Andrew Rice

Staff Writer

Andrew Rice is a staff writer at the Press Herald covering the city of Portland. He's been working in journalism since 2012, joining the Sun Journal in 2017, then the Press Herald in 2026. He lives in Portland with his wife, two daughters and two dogs. In his spare time, he plays guitar in a Portland-based rock band and listens to hockey podcasts. Andrew is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine in Media Studies.

Maine, News

Portland officials begin preparing for another tough budget year

by Andrew Rice February 5, 2026February 6, 2026

City leaders are bracing for a tumultuous 2026-27 budget season after a year in which they had to spend more local money on social services and as property taxes ballooned following a revaluation.

Maine, News

Portland distributed — and collected — more needles than ever in 2025

by Andrew Rice February 4, 2026February 4, 2026

Thanks to the first year of a buyback program, the city saw a collection rate of 86%, its highest since 2022.

Maine, News

Portland City Council urges Gov. Mills to enact 60-day eviction moratorium

by Andrew Rice February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

The council also authorized Mayor Mark Dion to participate on behalf of the city in litigation against immigration enforcement.

Maine, News

Portland property owners who pay no taxes could soon be asked to, voluntarily

by Andrew Rice January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

The city council will consider a Payment-in-Lieu of Taxes program that officials argue could provide relief for residential taxpayers. Opponents say it would weaken nonprofit organizations that are already struggling.

Maine, News

As ICE keeps people home, leaders in Maine brace for evictions

by Andrew Rice January 28, 2026January 29, 2026

During a roundtable with several mayors, Gov. Janet Mills also said she is pressing the Trump administration to provide details on whom ICE has arrested and why.

Maine, News

Susan Collins says ICE operations in Maine, Minnesota should be paused

by Andrew Rice and Randy Billings January 27, 2026January 28, 2026

As Maine’s Republican senator faces increased pressure to speak out, several faith leaders protested outside her Portland office Tuesday, leading to 9 arrests.