There has been almost endless talk on local social media sites about recent traffic congestion in Biddeford and Saco.
The seven-month sewer upgrade project began in April and is expected to be completed in November. In the meantime, traffic sometimes becomes snarled near the cities’ downtown core.
That traffic and constant negative chatter on social media is taking a significant toll on several small, downtown businesses.
Linda Dobnikar and Anastasia Rizas, bartenders at Mulligan’s. say they have taken a “big hit” in tipped wages while their revenues have dropped by more than 40 percent during the last two months (Seaver Photo)
From restaurants to boutique stores, many merchants say they are seeing a drop of roughly 40 percent in revenues, compared to this same time last year.
“It’s really scary, especially for those of us who rely on tipped incomes,” said Linda Dobnikar, the night bartender at Mulligan’s on Lincoln Street.
Travis Kern, co-owner of Nibblesford– a gourmet cheese shop on Washington Street in Biddeford — says he’s trying to keep an open mind about the situation and is open to hearing suggestions from other merchants about creative ways to bring more customers downtown.
“It’s really frustrating,” Dobnikar said. “We had one regular customer from Old Orchard Beach who told us she won’t be coming back to Biddeford until this is all over.”
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman says he is also feeling frustrated about the issue.
Grohman has begun weekly community meetings in his office at City Hall in order to “brainstorm” with merchants, residents and others to find creative solutions that might ease the burden.
This new initiative is aimed at helping support local businesses by raising public awareness about the many different businesses and services that are located in downtown Biddeford and Saco.
Each week, a new business profile will be added. We will be working with our social media partners to share these stories with as many people as possible.
If you are a local merchant or would like to nominate a business to be profiled, please contact us.
LaFayette was a French military officer and politician who volunteered his services to join the Continental Army, which was then being led by Gen. George Washington.
Gen. Marquis de LaFayette became an American hero when he was just 17 years oldand a volunteer in the Continental Army (Wikipedia image)
LaFayette was a teenager at the time, according to Rose Dionne, an archivist at the McArthur Library in Biddeford.
“Actually, there is a lot of evidence that showed that he and George Washington had a close relationship,” said Dionne. “We do know that LaFayette named his first son George, in honor of Washington.”
According to Dionne, LaFayette returned to the United States in 1825, almost 50 years after the end of the Revolutionary War.
Diane Cyr is the president of the Biddeford Cultural & Heritage Center, and she is quite excited about some of the plans to commemorate the anniversary of LaFayette’s return to the United States.
Cyr said that she and others will have a booth set up during this year’s La Kermesse Festival at St. Louis Field.
Diane Cyr and Rose Dionne are planning a celebration to honor the legacy of Gen. Marquis de LaFayette’s return to Biddeford in 1825
But some other things are also planned to celebrate LaFayette and his commitment to the United States.
The library, the heritage center and the historical society are collaborating to host a historical event in front of the Main Street library on June 24. Some folks will be dressed in historical costumes, there will also be a historical presentation and snacks from that time period offered, including switchel (a vinegar-based beverage) and other foods sweetened with caraway spices.
When visiting Biddeford in 1825, LaFayette slept at Spring’s Tavern, which was owned by his friend Capt. Seth Spring. Today, that site is home of the Deering Lumber Company. Spring Island is now known as Saco Island.
LaFayette’s previous tour included all of the states that were part of the Union at that time. Today, the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is helping with the celebration.
Dionne pointed out that LaFayette was seriously injured during the Battle of Brandywine, which was fought on Sept. 11, 1777, giving the British control of Philadelphia.
“He really hated the British,” Cyr laughed. “And he became a legend throughout America. People were so excited about his return to the states.”
Lafayette was also a key figure in the French Revolution of 1789 and he continues to be celebrated as a hero in France.
The June 24 ceremony will include a performance by the Alumni Band. The festivities are scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on the grounds of the McArthur Library.
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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The Biddeford City Council is expected Tuesday to confirm the appointment of Truc Dever as city manager.
Dever is being offered a two-year contract that can be renewed. She will be paid a base salary of $195,000 during her first year of employment and $200,00 during her second year.
Dever’s contract also includes a monthly automobile stipend of $700 per month but will not include mileage reimbursement. She will also accrue five weeks of vacation time each year and will enjoy all the other benefits now in place for the city’s non-union workers.
Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever
Dever will not be allowed to serve on the boards or be in the employ of organizations, which either “have a history of or are likely to come before the city, its boards or committees, for funding, permits, approvals or regulatory activities.”
According to the proposed contract, Dever will be expected to be on-call to the city 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Dever is currently employed as the director of public works in Kirkland, Wash. She is expected to begin working in Biddeford on August 11.
For comparison purposes, former city manager James Bennett earned $170,000 per year as a base salary.
[UPDATE: An earlier version of this story reported that Dever will earn five days of vacation per year. She will accrue five weeks of vacation per year. It was a reporting error, and we apologize for the confusion.]
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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A lot can happen in just a few days, and that’s especially true when you’re in the news business.
Over just the past few days, we added a new staff member to the Gazette team, got a huge compliment from one of Maine’s most respected journalists and stumbled across a significant story that is still in development.
Hint: I’ve got a funny feeling we have not heard the last from our former city manager, Jim Bennett
I am excited to announce that Gail Toussaint of Biddeford has decided to join our team as a much-needed copy editor.
Gail told us that she really enjoys reading the Biddeford Gazette but noticed occasional typos and grammatical errors. When you’re basically running a one-man operation on a deadline, little mistakes can be expected, but they are never acceptable.
Gail Toussaint joins the Gazette (Facebook photo)
We strive to give you a quality, trustworthy product that is accurate, relevant and timely (ART). Gail actually volunteered to help us meet that mission. I was blown away by her offer to help us without any type of compensation.
“I love what the Gazette is doing,” Gail told us. “I think it’s an important part of our community, and I’m happy to help.”
It’s important to note that Gail will not be able to edit all of our stories, so if you see a typo, blame us, not her. Actually, we really do encourage our readers to contact us if they spot an error, have a complaint or a suggestion about a possible story.
A huge compliment:
Who doesn’t like being recognized for their efforts? A few days ago, I received an email from A Jay Higgins, one of Maine’s best known and respected journalists.
For more than 40 years, AJ has worked as a reporter and editor at the Bangor Daily News, at the Portland Press Herald’s former parent company (Blethen) and most recently at Maine Public Radio before retiring.
“I admire your tenacity as you undertake this project,” Higgins wrote. “I just don’t get it. People really do want local news: the council meetings, the school board meetings, the sewer district meetings, baked bean suppers, school sports, Elks Lodge, births, deaths etc.
A Jay Higgins (photo: Maine Public Radio)
“But they apparently don’t want to pay for it. “Just a thought, keep up the good work.”
When you get a compliment from a colleague, it reminds you that your work is worth the effort.
That said, I would also like to thank all the others who pass along well wishes and compliments on an almost daily basis.
For example, last week I took my truck for an oil change at Jiffy Lube in Biddeford. The man working at the counter asked, “are you Randy Seaver?”
Cautiously, I affirmed his query. “Cool,” he responded. “I really like what you’re doing with the Gazette.”
And there are so many others, former city councilors, teachers and former classmates. I cherish all of it. Thank you so much for your continued support!
New city manager
A lot of people have asked me what I think about the woman who will likely become Biddeford’s next city manager. I have yet to meet Truc Dever in person, but I am feeling quite optimistic about her taking over the helm at City Hall.
Biddeford City Manager Truc Dever
In my opinion, she is well-qualified for the position — both on paper and hands-on experience. But the biggest thing she offers Biddeford is a fresh set of eyes and a breath of fresh air. She has no allegiances to anyone or any institution. She has not been influenced by Biddeford’s culture, history or the often-negative narrative about our community.
In short, I am looking forward to seeing what she can do to help Biddeford achieve all the success we deserve.
What’s on the horizon?
I have a lot of stories in development. So, stay tuned. We are also approaching our six-month anniversary, when Laura and I plan to make some significant decisions about the Gazette’s future.
Later today, you can expect to read my exclusive feature story about Gen. Marquis de Lafeyette and the celebration of his visit to Biddeford 200 years ago.
