After reading the Sept. 6 op-ed “Portland’s minimum wage should not be increased,” I was left with some strong thoughts. I understand where the writer is coming from; protecting and allowing small businesses to flourish should be the priority of every economy. However, I would argue that increasing Portland’s minimum wage would be the most effective way to support these local businesses.

Portland is commonly considered as one of the most expensive cities to live in, not only in Maine but across the entirety of the United States. It costs a lot to live in the city, especially for the area’s ever-growing younger adult population. Consumers in the area do not have a lot of spare money and many struggle just to make ends meet.

A solution to this problem: raising the minimum wage. Giving consumers just a couple of extra dollars every week would stretch a long way in fixing the city’s problems. It would allow renters more freedom to spend money and reinvest in the city’s small business scene. 

Furthermore, having more people spending in the area would attract businesses to take up open spaces in the market. Not only bringing more diversity to the area, but also attracting tourists from all over to see what Portland has to offer.

There truly is no issue with raising the minimum wage. Though it may be seen as a sacrifice for some small businesses to make, the reward of doing so ultimately outweighs the cost.

Joseph Greene
Standish

Correction (Sept. 26, 2025): A previous version of this letter misnamed the writer.