One proposal maintains emergency aid, while another looks to increase economic opportunities.
Randy Billings
Staff Writer
Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been the State House bureau chief since 2021. He was named the Maine Press Association’s Journalist of the Year in 2020. He joined the Press Herald in 2012 as the Portland City Hall reporter, where his beat touched on a wide range of topics, including municipal government, immigration, homelessness, housing and social services. Prior to that, he worked at various weeklies as well as business and arts publications. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine, Orono. He lives in North Yarmouth with his wife and two children and enjoys the outdoors and playing his upright bass.
Posted inMaine, News
Portland to continue providing General Assistance to most immigrants
People who haven’t applied for asylum yet can still get the benefits, but the cost will be picked up by local taxpayers and not reimbursed by the state.
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Posted inMaine, News
Portland city manager in line for raise of nearly $18,500 a year
The proposed 12 percent increase is a vote of confidence for Jon Jennings, who has been at odds with the mayor.
Posted inMaine
Design concepts for Portland’s Congress Square to be unveiled today
An artist and a design company will incorporate public feedback into final designs to be released in the spring.
Posted inLife & Culture, Maine, News
Portland council to consider public feedback as concert series seeks return to Maine State Pier
The promoter says he plans changes to address noise complaints by residents of Portland, South Portland and even Falmouth.
Posted inMaine, News
Portland Planning Board to vote on 54-unit apartment building in West Bayside
After a public hearing, the panel will consider approval of the seven-story building next to the Chestnut Street parking garage
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Three more buildings planned for India Street block
The mixed-use structures would be bounded by India, Fore, Thames and Hancock streets, and join an upscale hotel already approved for the site.
Posted inMaine, News
City’s preservation board wants Portland Co. plan altered
It votes to eliminate up to 12 townhouses on top of historic buildings to retain public views into the complex.
Posted inMaine, News
High court upholds Portland’s approval of senior housing on Stevens Avenue
The Maine Supreme Judicial Court rejects an argument that zoning to allow more than 200 units of housing at a former convent violates the city’s master plan.
Posted inMaine, News
Internal records reveal extent of ongoing power struggle in Portland city government
As the mayor pushed for more authority, the city manager fought back in a heated battle that has dragged on for a year. Even a $21,000 outside opinion didn’t end the conflict over interpretations of roles defined in the city charter.