In the meantime, stay safe, have fun and enjoy your summer!
Remember what Shakespeare said: “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”
***’
On a more personal note, you may want to check out my recent blog post about my time as a student at the JFK School in Biddeford: Fear and Loathing in Biddeford
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Okay, so that’s not very funny, but maybe you are one of those people who can always make people laugh.
Have you ever thought about doing some stand-up comedy? If so, Patrick ‘Buzz Gordon’ Ouellette of Biddeford wants to talk with you.
For more than a year now, Buzz — as he is known to his friends and family — has been pouring his blood, sweat and tears into creating a vibrant comedy scene in southern Maine. He is a co-founder of the Comedy Mill, which promotes professional comedy shows and runs a weekly open-mic night for aspiring comics who want to perform before a live audience.
Patrick ‘Buzz Gordon” Ouellette of Biddeford (Facebook photo)
“It’s not as easy as it looks,” Buzz laughed during a recent interview. “Behind the scenes it’s a lot of work. We’re not getting rich, but we love it. We really love it.”
Buzz – a gregarious guy who always seems to be smiling – is especially excited about an upcoming show at Mulligan’s this weekend.
On Saturday, June 14, Brendan Eyre of New York will return to Biddeford to open for Connor McGrath, a nationally known comic who has appeared on the Comedy Channel and on the Late Night with Seth Meyers show.
“This is a big deal for us,” Buzz said. “We’ve been doing this for a year and now Brendan’s coming back to Biddeford to help us celebrate our one-year anniversary.”
That show will take place at Mulligan’s on Lincoln Street, beginning at 8 p.m.
When asked about the weekly open-mic nights on Wednesdays, Buzz says “there’s nothing like hearing a room full of people laughing.”
We’re not getting rich, but we love it. We really love it.”
— Buzz Gordon
“I think we could all use some laughs these days,” he said.
The Comedy Mill is also helping promote this year’s Portland Maine Comedy Festival, which takes place at several venues in Portland from July 17 – July 20.
“Sometimes, we barely break even on our shows,” Buzz said. “But we are driven by one thing: we want people to have fun.
“We’re all delinquents, just hanging out,” he added.
But Buzz also has a soft spot. He and his partners regularly donate to the Biddeford Food Pantry. Earlier this year, they organized a comedy show that featured George Hamm, a nationally known comic and Marine veteran from Maine. All the proceeds from that show were donated to the Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance.
“We got to have each other’s backs, right?” Buzz said, saying the Comedy Mill would not have survived without the support of Mulligan’s. “This is a great city, chock full of great people.”
Buzz graduated in 2005 from Biddeford High School, where he was an avid football player. “Football was life when I was in high school,” he said.
Like most people, Buzz followed a winding path to get where he is today. “I remember thinking I wanted to be a cop, and then I thought I wanted to be a teacher,” he said during an earlier interview.
Today, Buzz works for a bio-tech firm near Portsmouth.
When asked what advice he would give to an aspiring comic, Buzz doesn’t hesitate. “Don’t wait. Just do it.”
“You want to make God laugh, Buzz asked. “Tell him your plans for the future.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Several members of the Biddeford City Council expressed significant and pointed concerns during Tuesday’s council meeting about a proposed affordable housing project near the corner of Lincoln and Pearl streets.
Westbrook Development Corp. is hoping to construct approximately 90 units of affordable housing for residents over the age of 55. The developers say the monthly rent would range between $1,100 and $1,300, including all utilities.
Mayor Marty Grohman described the two-phase project as a “large and complex” deal that will finally culminate the end of an era when that site was the home of the MERC waste incinerator, which was closed in 2012.
Another proposed development project that would offer market-rate apartments, retail and other commercial spaces is being proposed in the same area. The two projects would essentially wrap around the Pearl Street parking garage.
Tyler Norod of Westbrook Development Corporation addresses the Biddeford City Council Tuesday about his company’s hopes to build an affordable housing complex adjacent to the city’s Pearl Street parking garage. (Seaver photo)
The developer is proposing to give the city roughly $680,000 to secure needed parking spaces in the parking garage and is required to make an $840,000 contribution to help fund sewer upgrades throughout the city,
George Gervais, the city’s economic development director, told the council that the project would bring more than $30 million in direct and indirect benefits to the city, including a $200,000 contribution to the city’s Affordable Housing Trust fund.
Despite those benefits, several councilors said they are not yet ready to pull the trigger.
Because the city currently owns the 1.6-acre parcel, councilors expressed concerns about parking, the project’s timing and what might happen if the project falls through.
Tyler Norod of Westbrook Development told the council that his company is facing a tight timeline because they are hoping to secure project funding from the Maine State Housing Authority (MSHA) in order to make the project viable.
“I hate to have a gun held to my head,” said Councilor Marc Lessard. “That type of approach never leaves us in a good position.”
Though Lessard said he supports the need for more affordable housing, he says taxpayers expected the city to replace the former MERC site with commercial development that would create jobs and tax revenue.
Lessard said the city “cannot afford any more credit enhancement agreements. “We need to be more focused on generating more money on the tax rolls to ease pressure on taxpayers,” he said.
Councilor Norman Belanger, however, said the development landscape has changed significantly since MERC was closed 13 years ago.
“This project would be a tremendous win for the city. There’s so much benefit if this passes, and so much to lose if it fails.”
— George Gervais, economic development director
“We had a plan and a vision for that space,” Belanger said. “But then COVID hit, and the world as we know it changed.”
Belanger expressed frustration about a mixed message coming from the city council, saying he feels bad for city staff who put a lot of time and effort in bringing projects forward.
“This council is acting in a schizophrenic manner,” Belanger said. “We say we want affordable housing here, but not there. We’re sending a mixed message.”
Councilor Doris Ortiz said she supports the development of more affordable housing, but also expressed some concerns about the proposal. “The parking garage has been a thorn in the city’s side for a very long time,” she said. “Overall, I think it’s a good project, but there is a lot to work through. It’s not an easy lift for us.”
Citing the need for more information, the council voted 8-1 to table the proposal until the next council meeting on June 17.
The site where Westbrook Development Corp. wants to build 90 units of affordable housing for residents over the age of 55. (Seaver photo)
Following the meeting, Norod said he appreciated the council’s diligence and its commitment to develop more affordable housing.
“We feel as if we are partners with the city,” Norod said. “It’s clear that the council really wants more affordable housing. We have some homework to do before the next meeting, but we are happy to do it.”
For his part, Gervais said he was feeling a bit disappointed about the delay, pointing out that he and other city staffers have been working on this project for more than a year. He also said he has repeatedly offered to meet with individual councilors to answer any questions about the proposal.
“This project would be a tremendous win for the city,” Gervais said. “There’s so much benefit if this passes. and so much to lose if it fails.”
RELATED: Click here to view or download the project’s executive summary:
Biddeford voters will soon be asked whether they approve a $49.3 million budget for operation of Biddeford’s public schools during the next fiscal year.
The $49,269,781 school budget was ratified by the city council on May 8 and represents what School Supt. Jeremy Ray describes as a “carefully managed” expenditure increase of slightly more than 4 percent.
The election will be held on Tuesday, June 10, at Biddeford High School’s Tiger Gymnasium located at 20 Maplewood Avenue. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The last date for an absentee ballot request is Thursday, June 5, according to the Biddeford City Clerk’s office.
Although Ray described this as an “exciting time for our school district,” he also noted that Biddeford will see a sharp decrease in state aid for education this year because of the city’s recent spike in property valuations.
Biddeford High School. Photo via Wikipedia
“It’s important to understand just how efficiently Biddeford manages taxpayer dollars compared to other communities,” Ray wrote in a recent open letter to the Biddeford Community.
According to Ray, Biddeford spends $15,274 per student, nearly $1,800 less per student than the state average of $17,029.
When compared to neighboring communities, the difference is even more striking, Ray said.
For example, the town of Old Orchard Beach spends $25,440 per student, while the city of Saco spends $17, 348 per student — $2,074 more than Biddeford. Kennebunk, Scarborough and South Portland all spend much more per student than Biddeford.
