Public Meetings - Biddeford, Maine

The Biddeford City Council met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. All nine councilors were present, and there were no agenda adjustments. The meeting included a CDBG plan presentation and public hearing, mayoral appointments, public comment, approval of minutes, a parking change, Winterfest approvals, two abatement requests, an institutional zone/university use moratorium, a failed mobile home lot fee moratorium, a council rules change, reports, and an executive session on personnel. Presentations and Public Hearing - Jessica Wilson, Community Development & Grants Manager, presented the five-year CDBG Consolidated Plan and the FY24/FY25 action plans. She stated CDBG funding must primarily benefit low- to moderate-income households at 80% or less of area median income, and described the FY25 allocation of $424,428, proposed uses including $65,000 for housing rehabilitation and $155,000 for MacArthur Library renovations. The public comment period runs through February 17, 2026, with a second public hearing scheduled for that date. - The CDBG public hearing opened and closed at 6:26 PM with no public comments. Appointments - 2026.07 (citizen committee appointments) was approved 8-0-1; Councilor Kurtz abstained because his mother was among the appointees. - 2026.08 (councilor committee appointments) was approved unanimously. - 2026.14 (Institutional Zone ad hoc committee) was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - In the first public comment period, two residents discussed possible ICE activity in Biddeford; one requested a family reporting avenue and a formal petition to the Governor. Another resident spoke in support of MacArthur Public Library's services to people experiencing homelessness. One resident raised public beach access. One resident asked that agenda items 10.e and 10.f be moved earlier; a motion to do so passed 6-3. - On the institutional zone/university use moratorium, three residents spoke in favor and three against. A UNE representative opposed the moratorium, saying UNE's last new building was in 2018, traffic has decreased since the osteopathic medicine college moved to Portland, and UNE does not burden city infrastructure. Representatives of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd also opposed it, saying the moratorium would delay the sale of St. Joseph's Convent and hurt their ability to care for elderly sisters. Other residents supported the moratorium as a needed review of a 20-year-old regulatory framework. - On the mobile home lot fee moratorium, 23 Granite Estates residents were present and five spoke. Residents reported lot fees rising from roughly $350 in 2020, with repeated annual increases of $35-$75, and said new buyers would face about $900 per month in lot rent. Councilor Cote noted fees at Granite Estates rose from $300 to $385 between 2016 and 2022 under the original owner. Two commenters warned of financing costs, investor signals, and unintended consequences of a freeze. The Council voted unanimously to restrict further comments on this item to in-person speakers. - In the second public comment period, one resident reflected on the Council's 'elasticity,' citing a prior decision to waive a developer penalty, and urged equal consideration for all parties. Orders of the Day and Key Votes - Minutes of January 6, 2026 were approved unanimously. - 2026.02, changing two-hour parking to no parking in front of 93 Alfred Street, odd side, for the bus stop, was approved unanimously. - 2026.10, the Winterfest Special Events Application, was approved unanimously. - 2026.09, the Winterfest fee waiver, was approved unanimously; Councilor Beaupre encouraged the organizers to request future funding through the budget process rather than as a waiver. - 2026.12, the abatement for Tax Map 2 Block 5 Lot 5 (Thebarge, 7 Andrews Rd.), was approved unanimously. - 2026.13, the abatement for Tax Map 43 Lot 11 (Dube, 9 Decary Rd.), failed 4-5 after City Assessor Deanne Vail explained the 2021 fire had not been accounted for and the taxpayer requested relief in August 2025. - 2026.11, the Institutional Zone and University Use Moratorium, was approved unanimously after public testimony and council discussion. - 2026.16, the moratorium on mobile home lot fee increases, failed 6-3. Councilors Woods, Kurtz, and Cote voted yes; Councilors Beaupre, Lessard, Vadnais, Boston, Doughty, and Pierson voted no. During discussion, several councilors said 90 days was too short, voiced concern about affecting other mobile home parks, and questioned enforcement; the Mayor was asked to consider an ad hoc committee or policy committee review. - 2026.15, amending Council Rules to broaden employee recognition, was approved unanimously; the second reading was waived so it takes effect in 30 days. Reports and Updates - City Manager Truc Dever announced the city will move from Zoom to Teams for public meetings, starting with the next Policy Committee meeting. She also reported that recruitment for an Economic Development Director will proceed and that the city attorney position discussion was tabled to March. - Dever updated the Council on the IRS penalty for non-filing of Forms 1094-C/1095-C for tax year 2021. The penalty grew to about $700,000; the IRS applied a $200,000 refund, leaving about $500,000. The city is working with Senator Collins' office and hopes for a decision before March. - Councilor Kurtz said he is the new liaison to Heart of Biddeford. Councilor Woods reported on Public Art Commission outreach and an upcoming ordinance. - Councilor Boston noted two new businesses at 2 Main Street will hold ribbon cuttings on Thursday. - Council President Beaupre said the council retreat should have been public and televised, and raised complaints about cannabis odors from businesses. - Mayor LaFountain thanked Public Works for handling 20 storm events this winter and reminded the public about school bus safety. Executive Session - The Council entered executive session at 8:55 PM and exited at 8:59 PM, then extended the meeting past 9:00 PM and entered executive session again from 9:00 PM to 9:33 PM under 1 MRS 405(6)(a) for personnel matters. No votes were taken after returning. The meeting adjourned at 9:33 PM.

