Public Meetings - Saco, Maine

The Saco City Council met on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. with all councilors present except Councillor Berman (excused). Deputy City Administrator Emily Prescott was in attendance. The meeting included public comments, action items on funding procedures, general assistance, street acceptance, and contract zones, an administrative update, council announcements, and an executive session. Public Comments & Testimony - Inga Brown (161 Simpson Road) commented on the contract zone resolution (Action Item D) and the executive session (Item 10). She agreed with letters from Michael Dalum and Kelly Archer, requesting edits to the resolution and emphasizing the need for full public review of individual contract zones. She also urged the council to remain clear-eyed regarding the intercreditor agreement with the ecology school, calling the process a folly and problematic since the start. - A second speaker (name not stated) reiterated concerns about contract zones, asking for answers to detailed questions about the status of pre-existing agreements, code enforcement review, and compliance. She also urged the council not to enter the intercreditor agreement and referenced documents she had sent to the council. Discussion Items - Action Item A – Supported Entities Request Procedure (Update): Councillor Hatch moved to approve the standard application form, but after noting that comments from Councillors Berman and Parks had not yet been incorporated, he moved to table the item to the November 24, 2025 meeting. The council voted 5-0 to table. - Action Item B – Final Reading: Amendments to Chapter 112 (General Assistance Appendices): Councillor Edwards presented the annual updates from the Maine Municipal Association. The council voted 5-0 to approve the second and final reading. - Action Item C – Street Acceptance for Amari Court and Dupey Drive (Amari Springs Subdivision): Councillor Parks moved to remove the item from the table (tabled on October 20, 2025). The council voted 5-0 to untable and then approved the street acceptance motion 5-0 after confirming the punch list was completed. - Action Item D – One Reading: Resolution Regarding Pre-January 2021 Contract Zones: Councillor Hatch made a statement defending the process and staff against public accusations of muzzling, then moved to table the resolution to the November 24, 2025 meeting to allow for further review of public emails. The council voted 5-0 to table. Administrative Update - Deputy City Administrator Prescott reported that Saco Schools opened bids for the new primary and elementary school construction (approved by 74% of voters in June 2024, with 72% state funding). A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for December 4, 2025 at 11 a.m. - The Saco Food Drive will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) at three locations, benefiting the Saco Food Pantry and Meals Program. - The Age-Friendly Saco sand buckets for seniors program is underway; drop-offs and pickups are available for residents 65+. - The Veterans Day Parade (November 11, 2025) was recapped, with the mayor presenting a framed photo to General Nutting's children. - Councillor Hewitt noted a spaghetti dinner and food drive at Saco Middle School on November 17 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Council Discussion & Comment - Councillor Hewitt announced a ribbon cutting for the Parks and Recreation mural on November 20, 2025, and congratulated Thornton Academy Varsity Football for winning the Class A South Championship. Executive Session - The council voted 5-0 to enter executive session at 6:57 p.m. to discuss a matter (Item 10). They exited at 7:57 p.m. Councillor Hatch reported on the session, and the council voted 5-0 to approve the report. Key Outcomes - Action Item A (Supported entities procedure) tabled to November 24, 2025. - Action Item B (General Assistance appendices) approved 5-0. - Action Item C (Street acceptance) approved 5-0. - Action Item D (Contract zone resolution) tabled to November 24, 2025. - Executive session held and report approved 5-0. - Meeting adjourned (roll call showed one dissenting vote from Councillor Edwards, but the motion carried).

