local government

Published
May 25, 2022

Our View: Abuse of election workers is an attack on democracy

In Maine and nationwide, municipal clerks are being harassed by people who believe absurd claims about fraudulent voting.
Published
February 23, 2022

Skowhegan board takes symbolic censure vote against selectman over town ethics violations

The Board of Selectmen voted Tuesday to censure board member Harold Bigelow after an investigation last month found that he harassed and made inappropriate comments to town employees.
Published
February 21, 2022

Program brings previously unheard voices to Portland-area transportation boards

The grant-funded transit leadership training program empowers immigrants and others who are affected by transit decisions usually made without their input.
Published
January 27, 2022

Conduct of Skowhegan selectman violated town policies, report finds

A town investigation determined Selectman Harold Bigelow in his interactions with municipal employees and others violated a code of ethics all elected and appointed officials must agree to follow.
Published
January 12, 2022

Brunswick calls on consultant to provide backup on Comprehensive Plan

Brunswick Town Council approved a $50,000 budget for a consultant to aid in updating the town's Comprehensive Plan, which was due in 2020.
Published
December 19, 2021

Jim Fossel: Housing fix would erode Maine tradition of local control

The Legislature should be making it easier for towns and cities to build affordable housing, not forcing projects on them.
Published
December 2, 2021

Charter official: Editorial mischaracterizes our work to close Maine digital divide

We can connect Leeds homes still unserved by broadband at a fraction of the cost of a government-owned network.
Published
November 27, 2021

Maine Voices: Participatory budgeting will give Portlanders more say over where their tax dollars go

The process sets aside a small pot of money for each district and allows that community to democratically decide how to spend it
Published
November 21, 2021

Our View: Local zoning drives high housing costs around Maine

Municipal officials don’t have to answer to the people who can’t afford to live in their community.
Published
November 18, 2021

Commentary: Are public meetings getting stale? How one city is opening them up

By replacing public comment periods with small-group dialogue sessions, Portsmouth, N.H., city councilors are promoting more engagement.