The Biddeford City Council held a workshop on January 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. All council members were present except Councillor Lassard, who was excused. The workshop included a TIF 101 presentation by Philip Saucier of Bernstein Shur, a city development overview by City Planner David Galbraith, and a discussion of staffing vacancies and potential organizational changes. TIF 101 Presentation - Philip Saucier, a shareholder and leader of Bernstein Shur's Municipal & Governmental Services Practice Group, explained that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is an economic development tool that captures the increased assessed value of property within a designated district and shelters it from the municipality's state valuation. - TIF districts may be economic development, affordable housing, downtown, transit-oriented, or omnibus districts. Economic development TIFs are approved by the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD); affordable housing TIFs are approved by MaineHousing. - The maximum TIF term is generally 30 years, but the legislature recently allowed a 20-year extension to 50 years when at least 75% of costs in the extension period are attributable to affordable housing or transit-oriented development. The city recently extended its Route 111 TIF to 50 years. - State caps limit TIF acreage: a single district may not exceed 2% of municipal acreage, and all qualifying districts combined may not exceed 5%. Biddeford currently has 227 acres in TIF districts, but 200 acres are excluded as transit-oriented; qualifying TIF acreage is only 0.19% of city acreage versus the 5% cap. Qualifying original assessed value is 0.05% against a 5% valuation cap. - TIF revenues must be used for approved project costs in the TIF development program. Costs fall into three tiers: inside the district, outside but directly related, or anywhere in the municipality for specific statutory uses. Credit enhancement agreements (CEAs) are an optional tool to reimburse developers from increased tax dollars; about 60% of Maine's roughly 400 TIF districts include at least one CEA. - Saucier described the tax shift benefit as the real municipal benefit of TIF: shielding valuation protects state education subsidy, county tax apportionment, and state revenue sharing. For Biddeford, the tax shift benefit was recently estimated at about 55–60%, meaning the city would lose roughly 55 cents per dollar without a TIF. - Saucier reviewed Biddeford's TIF inventory, including CEAs with Adams Point, Marble Block, Riverdam, Route 111, Sacco Lowell, Saxon Lowell, and multiple affordable housing TIFs. He noted the city has room under statutory caps and could adopt local policy guidelines for TIF requests. - In response to council questions, Saucier said TIFs are not available for owner-occupied single-family homes; rental housing can qualify. Developers do not need to consent to having a parcel placed in a TIF. There is no state audit specifically for TIF, but recordkeeping is important because DECD requires actuals during amendments. TIF revenues can pay for economic development salaries and consultants. City Development Overview - David Galbraith, City Planner and Acting Director of Planning, presented an overview of active and pending developments across downtown and western Biddeford. - Downtown highlights: Lincoln Mill redevelopment opened in 2022 with 147 residential units and 35 hotel units; Laconia House in Pepperell Mill Building 11 has 76 market-rate units under construction; Westbrook Development Corporation's two Pearl Street buildings would each have 45 low-income senior housing units, with first-building funding secured; a planning-board-approved lot near the Pearl Street garage includes about 52 units, 5 condominiums, 85 units, and a 154-seat restaurant; the One Diamond project has changed from roughly 480 housing units to about 130 townhouses and will require renegotiation of its development agreement; Adams Point is about 80% complete; Buildings 19 and 20 at the Pepperell Mill were approved in 2025 for 64 rental units; Building 30 at 2 York Street has 11 units under construction; Marble Block added 8 residential units plus commercial uses; and 12 Pearl Street is proposed for about 20 apartments. - Western Biddeford highlights: The Eddy includes 250 workforce housing units, with 116 studio apartments and 134 one-bedroom apartments, off Bear Road; Westbrook Development Corporation's 37 Bear Road project has funding for a 40-unit family building and is expected to start construction in spring; Avesta Housing's 46-unit senior development did not receive funding this year and will reapply for 2026–27; Forest Green Apartments, a proposed 60-unit senior development, did not receive funding but the developer has agreed to pay about $225,000–$250,000 in sewer impact fees plus $750,000 toward pump station upgrades, with the city contributing about $350,000; Divine Capital is building a 216-unit apartment complex at Andrews and Alfred; Chick-fil-A at 222 Bariner Way has preliminary approval for a dual drive-thru; a 195-unit mobile home park at Waterworks Drive is under construction in eight phases, with about $25,000 per phase in impact fees for a future sidewalk; and a 30-lot single-family subdivision is under review near the Biddeford-Kennebunkport-Vernon Pool Complex. - Galbraith warned that sewer capacity in western Biddeford is nearing capacity and will need upgrades as development continues. He also mentioned several smaller projects, including FMI, Popeyes, Mystery Springs, Burger King, a potential parking garage at 41 Main Street, UNE student housing at the St. Joseph Convent, and Biddeford Housing Authority's proposal to convert 25 Adams Street into 10 low-income units. - Councillors asked for a consolidated list of all housing units by type and status, information on which projects have CEAs, and analysis of impacts on city services. Councillor Badney expressed concern that too much housing relative to industrial and commercial development could strain infrastructure. Councillor Woods questioned whether The Eddy actually meets the city's workforce housing definition of 80% of area median income and asked about enforcement. Councillor Kurtz asked about traffic improvements, including a planned Elm Street and Upper Falls Road traffic signal and MDOT presentations; Galbraith said both Westbrook projects received first-phase funding. Councillor Cody asked for usage data on the existing footbridge before considering a second bridge. Councillor Delby expressed frustration with developers changing project scopes after approval, especially One Diamond, and called for accountability and more starter homes. Councillor Pearson asked what staff needs from the council; Galbraith said clear direction, staff involvement in development agreements, and fees for plan changes would help. Staffing Vacancies and Organizational Discussion - The city manager discussed current vacancies: an APAR clerk, a possible in-house city attorney, deputy city manager, deputy director of human resources, economic development director, facilities manager, wastewater treatment plant superintendent, life safety code inspector, and staff engineer. The deputy city manager vacancy was created by Brian Finney's retirement, and the deputy HR recruitment was near conclusion. - Proposed reorganizations included converting the COO title to deputy city manager, using a new facilities manager to absorb day-to-day facility duties, shifting economic development and TIF and joint development agreement coordination into the deputy city manager role, potentially eliminating the economic development director position to fund an assistant planner, and splitting the vacant staff engineer salary to fund a