approved by the Biddeford Planning Board — and development within this buffer zone.
When asked about the legality of the SRCC’s permit, Delage said the SRCC’s executive director recently clarified that the approval remains valid and is neither under review nor in question at the SRCC office.
“The [SRCC] executive director sent her letter after consulting with the Maine Assistant Attorney General, who represents the SRCC,” Delage said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so,” she added.
Center said he has also researched prior versions of UNE’s master plan, and that those records reveal “that the University of New England’s master plan also references a 250-foot, no-development buffer.”
Red Flags Raised
Center said major red flags were then raised when Cheri Dunning, the executive director of the Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC), wrote an unsolicited letter on October 20 to Roby Fecteau, Biddeford’s code enforcement officer.
In that letter to Fecteau, Dunning created the impression that the SRCC — while issuing UNE a permit for the pier — had deliberately overridden the 2001 order creating the buffer. She implied that present-day commissioners consciously intended to create new law. “The condition was created by, and thus can be altered by, the Commission,” she wrote.
Dunning specifically stated that the 2001 order was not discussed during the SRCC hearing. The current commissioners absolutely did not engage in any deliberative process to override the law created in 2001, according to the minutes from the August 2024 meeting.
Since the buffer was never even mentioned, the commissioners were flying blind, Center said.
“My legal analysis is that the order creating the 250-foot buffer remains in place, at least until the Attorney General’s office tells us that it has been rescinded by the commission,” Center said.
“The university has carefully followed all legal and regulatory processes in permitting the project, and looks forward to continuing to do so.”
— Sarah Delage, UNE spokesperson
Center said the ZBA has the jurisdiction to send UNE’s application back to the planning board, and given all the new information that has surfaced, it should do so.
Furthermore, Center said the city may ask a judge to overrule the SRCC’s approval of a permit for UNE’s pier, and recent statements by Dunning that the 250-foot buffer and other SRCC decisions can be ignored by regulatory authorities.
“In the last 10 days, far too many legal questions have been raised,” he said.
Center said he has the full support of Mayor Martin Grohman and the Biddeford City Council to advise the ZBA as he did today.
Last week, the Biddeford City Council unanimously voted to seek clarification and guidance from the Maine Attorney General’s office regarding the 250-foot buffer zone.
The council’s resolution stated that the city “will withhold further permitting or authorization related to the proposed UNE pier to ensure full compliance with applicable state law.”
Center says he firmly stands by his previous legal advice on other issues related to UNE’s application.
“I have one duty, and that is to properly advise my client on legal issues at all times. New information has come to light, and I’ll continue to execute my professional responsibilities accordingly,” Center said.
_______________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
The McArthur Library’s board of directors today announced that Nicole Clark has been hired as library director.
Clark, who first joined McArthur Library as Adult Services Supervisor in December 2024, has been serving as Interim Director since earlier this year.
Nicole Clark (Seaver Photo)
“It is with great excitement that we announce the hiring of Nicole Clark to lead McArthur Library as its new director,” said McArthur Library Board Chair Victoria Foley.
“In her time as Interim Director, Nicole has strengthened the library’s community relationships and expanded program offerings, delivering on McArthur’s mission to enrich the lives of its patrons. The board looks forward to working with Nicole to continue to serve the Biddeford community.”
“Libraries are incredibly special places, and McArthur exemplifies what a public library should be,” Clark stated. “Over the past year, I have been absolutely blown away by the dedication the staff and board put in every day to create a space that is warm, creative, and deeply connected to the people it serves. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to continue to support them in this official capacity.”
Before joining the McArthur team, Clark worked at Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library in Sanford, Maine, where she held the positions of Youth Services Librarian, Assistant Director, and Interim Director throughout her tenure. Prior to her library career, she taught English and Theater at Sanford High School.
Clark holds a master’s degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons University and a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education/English from the University of Maine at Farmington.
Originally from Kittery, Clark now lives in Berwick with her partner, Jake, and a lively household of pets—a bunny, two guinea pigs, and two cats. The guinea pigs are frequent visitors at the library, where patrons enjoy reading to them and saying hello during visits.