Despite spending significantly less per student, Ray said Biddeford schools continue to provide “quality education, maintain modern facilities, and offer diverse programming including our new vocational opportunities.”
Biddeford’s “exceptional fiscal efficiency” also comes with challenges,” Ray explained.
Biddeford is facing what Ray described as” a significant reduction in state aid,” only because Biddeford’s property values have increased substantially.
“Our dedicated teachers and staff continue to provide the excellent education that makes Biddeford schools a source of community pride.”
— School Supt. Jeremy Ray
“While rising property values are positive for our community’s economic health, they create a funding challenge under Maine’s school funding formula, as higher valuations result in reduced state support,” Ray said. “Although we spend $1,800 less per student than the state average, we must ask our taxpayers to shoulder more of the burden due to this state funding formula”
Ray says that it is becoming increasingly difficult to provide all the academic supports and programs that “our students truly need to reach their full potential.”
“The gap between what we spend and what our neighboring districts invest creates real limitations,” Ray said. “Additional reading specialists, mental health counselors, technology support staff, and enrichment programs that other communities take for granted are luxuries we must carefully weigh against our budget constraints.
“Our teachers and staff work tirelessly to bridge these gaps, but there are limits to what can be accomplished with significantly fewer resources per student,” he said.
On the positive side of things, Ray says Biddeford’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond the classroom.
“Our students consistently demonstrate success in academics, athletics, the arts, and our renowned band and marching band programs that compete at the highest levels,” he said.
“Whether our graduates choose to enter the workforce with career-ready skills from our vocational programs or pursue higher education at local colleges or prestigious national universities, they leave Biddeford well-prepared for their next chapter.”
Ray noted that the new addition at Biddeford Primary School will be completed this winter, “providing modern learning spaces for our youngest learners.”
School Superintendent Jeremy Ray
“Infrastructure investments represent our commitment to providing 21st-century educational facilities for all our students,” Ray said. “Our school committee’s long-range vision for maintenance and improvement of the physical plant is a prudent investment.”
“So many districts wait for a crisis and then ask their communities to float large bonds to fix problems that are compounded by can-kicking and neglect,” he added.
Ray pointed out that Biddeford Middle school is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, and is still “an amazing facility that offers a breadth of curricular and cocurricular opportunities that would be the envy of most.”
The Biddeford School Committee, Ray said, is committed to investing at least $250,000 or more in the Biddeford Intermediate School as it begins its fourth decade of service to the city.
Ray described the recently completed Biddeford Regional Center of Technology as one of Maine’s premier vocational centers, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and direct pathways to high-demand careers.
“Our vocational programs not only serve our own students but also generate revenue by serving students from neighboring districts who choose Biddeford for their technical education,” Ray said.
Ray also serves as the superintendent for the city of Saco and the town of Dayton, and he said Biddeford’s collaboration with those neighboring communities has yielded significant savings of roughly $500,000 annually for Biddeford taxpayers.
“While we face challenges with reduced state support, our district continues to thrive,” Ray said. “Our dedicated teachers and staff continue to provide the excellent education that makes Biddeford schools a source of community pride.”
RELATED: To see or download the full text of the superintendent’s letter to the community, click on this link:
A crowd of roughly 50 people gathered Monday for the raising of the Pride flag at Biddeford City Hall.
Monday’s ceremony kicks off at a month-long celebration of activities and events, all aimed at promoting the ideals of inclusivity, respect and diversity — especially for members of the LGBTQIA+ community — in Biddeford and beyond.
Mayor Marty Grohman addressed the crowd just before the flag was raised, telling them that he will later read an official proclamation regarding Pride month at the city council’s next regular meeting on Tuesday.
Colin McKauge (left) and Jeniece Wilder of Tiger Allies help raise the Pride flag at Biddeford City Hall to kick off the city’s annual celebration of Pride month as Micayla Budd, president of Tiger Allies, look on.
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol—not just of visibility, but of belonging. In Biddeford,” Grohman said. “We believe that everyone deserves to live openly and be celebrated for who they are.”
Grohman said the flag represents a community that is vibrant, resilient, and proud. “[This flag] represents our shared values of inclusion, dignity, and respect. And it reminds us that progress is made not just through big milestones—but through everyday acts of support and solidarity.”
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol —not just of visibility, but of belonging in Biddeford
— Mayor Marty Grohman
“We raise this flag together, let it be a message to all—especially our youth—that you are seen, you are valued, and you are welcome here.” the mayor added.
Jamie and Krista Shaw attended Monday’s event. The couple recently moved to Biddeford from the city of Westbrook. As members of the LGBTQIA+ community, they say they feel welcomed in Biddeford.
“There is no such thing as safe, just safer” Jamie Shaw said.
Krista Shaw said they have found Biddeford to be “a very warm and welcoming community.”
Delilah Poupore, executive director of the Heart of Biddeford, said there are a number of activities and celebrations scheduled throughout Pride month in Biddeford.
For more information about Pride events in Biddeford, the Heart of Biddeford has created a web page that includes information and details regarding Pride month activities and events. For more information, please visit https://heartofbiddeford.org/pride-3/
Flag raised at City Hall (Seaver photo)
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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Just a few days after hearing several negative comments from the public about their proposed research and docking pier, officials from the University of New England distributed a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document with the media and community leaders.
The university (UNE) says the FAQ document is intended to clarify “a variety of misunderstandings [that] have emerged about the project” and to “clear up misinformation that has circulated about the (proposal).”
That meeting drew scores of people, filling the council chamber while several other members of the public overflowed into the hallway.
During the public comment period, several people took to the podium, raising concerns about the plan and criticizing the university. No one at the meeting spoke in support of the proposal.
Former City Councilor Michael Swanton – who previously represented the city’s coastal area on the city council – told the board that he is neutral about the proposed pier.
An aerial photo showing the area where the University of New England wants to construct a new research/docking pier. (UNE photo)
During a telephone interview Wednesday, Sarah Delage, a university spokesperson, reiterated that UNE wants to be proactive and follow a review process that includes addressing public concerns, listening to opponents and responding to every regulatory agency’s particular request for information.
“From our perspective, we have clearly communicated with all the regulatory agencies,” Delage said. “We are absolutely committed to working in good faith with everyone and listening to all voices.”
UNE President James Herbert did not mince words about his frustrations regarding “misinformation” in a letter he sent to community leaders on Tuesday.
“Unfortunately, a great deal of misinformation has been spread about the proposal,” Herbert wrote. “UNE cannot continue to allow the level of misinformation and, in some cases outright false statements, to go unanswered.”
Herbert told community leaders that “most, if not all, of the comments that were presented to the Planning Board [during last week’s meeting] are irrelevant to the criteria that the Planning Board must apply to UNE’s application for site plan approval.”
UNE cannot continue to allow the level of misinformation and, in some cases outright false statements, to go unanswered.”
— James Herbert, president of the University of New England
What do the critics say?
John Schafer, the former chair of Biddeford’s Harbor Commission and a retired engineer, has been an outspoken critic of the project for several months.
Schafer and other critics of the proposed pier created a Facebook page known as UNE Pier Review.
For more than a year, Schafer and others have been doggedly tracking the review process, raising concerns about “a lack of transparency” and other issues, most notably stating that the proposed pier should be located in a different location, closer to shore primarily because of water depth issues and impacts to existing moorings in the Saco River.
Schafer received a copy of the university’s FAQ document, describing it as “polished spin.”
“The public finally had an opportunity to speak at last week’s meeting, and apparently the university didn’t like what it heard,” Schafer said. “No one from the university reached out to me,” he added, saying it has been more than difficult to obtain documents from the university, including a copy of their request for $3.5 million in federal funding for the project.
“While reading this thing, my bullshit meter pegged the needle off the charts,” Schafer said.
Schafer raised several specific objections to the items listed on the university’s document, including the actual number of mooring owners who would be impacted; statements regarding whether the university has threatened to sue the city if their plan is not approved, and contrary statements issued by the university regarding the potential impact on federal funding if the review process is delayed.
“While reading this thing, my bullshit meter pegged the needle off the charts,”
— John Schafer, former chair, Biddeford Harbor Commission
“How can they with a straight face say that only two moorings will be impacted?” Schafer said. “Were they not at the same meeting as the rest of us?”
