A new ordinance would crack down on abuse of placards.
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
Marijuana question divides Portland delegation
The city’s state representatives and a senator line up for and against the proposal to make marijuana legal in Portland.
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Posted inLocal & State, News
Side by side: Maine marijuana law vs. proposed Portland ordinance
Supporters see passage as a step toward legalization at the state and then national levels.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Congress Square Plaza petition effort on hold until next week
Pending a city appeal, a justice grants a temporary stay until Monday morning.
Posted inLife & Culture, Local & State, News
Anti-marijuana activist wins Portland sign battle
City officials agree to return signs that were removed in response to complaints about a lack of disclosure.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Several lawmakers to endorse legalizing pot in Portland
The local referendum would allow possession of up to 2.5 ounces.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Judge rules against Portland in plaza dispute
The city plans to appeal the ruling, which says Portland shouldn’t have blocked a petition that could prevent the sale of Congress Square Plaza.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Court weighs Portland public’s right to affect plaza sale
A citizens group seeks to save the park – and other open space – with a petition to create a new protective land ordinance.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Opposition to Portland marijuana initiative is emerging
Signs opposing the removal of criminal and civil penalties are beginning to pop up in the city, but the group behind the effort is a mystery.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Portland at-large council contest has donors picking sides
Jon Hinck leads ‘Wells’ Lyons in the money race in their battle for the seat now held by John Anton.