The Saco City Council met on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. with Councillor Johnston excused. The meeting covered routine approvals, public comments on proposed amendments to the administrative code regarding conflicts of interest, first reading of updates to Chapter 4, Article 5, a public hearing on General Assistance appendices, and updates on grievance review committee recommendations. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from October 20, 2025 (passed 5-0). - License to operate Bingo for BPOE 1597 and council schedule for January–March 2026 (passed 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Sandy Gay (52 Cumberland Ave., resident and attorney) spoke against proposed amendments to Administrative Code Article 4-34, arguing they are an overreaction, likely unconstitutional (equal rights violation), and unnecessary given existing recusal rules and the city's code of ethics. She urged the council not to adopt the amendments. - Kelly Archer (185 Bradley Street, retired real estate broker and co-filer of the grievance) spoke in support of the amendments, stating that real estate brokers should not serve as planning board chair or vice chair to avoid even the appearance of impropriety. She suggested technical language changes, including removing the word "brokers" and using "Maine real estate license" instead. Discussion Items - First Reading of Administrative Code Chapter 4, Article 5 Updates: Councillor Hatch moved to approve the first reading and schedule a public hearing on November 24, 2025. He noted that his September 4th suggested edits were mostly incorporated and asked that Councillor Johnston's emailed recommendations be reviewed by staff. The motion passed 5-0. - Public Hearing on Amendments to Saco Code Chapter 112 (General Assistance Appendices): Council opened the public hearing (5-0) and closed it with no public testimony (5-0), scheduling the second and final reading for November 17, 2025. - Follow-up on Grievance Review Committee Recommendation 1 (Administrative Code Section 4-34): The council discussed the proposal to prohibit licensed real estate brokers and active developers from serving as planning board chair or co-chair. Councillor Hatch (ad hoc committee member) explained the recommendation aims to address the appearance of conflict, not exclude professionals from the board, and cited legal costs from the Lincoln Village project. Councillor Hewitt opposed a blanket ban, noting that Maine law already provides recusal mechanisms and that excluding professions would limit board expertise. Councillor Berman expressed skepticism, stating existing safeguards (occupation limits, recusal, appointment process) are sufficient and that the change is a response to a temporary situation no longer present. The item was assigned to Councillor Johnston and will return at a future meeting. - Supported Entities Request Procedure Update: The city administrator presented a draft application form for requesting supported entity funds, modeled after Biddeford’s process. Councillor Berman suggested simplifying and merging redundant questions, and clarifying terms like "client eligibility" and "unit of service." Councillor Hatch opposed the use of tax dollars for nonprofit donations, proposed reducing the de minimis threshold from $5,000 to $1,000, and recommended expanding the collaboration question to include the general assistance office. Revisions will be brought back to council. Administrative Updates - Community resource list launched due to the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefit uncertainty; resources available at Saco’s general assistance webpage. - Veterans Day parade on November 11, 2025, will close streets temporarily. - Exit 35 on the turnpike opened November 3, 2025, improving traffic flow. - Deputy Fire Chief Robert Martin retired October 30, 2025, after 37 years of service. - Solar permit applications may not be processed by the December 31, 2025 deadline if submitted after November 9, 2025, due to high volume. - Ferry Road and Seaside Avenue Resiliency Improvement Project bids received. Council Comments - Councillor Hewitt thanked the Elks for their community contributions, including fundraising for children’s cancer programs and donating facilities. - Mayor McPhail thanked the city clerk’s office for a successful election day and congratulated new councilors Jeff Owen (replacing Councillor Berman) and Will Gale (replacing Councillor Hatch), who will be seated on December 1, 2025. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (5-0). - Consent items approved (5-0). - First reading of Chapter 4, Article 5 updates approved (5-0); public hearing scheduled for November 24, 2025. - Public hearing on General Assistance appendices closed (5-0); final reading scheduled for November 17, 2025. - Discussion on Section 4-34 amendments continued; no vote taken; item to return at a future meeting. - Supported entities request procedure to be revised and brought back. - Meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m. (5-0).