transportation planner or engineer and on-call engineering services. - Council President read written comments from absent Councillor Lassard, who favored more support staff over quasi-management positions, supported succession planning, opposed a deputy HR director, favored a business-development-focused position, and opposed an in-house staff attorney because outside solicitor services already cost more than $100,000 per year and a staff attorney would likely cost more. - Council President said he has full confidence in the city manager and did not want the council micromanaging personnel decisions. Councillor Boston agreed but asked for current and revised org charts and said an economic development director may still be needed. Councillor Pearson argued the city should support existing staff before adding new titles. Councillor Cody supported moving forward on the deputy HR director and favored a city manager proposal. - The city manager noted a compensation and classification study is under consideration; bids are being vetted, with an estimated cost of about $30,000, and it would need finance committee and council approval. - In discussing the in-house city attorney idea, the city manager reported legal services costs of approximately $104,000 in FY23, $105,000 in FY24, and $136,763 in FY25. The proposed salary range tops out at $130,000, not including benefits, and outside counsel would likely still be needed for specialized areas. Councillor Kurtz supported the idea, Councillor Doughty wanted a fuller cost picture including support staff, and Councillor Woods wanted cost details before a decision. Key Outcomes - The council gave direction to advertise for the deputy city manager position, with the job description including some economic development director responsibilities. - Recruitment for the economic development director position was paused pending further discussion by the personnel committee; the council did not support eliminating the position outright. - The in-house city attorney posting was paused until the city manager provides more detailed cost and benefit information, including total compensation and likely ongoing outside counsel needs. - The deputy director of human resources recruitment will move forward, and the facilities manager position is expected to be posted. - The city manager will return with additional organizational and budget information, including org charts and cost data, through the normal personnel, finance, and budget processes. No formal votes were taken; the workshop adjourned after the council discussion.

The Biddeford City Council met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. The meeting opened with a Martin Luther King Jr. Proclamation read by Mayor LaFountain and staffing updates. The council unanimously approved appointments and minutes. Major discussions included a joint Computer Aided Dispatch/Records Management System (CAD/RMS) agreement with Saco, a review of open staff positions, and a proposed strategic restructuring. Consent Calendar - Roll Call: All members present. - Appointments: Unanimous approval of Mayoral Appointments to Council/City Manager committees and Citizens Committees. - Minutes: Unanimous approval of the December 16, 2025 council minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick LaFrance (Ward 5): Congratulated the new council and wished them well. Later, he advocated for city hall to remain open five days a week and questioned the necessity of certain equipment purchases, including a new excavator. - Sterling Roop (Ward 7): Abutter to the York County Judicial Center, expressed frustration over the center's non-compliance with its contract zone and lighting requirements. He called for the city to enforce the contract zone through fines and coordinated action. - Jesse Faber (Ward 7): Abutter to the judicial center, supported Mr. Roop's comments, describing ongoing issues with building lights and urging a resolution. Discussion Items - Second Reading: Council Rules (Item 9.a): The council unanimously approved amended council rules. Councillor Boston thanked those who contributed to the revisions. - Parking Change at 93 Alfred Street (Item 10.a): The council unanimously approved changing two-hour parking to no parking to accommodate the existing bus stop. Councillor Boston asked about the reason; Council President Beaupre explained the traffic committee's review. Councillor Woods requested a review of similar issues at other bus stop locations. - Motorola CAD/RMS MOU (Item 10.b): Police Chief Fisk detailed the need for a new dispatch/records system, as the current system is nearly 30 years old and unsupported. A joint subscription with Saco was recommended after an 18-month search. The annual subscription is $133,500 (locked for 10 years), with additional costs for a fire interface ($13,290) and fiber connection ($2,700 annually, split 50/50 with Saco). Startup costs of $111,000 were previously appropriated in the CIP. Several councilors commended the collaborative effort. The MOU was approved unanimously, pending Saco's ratification. Implementation timeline is 12–18 months. - Public Works Auction (Item 10.c): The council unanimously approved auctioning surplus equipment. Councillor Lessard explained the process; Councillor Boston asked about a generator that was never used. - Adoption of Robert's Rules of Order (Item 10.d): The council unanimously approved adopting Robert's Rules of Order. Councillor Kurtz successfully moved to amend to specify the 12th edition; the amendment and main motion both passed unanimously. - City Manager Report: City Manager Truc Dever provided recruitment updates: the COO position is reposted as Deputy City Manager; new Deputy Finance Director Nate Kolpitz started; the Economic Development Director search is ongoing, with two council volunteers requested for the interview panel. A council workshop is set for January 13. Councillor Lessard requested a detailed staffing update and asked about the process for posting and changing job descriptions. - Committee Updates: Councilor Beaupre announced Veterans Committee meeting Jan 26 at 4:30 PM, Policy Committee Jan 26 at 6:00 PM, and Traffic Committee Jan 27 at 6:00 PM. - Mayor's Address: Mayor LaFountain thanked Brian Phinney for his service, highlighted Age Friendly Biddeford's need for volunteer drivers, and noted the Recreation Commission is seeking a council liaison. He also mentioned the opportunity to review open positions. - Staffing Structure Discussion: Council President Beaupre proposed a committee-of-the-whole discussion to review open positions (Deputy City Manager, Economic Development Director, Facilities Manager, HR Deputy Director) to consider potential restructuring. After discussion about process and concerns about halting the HR Deputy recruitment (in final stages), it was agreed to add the topic to the January 13 workshop agenda. Key Outcomes - Approvals (all unanimous): - Appointments to committees - Council meeting minutes (Dec 16, 2025) - Amended Council Rules - Parking change at 93 Alfred Street - Motorola CAD/RMS MOU (joint with Saco) - Public Works auction items - Adoption of Robert's Rules of Order, 12th edition - Directives: - Staffing structure discussion placed on the January 13 workshop agenda. - Council volunteers (Woods, Doughty, Boston, and others) for the Economic Development Director search committee. - Councillor Woods requested a citywide review of parking at bus stops. - Executive Sessions: - Entered at 7:04 PM for hardship abatement (36 M.R.S. § 841); exited at 7:09 PM; approved a confidential document from the City Solicitor. - Entered at 7:09 PM for legal matters and personnel matters; exited at 7:45 PM. No votes taken. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:45 PM.

