The City Council makes the program as broad as possible despite questions about how the state will implement a new law on General Assistance.
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, Politics
Portland mayoral race: Challenger Ethan Strimling says a successful leader listens first
The runner-up in the 2011 race, up for a rematch, points to his endorsements in a stated bid ‘to bring people together.’
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Portland mayoral race: Tom MacMillan believes in social justice, bold approaches
The special ed technician has been active on city issues such as the minimum wage, housing conditions, recreational marijuana, Congress Square Park and more.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Portland mayoral race: Incumbent Michael Brennan says he’s one man, trying to make a difference
Although he has clashed with the City Council, the Democrat has built on successes in an era of in-city and statewide challenges.
Posted inElections, Local & State, News, Politics
Candidates divided over Portland mayor’s role as city leader
The three point to differences in style and on issues such as the minimum wage and the handling of assistance to immigrants.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Real Estate
Stakes are high as vote nears on Portland’s scenic-view ordinance
Those opposed to an ordinance protecting city views fear unintended economic impacts. Supporters say it will preserve treasured resources.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Scenic viewpoint ordinance takes up 1½ pages on Portland ballot
Question 2, which would establish a scenic overlay zone over 58 Fore St. and other areas of the city, is included in its entirety.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Portland mayor outlines second-term policy goals
Michael Brennan says his agenda includes economic development, affordable housing and fighting substance abuse.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Developers contribute to oppose citizen-led scenic protection referendum in Portland
Quarterly campaign finance reports, covering July 1 to Sept. 30, show opponents raised $5 for every $1 raised by supporters of Question 2 on Portland’s Nov. 3. ballot.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Real Estate
Developer proposes new hotel near Portland’s eastern waterfront
The AC Hotel by Marriott would be six stories and have 150 rooms, as some wonder if the city is getting perilously close to hospitality oversupply.