This meeting of the Saco City Council was called to order at 6:30 PM by Councilor Hatch, with Mayor McVail arriving later. All councilors were present. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and two recognitions: the Extra Mile proclamation for Misty and the Spirit of America Foundation Award for Carmen Dame Garonski. The council then heard extensive public testimony from residents of the Blue Haven mobile home park about drastic lot rent increases, followed by the adoption of an emergency moratorium on such increases. Other actions included approval of minutes, a consent item for a city planner appointment, acknowledgment of a grievance committee recommendation, an informational presentation from Maine Water Company, and an administrative update. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from October 6, 2025, passed unanimously (6-0). - Confirmation of the interim city administrator's appointment of the city planner passed unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Kelly Archer (185 Bradley Street) urged the council to act on citizen grievances, citing repeated violations of laws by staff and trustees, and asked for transparency and enforcement of charter rules. She also requested creative help for neighbors in an emergency situation. - Lisa DeRoches (Blue Haven resident) stated that lot rents have risen from $200–300/month to over $500, with further increases planned, making housing unaffordable. She noted that some homeowners pay less in taxes than the proposed lot rent. - Lynn Johnson (Blue Haven resident) described the park as a small community with no amenities in return for rising rents. She expressed concern that rent increases of $100 in one month and more in December would force residents out. - Barbara Scorski (2 Meserve Circle, Blue Haven, 15-year resident) explained she is on fixed disability income. Her rent increased $35 earlier in the year and now an additional $145, totaling nearly $200 extra per month. She cited unsafe trees, lack of services, and poor water pressure, and argued the park is not providing value. - Sarah Belanger (31C Pheasant Road) thanked the council for listening and noted she spent $9,000 on a new water heater and furnace, making rent increases even harder. She defended park maintenance staff as hardworking but constrained by ownership. - Barb Thomas (Mezer Circle, Blue Haven, disabled veteran, 13–14 years resident) described the community as affordable and safe, but said drastic rent increases with no end in sight are making retirement impossible for those on Social Security or disability. She asked the council to pass a moratorium to allow time for mediation and an emergency moratorium. - Reverend Robert Henry (24 Pheasant Road) highlighted the irony of retiring and immediately receiving a rent increase. He urged the council to consider that just because an increase is possible does not make it prudent, and asked for compassion for those on fixed incomes, especially disabled veterans. - Natalie Henry (24 Pheasant Road) noted she and her husband are retired and living on Social Security alone. She said the water is not drinkable and she spends money on bottled water. She pleaded for compassion and assistance. Discussion Items - Emergency Moratorium on Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Increases (Action Item A): Councilor Johnston read the full emergency ordinance, which declared an emergency affecting life, health, and property due to rapid lot rent increases in mobile home parks. The ordinance prohibited any lot rent increases from the date of adoption (October 27, 2025) until its expiration on December 26, 2025, subject to enforcement and civil penalties. During discussion, Councilor Hatch thanked residents for their testimony. Councilor Berman raised concerns about the timeline, as the state model ordinance is due December 31, 2025, and the emergency moratorium expires December 26. The city administrator confirmed the moratorium could be renewed on December 15, and a longer-term ordinance could follow. Councilor Johnston noted the unique situation where mobile home owners own their homes but not the land, making them captive to rent increases, and stated the city has only one zone for mobile home parks. Councilor Edwards expressed support but also noted the need to address issues with the park owners and consider broader solutions. The moratorium passed unanimously (6–0). - Follow-up from Saco Citizens Grievance Review Committee (Action Item B): Councilor Hatch moved to acknowledge receipt of the code of ethics/conduct form and declare recommendation 3 of the final report complete. The recommendation directed the city administrator to enhance public instruction about the ethics violation reporting mechanism through municipal communication channels semi-annually. The city administrator confirmed the communications plan, including inclusion in the newsletter and training for boards. An internal SOP for handling submissions is being developed. The motion passed unanimously (6–0). - Maine Water Company Unified Rate Schedule (New Business): Mark Venoi, president of Maine Water Company, presented a proposed unification of rate structures across Maine divisions. The change is not a revenue increase but adjusts fixed versus volumetric charges, with a slight decrease for residential customers in Saco. Larger meter sizes will see changes in fixed charges to create a more linear relationship. Fire charges remain the same. The company encouraged affected customers to contact them. No council questions were asked. Key Outcomes - Adopted an emergency moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases, effective immediately through December 26, 2025 (6–0 vote). The moratorium prohibits any lot rent increase during that period. - Acknowledged completion of recommendation 3 from the Citizens Grievance Review Committee regarding the code of ethics/conduct form (6–0 vote). - Approved minutes of October 6, 2025, and confirmed the appointment of the city planner (both 6–0). - Heard from Maine Water Company; no action taken. - Received administrative updates: curbside leaf collection begins November 10, 2025; wastewater team received state and national awards; Kyle Mundorf hired as assistant city engineer. - Entered executive session at 7:34 PM and exited with no report; meeting adjourned thereafter.