The City Council of Biddeford met on December 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. The meeting covered appointments, a proclamation, presentations on recreation bond engagement and the Eastern Fire/EMS substation, public comments, approval of equipment purchases, adoption of council rules, and establishment of an institutional zone review committee. The council concluded with an executive session and adjourned at 9:57 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved liquor license for Ichibau Japanese Restaurant (public hearing held with no comments, unanimous vote). - Confirmed mayoral appointments: City Manager to PACTS, citizen committee members (Talia Kowalski, Patrick Mamoris, Kenneth Griffin, John McCurry), and City Solicitor Harry B. Center (unanimous). - Approved council nomination of Councilor Roger Beaupre as City Council President (unanimous roll call). - Approved mayoral appointments of councilors to committees (Finance, Personnel, Policy, Capital Projects, Traffic, among others). - Approved minutes of November 18 and December 1, 2025 (unanimous). - Approved second reading of Code of Ethics ordinance (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Kayla Lewis (Ward 3) expressed hope for transparency, accountability, and rigorous, data-driven decision-making. - Sam P. Corps (Ward 7) requested advanced posting of presentation materials and urged leveraging Efficiency Maine incentives for recreation bond projects (e.g., HVAC, lighting). - A citizen (unnamed) criticized city officials for failing to respond to documented allegations of discrimination and retaliation; requested a formal response. - Mark Robinson (Ward 1) urged the council to address high property tax increases and adopt a more strategic, data-focused approach. - After a motion to suspend council rules (passed 6-3), citizens spoke on the recreation bond presentation: - Juliana Dismasso (recreation commission) advocated for strategic, accessible investments beyond basic maintenance. - Holly Cullaton (Ward 6) suggested incorporating solar panels and natural materials, and revisiting existing park design plans to save costs. - John Collins (Ward 6) argued for prioritizing the skate park, noting that its removal led to user loss. - In the second public addressing (5-minute limit): - Mark Robinson commended the city’s lawsuit against the Saco River Corridor Commission and cited historical meeting minutes showing UNE’s commitment to a 250-foot no-development buffer. - Sam P. Corps supported Councilor Cody’s call for lifecycle cost analysis on major purchases and questioned the city’s inventory of over 100 owned parcels. - Richard Grahams (Ward 3) argued that development does not necessarily lower taxes and urged comprehensive fiscal impact studies. Discussion Items Recreation Bond Public Engagement Plan Recreation Director Lisa Thompson presented a plan to engage the public on spending the $6 million general obligation bond approved in November 2025. Needs were outlined for multiple facilities, including Biddeford Ice Arena (new Zamboni, bleachers, ice rink floor repairs) and Westbrook Skating Rink (exterior concrete dam issues, interior upgrades). Councilors discussed engagement methods, timing, coordination with LWCF and Maine Trails grants, and the need for clear priorities. Councilor Lessard suggested focusing on desired recreation outcomes rather than specific locations. Councilor Boston asked about including cost estimates in public surveys. No decisions were made; staff will report back. Eastern Fire/EMS Substation Phase 1-B Land Due Diligence Fire Chief Larry Best provided an update, emphasizing no action was requested at this time. He reviewed the project’s history, response-time goals (under 6 minutes, 90% standard), and due diligence on 16 Old Pool Road (preferred site), which found the site buildable with some wetland impacts. Councilors Cody, Vadnais, and Lessard expressed concerns about spending $150,000 on due diligence without owning the land, losing negotiating leverage, and the need for alternatives such as the Biddeford Pool station. Chief Best acknowledged these concerns and will explore interim options. Public Works Equipment Purchases The council considered two capital purchases: a loader/plow ($124,238) and a mini excavator. Public Works Director Demers explained the loader would replace a 19-year-old unit essential for winter operations and flare mowing; the excavator would increase in-house capacity. Funding came from reallocating CIP cash options and trade-ins. Councilor Cody opposed both due to the lack of a comprehensive, citywide needs assessment. Councilor Lessard and others supported the purchases, citing equipment age, winter urgency, and the competitive SourceWell bidding process. The loader/plow passed 8-1 (Councilor Cote opposed). The mini excavator passed 6-3 (Councilors Boston, Cote, and Pierson opposed). Second readings were waived (loader: 8-1, mini excavator: 7-2). Council Rules Approved unanimously without debate. Institutional Zone Review Committee The council voted unanimously to establish a committee to review the Institutional Zone ordinance governing UNE development. Ed Slavone (UNE) requested adding UNE and Hills Beach Association representatives and considering Ward 1 Councilor Boston due to her historical knowledge. Public speakers supported the initiative. Councilor Boston noted the need to clarify and streamline the language. The committee will include four resident members; applications will be opened. Key Outcomes - Liquor license, appointments, minutes, and Code of Ethics approved unanimously. - Recreation bond engagement plan presented; council will guide the public input process. - Fire substation update received; no action taken; chief to further evaluate interim use of Biddeford Pool station. - PW loader/plow and mini excavator purchases approved (8-1 and 6-3). - Council Rules adopted unanimously. - Institutional Zone Review Committee established unanimously. - Meeting extended past 9:00 PM. - Executive session conducted (real estate and legal matters) from 9:05 to 9:57 PM. - Meeting adjourned at 9:57 PM.