If you’re looking for a friendly, relaxed place to watch the Patriots game; or if you just want to gather with some of your friends and enjoy a wide array of pub-style food, search no more because Champion’s Sports Bar in Biddeford is the place to be.
Champions was first opened in Saco in 1993. Seven years later, the popular tavern moved to its current location on Thornton Street in Biddeford.
Manager Carly McDermott has worked at Champions for 17 years, and says the tavern has a big base of regular customers who would drive through a building to get to their favorite sports bar.
Manager Carly McDermott says Champions offers something for everyone. (Seaver photo)
“It’s our die-hard regulars who have kept us alive over the last few months,” McDermott said, pointing to the ongoing sewer upgrade project on Elm Street.
“We’ve definitely taken a big hit since that project started,” she said.
McDermott says regular Champions customers are “tight-knit,” and enjoy the tavern’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Despite its name, Champions is not just a sports bar, McDermott explains. The tavern is also one of the area’s most well-known destinations for karaoke singing on Sunday through Thursday nights.
Trivia contests are featured on Sundays and Thursdays and live musical performances take place on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays. McDermott says Champions has the best sound system in the area.
Feeling hungry? Champions is ready to help — offering a menu of affordable appetizers and entrees, including their famous chicken wings and hand-made, half-pound burgers that are made fresh to order.
The wings come in a variety of flavors, but the big news is that they are half-priced on Monday evening. Champions also serves “stone-baked” pizzas, wraps and sandwiches.
Champions offers ample parking and is open from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m., Monday through Saturday; and between noon and 1 a.m. on Sundays during football season.
So, if you want to relax in a fun and friendly environment, Champions is the place for you.
_______________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously Thursday to seek guidance from the Maine Attorney General’s office about a new wrinkle that was recently discovered in the University of New England’s proposal to build a large, research pier on the Saco River.
In order to build their pier, the university needed approvals from multiple agencies, including the Saco River Corridor Commission, a quasi-state agency that has jurisdiction regarding development along the length of the river’s shoreline.
The Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) approved UNE’s project on Sept. 13, 2024. Biddeford’s representative on the SRCC abstained from the vote.
In 2001, the university agreed to the creation of a 250-foot buffer zone as a compromise to build two dormitory buildings that would exceed a 35-foot height limit.
The university’s current proposal requires the construction of an access road for the pier. That road needs to accommodate large trucks, including rescue vehicles. The road would cut through the 250-foot vegetative buffer.
When contacted by the Biddeford Gazette in October, the SRCC’s executive director said the contradiction was an oversight.
“It does appear that there was an omission of relevant information provided to the commissioners before last year’s vote,” said Cherie Dunning, the SRCC’s executive director.
Following the Gazette’s story — Just two weeks before local elections — several city councilors said they want the advice of the state attorney general before the city issues any construction permits for the project.
“We want to make sure that we have done our due diligence” said Council President Liam LaFountain during a previous interview.
LaFountain won his bid Tuesday to become the city’s next mayor. His core campaign message focused on transparency and accountability.
Thursday’s resolution passed without any discussion or comments by council members.
LaFountain and Councilor Marc Lessard tried unsuccessfully to have an agenda item about the university’s proposal discussed at the Oct. 21 council meeting,
Mayor Marty Grohman said he did not realize the item was not on the agenda for that meeting.
A portion of Thursday’s resolve reads as follows:
“Questions have arisen as to whether the SRCC’s Permit #20-491 approval is consistent with, or in conflict with the SRCC Permit #20-209, and whether the existence of a vegetative buffer zone may affect the legal validity of the current pier permit.”
“This situation has created uncertainty for the city, the university, and the public regarding the . . . the city’s obligations under state law.”
Sarah Delage, a university spokesperson, said the school “does not oppose the council’s pursuit of clarification from the AG’s office.”
The full text of the council’s resolution may be viewed or downloaded here:
Just hours after losing the mayor’s seat, Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman said he will issue a formal apology to Mayor-Elect Liam LaFountain during Thursday’s city council meeting.
LaFountain narrowly won the three-way race with 42 percent of the vote (2,623). Grohman received 2,413 votes (38.3 percent).
