A little more than 24 hours before nomination papers are available from the City’s Clerk’s office, and the landscape for this year’s municipal election in Biddeford is already taking shape.
As we first reported on July 11, Incumbent Marty Grohman is hoping for a second term but will face a challenge from Ward Six Councilor Norman Belanger, a former council president who says the city “needs strong leadership.”
Ward One Councilor William Emhiser told the Gazette that he will not seek a fourth term on the council.
Ward One City Councilor William Emhiser (City photo)
Emhiser said he is supporting former Chamber of Commerce executive director Jim LaBelle for the seat. Although the Gazette spoke to LaBelle last week, he has yet to confirm his decision to run.
“Jim is a terrific guy and the right person to take over my seat,” Emhiser said of LaBelle during a brief interview Tuesday. “Jim knows Biddeford, and he brings both passion and integrity to the table.”
LaBelle, a close friend of Mayor Grohman, said he would only run for the seat if Emhiser declined to seek a fourth term.
Jim LaBelle, former executive director, Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce (Courtesy Photo)
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During the last council meeting, Grohman paused the meeting to express a sentiment of appreciation for LaBelle and “his hard work” during a seven-year tenure as the Chamber’s executive director.
Emhiser said he has enjoyed his six years on the council and had high praise for his fellow councilors. “We’re a diverse bunch, but we’ve always been willing to work together and pulling in the same direction.”
At-large Councilor Doris Ortiz told the Gazette last week that she will also not seek another term on the council. Ortiz has served on the council for three terms, beginning in 2019.
At-Large City Councilor Doris Ortiz will not seek reelection (City Photo)
Ward Five Councilor Neva Gross told the Gazette that she also will not seek a return to her seat. Gross was appointed to the council by the mayor after former councilor Julian Schlaver announced that he was resigning in April 2024.
Gross said that she and her partner are looking for real estate that will likely be outside of the Ward Five boundaries.
Abigail Woods, a former city employee, has said on social media that she is interested in the Ward Two council seat now occupied by Scott Whiting. There is no word on whether Whiting will seek reelection for a third term.
Abigail Woods announced on Facebook that she will seek the Ward Two Council seat
Former Ward Six City Councilor Roger Hurtubise told the Gazette that he will be running for the Ward Six seat being vacated by Belanger.
Hurtubise said he is especially concerned about city spending and back-to-back property tax hikes.
“This council needs people who are going to look out for the taxpayers,” Hurtubise said. “I watch all the meetings, and I shake my head at some of the stuff I see,” he said.
Roger Hurtubise is hoping to return to his former Ward Six Council seat
Other potential candidates have said they are watching the political landscape closely and still deciding whether to toss their hats into the ring, including both the mayor’s seat and council seats.
Nomination papers for all open positions will be available, beginning July 24, at the City Clerk’s office.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Hopefully, you are all enjoying the beautiful weather this week! I am on semi-vacation, pinging back and forth between our campsite at Rangeley Lake and Biddeford.
No matter where you find yourself, this is a good week to be living in Maine.
This is also a very good week for those of us who closely follow local politics.
WELCOME TO BIDDEFORD POLITICS
Every two years, Biddeford voters select a mayor, city councilors and school committee members.
If you’re considering running for one of these positions, you first need to take out nomination papers and get the required number of signatures to place your name on the November ballot.
This will be the Biddeford Gazette’s first election season, but I have been watching and reporting on this city’s local elections for nearly 30 years, and I can guarantee you the Gazette will be providing comprehensive coverage and the latest daily updates.
We are already running down information, including all the latest developments: reports of former councilors seeking a return; new faces considering a run, and incumbents who may or may not seek reelection.
There are already two candidates vying to be the city’s next mayor: Incumbent Marty Grohman and Councilor Norman Belanger. I would not be surprised to see some other people toss their hats into the ring. Stay tuned, and we’ll have some fun!
Nomination papers will be available beginning Thursday (July 24) at the City Clerk’s office.
A BIG MILESTONE
When Laura and I decided to formally start the Biddeford Gazette in January, we told ourselves we would not invest too much money into the venture and would wait six months before committing more time or resources.
Last week, the Gazette hit that six-month marker, and I am very proud of what we have accomplished so far.
The Gazette is not about me. The Gazette is about Biddeford, and our mission has not changed. We believe the city of Biddeford and its people deserve a dedicated, community-driven news source, something that has been missing for a few years now.
Over the last six months, the Biddeford Gazette has published 81 news stories, many of which were exclusive and most were reported days and even weeks before other media outlets filed reports.
We have also published 14 feature stories and seven “Community Voices” stories, which are written or submitted to us by other community members. That’s the part we’re really hoping to grow as we move forward.
WHAT’S NEXT?
We have started a new business section, a rudimentary community calendar — and beginning this week we will launch our newest feature, FLUFF PIECES – a project we are doing in partnership with the Animal Welfare Society to feature a different pet available for adoption each week.
We received hundreds of clever and funny suggestions from the community about the naming of this new section. Thank you to all who offered so many very cool suggestions!
I am especially pleased to announce that we are also now in the process of putting together a seven-member community advisory board.
If the Gazette is going to truly serve the community, it must have the pulse of the people who live, work and play here. We need and want constructive feedback from the community. We want to hear a diversity of new ideas and suggestions.
I think that’s more than enough for one newsletter. Get out there and enjoy Maine’s beaches, lakes and public parks. Be safe and have fun!
As always, thank you for reading!
—Randy Seaver, editor
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Residents and visitors to Biddeford now have access to a free online community calendar that is designed to be a one-stop resource regarding local events.
The Yodel Event Calendar represents a collaborative project between four organizations: the Heart of Biddeford; the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce; the Biddeford School Department and the city of Biddeford.
According to a press release sent to the Biddeford Gazette, the new calendar is designed to makes it easier for businesses, residents and visitors to stay informed about local happenings in one convenient location.
The new online calendar will include all types of events, from live music and family-friendly activities to business networking events and city meetings.
“There are so many activities and events to explore in Biddeford, especially as we approach the summer months,” said Delilah Poupore, executive director of the Heart of Biddeford. “But we often hear feedback that people aren’t sure where to go to find information about those events. We are thrilled to provide this user-friendly calendar as a solution to that problem.”
