While rent control is criticized for discouraging landlords from improving apartments, it’s being considered in cities around the country.
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
Renters call for Portland to do more to solve housing crisis
Speakers at a hearing tell the City Council’s Housing Committee that Portland should consider measures including rent control, banning no-cause evictions, and prohibiting landlords from refusing to rent to people on housing assistance.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Schools and Education
Portland to repair, upgrade Reiche Elementary School
The city says it will use anticipated and unspent funds to make short-term improvements and remove an outdoor ramp deemed to be unsafe.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland’s housing task force invites tenants to voice concerns today at hearing
The panel already has heard from people involved with the supply side of housing, including developers of market-rate, affordable and low-income housing.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland councilors raise questions about effort to streamline permits
Some are reluctant to remove the council from decisions about the sale of tax-acquired properties.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland considers faster issuance of building permits
The city manager proposes changes in how the city issues routine permits and sells seized property.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Portland bags its ban on snack sales at breweries, but a toast may be premature
Allagash Brewing and others soon will be allowed to offer prepackaged foods in tasting rooms, but officials may require a license and a $500 annual fee.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Call to help remake Portland’s Congress Square draws a heavy response
Two committees will pick finalists from the more than 100 people and firms interested in improving a public space once embroiled in controversy.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Portland City Council to tackle thorny issue: Setting a vision for Maine State Pier
Officials hope for consensus and new revenue from a waterfront asset that lacks tenants after a string of failed proposals.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland board gives popular Forest Gardens bar a reprieve
The building that houses the longtime neighborhood bar, which a developer has proposed razing, is among three that will be considered for local landmark status.