Schafer says that seven moorings will be impacted, dismissing the university’s offer to swap, purchase or relocate other moorings. “Exactly where would they be relocated?” Schafer asked. “There is not unlimited room on the river and there is a substantial waiting list of people hoping to get a mooring on the river.”
Delage, however, said the university has been making good faith efforts to identify and contact all mooring owners who may be impacted by the pier.
“The harbormaster previously indicated that only two moorings would be impacted in his communication to the (Maine Department of Environmental Protection) DEP” Delage said, adding that “there is no official record of mooring owners.”
While much of the public conversation about the proposed pier has centered upon water depth issues, the FAQ document provides more details about why the university picked their preferred site over an alternative that was offered by the city’s harbormaster.
According to the FAQ document, the university’s preferred site location (Site 7) “best meets the combined criteria (required). It is located where there is a small intertidal zone, comprised primarily of rock without sea grass, and the currents are slower because it is farther from the river channel.
“The dock’s main berth would be aligned with the current in the river and would be deep enough to provide all-tide access for the range of vessels expected to use the facility with the smallest overall footprint, thereby minimizing environmental impacts.”
Other issues
UNE’s FAQ document also addresses several other issues, including whether the university threatened to sue the city, claims about an ongoing FBI investigation and why Biddeford Harbormaster Paul Lariviere was removed from review of the proposal.
Almost exactly one year before Wednesday’s Planning Board meeting, former Biddeford City Manager James Bennett sent a letter to Lariviere, saying the harbormaster had been biased in his review of UNE’s proposal as evidenced by “several” public comments he has made outlining his steadfast objections to the project.
Schafer says that the city’s move to quash both the harbormaster and the assistant harbormaster was simply part of an effort to grease the skids for the university. “Now look at where we are,” Schafer said. “The city spent $2,800 to hire a guy without any local knowledge or previous experience as a harbormaster to simply check the box and say that UNE had filed all the right paperwork. Heck, the city clerk could have done that.
Did UNE threaten to sue the city?
Ron Schneider, the university’s chief legal counsel, did send a letter to Biddeford City Attorney Harry Center on February 13, 2024, several months before the university submitted its formal proposal to the city.
In that letter, Schneider wrote “It is our sincere hope that UNE is not forced to resort to litigation to avoid the delay and expense that will result if Mr. Lariviere were to insist on obstructing the building of the pier.”
UNE’s document describes that communication between the two attorneys as an opportunity to “raise concerns about serious due process errors” to Biddeford’s attorney. “The goal of this communication was to correct these errors to avoid having to appeal to a court.”
Another item that the university describes as misinformation, is a claim that the FBI is investigating the review process.
“After others claimed that the FBI was investigating UNE, the university reached out to the FBI and offered to meet with them, which they said was not necessary,” the university wrote in its FAQ document. “UNE has no reason to believe that the FBI is investigating the university.”
Schafer, however, said he and others were, in fact, questioned last year by the FBI about “the review process, not specifically about the university.”
Where do we go from here?
Despite some controversy, UNE’s proposal has received approval from every regulatory agency that has reviewed the project, including the Saco River Corridor Commission, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
The review of the project by the Biddeford Planning Board is expected to be extensive. During last week’s meeting, board members asked UNE representatives for additional information and then voted unanimously to conduct both a site walk and a “boat tour” near the proposed location.
Schafer and others have praised the Planning Board’s “obvious commitment” to fairness and transparency. He says he will continue to keep a close watch on the project.
Delage says that the university is willing to meet with critics or others who would like more information about the proposal.
“The university really appreciates any opportunity to put more information out there for the public.” Delage said. “We are acting in good faith for everyone involved, especially those who use and cherish the river like we do.”
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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It’s been a while since my last newsletter, but I am feeling good about the Biddeford Gazette’s trajectory and its future.
From time to time, I have to keep reminding myself that this publication is only four months old. We have come quite a way in just the last few weeks.
We also have some pretty big – and interesting – stories on the immediate horizon, but I am quite glad to be taking a bit of a breather during this holiday weekend. This last week, especially, has been a whirlwind.
Speaking of the holiday, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the local volunteers, veterans, city officials and non-profit organizations who work so hard every year to pay a somber and meaningful tribute to all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
Although the major sewer/road project is preventing a parade this weekend, there will be a very special ceremony held at Waterhouse Field, complete with marching bands and everything else you would see in a parade. As Marshall Archer – Commander of Biddeford AMVETS Post No. 1 – said, ‘It will be just like a parade without all the walking.”
You can find more information about this year’s ceremony by clicking this link
I am also quite proud of what the Gazette has been able to accomplish, and I really appreciate all the great feedback I have been receiving.
Unlike other media sites, we publish local obituaries from area funeral homes every Sunday at no charge to the families or the public. People seem to appreciate the service, and according to our analytical indicators it remains as one of the Gazette’s most popular features.
With the help of our social media partners, we have access to more than 35,000 people in the Biddeford-Saco area.
People also seem to enjoy our Community Voices page, where we feature things written and submitted to us from other people. Over the past few weeks, we have published stories from others about a project to preserve dune grass at local beaches, the accomplishments of Biddeford students. — including the undefeated Biddeford Middle School math teams — and the perspective of a volunteer at the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center.
We plan to be expanding this section in the coming weeks, including coverage of legislative issues that are being shaped in Augusta.
A unique approach to sharing news
There is also one thing we do that is pretty unique in the competitive world of gathering and sharing news.
We actually highlight stories about Biddeford from other media sites. We use our social media page to share stories about Biddeford from other journalists and publications, including Saco Bay News, the Portland Press Herald, Maine Biz, Spectrum News, WGME-TV and WMTW-TV.
We help direct more traffic directly to their websites or social media pages.
Why do we do this? We do it for you so that you can have all of the latest news and information about Biddeford, all gathered and easy to find in one place.
To the best of my knowledge, no other news site does this.
Lots happening in Biddeford
As I said near the top, we have some pretty exciting news stories on the horizon, including the fact that Biddeford is close to hiring a new city manager and my suspicion is that we have yet to hear the last from former City Manager James Bennett who was ousted from his office in February.
Over the past several days, we have been averaging one new – and often exclusive – news story per day.
For example, this week we continued our ongoing coverage of a massive sewer/road project that will be continuing until November. (Please try to support downtown merchants. Many of them are hurting because people are avoiding the area)
I think that about covers it. As always, thank you for reading! And if you haven’t yet, please join hundreds of others and subscribe to our site. Also, please like and follow us on Facebook. Tell your friends and family, too!
Enjoy your weekend, and let’s all hope that we can enjoy a few sunny days this 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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A small contingent of downtown Biddeford business owners and residents filed into Mayor Marty Grohman’s office Wednesday morning to “brainstorm” and share ideas about how to soften the impact of an ongoing road construction project that sometimes snarls traffic.
Grohman set up the meeting last week after his voicing his own concerns about the situation in a Facebook post that showed him driving through the city.
Grohman started the meeting by pointing out the window of his second-floor office at City Hall, which overlooks the intersection of Adams and Main streets.
A small group of residents and downtown merchants meet with the mayor to discuss ways to help downtown business and soften the impact of a “massive” road construction project (Seaver photo)
“There is literally no traffic right now,” Grohman said, pointing to an absence of traffic at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
Just a few moments later, northbound traffic was backed up with a stream of vehicles, some of which were blocking the intersection, not allowing traffic to turn right or left onto Main Street from Adams Street.
Grohman described the sewer upgrade as a “massive job” mandated by the state in order to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Saco River.
Those attending the meeting said the city needs to change its “messaging” about the project.
“it really doesn’t matter why it has to be done,” said Jon Phillips, co-owner of Time & Tide Coffee on Main Street. “People either already know why the project has to be done or they don’t care.”
Peter DiPietrantonio, the owner of 3D’s Variety on Main Street, agreed with Phillips. “There are a lot of angry drivers out there,” he said. “And they are just making it worse for everyone.”
Although the group shared their frustrations, most of the conversation centered upon ways to possibly reduce the traffic impacts and help struggling business owners.
