BATH — Although it received city approvals for expansion in 2013, the Plant Memorial Home is now proposing a revised project that addresses neighborhood concerns. The 98-year-old Washington Street retirement community, which sits on a 28-acre riverfront campus, plans to submit its proposal to the Planning Board in August. Its board of directors has approved […]
Forecaster News
Freeport new businesses: From art, antiques to popcorn, pediatrics
FREEPORT — With the arrival of summer and plenty of tourists and shoppers, the town is seeing a surge of new businesses. Eight businesses have opened or will be opening in Freeport by the the end of the month, according to Sande Updegraph, executive director of the Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce, who said new […]
Yarmouth taking steps to link waterfront, downtown
YARMOUTH — The town is looking to establish a tax increment finance district while connecting the village to the waterfront to create a cohesive downtown. Town Manager Nat Tupper said Yarmouth is applying for three TIF districts, one downtown, one on the northern half of Route 1, and one on the southern half of Route […]
Portland budget means 3.1% increase in property tax
PORTLAND — A protracted budget process was climaxed by a marathon meeting, but city spending for fiscal year 2016 was set June 24. The 5-4 City Council vote appropriating $225 million in municipal spending means city property owners will see an overall 3.1 percent property tax increase, from $20 per $1,000 of assessed value to […]
Portland fund to help asylum seekers for 1 year
PORTLAND — Operating details are unclear, but a new city fund will assist immigrant asylum seekers with basic housing, food and medical costs. The $2.63 million Community Support Fund was created June 24 when the City Council approved a $225 million municipal budget for fiscal year 2016. It will prevent an estimated 500 families with […]
Portland School Board plans quick decision on interim superintendent
PORTLAND — The School Board on Tuesday night met behind closed doors to discuss how it will replace Superintendent of Schools Emmanuel Caulk. The board did not reconvene after the executive session, and did not vote or name an interim replacement. Following the meeting, Chairwoman Sarah Thompson said the board expects to appoint an interim […]
After 15-year pause, Falmouth Land Trust seals deal for 62-acre farm
FALMOUTH — For the first time in 15 years, the Falmouth Land Trust has made a new acquisition. FLT closed on the purchase of the Capall Creek Farm property, which is more commonly known as Hurricane Valley Farm, a 62-acre parcel off Gray Road in West Falmouth. Executive Director Analiese Larson said FLT closed on […]
July 4th in Freeport includes parade, concert, fireworks
FREEPORT — Independence Day events start early in the day and end after dark. This year’s Fourth of July celebration will begin at 7 a.m. with a blueberry pancake and sausage breakfast at St. Jude Hall at the corner of Main and School streets. It is scheduled to go until 10 a.m., when the town’s […]
Freeport forum examines farming from a female perspective
FREEPORT — A panel discussion Monday at Wolfe’s Neck Farm had federal officials, politicians, and local farmers talking about challenges women face in farming. U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, led the discussion, which included U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden. Other USDA officials filled Mallet Barn, along with Wolfe’s Neck Farm employees, local […]
Long before the Yarmouth Clam Festival parade passes by
With about two weeks left before the 50th Yarmouth Clam Festival, the first set of parade chairs came out this week on Main Street, part of a town tradition of securing prime viewing position in advance. The parade on Friday night, July 17, will include more than 130 floats, marching bands, vehicles, and entertainers.