After the polls closed Tuesday, I offered Gazette readers feedback I received from several voters, speculating that Grohman shot himself in the foot on Sunday by penning a vitriolic op-ed column that leveled attacks against LaFountain.
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman
Grohman lost the election by only 210 votes. It was not a landslide election.
Yes, there are lots of reasons why LaFountain was able to defeat two older and more-seasoned candidates, but Grohman’s op-ed left a sour taste in the mouths of several voters.
Many voters told me yesterday that they are upset about skyrocketing property taxes, a lack of affordable housing and a sense of unchecked development.
Marty is not responsible for many of the things that motivated voter turnout, but he is the incumbent, and most people wanted change. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of voters chose someone other than Marty to be the city’s next leader.
The analysis of yesterday’s election doesn’t matter much, but what does matter is the fact that Marty realized his mistake and says he will issue a “formal apology” tomorrow.
Grohman indicated that he will apologize in a comment he posted on my personal Facebook page.
“Let me use this thread to apologize to Liam,” Grohman wrote. “However you read the race, he ran an excellent, excellent campaign, extremely well run with a great team, and worked very, very hard.
“I will issue a more formal apology at Thursday’s Council meeting,” he added.
Grohman’s willingness to publicly own and acknowledge his mistake is an excellent example of leadership.
We all make mistakes. The first step in correcting those mistakes is to acknowledge and own them.
Marty is a smart, innovative thinker with lots of energy. I am not worried about his future.
The loss of Tuesday’s election will likely sting for a long time, but so will the never-ending list of opportunities for leadership and community service.
Thank you for your service, Marty. You are one of Biddeford’s loudest and most passionate champions. I hope you will continue to be involved in the community you love.
_____________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
Biddeford City Clerk Robin Patterson said Thursday that the number of absentee ballots she received had already exceeded the number of absentee ballots that were cast two years ago, in the 2023 election.
As of Thursday (Oct. 30), more than 2,300 absentee ballots were casts, compared to a total of roughly 2,100 ballots in 2023.
Patterson told the Biddeford Gazette that slightly more than 15,000 people are registered voters in Biddeford. That number is likely to increase because of same-day voter registration.
A steady stream of voters kept ballot clerks busy Tuesday morning.
Several candidates were congregating near the entrance of Tiger Gymnasium, greeting voters on their way to the polls.
According to various reports, there was a long line of voters ready to cast their ballots as soon as the polls opened at 7 a.m.
Candidate Pat Boston was all smiles and said she would likely remain at the polls “all day.”
Although City Councilor Roger Beaupre and political newcomer David Kurtz will each be unopposed in their respective races, both men were greeting voters and chatting with other candidates.
This page will be updated throughout the day.
NOTE: For more information about the candidates or issues on this year’s ballot, click on this link
___________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
Mayor Marty Grohman touts his accomplishments, skewers his opponent
By MARTY GROHMAN,Special to the Gazette
In Biddeford, the mayor doesn’t have a vote. The Council has all the power of passing legislation and budget expenditures. The mayor, according to the City Charter, can only set the tone, act as a catalyst for change and progress and project a vision.
Still, it’s been a good two years. We’ve gotten a lot done. A new attitude of responsiveness and customer service in city hall. New businesses opening, new programs that are housing the homeless at more than one a week. But there’s a lot at stake.
I’m running against a young firebrand, who’s gotten a lot of endorsements, but voters need to know there is a cost to those endorsements.
I suspect many of you have wondered why vocal fiscal council conservatives would be supporting a candidate whose fiscal philosophy is from the far left.
Using tactics not seen in years, my opponent is making backroom deals with city councilors to guarantee them coveted committee assignments, in return for their support.
I have never played that political game and never will. I won’t put you on the Finance committee if you endorse me. I’ll put you on the Finance committee if you’re the best person for the job, and that’s it.
And if that kind of backroom dealmaking isn’t the opposite of “accountability” and “transparency”, I don’t know what is.
With me, what you see is what you get. No games. No secret deals. No demonization of investors and businesses. Just a deep caring for this community and a desire to make things better. While I am not perfect, I try my best and assist everyone that I can.
It’s disingenuous for my opponent, who is the Council President, to now claim that he’s pro-business, when he has relentlessly driven up the costs of business: like making it cost ten thousand bucks to hook up a sink.