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown,” said Carolyn Schmidtke of Better Biddeford, a downtown advocacy group. “Our downtown businesses are really hurting.”
Phillips said his revenues are down roughly 30 percent, while DiPietrantonio said his business is down 10-15 percent. Ian Kern, co-owner of Nibblesford on Washington Avenue, reported his business is down roughly 40 percent.
“People are avoiding downtown because they don’t want to get stuck in traffic,” said resident Barbara Pelletier. “But the reality is that even when traffic is bad, it takes only a couple of extra minutes to get from one place to the next.”
“We have to find new and creative ways to bring people back into downtown.”
— Carolyn Schmidtke
The group discussed ideas such as a “downtown passport” program where downtown visitors could get a stamp in a booklet at different locations and then be entered for a raffle prize.
Other ideas suggested included holding additional downtown events and programs.
The group also discussed potential ideas aimed at easing traffic concerns, including allowing traffic to turn right on red at the intersection of Hill Street, possibly hiring traffic guards to direct traffic in high-volume areas, including near Mechanics Park and increasing signage about the project along the city’s outer perimeter near the entrance of the Turnpike.
Ted Sirois of Saco said he understands why motorists are frustrated. Sirois told the group that he has been avoiding downtown because of the project, saying he used to visit Dupuis Hardware on Elm Street but now uses the turnpike to go to Ace Hardware in Scarborough.
Public Work Director Jeff Demers said he does not understand that logic. “I’m not saying that things are easy, but I go to local merchants because I like the owners, I like the service and the products,” he said. “If it’s going to take me a few extra minutes, so what?”
Demers shared that the project was well coordinated in its planning stages and continues to be a collaborative project with city officials in Saco, the Maine Turnpike, the Maine Department of Transportation, fire and police services in both communities and the city’s engineering staff.
“Summer is coming,” said resident Amy Francouer. “But at what cost? We have worked so hard over the last few years to bring people into downtown. How do we get them to keep coming here?”
Phillips said he is hoping the community will rally as it did during the early weeks of the Covid pandemic. “We’re one community,” he said. “We can do this if we work together.”
Grohman said he is planning another public meeting next week.
“I think we heard some good stuff today, hopefully we can come up with some positive solutions,” the mayor said. “I’m pleased that we have people willing to help and I think we can be creative.
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Maine House Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford is gaining some national attention after the United States Supreme Court ruled yesterday in favor of Republican lawmaker Laurel Libby who said he violated her Constitutional rights.
The case began in February after Libby (R-Auburn) posted a photo of a transgender athlete from Greely High School who won the girls’ pole vault competition. Libby’s post included a photo of the student and first-name identification in quotation marks and set off a heated debate across the state, divided mostly along partisan lines.
Fecteau, a Democrat, is the first openly gay person to serve as House speaker and has long been a champion of LGBTQ+ rights.
Fecteau censured Libby for her behavior, criticizing her post and subsequent comments identifying the student. The censure prevented Libby from speaking or voting on the House floor.
Maine Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford
The Democratically-controlled House of Representatives found that Libby’s post violated its code of ethics by putting the student at risk.
Fecteau said he would lift the censure if Libby simply apologized for the post.
Libby ultimately filed an “emergency appeal” with the nation’s highest court. She previously sued Fecteau and the House clerk in lower courts.
Many Republicans across Maine celebrated the Supreme Court’s 7-2 decision to restore Libby’s voting rights as the first session of Maine’s Legislature begins to wind down.
Fecteau was unavailable for comment on Wednesday morning, but did issue a statement to the Gazette.
“Representative Libby’s ability to vote on the floor of the House has been restored until the current appeal process runs its course,” Fecteau said in his statement. “The Clerk of the House, whom the injunction is against, has already complied with this court ruling. We look forward to continuing with the important work Maine people expect of us.”
But not all Democrats were disappointed by the high court’s decision. Former Democratic lawmaker Cynthia Dill, an attorney from Cape Elizabeth, took to social media Tuesday evening and proclaimed that the Court’s decision was a validation of girls’ rights.
And former Republican lawmaker Joyce Maker from Calais expressed disappointment about the Court’s decision on her Facebook page.
In Maine and across the nation, polling shows that many people –– regardless of political affiliation — are uncomfortable with the issue of transgender participation in high school sports.
“This is a victory not just for my constituents, but for the Constitution itself,” Libby told WMTW-TV. “The Supreme Court has affirmed what should never have been in question — that no state legislature has the power to silence an elected official simply for speaking truthfully about issues that matter.”
Libby said she is still not allowed to speak on the House floor. “We do have a bit of a long road, still,” Libby told WMTW.
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Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman and members of the city council set aside some time at the beginning of Tuesday’s council meeting to remember and honor one of the city’s most iconic Irish residents.
Patrick “Vincent” Keely, a former city councilor and the owner of the Wonderbar, died on April 8 this year. He was 90.
According to his obituary, Keely was born on August 20, 1934, in Galway, Ireland, to John and Delia (Walsh) Keely. He moved to Boston, Massachusetts in 1960 and later to Biddeford in the early 1970s, according to his son, Brian.
Grohman described Keely as a bridge builder and community leader who had a special talent for bringing people together to resolve their differences. “He also could pour a perfect pint of Guiness,” Grohman fondly recalled, describing the downtown Wonderbar as a popular gathering spot for people of all backgrounds.
Members of Vincent Keely’s family pose with Mayor Marty Grohman (far right) and members of the Biddeford City Council to honor a man who has left a lasting legacy of respect and cordiality (Seaver )
Brian Keely told the council that his father “fell in love with Biddeford,” recalling how his father moved his family to Biddeford more than 50 years ago.
“It was a big change from Boston,” the younger Keely recalled. “There was no mass transit and we all kind of wondered why we were here, but we quickly fell in love with this community, too. My father made us see what Biddeford could become.”
“My father made us see what Biddeford could become.”
— Brian Keely
Brian Keely told the council that his father knew everyone who came into the Wonderbar by name, and everyone — regardless of their political differences — was treated the same by the smiling man behind the bar.
“We could all learn a lot from my father,” Brian told the council. “About being kind to one another, about treating everyone with respect.”
Brian told the council that his father always envisioned Biddeford as a “gem in the rough.” He would be proud of what the city has become today, the younger Keely said.
Keely was also known for doggedly ensuring the annual raising of the Irish flag at City Hall to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day each year
Patrick Vincent Keely
Grohman asked the council and members of the public to stand for a moment of silence to honor Keely’s legacy of community service in Biddeford.
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A new program is being launched in Biddeford to help find work opportunities for unhoused individuals in the community.
Organizers are calling it the “Biddeford Opportunity Crew,” and it is a collaborative effort between several organizations to help “champion a workforce with purpose.”
The Biddeford Opportunity Crew is a new initiative based on a nationwide model that provides paid, meaningful work for local residents who face barriers to traditional employment. Primary project partners include the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce, Seeds of Hope, the Heart of Biddeford and the city’s General Assistance office.
Organizers say the new program will “give participants purpose, income, job readiness, and a direct way to contribute to the community.”
In a notice released by the Chamber, organizers said that “many people in our city want to work — but are held back by housing instability, a prior record, lack of transportation or work clothes. The Opportunity Crew will give them a path forward.”
From June 1 through Labor Day, a supervised team of five individuals will be hired to complete beautification and maintenance projects throughout the city – from public parks to sidewalks to eligible clean-up tasks for small businesses. Workers will earn minimum wage, receive breakfast and lunch, and be supervised by a city staff member. The program will operate two days a week for the pilot year and be managed through the city of Biddeford’s General Assistance office.
This will be a city-run program, but it’s powered by community partnership, say organizers, hoping area businesses will help support the new program with donations, sponsorships and job opportunities. Participating businesses will be mentioned in press releases and updated social media posts about the initiative if desired.
“I’m really excited about this program,” said Vassie Fowler, executive director of the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center on South Street. “We’ve been talking about this for a few months, and I think it’s going to be a really great opportunity for people trying to put their lives back together.
“We want to help people restore their dignity and self-worth,” she added.
Fowler said the new program will not be mandatory or a requirement to receive benefits. Instead, the new program is intended to give unhoused people an opportunity to begin putting their lives back on track.