The City of Biddeford held its 153rd inauguration on December 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Although the event was scheduled for City Theater at 205 Main St., inclement weather forced the ceremony to be held virtually via Zoom. City Manager Truck Deaver welcomed attendees, and City Clerk Robin Patterson administered the oaths of office to the newly elected School Committee, City Council, and Mayor Liam LaFountain. Oaths of Office - School Committee members sworn in: Megan Desjardin, Karen Ruell, Timothy Stebbins, Michelle Landry, Amy Clearwater, Marie Potman, and Emily Henley. - City Council members sworn in by ward: Patricia Boston (Ward 1), Abigail Woods (Ward 2), Roger P. Bopra (Ward 3), Dylan Dowdy (Ward 4), David Kurtz (Ward 5), Jacob Pearson (Ward 6), Brad Cody (Ward 7), Lisa Vadnes (At Large), and Mark Lesard (At Large). - Mayor: Liam LaFountain was sworn in as Mayor. - Each official swore to support the U.S. Constitution, the Maine Constitution, and the Biddeford Charter and ordinances, and to faithfully perform the duties of their office. Mayor's Address - Mayor LaFountain acknowledged the unusual virtual format but said the commitment to the city remains the same. - He congratulated the School Committee and City Council and thanked city staff, board and commission members, and residents. - He identified priorities for the coming term: housing, affordability, strong schools, responsible finances, infrastructure demands, and parks, fields, and public spaces. - He pledged to govern with accountability, transparency, and a focus on the long-term interests of Biddeford. Key Outcomes - All newly elected officials were officially sworn in for two-year terms. - The ceremony concluded with no additional business, votes, or public comment. City staff indicated they would follow up if another event is planned.

December 1, 2025, 5:30 PM (via Zoom) The Biddeford City Council met via Zoom on December 1, 2025, for a brief special meeting with a single agenda item: approval of the three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Biddeford Police Department. The meeting included a roll call, pledge of allegiance, public comment period, and final vote, followed by remarks thanking city staff and recognizing a fallen officer. Roll Call & Attendance - Present: Council President LaFountain, Councilors Whiting, Belanger, Gross, Emhiser, Beaupre (joined shortly after start) - Excused: Councilors Lessard, St. Cyr, Doughty Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public raised their hands or offered comments during the designated period. Discussion Items - Item 3.a – 2025.163: Approval of Biddeford Police Department Collective Bargaining Agreement (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028) - Councilor Beaupre moved approval; Councilor Emhiser seconded. - After no public comments, councilors expressed appreciation for the work of city staff (Alyssa, Diana, Joanne) and Police Chief in negotiating the contract. Councilor Emhiser noted the fire department contract was smoother, and thanked staff for their efforts through all three contracts (police, fire, public works). Council President LaFountain highlighted that the agreements provide stability and predictability and demonstrate council respect for city departments. - A moment was taken to remember Officer Walterpick, who died one year prior on December 12, and to extend condolences to his family. Key Outcomes - Vote: Unanimous in favor (all present councilors voted yes). Motion passed. - Meeting adjourned at 5:39 PM on a motion by Councilor Beaupre, seconded by Councilor Emhiser, with a unanimous vote. - The approved agreement covers the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, for the Biddeford Police Department.