The Yodel Event Calendar allows users to filter events by type, making it easy to find exactly what interests them in a streamlined, organized experience. Yodel’s technology automatically curates most events seen on the calendar, saving local organizations time and effort while also promoting their events for them.
The new event calendar can be accessed on the websites for Heart of Biddeford, the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Biddeford School Department and the city of Biddeford, as well as at https://events.yodel.today/biddeford-me/community.
Additionally, community members can access the calendar on the go by downloading the Yodel app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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Following a rather tense and emotionally-charged discussion, the Biddeford Planning Board voted 3-2 Wednesday to give preliminary site approval for the University of New England’s proposed research pier.
The controversial pier proposal has generated widespread public discourse for more than a year, even before the application was formally submitted in June 2024.
This aerial photograph shows the proposed location of the University of New England’s proposed research pier (UNE Photo)
This aerial photograph shows the proposed location of the University of New England’s proposed research pier (UNE Photo)
Opponents – including area fishermen, private mooring owners and neighbors – have consistently said they wanted the university to consider an alternative location that was proposed by Harbormaster Paul Lariviere nearly two years ago.
City Attorney Harry Center, however, told board members that the so-called “alternative location” was not part of UNE’s application and thus, not subject to review and/or approval by the board.
City Planner David Galbraith began the discussion with an emotional statement, saying he has been vilified by project opponents and that “personal attacks” have called into question both his integrity and professionalism.
“I have been doing this for 30 years, and I have never been subjected to such malicious comments,” Galbraith told the board. “I and others involved in the review of this proposal have gone out of our way to be open, transparent and accommodating.”
Galbraith told the board that he was especially angry about a recent YouTube video that was posted by a anonymous Facebook page known as “UNE Pier Review.”
“Frankly, I am appalled,” Galbraith said. “I assure you that my integrity is worth much more than what any developer could offer me.”
“I have been doing this for 30 years, and I have never been subjected to such malicious comments.”
— City Planner David Galbraith
Planning Board Member Susan Deschambault reminded her fellow board members that the university’s proposal has already been reviewed and approved by several other agencies, including the Saco River Corridor Commission, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S, Army Corps of Engineers.
But alternate board member Kayla Lewis said she could understand why opponents and other members of the public were feeling angry and frustrated.
“UNE did exactly what they were supposed to do in submitting their application to us,” Lewis said. “But we also have to acknowledge and recognize that this review process has had a shaky foundation. Somewhere along the line, things got very blurred.”
Roch Angers was one of the two board members who voted against approval of the project.
“I have a lot of mixed feelings about the process,” Angers said. “But that has nothing to do with our city planner, who I think has done an outstanding job.”
Center told the board that the city’s ordinances are clear and that there is no legal basis for consideration of potential impacts to mooring owners or fishermen in the Shoreland Zoning Ordinance. Center also told the board that any concerns about the harbormaster being removed from the review process were also not relevant for the board’s consideration.
Resident Kyle Noble questioned why the Planning Board was even considering the application after what he described as a “faulty review process.”
“This is a once in a lifetime project,” Noble told the board. “And it’s forever.”
A UNE spokesperson said the university was pleased about the board’s preliminary vote.
“We were also encouraged by the comments made by city staff and planning board members correcting a number of false statements that have been made about the project,” said Sarah Delage, associate vice president of communications for the university. “We look forward to a final vote at the next meeting.”
John Schafer, the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission, has been a leading opponent of the university’s proposal.
“Obviously, I am very disappointed,” Shafer said during a brief interview Thursday. “There was a lot of misinformation thrown at the board and they acted mostly in lock-step. From my perspective, it seems that their decision was already made before the meeting started.”
NOTE: Board members Roch Angers and Matt Dubois voted in opposition to the application; Board Members Larry Patoine and Susan Deschambault voted in favor of the application. Board Chair Alexa Plotkin broke the tie, voting in the affirmative for the applicant (UNE). Kayla Lewis is an alternate, non-voting member of the board.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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According to a recent press release, he Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center (BCHC) is now seeking nominations for the 2025 Biddeford Hall of Fame.
Now in its eighth year, the annual BCHC program recognizes and celebrates citizens of Biddeford or others who have contributed to the history, heritage, and culture of the city or the world at large in a significant way.
Honorees will be inducted at a ceremony tentatively set for Saturday, October 4, at Biddeford Little Theater at Biddeford High School.
“It’s great to be able to share some of the stories, the people and events that make Biddeford what it is today. It’s important to remember where we came from and how far we can go,” said Diane Cyr, BCHC board president. “BCHC is proud to host this event again this year.”
Nominations should be sent in on the official nomination forms available on the BCHC website. Official nomination forms are also available at the McArthur Library.
Deadline for submissions is August 1st, 2025.
Along with this year’s nominations, most nominations that were submitted but not selected in past years, will also be considered. Hall of Fame nominations and future inductees are selected by a vote of the Hall of Fame (HOF) Selection Committee.
The committee, composed of members of BCHC, Biddeford Historical Society, and members of the public, will take into consideration the significance of a nominee’s ethnic background as well as their other contributions. People may nominate themselves.
According to Susan Deschambault, chair of the (HOF) Committee, “The history of Biddeford is rich with stories of people who made contributions to our community.
“We must preserve our past and strive to inspire our future.”
–Susan Deschambault
“The current growth is evidence of the spirit we share with our past. The BCHC Hall of Fame recognizes and honors the benefactors, workers, religious, artists, athletes, musicians, educators, volunteers, philanthropists and business leaders in the community,” she said, “We must preserve our past and strive to inspire our future.”
The inductees are featured prominently in a display at the Biddeford City Hall, which is open to the public for viewing during business hours. They are also featured on banners hung from the streetlights on Main Street in Biddeford for a period of time.
Immediately following the induction ceremony, Hall of Fame members, and other participants will be treated to a special reception at the school. Representatives of BCHC will be present for those interested in learning more about the organization and its other programs serving the community and will answer any questions about getting involved.