To learn more or become a sponsor of the new program, please contact Jake Hammer, Biddeford’s General Assistance Supervisor at | 207.298.3913 or jacob.hammer@biddeformaine.org
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Despite what one downtown merchant in Biddeford is saying on Facebook, Mayor Marty Grohman – despite his pale skin tone, blonde hair and blue eyes – is not a member of the Aryan Nation.
I’ll be kind and not call the merchant out by name — but calling the mayor a “Nazi” for something he didn’t actually do is quite a leap and a profoundly stupid move, especially when it’s posted on your business Facebook page.
I’m not suggesting that Grohman is above reproach or criticism. In fact, the most dangerous place in Biddeford is getting between Grohman and a camera. He does love posting selfies, showing us all how connected he is to the city. He is also somewhat overly genial in how he runs city meetings, but to call him or anyone else a “Nazi” is simply despicable.
So, what incurred this merchant’s wrath and their subsequent public vitriol?
Two days ago, the Saco Bay News site posted an update about this year’s Memorial Day celebration, pointing out that the traditional parade had been cancelled.
That was near the top of the story.
Apparently, a lot of people stopped reading the story beyond its second sentence and they jumped on Facebook to accuse Grohman and other municipal officials for “a slap in the face to our local veterans.”
Here, hold my beer.
One, the annual celebration is a two-community event. Where was the outrage for my step-sister, Saco Mayor Jodi McPhail? Are we absolutely sure that she’s not a Nazi? I’ve known her since she was 12, but you can never be too trusting,
Some people just love to be outraged and can’t wait to share their righteous indignation all over Facebook. The technical term for this behavior is “dumbass-it is.”
If you had taken the time to read the story – beyond the headline – you would see that this year’s Memorial Day celebration will be bigger and better than ever before.
Or, as Saco Rep. Marshall Archer says, “it will be like a parade without all the walking.”
Archer knows a thing or two about local veterans. He served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and did two tours in Iraq. He is today the Post Commander for the Amvets in Biddeford.
Archer is also a former city councilor and today serves as a member of Maine’s Legislature. He said he was saddened by many of the comments he saw on Facebook.
“It will be like a parade without all the walking.”
Marshall Archer, Commander, Biddeford AMVETS
“This was not a last-minute decision,” Archer explained. “A lot of people worked very hard over the last several weeks to organize the event.”
Archer says that closing Main Street in both Saco and Biddeford for a parade was not a viable option this year, considering the ongoing, state-mandated road repair project.
“It’s just a different approach,” Archer explained. “We will close down the bridge for five minutes to do the annual wreath laying on the Saco River.”
Archer said this year’s event is a coordinated effort between several different organizations and dozens of volunteers.
AMVETS Post Commander Marshall Archer (Contributed photo)
I don’t suspect that the outraged businessowner was one of those volunteers.
This year’s celebration will also include musical performances by marching bands from schools in Biddeford and Saco. More details can be found by clicking this link:
“I felt compelled to respond to the rumors and criticism,” Archer explained. “There is no need to feed off the negative energy. My fallen brothers and sisters will be well-honored this year, and I’m proud to be part of that.”
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The cities of Biddeford and Saco will once again be honoring fallen veterans during an annual Memorial Day remembrance ceremony at Waterhouse Field in Biddeford.
The Biddeford-Saco Memorial Day ceremony will take place on Monday, May 26, beginning at 10 a.m.
Contributed photo by Andrew Dickinson
Organizers say this year’s ceremony will be “a heartfelt tribute to those who gave their lives in military service.”
Hosting the ceremony at Waterhouse Field will allow ample parking for community members, according to organizers.
“Holding the ceremony at the stadium gives us a special opportunity to come together in one place where everyone can clearly hear the speaker and enjoy the full band performances,” said Delilah Poupore, executive director of Heart of Biddeford, one of the event organizers. “With accessible parking and space for all generations to gather, we’re hoping for good weather and an even better turnout this year.”
Due to an ongoing major road construction project, event organizers say having a parade was not feasible this year because Main Street in both Biddeford and Saco cannot be closed to motorists.
The twin-city ceremony will be emceed by Kayla Lewis, a U.S. Navy veteran and local leader known for her work in community development and veteran advocacy.
Attendees will again be treated to musical performances by the Thornton Academy Marching Band, the Saco Middle School Band, and the combined Biddeford High School and Middle School bands, who will help set a reverent and patriotic tone.
This year’s guest speaker will be Don Chretien, a retired U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot and author from Biddeford.
The event will also recognize Grand Marshal Raynald “Ray” Hallczuk, a Vietnam War veteran and respected leader in Biddeford’s veterans community.
Organizers say that Chretien’s remarks will be especially timely as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, making this year’s ceremony a particularly meaningful opportunity for remembrance and reflection.
The event will also recognize Grand Marshal Raynald “Ray” Hallczuk, a Vietnam War veteran and respected leader in Biddeford’s veteran community.
Earlier in the morning, a small contingent of veterans and city officials will carry out the traditional placement of memorial wreaths—first in the Saco River and later at Veterans Memorial Park—accompanied by brief pauses for Taps. A wreath is placed in the Saco River to honor those lost at sea and to recognize the service of Navy and Coast Guard members.
Residents are encouraged to arrive at the stadium prior to 10 a.m. to gather with neighbors and veterans in shared remembrance.
Prior to and after the ceremony, “touch a truck” vehicles and possibly classic cars will be on display near the stadium. Accessible and veterans’ parking will be available for free near the home team stadium seating at Waterhouse Field. Additional parking can be found on surrounding streets, with overflow free parking available at the JFK School parking lot nearby.
This ceremony is made possible with the coordination of Heart of Biddeford, with support from the American Legion, AmVets, Vietnam Veterans of America, the Mayor’s Veterans Committee, and city departments in both Biddeford and Saco.
Mike Ramunno, a tuna fisherman from Biddeford, has owned his mooring in the Saco River for more than six years. He says no one from the city of Biddeford or the University of New England has contacted him about the university’s plan to build a large pier for their 60-foot research vessel.
The university’s plan is scheduled to go before the Biddeford Planning Board for review on Wednesday, May 21.
Ramunno is just one of many fishermen and recreational boaters who say they will be adversely impacted if the university is allowed to construct the pier in their preferred location near the mouth of the river.
Several mooring owners have made it clear that the University of New England will face legal battles if they keep demanding preferential treatment that will impact almost everyone who uses the Saco River for recreational and commercial use.
“If this plan goes through, they [UNE] will essentially be closing off the river to everyone else who uses the river,” Ramunno said. “When you plan to build a house and go to the planning board, you have to notify your abutters. Why doesn’t the university have to notify us about their plan?”
The mouth of the Saco River is a popular place for both commercial and recreational fisherman. Now a coalition of mooring owners are raising concerns about the impacts of a large pier the University of New England wants to build near its Biddeford campus (Seaver photo)
A UNE spokesperson declined an offer to comment on this story.
Ramunno is not alone in his concerns. He and six other mooring owners sent a notice of their concerns to the planning board earlier this week.
The university is hoping to construct a pier consisting of a 28-foot long by 24-foot-wide landing; a 90-foot long by 14-foot-wide approach pier; and an 80-foot long by 24-foot-long pier and a floating dock system.
UNE’s plan has already been approved by both the Saco River Corridor Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The mooring owners and others – including John Schafer, former chair of the Biddeford Harbor Commission and Daniel Chadbourne, Saco’s former harbormaster – have formed an informal alliance. They adamantly maintain that “the university has no power to compel them to move.”
“This might be checkmate,” said Schafer who has been pushing for more transparency in the regulatory process. “We shall see, but I can’t imagine any scenario in which UNE is able to steamroll these mooring owners out of the way. Except possibly in a courtroom, but that would take years. Private property is private property.”
Greg McPherson keeps his 21-foot vessel at a mooring that will be impacted by the university’s plans.
“If this plan goes through, they will essentially be closing off the river to everyone else who uses the river,”
— Mike Ramunno
“It’s already a very narrow part of the river,” McPherson said. “For the life of me, I cannot figure out why no one from the city or the university has contacted me.”