The Biddeford City Council met on November 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. The meeting included a public hearing on a liquor license, a presentation from the Sustainability Commission, consideration of a limited parking ordinance on Lester B. Orcutt Boulevard, and votes on several orders including city hall hours and a code of ethics amendment. The council also tabled a fire ambulance purchase to a future meeting and entered executive session for personnel, real estate, and labor negotiations. Public Hearing & Liquor License Consideration - 4.a The Velvet Lounge Liquor License: The public hearing was opened at 6:02 PM and closed at 6:03 PM with no public comments. The council then unanimously approved the liquor license (motion by Councilor Belanger, second by Councilor Lessard). Presentation - 6.a Sustainability Commission Report to Council: Commission Chair Will Katitsky presented the commission's work, noting that greenhouse gas emissions rose from 240,000 metric tons in 2019 to 258,000 metric tons in 2023, with transportation accounting for about 49% of emissions. The goal of 62.6% reduction by 2030 (to 150,000 metric tons) is not on track. Commissioner Patrick Conlin highlighted bike initiatives including a bike rack inventory map and planned bike-ped plan. Councilors discussed the need for cost-benefit analysis and focused on local actions like solar and landscaping ordinances. The commission reported that a large federal grant for climate work was not awarded and was later rescinded for others. Appointments - 7.a 2025.162 Approval/Mayoral Appointments to Committees—Citizen: The council unanimously approved the appointments of Catherine Mayo to the Historic Preservation Commission and Emily McAuley as a student representative to the Sustainability Commission. Public Comments (First Period) - Shelley McNeil (1 Bear Run Road) thanked outgoing councilors, especially Councilor Emheiser of Ward 1, for their service. Consideration of Minutes - 9.a Council Minutes 11-6-25: Approved unanimously. Second Reading - 10.a 2025.159 Limited Parking Lester B. Orcutt Blvd.: The order proposed restricting parking on 130 feet of the street (approx. 6-7 spots) for safety. Councilor Lessard moved to amend the order to require the city to remove all rocks and barriers in the right-of-way for the first 1,000 feet from Ocean Avenue, but after discussion with the Public Works Director, the amendment was withdrawn. Councilors debated access, safety, and alternative parking. Councilor Belanger suggested creating a map of available parking. The order passed 5-4 (yeas: St. Cyr, Beaupre, Whiting, Emhiser, Belanger; nays: LaFountain, Lessard, Gross, Doughty). The city manager and public works director will develop a public engagement plan for right-of-way enforcement. Orders of the Day - 11.a 2025.163 Approval Police Department Contract: Moved to a future meeting. - 11.b 2025.155 Approval of Change to City Hall Hours: The proposal to set consistent hours of 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM was debated. Several citizens (Abigail Woods, Ward 2; Max Zakyan) supported considering staff needs and flexibility. Councilors expressed concerns about reduced access for working residents. The motion failed 0-9, with councilors noting the issue should be taken up by the next council with more public input. Councilor Beaupre recommended defeating rather than tabling to allow a fresh start. - 11.c 2025.161 Approval/Code of Ordinances, Ch. 2, Art 1, Sec. 2-3 Code of Ethics: The policy committee's revisions introduced a graduated disciplinary process for ethics violations. Multiple amendments were adopted. Councilor Lessard's amendment struck the phrase "shall listen to all citizens" from the introduction. Councilor Whiting's amendments added "alleged" to violation language, added "as elected or appointed officials" after recognition of authority, replaced "making decisions" with "stating a position in any quasi-judicial setting," and clarified language about rules and regulations. All amendments passed (most unanimously, with one amendment passing 8-1). The ordinance as amended passed unanimously. - 11.d 2025.146 Approval To Sign Contract To Place The Order To Purchase A New Fire Department Tower Truck: No motion was made or seconded; the item was not discussed. - 11.e 2025.145 Approval To Sign Contract To Place The Order To Purchase A New Fire Department Ambulance: Fire Chief Best explained the need due to long lead times (30-36 months) and a 2013 truck with 150,000 miles. Several citizens (Brad Cody, Ken Griffin, Sam Picker) questioned the timing, funding, and lack of detailed cost information. Councilors expressed reluctance to commit the next council to a large expense. Councilor Belanger moved to table to the first meeting after inauguration (December 16, 2025). The motion passed unanimously. - 11.f 2025.164 Approval/Appoint Finance Director as Treasurer for City: Unanimously approved after confirming Director Mathern is already bonded. Public Comments (Second Period) - Abigail Woods (Ward 2) thanked the outgoing council. Ken Griffin (Ward 7) suggested that the city install survey stakes to mark right-of-way boundaries before clearing rocks on Lester B. Orcutt Boulevard. City Manager Report - City Manager Dever thanked the council for their service and support and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Committee Updates - Council President LaFountain announced cancellation of the December CIP meeting and other committee meetings lacking a quorum between the Dec. 2 inauguration and Dec. 16 meeting. Council President & Mayor Remarks - Council President LaFountain and Mayor Grohman thanked the council for their work over the past two years. Mayor Grohman expressed optimism for the future. Executive Session - The council entered executive session at 8:12 PM under 1 M.R.S. § 405(6)(a) (Personnel Matters), (c) (Real Estate Matters), and (d) (Labor Negotiations). They exited at 9:37 PM. All votes to enter and exit were unanimous. No action was taken following executive session. Key Outcomes - Approved: Velvet Lounge liquor license, mayoral appointments, code of ethics (as amended), appointment of finance director as treasurer, and limited parking on Lester B. Orcutt Blvd. (5-4). - Defeated: Change to City Hall hours (0-9). - Tabled: Fire department ambulance purchase to December 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous). - No Action: Fire tower truck purchase (no motion). - Directives: City manager and public works to develop a plan for public engagement and right-of-way enforcement on Lester B. Orcutt Blvd.; future council to address city hall hours and ambulance purchase. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 PM.

