The budget assumes the Legislature will not shift $1.3 million in pension costs to the city’s school district.
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.
Portland, school officials clash on budgeting for cutbacks
Mayor Michael Brennan urges schools to ignore proposed cuts in state revenue. Others disagree.
Rental demand in Portland is through the roof
The city hopes to see at least 800 more apartments built as demand forces up rents.
Developers’ goal: Transform Congress Square Plaza
Renovators of a nearby hotel now want to turn city-owned space into an event center and a smaller, friendlier park.
Portland council OKs higher towers for $38 million Bayside project
Miami-based developer Federated Cos. can submit plans for the first of four 15-story towers.
Bluefins lure famed fishing boat captain to Portland
Linda Greenlaw will join anglers on chartered tours chasing one of the world’s most sought-after fish.
Portland music venues become a duet
State Theatre is acquiring Port City Music Hall with plans for renovations and more local music shows.
Portland school budget raises concern
Portland schools want to tap the city’s general fund, which is meant as a reserve for emergencies.
Developer again eyes Congress Square Plaza
The park near the Eastland Hotel is linked to an ‘event center’ plan; critics say preserve and upgrade it instead.
Foes push to keep lid on project in Bayside
Their newspaper ad pressures city councilors to deny a zoning change allowing taller buildings.