The scaled-down version of Mayor Michael Brennan’s proposal still has to go before the City Council.
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 inBusiness, Local & State, News
Portland’s bag fee goes into effect: Will consumers change their behavior?
Some wonder if the city’s 5-cent charge – small compared to other places – will fulfill its aim to spur use of reusable bags and reduce litter.
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Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland’s search for new city manager becomes urgent
With the impending departure of Sheila Hill-Christian, there’s no natural successor in place.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Turnover leads to calls for Portland to change its government structure again
With another top manager leaving, some city councilors wonder if the job of elected full-time mayor, approved in 2010, causes problems in defining roles.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Environmentalists cheer as Portland prepares to impose bag fee, plastic foam ban
The two new city ordinances take effect Wednesday.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland’s acting city manager leaving post
Sheila Hill-Christian is leaving the top job at City Hall to take a position as assistant city manager in Cincinnati.
Posted inLife & Culture, News
Portland approves Congress Street closure for art walk
The City Council goes along with the June 5 road closure, but wants a better plan to keep traffic and public buses moving.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Mayor wants budget to reflect Portland’s values
Michael Brennan says he doesn’t want city councilors to be swayed by ‘external negative forces.’
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Portland postpones public hearing, vote on waterfront parcel rezoning
Rescheduling for June 1, the city must first recertify its comprehensive plan that guides zoning decisions.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
State to put restaurant inspection data online
A 2013 Telegram investigation has led health safety officials in Maine to join other states that already provide Internet access to health inspection records.