Man flashed knife before robbing a convenience store on Spring Street on New Year’s Eve.
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.
Tight market slams door on rent-voucher holders in Portland
The scarcity puts obstacles in the path to stability for the city’s homeless and could cause a drop in federal funding for housing.
Group forming to stand up for tenants in Portland
With the first meeting set for Friday, organizers say they want to advise the city’s inspections task force and empower renters to fight for their rights.
Widow of fire victim, website resolve funds dispute
A GoFundMe site has raised thousands of dollars for Steven Summers’ wife and children, who have yet to see it.
Two months after fatal Portland house fire, a family struggles
The attention focused on the Noyes Street fire slows healing, says Ashley Summers, the widow of the only victim who was married with children.
Portland Co. complex developers hope to cool worries over water views
New plans show no building rising higher than 35 feet above the level of Fore Street.
After Noyes Street fire, Portland may add inspectors for rental units
Landlords may have to register and prove compliance with safety codes, under a recommendation by a special task force.
Two cities to seek court order over state’s delay in General Assistance reimbursements
Portland and Westbrook want DHHS to make long-overdue payments during their lawsuit over a new policy on ‘undocumented’ immigrants.
400-seat performance center on Munjoy Hill clears key hurdle
Portland councilors approve zoning for the project that doesn’t require new off-street parking on the crowded roads.
Portland cites Noyes Street landlord for fire-safety violations at second building
An inspection finds problems at a Dartmouth Street property owned by Gregory Nisbet, whose duplex on Noyes Street caught fire Nov. 1, killing six people.