The Biddeford City Council met at 6:00 PM on November 6, 2025, in City Hall Council Chambers and via Zoom. Mayor Grohman presided. The agenda included fire department promotions, an Extra Mile Day proclamation, a financial strategic plan, a City Hall hours discussion, a Comprehensive Plan update, public comment, several orders, and an executive session. The meeting adjourned at 10:35 PM. Consent Calendar - Mayoral appointment (2025.152): Council unanimously approved a citizen appointment to the Traffic Committee. - Council Minutes of October 21, 2025: Approved unanimously. - Conservation options for tax-acquired South Street property (2025.154): Council unanimously approved the recommendation and directed City Solicitor Harry Center to prepare a restrictive covenant limiting the property to conservation use and restricting building construction. - Resolution on Attorney General decision regarding UNE Pier (2025.156): Approved unanimously. The City Solicitor requested an executive session on related real estate matters. - Ad Hoc Veterans Committee extension (2025.158): Council unanimously extended the committee through June 30, 2026, so the Policy Committee could consider making it permanent. Fire Department Promotions and Proclamation - Fire Chief Lawrence Best presided over promotions and badge-pinning for Deputy Chief/Paramedic Steve Kiesman, Captain/Paramedic Steven Szostek, and Lieutenant/Paramedic Alexander Dorow. The Chief said the department had hired 14 new firefighters and promoted nine officers over the previous two years, with only one firefighter vacancy remaining. - Mayor Grohman proclaimed November 1, 2025, as “Extra Mile Day 2025.” Presentations Financial Strategic Plan - Finance Director Gerry Matherne described a legacy of incomplete audits, unreconciled accounts, unrecorded revenue, and staff turnover. He said the FY23 audit was completed in April 2025 with outside help, the FY24 audit was in progress, and the FY25 audit was expected to run from January to early spring 2026. - He noted the sewer billing conversion to Maine Water occurred in November 2025 after delays and referenced about $700,000 in sewer billings. He also reported that airport leases had been invoiced for two years and that his department wanted to add a staff accountant. - Councilor St. Cyr called for a multi-year financial model and questioned duplication between city and school finance operations. Councilor Lessard said roughly 80% of staff receiving planned 4% raises would add about 3.2% to taxes, and with recent bonds the increase could reach about 5.5%, calling that unsustainable. President LaFountain asked about audit schedules. City Hall Hours - City Manager Dever recommended changing City Hall hours to a consistent Monday–Thursday schedule of 7:30 AM–4:30 PM, effective after the new year. Current hours are Monday/Tuesday 7:00 AM–5:00 PM and Wednesday/Thursday 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, with Friday closed. - An employee survey found 50% support for the current schedule and 50% support for a revised schedule, according to Dever. No citizen survey was conducted. - Council discussion was mixed: some favored consistent hours, while others questioned public outreach, data on retention/recruitment, and the cost of expanded service. No vote was taken; the City Manager said he could return with an order. 2023 Comprehensive Plan Update - Assistant Planner Adi Iriqat presented a timeline showing the plan was adopted in June 2023, first submitted to the state in September 2023, rejected as incomplete, resubmitted, and then stalled until a July 29, 2025 resubmission. The state accepted it for full review in September 2025. - The state identified missing natural resources, water resources, and existing land use chapters. Thirteen citizens reviewed the plan. Staff recommended completing the missing work and resubmitting by February 2026, while immediately planning a new comprehensive plan; a consultant-driven update could cost about $125,000. Staff noted the state data could be used only through April 2026. - Council members asked about growth/non-growth maps, amendments, and possible extensions. Staff said an extension was possible if the city was actively working with the state. No formal decision was made, and the Committee of the Whole discussion was skipped after earlier discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Brad Cody (Ward 7) thanked staff but said it was disappointing when Council decisions lacked supporting data. - A resident questioned Fire Department spending and suggested the city buy a cheaper used boat rather than spend around $104,000 on a new marine unit. - Patrick Conlin (Ward 3) requested bike lane symbols and no-parking signs on Hill Street. City Manager Dever said Public Works planned to paint the bike paths in the spring. - During discussion of the South Street conservation item, Peter Robbins (Ward 1, Conservation Commission) supported the covenant but asked that the property not be sold. - During the second comment period, a resident criticized taxpayer-supported affordable housing and tax breaks for large corporations, saying tax incentives had increased his tax bill. - A resident reported the election-day food drive collected nearly 1,700 donations. - Patrick Conlin publicized “Cranksgiving,” a bicycle-based food drive for pantries on November 22. - Randy Seaver (Ward 7) reported that the city broke a 30-year turnout record with 43% voter turnout, up from 30.1% in the 2023 municipal election. Orders of the Day - Fire Department Marine Unit bid/sale (2025.153): No action; tabled by the Finance Committee. - Staff Accountant for Finance Department (2025.157): Approved 7–2. Councilors Lessard and St. Cyr opposed, citing tax pressure and the possibility of finding efficiencies; supporters noted past audit failures and about $500,000 spent on outside financial help. A former council member, Mr. Emerson, spoke in favor, saying the finance department had been under-resourced for years. - Limited Parking on Lester B. Orcutt Boulevard (2025.159): Approved 6–3. Council President LaFountain, Councilor Lessard, and Councilor Gross opposed. Supporters cited pedestrian and emergency-vehicle safety; opponents argued it reduced public access and parking. City Manager Report and Committee Updates - City Manager Dever thanked election staff and reported that voters passed two bonds and a Charter Commission revision. Public engagement on recreation priorities would follow; nomination papers for the June 9, 2026 election would be available in March. - Dever highlighted General Assistance workload: 35 eligible rental assistance cases, 13 preventing immediate homelessness, and 7 electricity disconnection cases involving families. The school backpack program reaches 1,545 students amid the SNAP shortfall. - Maine Water took over sewer billing on November 1, 2025; residents were being mailed information. - Construction updates: Elm Street completion moved to November 20; the ocean wall section from Maddox Pond Road to the tennis courts was complete; the next section was expected in 30–45 days; Alfred Street CSO work would go to bid in February. - Councilor Belanger reported the Policy Committee was finalizing revisions to ethics rules and disciplinary processes for boards and commissions. Closing Remarks and Executive Session - Council President LaFountain thanked the City Clerk and election workers. - Mayor Grohman apologized for negative comments during the campaign and congratulated Mayor-Elect LaFountain. He also encouraged public participation in food distribution. - The Council unanimously voted to enter executive session at 8:34 PM under 1 M.R.S. §405(6)(c), (d), and (a) for real estate, labor negotiations, and employee compensation. A request to allow incoming elected officials to attend was not permitted because they had not yet been sworn in. The Council exited executive session at 10:35 PM and unanimously adjourned.