Yes, the gloves are coming off. But I think it’s important that you know these things.
— Marty Grohman
He never took a risk and started a business. He has no idea how hard that is, how every chance you take puts your life savings on the line.And he attacks the people who invest in Biddeford, including developers trying to create affordable housing opportunities. He’s earned a statewide reputation as anti-development.
Importantly, the Council President presided over the biggest increases to the municipal services budget that the city has ever seen and increased fees, including for many permits and licenses. Though by Charter I could not vote on the budget, the $733,000 in cuts that I proposed, trying to be responsive to the concerns of taxpayers, instead were blocked by the Council President.
Of the three candidates running for mayor, the Council President is, by far, the most fiscally liberal. In this economy, I don’t think the city can afford his budgetary philosophy and excessive spending.
Yes, the gloves are coming off. But I think it’s important that you know these things. Portland-style policies like rent control will end Biddeford’s comeback. And if some of his endorsements sound like strange political bedfellows, now you know why.
So, if you want to go back to the days of empty storefronts and avoiding downtown, that’s what’s at stake in this election. Remember when you used to tell people you live ‘near Portland’ instead of now proudly saying, ‘I live in Biddeford’?
I don’t want to go back there either. I want to keep Biddeford growing, positive and a place that you’re proud of. A safe place for you to raise a family and build a career. Together we can make that happen. I ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 4.
Editor’s Note: All three mayoral candidates have been given the opportunity to submit their own guest column.
State Sen. Henry Ingwersen (D-Biddeford) and Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick) visited the St. Louis Child Development Center in Biddeford, as part of a statewide Child Care Listening Tour.
“As the Senate chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, I know that access to affordable child care remains a top priority across the district,” Ingwersen said. “This time of year, I have the opportunity to be in the district, listening directly to the folks who do this great work.
Ingwersen (left) listens to staff at the St. Louis Child Development Center in Biddeford.
“They know what the issues are, and I am grateful for the chance to listen to them and zero in on what the actual problems are so that we can formulate a way to solve them. Affordable childcare makes the economy and the community healthier and better. It’s good for the future of our state.”
Daughtry is conducting the listening tour that includes stops at community childcare centers, public pre-K partnerships, Head Start programs and nonprofit organizations across the state.
“Affordable childcare makes the economy and the community healthier and better.”
— State Sen. Henry Ingwersen
The goal is to spotlight innovative solutions, identify gaps in service and elevate the voices of those most impacted by Maine’s child care crisis. Parents, businesses and early educators are invited to complete a survey to share their experiences: http://www.tinyurl.com/supportkidssupportmaine.
The insights gathered will help inform future legislation and policy aimed at expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care for all Maine families.
Ingwersen has two child care-related bills that have been carried over to the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Maine Legislature. LD 1728, “An Act to Establish the Maine Child Care Affordability Program Advisory Board,” seeks to establish a board to advise the Office of Child and Family Services on the Maine Child Care Affordability Program. The bill awaits further action and work in the Health and Human Services Committee.
LD 1859, “An Act to Improve Access to Child Care and Early Childhood Education by Establishing Regional Resource Hubs,” seeks to establish, through contracts with community entities, early childhood learning and development resource hubs. Earlier this year, it received unanimous, bipartisan support in the Maine Senate. It now awaits funding on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Table.
Additionally, Ingwersen plans to introduce “An Act to Secure and Sustain the Maine Child Care Affordability Program,” which was approved for introduction by the Legislative Council on October 23.
As proposed, the bill would allow Maine to protect a proven strategy for stabilizing the childcare workforce, supporting businesses and ensuring children of early childhood programs have access to high-quality care. It will be drafted, referenced and worked on in the Second Regular Session.
_______
Henry Ingwersen is serving his second term, representing District 32 in the Maine Senate, which includes Biddeford and the surrounding communities of Arundel, Dayton, Hollis and Lyman. He may be reached at Henry.Ingwersen@legislature.maine.gov
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
The Biddeford Teachers Association’s decision to endorse two candidates while leaving Norman Belanger off its list may have been meant to project strength — but instead, it sends a mixed and disappointing message.
