A lack of services and limited hours at the Portland Community Health Center are causing more people to go to hospitals or the India Street clinic, or go untreated, says Preble Street’s director.
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 inLocal & State, News
Short-term rentals and sober houses among concerns in Portland neighborhoods
The committee that’s addressing Portland’s housing crunch hears from representatives of 14 neighborhood groups, who also cite rising costs and rapid changes.
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Portland considers raising age for buying tobacco to 21
Retailers would feel the impact and some are not on board, but several young smokers support the idea.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland mayor and wife file divorce motions
Mayor Ethan Strimling and Mary Beeaker are contesting financial terms.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland council puts off decision on Woodfords Corner street light sculpture
Councilors decide that the delay will give residents of the area time they need to learn about the $25,000 project.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland council approves less lenient handling of tax-acquired properties
The streamlined policy, aimed at returning nearly 100 parcels to the tax rolls, means more homes will be sold and residents can be displaced.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland’s city manager presents budget that would close India Street clinic
The City Council refers the $235.9 million spending plan to the Finance Committee, which is expected to discuss the public health changes on April 14.
Posted inLocal & State, News
City may put tax-acquired properties up for sale
Councilors consider tougher rules, such as no more payment plans after foreclosure and evicting tenants if necessary, for the $12 million in real estate that Portland holds, including an island refuge.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland’s next budget proposes closure of city-run health clinic
The $235.9 million municipal spending proposal, to be unveiled Monday, would transition patients from an India Street clinic to a nonprofit health center on Park Avenue.
Posted inBusiness, Life & Culture, Local & State, News
Portland’s Asylum nightclub plans $9.1 million expansion and renovation
A second story would be added for conferences and events and the club would change its name to Free Street Live.