In addition to impacts on mooring owners, both Ramunno and McPherson say that if UNE is allowed to build the pier as it is currently configured recreational fishermen who troll the river will also be impacted.
“That’s a very popular area for striper fishing,” Ramunno added.
“It’s very shallow where they want to put their pier,” Ramunno said. “Why are they refusing to consider the alternative location that will give the depth they actually need? I have a 34-foot boat, and I sometimes find it challenging to turn about at low tide.”
Mooring owners often have to wait years to get a private mooring on the river. They also have to pay $150 per year to the city for their mooring.
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Victim says community needs to do more in addressing crime, mental health needs and homelessness in the downtown area
Although his story has been shared in several other media outlets over the past 48 hours, Joshua Wolfe contacted the Biddeford Gazette in hopes of ending rumors and speculation about a shooting that happened in Biddeford on Mother’s Day.
Wolfe, 32, was shot in the leg by someone he did not know outside of his Elm Street office. He was treated and released from the hospital that same afternoon.
Police arrested Derick Dorais, 34, of Elm Street, Biddeford, shortly after the shooting, said Biddeford Police Chief JoAnne Fisk
Shooting victim Joshua Wolfe says the community needs to do more to address downtown crime, homelessness, substance abuse and mental health concerns. (Contributed photo)
Fisk said that Dorais has been charged with reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon, a Class C felony and punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Dorais was unable to make bail, said Fisk. He was taken to the York County Jail in Alfred, where he remains as of press time.
Because of the intense media coverage, Wolfe says that too many people are reacting without understanding what actually happened. He says that he been “bothered” by some of the commentary he has seen on Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites.
Wolfe said people need to understand the “randomness” of the attack, and he wants the city to address the issues of rising crime, lack of mental health and substance abuse services and homelessness.
“If this happened to me in broad daylight it could happen to anyone,” Wolfe stressed during a Tuesday afternoon interview. “Imagine somebody leaving a downtown restaurant or attending the River Jam Festival and boom, you get shot. It’s not okay. People should not have to live in fear.”
A 2010 graduate of Thornton Academy, Wolf is a successful entrepreneur who works as a business consultant and stockbroker.
Now – just 51 hours after the incident — Wolfe is trying to figure out the best ways to build community awareness and advocacy for people suffering from addiction or mental health issues.
As he has done with other media outlets, Wolfe shared video footage of the incident that was recorded on security cameras near his Elm Street office, directly across from Rent-A-Center.
If this happened to me in broad daylight it could happen to anyone
— Joshua Wolfe
In the video footage, Wolfe can be seen turning into the driveway near his office while Dorais and another man were walking along the sidewalk. According to Wolfe, Dorais became upset because he thought that Wolfe had somehow disrespected his friend.
The video shows that Dorais walked by and then returned to the driveway just a few minutes later.
Wolfe walked out of his of his office and asked Dorais to leave his property, pointing to security cameras. The video shows Dorais holding both a cellphone and small handgun. Allegedly, Dorais said he was going to shoot Wolfe and post it on social media.
“I didn’t know what he was going to do,” Wolfe said. “For all I know he was going to execute me inside my office.”
Wolfe was able to overcome Dorais in a scuffle, but Dorais allegedly refused to surrender his gun. During the scuffle, the gun was fired.
Wolfe says he is still “processing” the incident, but now wants to turn a bad event into “something good for the community.”
Wolfe says he is considering working with other downtown business owners and approaching the Biddeford City Council about growing “concerns in the downtown area.”
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman said he looks forward to meeting with Wolfe and helping him in his quest for increased public awareness about the city’s need to provide services.
“I really commend him,” Grohman said Tuesday afternoon. “He’s taking what could have been a much worse incident and turning it around to increase public awareness. That’s a really good thing, and I look forward to meeting with him if he wants.”
Editor’s Note:In a previous version of this story, Wolfe was identified as Jason Wolfe. His name is actually Joshua Wolfe. It was my error, and I apologize for the mistake.
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A federal lawsuit against the city of Biddeford, Mayor Marty Grohman and Police Chief JoAnne Fisk has been filed in U.S. District Court, alleging that the city mishandled the criminal investigation of a traffic accident that occurred on April 4 this year.
The plaintiff, Katie Elie, 35, of Saco. has retained Biddeford attorney Jason Litalien to represent her in the proceedings.
According to court documents, Elie is alleging that her constitutional rights were violated by the Biddeford Police Department in their subsequent investigation of a vehicle that was found unoccupied off the side of the road near the intersection of River and South streets, a rural area known by longtime residents as ‘Molly’s Crotch.’
Litalien says his client drove off the road and then got a ride home from someone known to her.
On the next day, the Biddeford Police Department towed the abandoned vehicle – a 2022 Ford Expedition — to the police impound lot. When Elie returned to the scene of the incident at about 10 a.m., she noticed that her vehicle had been removed, claiming nobody notified her that her vehicle had been towed and was now impounded by the police.
The intersection, known as ‘Molly’s Crotch’ at the intersection of South Street and River Road in Biddeford, was the location of a traffic accident that triggered a federal lawsuit, (Seaver photo)
In the complaint, Litalien says his client’s passport, some medications and other personal items were left in the vehicle and were not immediately available to his client as police began their investigation.
Litalien said that his client contacted police on Sunday April 6 and was told her vehicle was “seized.” Elie then contacted her attorney for help getting her vehicle back.
In the complaint, Litalien alleges that police did not notify his client that her vehicle was being impounded, furthermore Litalien says the police did not have probable cause for the seizure. He also says police had not filed criminal charges against his client and had not obtained a warrant before conducting their search.
Litalien says his client is seeking $500,000 in punitive damages.
When contacted by the Biddeford Gazette for comment, Police Chief JoAnne Fisk said she could not comment on an ongoing investigation and because the matter is now a matter of pending litigation against the city.
According to police records, Elie was charged with two counts on May 5: Leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and driving to endanger.
Like Fiske, Mayor Marty Grohman also declined to comment on the story, saying City Attorney Harry Center should be the contact person.
Center told the Gazette that the matter is being handled by another attorney, John Wall, a partner at Monaghan Leahy, a Portland law firm that represents the city’s insurance company, Paquin & Carroll.
When contacted Tuesday, Wall said he would not comment on the complaint because his client had yet to decide how to respond to the suit. Wall says the law provides his client with 60 days to address the pending suit.
Litalien said police violated several other rights held by his client and all U.S. citizens.
For example, even though Litalien had notified police that he was representing Elie in the matter, they contacted his client directly to inform her that she could pick up her passport and her medications.
“They told me on April 6 that the vehicle was impounded and sealed for investigation,” Litalien said. “They told me that I could not get her passport and medications. That’s just not acceptable.”
Litalien said the police then called her directly to say she could retrieve her passport and medications, a violation of state statute and an act of “bad faith” by police, he said.
Some 16 days after the incident, Litalien contacted the York County District Attorney’s office. He says the office confirmed that “no charges had been filed,” nor had a warrant been issued.
Litalien said his client filed the suit for three reasons. First, that city had violated her civil rights; secondly that she wanted to retrieve her property and finally to seek punitive damages.
Litalien says the Biddeford Police Department violated his client’s Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and 14th Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution.
In the suit, Litalien described the police conduct as “reckless, extreme and outrageous.” He says the way police acted caused his client “severe emotional distress, anxiety and psychological harm that no reasonable person could be expected to endure.”
“They held her passport and her medications,” Litalien said. “Not only was she prohibited from traveling internationally but she has been put through the wringer, something that should never happen to anyone.”
Litalien says his client has suffered a loss of sleep, a loss of appetite and a constant fear that she will face further retribution from police.
In the lawsuit, Litalien points out that his client was forced to rent another vehicle, pay for replacement medications and endure severe emotional distress.
Litalien described police conduct in this matter as “willful, wanton, reckless and malicious.”
Litalien narrowly lost a 2019 bid to oust then Mayor Alan Casavant. Then, in 2023, Litalien lost a bid against former Police Chief Roger Beaupre for the Ward Three City Council set.
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Editor’s note:The following is a response that Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain sent to a resident who expressed concerns about this year’s municipal budget.