When an organization meant to represent fairness and unity appears to play politics, the credibility of its endorsement suffers.
Endorsements are supposed to mean something. They should signal confidence in a candidate’s record, character and commitment to the people they serve. By dividing its support and opening the door to statewide PAC money, the union risks turning what should be a local, values-based decision into a political transaction.
That’s not what Biddeford voters expect from their educators’ representatives.
“Endorsements are supposed to mean something.”
— Ben Neveux
Leaving Norman Belanger off the endorsement list doesn’t just look like a strategic move — it looks like a snub. Mr. Belanger has a long record of public service and deep roots in this community. To pretend that doesn’t matter undermines the idea that endorsements are earned through experience and trust.
This decision doesn’t strengthen the union’s influence — it weakens it.
Endorsements should lift up leaders who’ve proven their dedication to Biddeford, not serve as bargaining chips in a broader political game. The union owes its members, and this city, better judgment.
____________
Disclosure: Ben Neveux is a member of the Biddeford Gazette’s volunteer advisory board.
Happy? Not Happy? The Biddeford Gazette welcomes feedback from our readers, especially when it comes to different opinions and perspectives. For more information, about how to send a Letter to the Editor or Guest Column, please contact us.
NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY!
We’re coming into the final stretch, and we’re now less than one week away from Biddeford’s municipal elections on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
This is a busy time of year for journalists and for city clerks around the state. The work-load drops considerably on Wednesday, Nov. 5. That day – the day after the elections are over – is actually a holiday. And according to Maine state law, city clerks in each community are required to take local reporters out to lunch and pick up the tab.
A small collection of campaign signs near the intersection of Rte. 9 and Fortunes Rocks Road
On a more serious note, this is the time when people start asking my predictions about the outcome. In Biddeford, I have developed a reputation as the go-to-guy when it comes to local politics.
I know nothing about elections in Saco, Old Orchard Beach or Kennebunk. My “expertise” is rather limited, but I can chat Biddeford politics all day long.
This is the first election for the Biddeford Gazette, a media project I launched in January.
I have tried to be thorough, fair and accurate in all my coverage. I have written candidate profiles on each of the 28 candidates running for office (mayor, city council and school committee)
We have also done in-depth reporting about the local bond issues and thanks to our media partners at The Maine Monitor you can find a balanced analysis of the two state referendum questions.
I also took the initiative to organize the one and only debate featuring the three mayoral candidates, reaching out to my colleagues at Saco Bay News and the Press Herald to join me as panelists. We solicited our questions from the community and we had a great moderator, Craig Pendleton.
This will be my 15th Biddeford election. I started in 1997, and I have been fascinated by this city’s politics since.
Biddeford takes its elections seriously, and it can be a rough and tumble affair. You need to wear your big-boy pants if you’re going to tread in these waters.
I actually met my wife because she was running for office, and I made a mistake in my coverage of the Old Orchard Beach School Board race. (True story. Oct. 2001)
Laura started winning races after she married me and took my last name. (Also, a true story)
You can’t make predictions on just gut instinct or who has the most campaign signs posted at the Five Points intersection. You have to look at the data. Past performance is always a good indicator of future results.
You also have to consider other factors, including weather and various state referendum questions that will also be on the ballot.
According to extended weather forecasts, next Tuesday will be partly cloudy with a high of 53 degrees. The state referendum questions are rather benign and will not be big factors, unlike 2010 when Maine voters were asked to approve the Oxford Casino (Disclosure: I was a paid consultant on that referendum question)
You have to look at the data, past performance is a good indicator of future results
I decided this year to limit my data field to the last 10 years, beginning with the 2015 election.
Sadly, off-year municipal elections only draw about 30 percent of Biddeford’s registered voters to the polls. People in Biddeford love to complain about politics, but most of them can’t be bothered to vote.
So, let’s take a quick glance at past elections.
In 2015, there were 34 candidates on the ballot (mayor, council, school committee) and four local referendum questions. Alan Casavant was seeking a third, consecutive term and challenged by Daniel Parenteau. Turnout was 30.03 percent of registered voters, Casavant kicked ass, 2,494 – 1,437
In 2017, voter turnout was 30.93 percent with 22 candidates. Casavant faced only two write-in opponents and breezed to victory for a fourth term with 3,497 votes.