To nominate someone for the Biddeford Hall of Fame, please submit no more than two pages of text along with the nomination form and supporting information to: BCHC PO Box 896, Biddeford, ME 04005-0896 or email documents to bchc04005@gmail.com.
Biddeford voters could be asked to approve more than $47 million in municipal bonds to support ongoing sewer separation work and improvements to the city’s parks and recreational facilities.
During their July 15 meeting, city councilors discussed the prospect of an overall spending package intended to address items that would be much more costly if they were to be funded through the regular budget.
According to Acting City Manager Brian Phinney, the city will likely need to spend as much as $100 million over the next decade to continue state-mandated sewer separation projects.
(Photo courtesy of Associated Press)
The city is currently under a consent agreement with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
The city could face significant state and federal penalties if it fails to fund those sewer projects, Phinney told the council. Potential penalties could run as high as $10,000 per day.
Phinney said that in the near term, the city will need approximately $40 million to address the most pressing sections of the overall sewer separation work that needs to be done, as outlined in the consent agreement with the state.
Several councilors said they are concerned that voters might reject the bond because of its hefty price tag.
“We’re in this situation because prior councils – if you go back decades – didn’t make those investments.”
— Liam LaFountain
One option that many councilors seemed to favor was to break the $40 million into four separate bond questions or the ability to stagger the withdrawal of bond funds from their designated accounts.
According to Councilor William Emhiser, the impact of a $40 million bond would be approximately $350 per year for the average homeowner, based on an average $382,000 home.
Mayor Marty Grohman pointed out that current interest rates are running between 5.5 and six percent.
“It’s not fun to spend money on these types of projects,” said Council President Liam LaFountain. “But we really don’t have a choice. We have to do these projects. It’s the responsible thing to do, and we’re in this situation because prior councils – if you go back decades – didn’t make those investments.”
Most councilors agreed that a voter education effort will be critical in order to get the bonds approved at the Nov. 4 municipal election.
In a later discussion, LaFountain raised the idea of another bond package to support long overdue improvements and upgrades to the city’s recreational facilities, including Mayfield Park, Clifford Park, Rotary Park, Shevenell Park and the J. Richard Martin Community Center.
“It may seem like a lot, and it is,” said Councilor Marc Lessard. “But people ask us for these things, whether it’s a new skatepark or a Splash Pad. Now it’s going to be up to the people to decide if they want to spend the money on these items.
Councilor Doris Ortiz said she liked the idea of doing recreation funding through a bond package.
“I think it’s a good idea because there never seems to be enough funding for these needed items when get to the annual budget process,” she said.
The council is expected to vote at its next meeting scheduled for August 5 on whether to send the bond requests to voters in November.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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On Saturday, July 12, New Life Church hosted its 8th annual “For Biddeford” event, a citywide serve day where close to 150 volunteers spread out across Biddeford to complete 10 service projects to bless the community.
For Biddeford is built on a simple but compelling idea: our city should be better because of the Christians worshiping in it. We believe the church should be known for who we are for, not simply what we are against.
We are “for” our city and the families who call it home.
For Biddeford is just one of the many ways we hope to reflect the love of Jesus in practical, tangible ways right here in our city.
This year’s projects included trail maintenance at Clifford and Rotary parks, painting at the J. Richard Martin Community Center and Memorial Park, deep cleaning the Biddeford Food Pantry, free hot dogs to the public, and lunch for first responders (police and fire).
What made this year’s ForBiddeford especially exciting was a sneak peek into The Reach, the church’s upcoming community center set to launch at the end of this summer.
Located at 118 Alfred Street, The Reach will serve as a hub of connection and support for individuals and families in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Although the Biddeford City Council recently approved the creation of more than 150 housing units, several people who watched the June 17 Biddeford City Council meeting said they were “stunned” by the raw emotion and frustration on display by councilors and others who attended the meeting.
The rather tense, marathon meeting lasted more than six hours, ending shortly after midnight on June 18.
The meeting included discussion of a planned affordable housing development near the Pearl Street parking garage; a mixed-use development of three phases planned for the other side of the garage; and a joint development agreement for the ongoing redevelopment of the Marble Block building on Main Street, where a street-level bowling alley is scheduled to open later this summer.
Absence of disclosure
Mayor Marty Grohman — who appeared quite frustrated at several points in the meeting — was able to cast the deciding vote on a number of key issues that favored the developers, including an investment group known as 3 Lincoln LLC, which is planning a large-scale, mixed-use development near the site of the former Maine Energy trash-to-energy incinerator on Pearl Street.
Councilor Roger Beaupre was out of town with an excused absence. During rigorous and often emotional discussion, the remaining eight city councilors found themselves evenly split (4-4) on several key votes regarding development projects.
Council rules allow the mayor to vote only to break a tie.
Mayor Grohman received campaign donations from the same developers who appeared before the council for approval of their projects, according to campaign finance reports
During his votes, Grohman did not provide any disclosure or a brief statement regarding contributions made to his 2023 mayoral campaign by many of the very same developers who appeared that evening before the council.
According to campaign finance reports, Jim Brady one of the developers tied to the 3 Lincoln, LLC project, donated $100 to Grohman’s first bid to become mayor.
Although Grohman received several other donations—many of which were of greater amounts, the second round of required campaign finance reports showed that he also received contributions from others directly tied to the 3 Lincoln, LLC project, including Brian Eng of Portland ($191.70) and Marieke Thormann ($100.)
“It’s a reported donation, and it didn’t influence my vote one way or the other,” Grohman told the Gazette during a follow-up interview. “It has absolutely no relation to anything.”
In fact, Grohman said he was proud of the meeting’s outcomes, saying he is “excited” about the prospect of new development near the city’s core.
“The city doesn’t build anything, we simply till the soil,” the mayor said. “I do support all the efforts to make the pathway clearer and more consistent for future projects.”
Grohman pointed to the condominiums being proposed by 3 Lincoln, LLC as a coup for the city of Biddeford. The starting price for those condominiums with a river view will be $280,000, according to the developers.
“We pulled off a hell of a project,” Grohman said. “Where in southern Maine can you buy a brand-new home with a river view for $280,000?”
