Umaru Balde served for just over a year as the director of the city’s Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office. Although he signed an agreement saying he resigned ‘in good standing,’ he says he now regrets it.
Grace Benninghoff
Staff Writer
Grace covers city hall and Greater Portland for the Press Herald. She previously covered reproductive health for Texas Monthly and served as the local host of All Things Considered at Vermont Public. Before moving to Maine, Grace attended Columbia Journalism School in New York City and spent many years in Colorado and Oregon working in the non-profit sector. When she isn't reporting you can find her trail-running with her dog Loma, practicing her Spanish, surfing, or making pottery.
Posted inMaine, News
Portland councilors split over pace of progress in city’s DEI efforts
In the first workshop from the department, some councilors found the presentation underwhelming and unambitious, while others supported a gradual internal approach to creating diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Posted inMaine
Portland City Council to hold diversity, equity and inclusion workshop
It’s the first time the Council has held a workshop on the topic since the city began DEI work in earnest in 2020.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Business, Maine
Bubba’s Sulky Lounge endures as a beloved Portland institution
The dance club’s owner, Robert ‘Bubba’ Larkin, who was also known for his race horses at Scarborough Downs, has run the joint for nearly 70 years.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Portland wage proposals shot down, won’t be on November ballot
The City Council sent the measures – one to increase the minimum to $20 an hour and the other eliminate the tip credit – to committee, meaning the initiatives won’t go before voters this fall.
Posted inBusiness, Maine
Portland council unanimously approves new restrictions on short-term rentals
The City Council also voted to support a new 6-story, 110-unit affordable housing project on East Oxford Street.
Posted inMaine, News
Munjoy Hill affordable housing up for council vote Monday
The Portland City Council will consider two developments in the city – a new proposal and one that failed to pass in July.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Federal housing voucher program on pause in large swaths of Maine
MaineHousing, which issues one-third of vouchers in the state, and housing authorities in Portland, Westbrook and Brewer have been forced to pause Section 8 vouchers after using up their allotments.
Posted inMaine, News
Tucked away on the slopes of Munjoy Hill, Portland’s largest community orchard is thriving
Mount Joy Orchard, which is open to anyone who wants to harvest fruit, added a wildflower garden, blueberry bushes and American chestnuts this season.
Posted inElection 2024, Maine
Candidates finalized for 3 open seats on Portland City Council this November
With all 3 sitting city councilors relinquishing their seats, local elections have drawn a range of political veterans and newcomers. The November ballot also includes 3 school board seats.