You see it all the time. Whenever elected officials or media outlets use the words “affordable housing,” there is often an almost immediate pushback from people who say those housing units are not really “affordable.” This is especially true in the city of Biddeford, the latest community to join southern Maine’s so-called “gold coast.” Until … Continue reading What is ‘affordable’ housing?
Tag: Liam LaFountain
Biddeford receives ‘troubling report’ about the city’s financial management.
Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman and members of the Biddeford City Council received a blistering report Tuesday from the city’s independent financial auditor, Runyon, Kersteen and Ouellette (RKO). Although Tuesday’s audit presentation focused on the FY 2023 audit -- overdue for more than two years -- it also painted a troubling picture about how the city’s … Continue reading Biddeford receives ‘troubling report’ about the city’s financial management.
Councilor offers inside view of Biddeford’s budget
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. … Continue reading Councilor offers inside view of Biddeford’s budget
Joint budget workshop: ‘A Tough Pill to Swallow’
With a “challenging” budget hanging over their heads, members of the Biddeford City Council and the Biddeford School Committee participated in a joint workshop meeting Monday to examine the proposed budget. Monday’s joint meeting was a rare occurrence that has happened only once before over the past 10 years. “This is an unusual opportunity,” said … Continue reading Joint budget workshop: ‘A Tough Pill to Swallow’
Councilor explains Biddeford budget process
By Liam LaFountain Every year, the city makes difficult choices about where to invest tax dollars — from public safety and road repairs to parks and essential services. Budget season is when those decisions take shape. The city budget is more than numbers — it’s a fiscal statement of what Biddeford values and how much … Continue reading Councilor explains Biddeford budget process
Biddeford struggles with communication
Despite spending a little more than $45,000 last year on upgrades and consulting services, the city of Biddeford is still wrestling to improve its external communication platforms. During almost every public meeting, the city struggles and stumbles as it attempts to allow people to remotely watch or participate in meetings at City Hall. As a … Continue reading Biddeford struggles with communication
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 