“The city doesn’t build anything, we simply till the soil.”
— Mayor Marty Grohman
Grohman told the Gazette that it’s critical for the city to address the need for workforce housing to meet the region’s employment needs, including teachers, nurses and police officers.
Concerns raised, frustrations vented
Several councilors – including those who voted in support of the developers’ positions – also complained about a council process that is often chaotic, pressure-driven and last minute.
“I don’t want to ever have a meeting like this again,”
–– Councilor Dylan Doughty
Councilor Dylan Doughty – a former Planning Board member – expressed frustration about an ongoing pattern of last-minute maneuvering presented to the council as crucial, time-sensitive matters that need immediate approval.
“We don’t really have a strategy to develop affordable housing,” Doughty said. “What we’re doing is piecemeal, and we are effectively knee-capping other potential developers.”
Doughty ultimately supported many of the proposals that came before the council during the meeting, but said his patience was at an end.
“I don’t want to ever have a meeting like this again,” Doughty said from the council dais. “Many times, we are getting information only hours before the meeting. I find this approach and the delay of information to be demeaning, patronizing and incredibly insulting.”
At-large councilor Doris Ortiz, however, said she empathized with developers such as Westbrook Development Corp., a non-profit organization that wants to build as many as 80 units of affordable housing for those over the age of 55.
“This makes me ridiculously uncomfortable, This is not a good look for the city.”
— City Council President Liam LaFountain
She also praised Fathom Development, the company behind the 3 Lincoln, LLC project.
“They (Fathom) have been very gracious and accommodating,” Ortiz said, pointing to the fact that Fathom was willing to make changes to the plan and working closely, in-tandem, with Westbrook Development on the construction of affordable housing units.
“We have an incredible opportunity tonight,” Ortiz said. “And they (Fathom) are taking all the hits.”
Council President Liam LaFountain offered a sometimes scathing and emotional critique of several items that came before the council, most notably the plans for a mixed-use commercial development that would also include market-rate condominiums that would sell for an average of $450,000.
Taxpayers are still paying off a $6.5 million bond that was used to purchase the former MERC site. The city will continue making $350,000 annual payments for the property, despite selling the parcel to developers for one dollar.
Taxpayers are still paying off a $6.5 million bond that was used to purchase the former MERC site. The city will continue making $350,000 annual payments for the property, despite selling the parcel to developers for one dollar.
“I have always supported every credit-enhancement agreement for affordable housing because it is a good goal,” LaFountain said. “But we can’t be expected to do deals when they just don’t make sense.”
LaFountain pointed out that the city spent $6.5 million for the former MERC site in 2012. Today, city taxpayers are shelling out roughly $330,000 in annual debt service for that property, a payment arrangement that is scheduled to continue until 2033.
The city has now offered to sell that parcel of land to Westbrook Development for $1. LaFountain raised concerns about what could happen if the developers chose to walk away from the project. “Once we give up the land, it’s gone,” he said.
Later in the meeting, while seeking some detailed information from City Planner David Galbraith about a different proposal, LaFountain expressed shock and disbelief that Galbraith turned to the developers for the information.
“This makes me ridiculously uncomfortable,” LaFountain said. “This is not a good look for the city.”
Local real estate developer Mike Eon gave the council a visual reminder of why they need to be careful and deliberate in their review of complex projects.
Eon held up a large photo of the former MERC waste incinerator that occupied the lower end of Lincoln and Pearl streets for nearly three decades.
“This is the kind of stuff that happens when things get rushed through,” Eon said. “All kinds of promises were made. This time, let’s make sure we really do our homework.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Mike Clukey was a regular customer at George’s Sandwich Shop on Franklin Street in Biddeford for several years.
In fact, he liked the sandwiches so much that he jumped at the opportunity to purchase the iconic Biddeford landmark a little more than three years ago.
“We have a fantastic crew, and they are the ones responsible for our success,” Clukey said.
When asked if an ongoing sewer upgrade project is hurting his business, Clukey, 56, shrugged his shoulders.
“It’s hard to tell,” he says. “It’s weird. There are a lot of things at play this year, from inflation to a lot of rainy weekends. Things have been up and down, but yes . . . people are talking about the traffic.”
First made in 1948 by the Ladakakos family, George’s Italian-style sandwiches have since achieved near legendary status in Biddeford and surrounding communities.
“When you think of Biddeford, there are really three businesses that stand out,” Clukey said. “Pizza By Alex, Reilly’s Bakery and George’s”
Clukey said he and his team are absolutely committed to carrying on the traditions that have made George’s a popular take-out destination for more than 70 years.
“John and Joan [Ladakakos] worked closely with us, training and teaching us about every little detail that makes a sandwich from George’s extra special,” he said..
Clukey said he uses the same vendors for all of his products, and still purchases his fresh bread from Botto’s Bakery in Portland.
“We strive every day to deliver the same quality sandwich that people have come to expect from George’s,” Clukey said.
But Clukey said there is much more to George’s than just delicious sandwiches. “We really work to be an active part of the community,” he said, pointing out how his businesses has work to raise funds for various non-profit organizations.
With seven employees, Clukey says it’s team effort to make it all work and said DoorDash delivery options have become the store’s “bread and butter.”
Still located in their original Franklin Street location, George’s is open Sundays, from 10am to 2pm; Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Following a two-year period of tumultuous staffing turnovers at Biddeford City Hall, another department head has announced his resignation.
The Biddeford Gazette was able to confirm today that George Gervais– the city’s director of economic and community development — has resigned his position, a little less than 18 months after he was hired by the city.
Gervais was unavailable for comment as of press time. Acting city manager Brian Phinney said Gervais’ last day will be July 31. Phinney said he was not sure what prompted Gervais to offer his resignation.
George Gervais (LinkedIn)
Gervais previously worked at the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development beginning in 2008. Three years later, he was appointed by then Governor Paul LePage to become the department’s commissioner, a role he served until 2018.
Gervais was hired by the city of Biddeford on Jan. 16, 2024.
Former city manager James Bennett lauded Gervais as “the best possible candidate” to replace former director Greg Mitchell last year. “I don’t think we could have done much better,” Bennett wrote in a press release announcing the hiring of Gervais.