Laura (Seaver) was also reelected as an At-Large councilor, slightly trailing Marc Lessard, 2,989 – 2,902. More importantly School Committee candidate Lisa Vadnais garnered 3,041 votes (Pay attention here. There will be a test later).
In 2019, Things got interesting, Casavant was almost defeated for a fifth term by Jason Litalien who came in a close second (2,234 – 2,127). Turnout was 29.91 percent. Both Lessard (3,051) and Vadnais (2,971) topped the ballot.
In 2021, Casavant easily rolled over challenger Victoria Foley, 3,237 – 1,849. Voter turnout was 33.05 percent. Again, Lessard (3,403) and Vadnais (3,297) topped the ballot. Why the slight bump in turnout? Not sure. There was a statewide referendum about CMP’s transmission corridor project.
Finally, in 2023, Casavant decided not to seek a seventh term. City Councilor Marty Grohman defeated former State Senator Susan Deschambault, 2,894 – 2,223. Not a landslide, but certainly comfortable. Again, Vadnais (3,374) and Lessard (3,021) topped the ballots with the most votes per candidate.
My predictions for 2025
Yours truly showing off our work for Casavant in 2013.
This is a three-way race. Marty has the advantage of the incumbency, but he also has the disadvantage of being the incumbent. When voters are not happy, the incumbent hears about it.
In fairness, Marty can’t be held responsible for some things beyond his control, but his leadership has been called into question by two city councilors who work with him closely. His endorsements of council candidates this year, have actually been rejected by some of those candidates.
It’s a three-way race, and that’s Marty’s best hope going forward. Will Councilors Liam LaFountain and Norm Belanger split the “anti-Marty” vote. Sure, but by how much?
It all depends on how many supporters Belanger and LaFountain can get to the polls.
Bottom line? This race is too close to call, but I will make a prediction . . . on Tuesday night, one hour before the polls close. Most of my predictions will be posted on this site at the same time.
Sure, we all know Councilor Roger Beaupre is unopposed in Ward Three and newcomer David Kurtz is unopposed in Ward Five, but what about the other council races? Again, most of them are too close to call . . . except one.
Three candidates are vying for the two At-Large seats on the council: Marc Lessard, Nasreen A. Shekh-Yousef and Lisa Vadnais.
Past performance matters. Lessard and Vadnais will be the winners, and it will be somewhat interesting to see which one gets the most votes.
First, she did not do any diligent reconnaissance work. Although she is a board member at the Heart of Biddeford, she has not served on any municipal boards or committees. She has lived in Biddeford less than four years. Her name recognition before taking out nomination papers was virtually nil, and it hasn’t improved much since.
Secondly, in my opinion, she bit off more than she could chew by seeking an at-large seat right out of the gate. Yes, it can be done. Doris Ortiz proved that, but not if you’re going up against two of the city’s heaviest hitters.
Had Sheikh-Yousef run for Ward Five City Council, I firmly believe she would have had a fair shot at winning, depending on the other candidates.
Although she did not hire me, I will offer her a bit of free advice:
Keep doing what you’re doing. After election day, continue to find other ways to be an engaged citizen. Biddeford could benefit from your perspective. Stay involved and be a part of the city’s continuing conversation.
And to all the candidates, thank you so much for stepping up to serve your community. You are working really hard to get a job that pays less than $100 a month and will take up several hours of your time.
You are willing to share your address and take criticism for almost every thing you do. You will be required to sit through mind-numbing presentations and smile for photo-ops.
I don’t know why you do it, but thank you.
I will be providing all-day coverage on Election Day with regular social media updates.
On Wednesday, I am going to sleep-in and enjoy the lunch that Robin Patterson is buying for me.
P.S.Campaign signs by the side of the road mean nothing. Campaign signs on peoples’ lawns mean everything.
Happy? Not Happy? The Biddeford Gazette welcomes feedback from our readers, especially when it comes to different opinions and perspectives. For more information, about how to send a Letter to the Editor or Guest Column, please contact us.
_____________________
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
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 