The meeting began with a workshop on the Fiscal Year 2024 audit presentation from RKO, followed by the regular council session. Public comments focused on proposed rent increases at Blue Haven Mobile Home Park, and council discussed short-term rental regulations, administrative code updates, and other city business. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Dunham (30 Pheasant Road): Expressed concern about the fourth rent increase in 3.5 years at Blue Haven, noting a $160/month increase and the financial strain on fixed incomes. - Shane Morningstar (30 Pheasant Road): Voiced opposition to a proposed $110/month hike without service improvements, citing poor road maintenance and personal financial challenges. - Richard Goslin (7 Missouri Circle): Called the increase "outrageous" and requested an emergency moratorium, noting the rent would rise from $300 to $660/month. - Lisa DeRocher (18 Pine Haven Street): Described a "crisis" of unaffordable park rent, stating the increase would exceed her mortgage payment, and asked for a cap on rent hikes. - ML Leach (19 Gallant Drive): Stated the rent increase forced her to abandon plans to retire in 2026. - Maurice Burroughs: Complained about unaddressed maintenance issues (overhanging branches, lawn ruts, debris) and a lack of services despite rising rent. - Kelly Archer (185 Bradley Street): Accused city officials of stalling on several issues (contract zones, Deering Trust violations, code enforcement), demanding action on illegal activities and lack of transparency. - Sarah Melanger (31C Pheasant Road): Asked the council to specify what information they need to consider a moratorium on rent increases. - Nancy Morse (21 Gallant Drive): Stated that the mobile home park has been affordable housing for 51 years, but management is threatening that. - John Vright (1 Gallant Drive): Thanked organizers and the council for listening, asking them to use their legal power to help the community. Discussion Items - FY24 Audit Presentation (RKO) : The audit received an unmodified (clean) opinion. No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies were found. General recommendations included improving vendor documentation for federal grants and school payroll processing documentation. The general fund balance increased by $3.4 million to a 21.4% unassigned balance (above the 16.67% target). Property tax collection rates remained high. Councilor Hatch noted that the fund balance increase partly resulted from unfilled positions. Interim Finance Director Judy provided updated projections showing current unassigned balance at 18% after subsequent budget use and commitments for infrastructure ($500,000) and affordable housing ($200,000). - Action Item A – Street Acceptance (Omari Court/Dupey Drive) : Councilor Johnston moved to accept the streets per Chapter 186. The interim administrator noted final legal review and easements are pending. The item was tabled (4-0) until legal issues are resolved. - Action Item B – General Assistance Amendments (First Reading) : Councilor Edwards moved to approve first reading of updates to Chapter 112 Appendices, setting a public hearing for November 10, 2025. Approved 4-0. - New Business A – Short-Term Rental Discussion : Staff presented a report from GP Cog and PAX. Councilor Johnston expressed concern over unlicensed STRs reducing long-term housing, especially downtown. Councilors discussed impacts on housing supply, neighborhood character, enforcement costs, and the need for a clear policy direction (encourage or discourage). Councillor Hatch suggested looking at penalties and other municipalities. The item will return with redlined ordinance proposals and cost estimates. - New Business B – Proposed Updates to Administrative Code (Chapter 4) : Staff presented revisions based on previous council input, including updates to the org chart, legal division placement, gender-neutral language, and consistency in appointment provisions. The next step is a redlined version. Discussion scheduled to return early November. - Administrative Update : Included notice of a special election for Ward 3 (Jan 13, 2026), November 4 election details, removal of Main Street road safety demo on Oct 29, fire department coloring contest, new public works project webpage, Factory Island tour (Oct 25), and recognition of Code Enforcement Appreciation Month. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved : September 22, 2025 minutes approved 4-0. - Street Acceptance Tabled : Motion to table passed 4-0 until easements are finalized. - General Assistance Amendments : First reading approved 4-0; public hearing set for November 10, 2025. - Short-Term Rental Regulations : Council directed staff to bring back a redlined ordinance and cost analysis for further discussion. - Administrative Code Updates : Staff will present a redline version incorporating council feedback, expected in early November. - Public Comment : Council acknowledged the many comments on Blue Haven rent increases; plans to develop emergency moratorium language based on testimony. - Meeting Adjourned : 8:13 PM.