After being hired in 2024, Gervais described Biddeford as a “dynamic community that is making significant progress.”
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman was unavailable for comment at press time.
Over the last three years, Biddeford has experienced a significant amount of turnover in several key departments, including the finance and planning departments.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
CORRECTION: A previous version of this story contained a factual error, stating that Mr. Gervais was the commissioner of the Maine Department of Community and Economic Development from 2008- 2018. Although Gervais began working for the agency in 2008, he was not appointed as commissioner until 2011. We apologize for the error.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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We are now officially in the middle of summer but the next municipal election in Biddeford will be here before you know it.
In fact, nomination papers for this year’s election will be available in about 60 days.
If you live in Biddeford and ever thought about ways that you could make a difference in your community, you may want to consider running for public office.
The city elects a new mayor, city councilors and school committee members every two years. In a little more than 60 days, the City Clerk’s office will have nomination papers available for any resident who would like to be on the November ballot this year.
You only need 25 signatures from registered voters to be on the council or school committee; and 125 signatures to be on the ballot for mayor. (50 signatures if you want to be an at-large councilor)
But before you take out your nomination papers, consider this:
1.) The pay is terrible (About $85 per month after taxes for council; $10,000 per year as mayor. It works out to roughly $3.25 per hour)
2.) The hours are long, and the meetings can be tedious. If you’re a city councilor, you are also expected to serve on one or two other sub-committees with additional meetings. If you are mayor, you also have to chair school committee meetings and fulfill numerous other duties.
3.) Behind the scenes, you have to plow through reams of mind-numbing documents in each council packet. You are expected to do this on your own time. You can look forward to spending hours and hours talking about the benefits and pitfalls of inclusionary zoning, wetland protection and hearing concerns about the budget.
4.) If you get elected, you can expect to be criticized by the public for how you vote or about things happening in the city beyond your control.
My wife, Laura, served two terms on the school committee and then was twice elected to serve as an at-large member of the city council. Although she thoroughly enjoyed the experience, she will tell you that being an elected official is time consuming and often challenging. She has zero interest in returning to office. It is a big commitment.
If this sounds good to you, step up and raise your hand. The city needs diverse representation and people with ideas, energy and a willingness to work hard.
If you don’t want to make the sacrifice of public service, please remember points 1-4 before you criticize those who have stepped up to serve.
You have 60 days or so to think it over. I t would be nice to see a lot of new names on the ballot.
Meanwhile, enjoy your summer!
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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According to documents filed in York County Superior Court, the city of Biddeford is asking the Court to dismiss a complaint filed earlier this year by former city manager James Bennett.
In his lawsuit against the city, Bennett claims that he is entitled to more than $200,000 in wages and other compensation, as outlined in his employment contract with the city.
The city, however, is asking the Court to reject Bennett’s claim. The city said Bennett’s claim is not valid and further alleges that Bennett committed a breach of contract and a failure to comply with the contractual terms of his employment agreement.
In his brief to the Court, City Solicitor Harry B. Center argues that Bennett should not receive any further benefits, citing legal doctrine of “estoppel, laches, waiver and unclean hands,” which means the city is alleging that Bennett engaged in “misconduct or wrongdoing” related to his employment contract.
Bennett (center) toots his own horn explaining his resignation
Mayor Marty Grohman told the Biddeford Gazette Wednesday that he could not offer specifics about Bennett’s lawsuit or about why he was ousted from office in February, roughly two months prior to his announced resignation date of April 18.
“The city is committed to transparency but must also follow the applicable law in regard to employment and legal matters,” Grohman said. “We appreciate the public’s interest and will share more when we are able.”
The court documents obtained by the Gazette do not offer any specifics about why Bennett was removed from office or any details about his alleged “misconduct.”
Grohman said the city complied with all of its contractual obligations to the former city manager through the last date of his employment, April 18, 2025.
In his initial complaint to the Court filed on May 9, Bennett says he fulfilled all his contractual obligations to the city, thus arguing that he is entitled to several benefits that are spelled out in his employment contract.
Bennett claims that he is entitled to one full year of base compensation ($170,000). He also says that he is entitled to seven weeks of vacation pay ($22,848); 12 months-worth of reimbursements for his cell phone and internet ($4,200) and 12 months of mileage reimbursements ($8, 224).
As part of his employment contract, Bennett stipulates that the city is prohibited from publicly saying “anything negative” about him or his performance.
According to an addendum to Bennett’s employment contract:
“The city will limit references to James A. Bennett’s desire to retire, and the extended notice was in no way related to performance issues or any other issues.”
“Any public comments by the city and its agents and representatives will be limited to the positive contributions made by James A. Bennett and to the leadership he has provided to the city during his tenure.”
See below to view/download PDF of Bennett’s amended employment contract:
In fact, Bennett has filed a civil complaint against the city in York County Superior Court.
During a public review of the city’s long overdue FY ’23 audit, accountants from Runyon, Kersteen and Ouellette (RKO) told the mayor and city council last week that they found “several serious deficiencies” in how the city handled its finances over the past two years.
Sarah Dodge – an accountant at RKO – told the council that her firm found an absence of cash reconciliations and what appeared to be mismanagement of federal grant money that was awarded to the city.
Former Biddeford City Manager James Bennett (File Photo)
Although Dodge stressed that RKO found no evidence of fraudulent activity at City Hall, new questions are now being raised about Bennett’s performance and responsibilities.
“How can a city, run by a professional city manager, lack basic financial controls for critical financial management including an absence of cash reconciliation?” asked Biddeford resident Kathy Russell.
Russell was a city council candidate in 2017, and she says the auditor’s report should be a “wake-up call” for Mayor Marty Grohman and members of the city council.
“The taxpayers were providing Mr. Bennett with a very nice salary and benefits,” Russell said. “We expected that he would be responsible and transparent.”
After learning of the auditor’s report, Russell and many other residents are now asking why Bennett was abruptly removed from office nearly two months before his planned resignation date.
“We expected that he (Bennett) would be responsible and transparent.”