By Liam LaFountain
Thank you for taking the time to write and for your thoughtful engagement with this year’s city budget. Your questions about affordability, sustainability, and fiscal discipline are essential. I appreciate the opportunity to respond and provide additional context on this year’s proposed budget.
Your recognition of the value that organizations like Heart of Biddeford, McArthur Library, and our food security and cultural institutions bring to the city is deeply appreciated. These organizations stretch every dollar and are actively engaged in fundraising and collaboration. They are not resting on municipal support alone.
For example, Heart of Biddeford, to which the Budget Committee awarded $110,000 this year (a 10% increase from last year), operates on a total budget of $270,500—meaning the City’s share is approximately 41%. In return, they run 16 community events (many spanning multiple days or weeks), manage the Art of Biddeford initiative, conduct business training, and support downtown vibrancy year-round.
Biddeford City Councilor Liam LaFountain
McArthur Library, a private nonprofit that functions as Biddeford’s public library, requested $1.25 million, and the Budget Committee awarded $1 million (a 33% increase from last year). That represents 48% of its $2.081 million annual budget. With 4,825 active cardholders and 6,500 in-person visits each month from Biddeford residents, it remains one of our city’s most widely used public services.
While the library holds a $6 million endowment, it’s my understanding that they are only able to draw down 4–5% annually per the terms of Robert McArthur’s will, and those funds are restricted in their use. I recognize the City’s contribution is substantial, but so is the library’s role in our city’s physical and social infrastructure.
Particularly in times of economic strain, the library’s value as one of the few free and welcoming places to access books, the internet, programming, and essential public services becomes even more critical. Every time I reflect on its role and its municipal funding, I am reminded of both childhood memories of the library and a quote from President Franklin D. Roosevelt: “I have an unshaken conviction that democracy can never be undermined if we maintain our library resources and a national intelligence capable of utilizing them.” With reduced federal and state support for libraries, Biddeford is fortunate to have one so deeply rooted in public service. Without the McArthur Library, Biddeford would need to build, staff, and maintain a municipal library from the ground up—a much more expensive alternative.
On the question of duplication and collaboration in food services, I believe the three food-related nonprofits supported by the City provide distinct, highly targeted services and collaborate extensively:
In-A-Pinch Non-Food Pantry: The Budget Committee awarded $4,500 (18% of their total budget). 100% of funding goes to supplies and services, and there is no paid staff.
Bon Appétit Community Meal Program: the Budget Committee awarded $24,000 (40% of their budget); volunteer-run, serving 26,000 hot meals in 2024—about 92 cents per meal for the City’s contribution.
Youth Full Maine: the Budget Committee awarded $10,000 (3% of their budget), supporting food distributions at Rotary Park and downtown, and direct deliveries to school pantries and teen programs. They served over 600 Biddeford residents last year—about $16 per person served in City funds.
Altogether, the Budget Committee awarded $38,500 to these these three organization and their food security efforts this year. I wish we did not have to allocate a single dollar to these programs. But the alternative—letting people go hungry—is not one I can support.
Biddeford Community Gardens, which the Budget Committee awarded $17,871 (28% of their budget), served over 500 residents in 2024. They operate in city parks and Housing Authority properties, charge no fees (but require a work service component for beneficiaries), and provide Bon Appétit Community Meal Program and Youth Full Maine with fresh produce (another key example of their collaborations). They also collaborate with over a dozen organizations across Biddeford and help maintain and beautify portions of Biddeford parks and public spaces.
Regarding holiday lighting, the Budget Committee awarded $5,000, not $20,000. These funds allow Heart of Biddeford and La Kermesse to install battery-powered lights in areas without electric access, helping create a welcoming winter atmosphere throughout the downtown without drawing on City staff time.
On local history and cultural preservation, the Budget Committee awarded:
$7,875 to the Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center (29% of their budget), which maintains archives and offers year-round programming.
$7,500 to the Biddeford Historical Society (33% of their budget), which maintains our area’s oldest meetinghouse (7 Meetinghouse Road) and several historic cemeteries.
$2,625 to the Biddeford Mills Museum (6% of their budget). The museum is entirely volunteer-run and has no paid staff. In 2024, the Museum logged 1,213 volunteer hours, welcomed 525 museum visitors, led 438 standard tours, 16 special tours, and provided guided educational tours to 418 students about Biddeford’s industrial history.
The Budget Committee awarded $18,000 in total to preserve and promote Biddeford’s history through these three organizations—about 78 cents per resident.
In summary: The Budget Committee received $1,974,957 in funding requests from social service and nonprofit partners and awarded$1,376,486.50—about 69.7% of what was requested. Some requests were partially funded, and others not funded at all.
These awards make up 2.9% of the City’s $47,821,494 municipal appropriation. In contrast, the largest cost drivers of the municipal budget and use of tax dollars remain Public Safety ($14,773,566) and Public Works ( $6,051,410)—with $20,824,976 budgeted this year across Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, sanitation, and city infrastructure. The largest portion of those costs is for salaries and wages for the essential staff who protect public safety, plow and maintain roads, pick up trash, and keep the city’s systems functioning year-round.
On the education side, while the overall budget increased by 5.84%, 4.18% of that growth comes from the School Department. The City’s portion rose 1.44%, and County expenses increased 0.22%. Education costs are rising due to higher wages for teachers and support staff, increased needs for student services, and a sharp reduction in state funding.
With 60% of students economically disadvantaged and 21% qualifying for special education, the state covers just 37% of Biddeford’s total school budget—leaving 63% to local taxpayers. At the same time, Biddeford educates students at a cost of $15,273 per pupil, below the state average of $17,028 and significantly less than South Portland ($19,592) and Saco ($17,347).
That efficiency also means we are investing less per student than many of our peers—not necessarily a point of pride, but a reflection of the financial constraints the School Committee and City Council must navigate. While local taxpayers may experience some relief from lower education spending per student compared to the state average and our peers, the consequences are borne by our students and educators through reduced resources and increased strain. These students are not only learners today—they are the future leaders, workers, and contributors to the strength of this city tomorrow.
Through more than 10 public meetings, several other councilors and I proposed dozens of amendments to the budget to improve efficiency and reduce the tax commitment.
I’d be remiss if I did not also mention that over the past nine weeks, through more than 10 public meetings, several other councilors and I proposed dozens of amendments to the budget to improve efficiency and reduce the tax commitment. Some succeeded—such as reducing expenses for conferences and training, dues and memberships, user licenses, advertising, and cutting a transfer that subsidized the mooring program. Others, like adjusting development-related fees, were partially successful.
Efforts to raise dispatch service fees charged to other municipalities did not gain traction. I also advocated for increased funding for municipal building maintenance and capital investments—a line item that decreased this year despite growing need—but that, too, was not adopted. Unfortunately, the consequence of underfunding this area is often deferred maintenance that becomes more expensive to address later and can disrupt basic services if not resolved in time.
These were difficult calls. None of us entered this process expecting it to be easy. But every amendment offered reflected an attempt to balance long-term responsibility with today’s fiscal realities.
I understand the concern that the continued growth of the city budget is not sustainable for many Biddeford residents. That is why I believe it is critical that both City government and the organizations we support continue to ask tough questions, pursue efficiencies, and seek out alternative funding sources. This year’s process included many of those conversations.
While the final outcome is not perfect, it reflects real attempts to prioritize essential services while holding the line where we could. The choices ahead will continue to be difficult, and the pressure to do more with less is real. But I believe that preserving affordability and maintaining the services that support our city’s well-being are not mutually exclusive goals—both are part of what it means to meet these fiscal challenges head-on.
In closing, thank you again for raising these questions and for participating in this process. Thoughtful public input like yours plays a meaningful role in shaping how our city is governed and funded. I hope the information I’ve shared helps clarify how and why certain allocations were made, even if not everyone agrees with every outcome. I don’t agree with every allocation in this budget either.
I apologize for the length of this reply—it is difficult to capture two months of Budget Committee work, and the many hours of staff time that went into crafting this document. This year’s budget, like everyone I’ve been part of, is imperfect, but it reflects an earnest effort to balance what we value with what we can realistically sustain.
Thank you again for writing. Please reach out at any time.
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BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 