This General Meeting of the Citizens, held pursuant to the Biddeford City Charter on October 23, 2025, was convened to address public concerns over the permitting process and proposed location of the University of New England's (UNE) research pier. Dozens of residents and stakeholders voiced frustration over the removal of local Harbormasters from the approval process, the bypassing of city ordinances, and a perceived lack of transparency and local knowledge in decision-making. The meeting was moderated by citizens' moderator Craig Pendleton, who noted that the City Council had no regulatory authority over the project at this stage. Public Comments & Testimony - Wade: Expressed sadness over a missed opportunity. Described how, in 2015, former Harbormaster Marshall Alexander reviewed UNE's plans and suggested a better location with deeper water. He argued the subsequent removal of the current Harbormaster (Alexander's former assistant) by the former City Manager for alleged bias was unjust, as the Harbormaster was acting on expert local knowledge. - Carol Alexander (Ward 1): Provided a detailed timeline, stating the removal of the Harbormaster and his assistant was an "egregious abuse of power" by the former City Manager. She characterized the replacement Harbormaster as a "faux harbormaster" who met none of the criteria (residency, experience, training). She argued the permitting process was run in reverse, bypassing required local Harbormaster approval, and called for the process to restart from "square one." - Steve Martin (45 Western Ave): Contended that the City Manager violated the City Charter by removing the Harbormaster, arguing the Charter dictates the Harbormaster answers only to the City Council. He stated the pro tem Harbormaster did not meet state law (Title 38 1A) training requirements or city residency criteria. He called the process a "railroad job" and favored starting over. - Sean Tibbetts (Mooring holder): Stated his mooring is directly affected by the proposed location. He argued that at least seven moorings would need to be relocated, not the two publicly cited, for the pier to be functional. He noted that no local Harbormasters (from Biddeford or Saco) were consulted. - Ken Bicks (Ward 1): Criticized the Planning Board process, alleging the City Solicitor improperly directed the board on what they could not consider (such as tides, setbacks, and mooring interference). He described this as intimidating and biased, and noted the chair cast the deciding vote after a tie. - Diane LaRivier (Pool St): Identified as the wife of the current Harbormaster. She requested the entire process be restarted with her husband included as the legal expert. - Joe Emmons (Ward 1): Suggested city ordinances may need revision to prevent a single individual (the City Manager) from making such impactful decisions. He questioned how the UNE pier benefits Biddeford citizens, noting UNE is a non-profit institution that does not pay property taxes. - UNE Alumna (Class of 2008): Expressed personal frustration, contrasting UNE's environmental curriculum with its past project impacts (wetlands, light/sound pollution). She argued the proposed pier disregards expert opinion and will undermine the marine ecosystem and local navigation. - Kyle Noble (Ward 1, Hills Beach Rd): Presented a detailed timeline. He stated UNE threatened a lawsuit in February 2024 if an alternate location was approved. He argued that UNE's environmental assessment misrepresented the Harbormaster's recommended pier and that the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) failed to require a proper alternatives analysis. He called for a return to "square one" for a genuine alternatives analysis. - Mark Johnson (River resident/mooring holder): Argued the removal of the local Harbormaster sets a dangerous precedent, allowing any applicant to seek a more favorable reviewer. He questioned the public benefit of the project to Biddeford. He supported a pier but insisted the decision on location must rest with the Harbormaster. - Gary McMullan (Old Pool Road): Recounted the City Solicitor informing the Planning Board that courts would likely overturn a denial. He read from 2001 Saco River Corridor Commission (SRCC) minutes showing UNE committed to a 250-foot no-development buffer from the river, which he argued was overlooked in the current process. He called on the city to "correct course." - Sam Picor (Ward 7): Criticized the City Council for failing to add a discussion item on the pier to a recent agenda (October 21), calling it evidence of a "broken process." He urged the Council to find a quick resolution. - Walter Alexander (Ward 1): Son of former Harbormaster Marshall Alexander. He detailed the timeline: the alternate site offered in 2015/16, the wait for his father's resignation, and the sidelining of the current HM. He noted UNE's payment in lieu of taxes doubled to $100,000 in the same period. He called the process "suspicious" and argued the pro tem Harbormaster lacked required state-mandated training. - Jim Emerson (Pool Road): Emphasized the critical importance of local knowledge, citing previous city projects (a wind turbine, flood maps) that failed due to reliance on consultants over local experts. He advised the Council to be more proactive in their wards. - Chris Stone (Ward 1, Hills Beach Rd): Argued the City Council should have intervened sooner. He stated the city's Master Plan is "broken," notably missing the 250-foot buffer zone from its maps, and called for a full review of the system. - John McCurry (Ward 2): Noted all three mayoral candidates agreed the process was flawed. He reminded the Council that the Harbormaster's stated duty is to ensure "equal access for all" on the river. Key Outcomes - No Formal Action: The meeting was a public forum under the City Charter. No formal votes, motions, or decisions were made by the City Council. - Consensus on Process Failure: A strong majority of speakers agreed the permitting process was fundamentally broken, calling for it to be restarted from the beginning with local Harbormaster involvement. - Calls for Systemic Review: Multiple residents urged the City Council to review and revise the Master Plan and city ordinances to ensure local knowledge is respected and proper procedures are followed in future developments. - Next Step Identified: The upcoming Zoning Board of Appeals hearing, scheduled for November 13, was identified as the next formal opportunity for review of the project.