— Kathy Russell
Bennett – hired by the city in 2015 – was facing increasing public pressure on a number of fronts, most notably about rapid employee turnover, including seven finance directors in a five-year-period at City Hall.
Bennett publicly announced his resignation in October last year. He said that he would “retire” on April 18. Bennett, however, was ousted from City Hall on February 20.
“I sure hope that we are not still paying Bennett for the remainder of his contract,” said Mark Poirier, another Biddeford resident.
Poirier said he was especially concerned about the city’s deficient cash reconciliation processes.
“I want to know how long this has been going on,” Poirier said. “Taxpayers have a right to know what’s really happening at City Hall.”
Mayor Marty Grohman said he understands the inquiries about Bennett, but said he is legally prohibited from answering specific questions about the city manager because of state and federal laws regarding personnel issues.
“The city is committed to transparency but must also follow the applicable law in regard to employment and legal matters,” Grohman said. “We appreciate the public’s interest, and we’ll share more as we are able.”
Grohman, however, did confirm the Gazette’s inquiry about whether Bennett has filed a lawsuit against the city.
“This matter is now before the court, and we are confident in the city’s position,” Grohman said. “There are relevant filings in York County Superior Court that are part of the public record.” (Docket No. YORSC-CV-2025-98).
“The city has submitted both an answer and a counterclaim for declaratory judgment in response,” Grohman said.
Although Bennett was dismissed from his City Hall office in February, Grohman said the city continued paying Bennett’s salary until April 18, the date of his effective resignation.
Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, has been serving as acting city manager since Feb. 20. Truc Dever will take over as the city’s full-time manager on Aug. 11.
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Matt Lewis sees nothing but potential in the Biddeford-Saco area.
Lewis, 58, was hired in May as the new executive director of the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Lewis moved to Maine from the San Francisco area a little more than two years ago. California, he said, is still struggling from the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I had visited Maine many times as a leisure traveler,” he said. “I love it here, so when I saw a job opportunity pop up, I didn’t hesitate.”
That job opportunity was serving as the executive director of Hospitality Maine, a non-profit organization that represents the interests of the hospitality industry, including lodging establishments and restaurants.
Lewis bought a home in Saco and is now working to immerse himself in the community. “People are very friendly here,” he said. “It feels very welcoming.”
When asked about his priorities for the Chamber, Lewis said that continually increasing the visibility of the Chamber is very important.
“I’m always going to be looking for opportunities to partner with others.”
— Matt Lewis
“We want to continue building trust,” he said. “Obviously, we are always looking for ways to increase our membership, but I think it’s equally important to support our existing members.”
The Chamber is not the only organization with a mission to boost local businesses. The Heart of Biddeford and Saco Main Street have overlapping goals with the Chamber. Lewis describes that as a wonderful opportunity for a team approach and collaboration.
“I’m always going to be looking for opportunities to partner with others,” Lewis said.
Both the Heart of Biddeford and Saco Main Street have a downtown focus. The Chamber, Lewis says, has a much wider area to cover, including the cities’ industrial and business parks.
“We have members in Waterboro, Kennebunk and Old Orchard Beach,” Lewis said.
Lewis describes life in southern Maine as “interesting.”
“I get phone calls here that I never expected,” he said. “People here really do value the Chambers. I recently got a call from someone asking me for information about the pet cemetery in Saco.”
Lewis says he has a sales and marketing background. In just the last few weeks he has already “signed up several new members.”
Lewis said he could not be happier with his new job.
“We have a great board of directors,” he said. “I also feel supported by local leaders including the mayors of Biddeford and Saco. We all share the same goals.”
Lewis said he sometimes wonders if residents realize just how lucky they are to live in the Biddeford-Saco area.
“This community has so many positive things going for it,” he said, pointing to beaches, easy access to I-95, thriving business parks and a downtown that is being revitalized and transformed.
“There is so much potential here,” Lewis said. “I’m not suggesting that we don’t have challenges, but we have a solid foundation to build on here.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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According to a press release, both the Maine House of Representatives and Senate voted unanimously last week to approve a housing bill that was introduced by Speaker Ryan Fecteau (D-Biddeford).
The bill, LD 1829, is intended to make it easier to build new housing units by amending zoning requirements and providing clarity for municipalities, developers and others.
“Too often, the creation of new housing units is hampered by onerous and overly complex rules that make it too expensive, or too frustrating, for homeowners to build,” Fecteau said. “This law will cut red tape, remove government roadblocks, and empower everyday Maine people to build housing for their own families and neighbors.”
According to Fecteau, LD 1829 will reduce minimum lot sizes to no more than 5,000 square feet in designated growth areas and remove owner occupancy requirements for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to unlock financing for construction.
Fecteau said LD 1829 will “streamline municipal review for smaller housing developments; create a one-story height bonus for qualified affordable housing and require training for municipal planning board members within 180 days of their appointment.
“This is a significant step toward addressing Maine’s housing shortage.”
__ Sen. Rick Bennett (R-Oxford)
“Building any type of housing in Maine is extremely difficult and expensive. These costs and our home shortage are not isolated to one town or region. It is structural, systemic, and statewide,” said Laura Mitchell, executive director of the Maine Affordable Housing Coalition.
“LD 1829 sets us on a better path,” Mitchell added. “Maine communities will always be able to shape their futures, but with the understanding that solving our shared housing challenge requires consistency and commitment at all levels of government.”
“This a significant step toward addressing Maine’s housing shortage,” said State Sen. Rick Bennett (R-Oxford).
Bennett said the legislation “respects local communities and strengthens individual property rights.”
“This law cuts through outdated and overly restrictive regulations that have limited the ability of Mainers to make reasonable use of their own land,” Bennett added.
“I’m proud to have supported this bipartisan legislation that will help more Maine people secure housing they can afford.”
The bill will now go to Gov. Janet Mills for her signature and final approval.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Maine still holds the title for the whitest state in the country, but as historian and retired journalist Bob Greene is quick to point out, Black history has deep roots in Maine. Greene was welcomed as the keynote speaker at Biddeford’s Juneteenth Celebration, hosted by the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee in partnership with Heart of Biddeford and the Maine Black Chamber of Commerce.
Coco Corral, owner of Loving Anvil, has lived in Biddeford for 20 years. She and her husband Gil, who previously owned a gallery on Washington Street and a small event space on Main Street, were among the early wave of artisans integral to setting the Biddeford renaissance in motion. She attended Thursday’s event as one of the dozen vendors, selling her jewelry and other artwork.
Attendees enjoyed performances and a wide array of food at Biddeford’s first Juneteenth Celebration (Photo: Flo Leighton)
“This absolutely felt like a return to community,” said Coco Coral. “I truly didn’t know what to expect and was so very joyously surprised. It’s so good to see this event in particular with such good energy and so well attended. Seriously, hats off to the Heart of Biddeford and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. What a beautiful day by the river, dancing, snacking, and trading stories.”
“Juneteenth is a time for reflection and celebration. It is not just part of Black history, it’s American history.
— Flo Leighton
Established as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth recognizes the day in 1865 — two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed — that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of the Civil War and that the last enslaved people were now free. It serves as a day to recall this history, as well as a celebration of Black community and continued fight for human rights and equity in our nation.
“Juneteenth is a time for reflection and celebration,” said DEI Committee Chair Florence Leighton. “It is not just part of Black history, it’s American history. To see people of all races and ages gather together, including elected officials at the city and state level, and folks that traveled from different parts of the state and even out of state, in Biddeford is a testament to the city’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
More than 100 people gathered for Biddeford’s Juneteenth celebration held at The Foundry, including Mayor Martin Grohman, City Councilors Liam LaFountain and Scott Whiting, Representative Marc Malon (D), and members of the city’s DEI Committee. Entertainment was provided by DJ B.Aull and catering from Soul Food Paradise and Biddo Banh. The event also highlighted local Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) vendors like Coco Corral, whose tables featured an array of goods from jewelry to original art, hair care products, and Jamaican jerk marinades.
Photo by Delilah Poupore
“Against a backdrop of anti-DEI sentiment at a national level, the success of today’s Juneteenth event shows us what is possible when we work together, not against each other,” said Councilor Whiting, who also serves on the DEI Committee. “Biddeford has historically been one of the most diverse cities in Maine, including the Black community, and everyone in attendance today demonstrates that we will continue to be proud of that.”
Emma Bouthillette is a Biddeford native and author of A Brief History of Biddeford. She is a marketer, yoga instructor, and corgi mom.
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Today (Thursday, June 19) is the first day of the 42nd annual La Kermesse Festival.
But the volunteers who make the annual festival possible have been working hard behind the scenes for the last 11 months in order to make this year’s celebration even more festive.
Although the festival celebrates the region’s Franco-American culture and heritage, there is lots to do, eat and see underneath the big tents and throughout the carnival fairway on St. Louis Field — no matter your own ancestry.
Volunteers ride a float during a previous La Kermesse parade (La Kermesse photo)
“It’s really an opportunity for the whole community to gather and celebrate all the things that make this such a great place to live,” said Abigail Worthing, the festival’s marketing director.
Worthing says that this year’s festival will include all the favorite things that people in the community look forward to each year, including a parade, live musical performances and a spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night.
Because of an ongoing sewer upgrade project in the city’s downtown area, this year’s La Kermesse Parade on Friday will proceed along a different route, beginning at Biddeford Middle School and continuing to West Street and onto the field entrance on Prospect Street.
The parade begins at 6 p.m.
This year, local brewery Banded Brewing will be operating out of the Main Tent, offering bar and food services for guests over the age of 21 to enjoy.
But don’t be fooled. There will also be tons of activities for families with children.
In fact, Worthing recalls growing up with La Kermesse dominating some of her favorite childhood memories.
“It was always a big deal for my family,” she smiled while reminiscing about not wanting to leave the field when she was a little girl.
“I know how much this festival meant to me and my family over the years,” Worthing said. “Now, I am so honored to be part of all the hard work that goes into making this festival happen, continuing a cherished tradition.”
This year’s festival will include a car show, plenty of live entertainment and the traditional fairway that offers carnival rides and everything from sausage sandwiches to fried dough.
Featured entertainment includes local band The O Harrows on Thursday evening, and the Studio Two Beatles Tribute on Friday evening from 8:30-11:00 p.m.
On Saturday night, The Inflatables will perform with a fireworks intermission.
In traditional La Kermesse fashion, Alex Silver, Roger Hurtubise and Julia Pouliot will be treating guests to traditional French music throughout the weekend, according to event organizers.
A traditional fireworks show will once again take center stage on Saturday night during this La Kermesse festival (Contributed photo: La Kermesse)
Worthing says that area dance schools will also offer performances, including an Irish dance review.
“It’s a lot of work, and it takes a lot of time, but it’s so worth it when you see it come together,” she said. “When you see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”
“I really want this to be a legacy, not just an event,” Worthing added.
Organizers are expecting good weather and look forward to crowds of 1,000 or more people. Attendance, Worthing said, has been resurging over the past decade.
Following more than an hour of impassioned public testimony, the Biddeford Planning Board voted unanimously Wednesday to table further review of UNE’s controversial pier proposal until all board members can participate in a site walk.
Although the Planning Board conducted a site walk at the university on June 9, board member Roch Angers was unable to attend. Alternate, non-voting board members Kayla Lewis and Stephen Beaudette were also not able to attend the prior site walk.
A large crowd turned out Wednesday to hear about and comment upon UNE’s controversial pier proposal during a Planning Board Meeting(Seaver photo)
Unlike the planning board’s previous meeting in May – in which all public comment came from those concerned with the pier’s planned location — a half dozen people – mostly UNE students, staff, faculty and board trustees – spoke in favor of the proposal.
But residents concerned about the impacts of the project still outnumbered supporters by more than a 2-1 margin.
“It seems that this review process has somehow morphed into a PR event for the university,” quipped Chris Stone, a Hills Beach resident.
City Attorney Harry Center has been providing the board with legal advice and updates regarding relevant criteria for their ongoing consideration of the proposal.
Center has previously told the board that issues such as water depth and river current are not relevant factors for the board’s consideration.
Despite questions from some community members about why the city’s former city manager sidelined the city’s harbormaster – Paul Lariviere – from review of the project last year, Center still defends that decision, saying the harbormaster was clearly biased against the university.
Center also maintains that the city has been in full compliance within its own ordinances even though the person hired to review UNE’s application is not a trained or certified harbor master.
In fact, in a June 11 memo to the planning board, Center points out that it was John Schaeffer – the former chair of the city’s harbor commission – who suggested the ordinance should be updated almost two years ago.
Schaeffer has been an outspoken critic of UNE’s proposal and resigned his seat from the harbor commission last year, citing concerns about transparency and government process.
Although the person who the city hired to ‘sign-off’ on UNE’s application is not a trained harbormaster, Center says that fact is irrelevant, especially since the city updated the ordinance at Schaeffer’s request in 2023.
Impassioned testimony from both sides
Although not relevant to the planning board’s criteria for approval, several people told the Planning Board that the university provides the city with numerous benefits and the proposed pier will only augment those benefits.
Tim Black, a retired federal judge who became a full time Biddeford Pool resident three years ago, told the board that they should listen to and follow [Center’s] advice.
“We have learned that power dictates the outcome. Powerful, well-connected interests are always able to get their way.”
— Richard Rhames
“UNE is one of the top-10 institutions in the United States for marine research,” Black said. “They also provide a substantial economic impact and benefit to the city of Biddeford. The moment is upon us.”
Nearly all those who raised concerns about the proposal shared a common message with the planning board.
“A lot of this has been examples in misdirection and obfuscation,” said Mike Gerstner of Biddeford. “We all agree that UNE should have a pier, our only issue is where that pier should be located.”
Skip Irving said he is a member of the university’s board of trustees. “I cannot simply stand by and listen to the rhetoric,” he said. “Our mission is to train students for important work that is critical to our future.”
UNE Assistant Professor Will Kochtitzky told the planning board that UNE offers several tangible benefits to the city and that their pier proposal should be approved. (Seaver photo)
Former city councilor Richard Rhames told the board that they should consider how much work volunteers put into serving on subordinate boards and committees.
“These volunteers, these people with no real power, are often ignored or worse,” Rhames said. “We have learned that power dictates the outcome. Powerful, well-connected interests are always able to get their way.”
Another resident said the pier controversy reminded him of a prior Planning Board’s decision to locate the MERC trash incinerator in downtown Biddeford nearly 40 years ago.
UNE Marine Sciences professor Will Kochtitzky told the board that “our world is constantly changing, and we owe it to our students to be prepared for the future by giving them the ability to conduct year-round critical research regarding marine ecosystems.”
Kochtitzky – who moved to Biddeford three years ago — also told the board that he is frustrated and angry about some of the “rhetoric” he has heard and read about from those who want to see the pier built in a different location, approximately 200 feet downriver.
“We cannot afford to let a toxic political climate trickle down from Washington and impact Biddeford,” he added.
Carol Alexander told the board: “The pier is not the problem. Its proposed location is the problem. This will affect and impact future generations.”
Former UNE student Mike Ramunno told the board that he will be adversely impacted if UNE is allowed to build its pier in their preferred location (Seaver photo)
Mike Ramunno, a former UNE student and nearby mooring owner, said he doesn’t know anyone opposed to the idea of UNE building a new pier. He reiterated a common theme: “It’s about the location,” he said. “UNE simply cares about the aesthetic appeal of this.”
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Truc Dever — the woman hired to become Biddeford’s next city manager – told the Biddeford Gazette that she and her husband are excited about moving to Maine and have long referred to the state as their “forever home.”
The Biddeford City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Dever with a two -year contract that can be renewed.
During an exclusive interview with the Gazette, Dever said she is excited about coming to Biddeford, the city’s potential and the opportunity to be part of such a “warm and welcoming” community.
“I’m excited to lead this team of exceptional city employees and work alongside Biddeford’s council beginning this August,” Dever said. “From day one, my priority will be to engage and understand the needs of this community and immerse myself in Biddeford’s culture and history. “
Dever said that both she and her husband “love it here” and have been referring to Maine as their “forever home” for a long time. The couple owns a seasonal home here.
“When this position opened up, I jumped at the opportunity to come to southern Maine full-time,” Dever said. “There’s incredible opportunity in Biddeford— it’s well-situated between Portland and Boston, has sandy beaches and riverfront, has a rich and vibrant history, a diverse population, and untapped business development opportunities.”
Dever said those community assets “create the perfect formula to build on the momentum already underway in the city” to foster balanced growth and innovation in Biddeford.
From day one, my priority will be to engage and understand the needs of this community and immerse myself in Biddeford’s culture and history. “
Dever said she grew up in a small suburb in southern California surrounded by agriculture, the dairy industry and state preserved open spaces.
“While my resume may reflect a career in highly urbanized areas, I understand the importance of sustainable growth, preservation of history, and maintaining a deep sense of identity,” Dever said. “Biddeford seems to embody these values, and it’s what drew me to the opportunity to serve as city manager.”
But it was more than just a good job and a chance to live in Maine that made Dever want to work in Biddeford.
“What also caught my attention when I interviewed in May was how genuine and welcoming the staff and council were,” Dever said. “I sat in the hallway at City Hall waiting for one of my interviews and was approached by no fewer than five staff asking if they could assist me with anything.”
Dever said that culture and community truly matter to her, especially when she was determining where she wanted to devote her efforts and energy.
“Those seemingly small gestures were a great indicator of staff who care about each other and every member of their community,” she said.
When asked about the challenges facing Biddeford, Dever said every new job offers its own challenges.
“What I know of Biddeford’s challenges is what I’ve read,” she said. “My plan is to quickly come up to speed on the work that is underway and the issues facing the city so that staff, the city council, and community members can tackle them together.”
As previously reported by the Gazette, Dever’s two-year contract calls for her to be paid $195,000 during the first year of her employment and $200,000 for the second year of her contract.
Dever will take over the helm at City Hall on August 11.
Dever’s full contract with the city of Biddeford can be viewed or downloaded below.
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 