The Saco City Council convened on Monday, October 6, 2025, starting with joint meetings at 6:30 PM. First, the Council met with the School Board for updates on enrollment, the Alice study, building projects, and budget; then with the Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC) for a year-in-review. The official Council meeting was called to order at 7:15 PM. Highlights included extensive public comment from Blue Haven Mobile Home Park residents, acceptance of a Ward 3 councilor resignation, election of a Deputy Mayor, confirmation of a new City Administrator, and discussion of a potential ordinance to address mobile home park rent increases. Consent Calendar - Items A–D approved 6–0: Notice of Election (Nov. 4, 2025); appointment of Ashley Gonzalez to Conservation Commission; appointment of Kristen Stover to Economic Development Commission; and acceptance of the Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report (Item D was pulled for discussion but then passed unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Richards (7 Pine Haven St) presented photos of deferred maintenance at Blue Haven, noting 40% of residents are on fixed incomes and rent hikes threaten displacement. He also raised concerns about habitat (cotton tails). - Sarah Bellinger (31C Pheasant Rd) stated she and her husband are on retirement income and the $45 increase in January plus $145 in December is unsustainable; they may not be able to stay. - John Vett (1 Gilland Dr) said he lives on $1,600/month Social Security and many in the park will go hungry or cold without help. - Doug Gardner (17 Pine Haven) detailed multiple rising costs (healthcare, insurance, utilities) and said a $145 increase plus water fees will push him past his limit. - Gary Gardner (17 Pine Haven) echoed concerns, noting $35 January increase and $145 December increase, plus safety issues (potholes, no lights). - Jennifer Kragan (3,000 Bridge) described lot rent rising from $29 to $515+ over 22 years, and said a new tenant rate of $750 is unaffordable for someone on SSDI. - Hope Lambert (14 Pheasant Rd) recounted that rent increased 37.5% over one year, with fewer services and fines for leaf disposal. - Mo Burroughs (17 Gallant Dr) reported a $40/year increase for three years, but no tree maintenance; a storm caused $6,000 damage to her home, and a dead skunk was not removed by management. - Mary Lynn Leach (19 Gallant) said the $160+ increase forced her to postpone retirement next year; cited unresolved electrical issues and a dangerous marked tree left for four years. - Linda Daniels (31 Pheasant) said she and her fiancé (40-year resident) cannot afford alternatives; if increases continue they may have to live in their vehicle. - Kathleen Felton (5 Willowhaven St) noted rent rose from $450 to $550 in January and will jump $110 in December; a storm caused $6,000 damage from unpruned dead limbs; potholes and poor upkeep persist. - Christine Boothby (40 Pheasant Rd) stated the out-of-state owners are taking advantage of low‑income Mainers; her rent would go up $145 in December on top of a January increase. - Karen Forbes (3 Pheasant Rd) said she is retired but works two jobs to keep up; many neighbors cannot work and will suffer. - Joe Gunn (former Ward 3 councilor) gave a departing speech thanking colleagues and highlighting accomplishments (jetty spur, water resource facility, long‑range planning, and civic participation). Discussion Items - School Board Update (Superintendent): Enrollment: 1,898 preK‑8, 891 high school, 115 vocational students; overall down due to closure of a hotel shelter. The “Alice” (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data showed 37% of households in York/Cumberland County and over 40% in Saco fall below a survival budget of $107,892 for a family of four. The Superintendent noted this impacts hiring and staff wages. Building updates: bid openings Oct. 22; groundbreaking Dec. 4; targeted fall 2028 opening. Budget projection: $3.2 million fund balance, with $450,000 set aside for middle school capital improvement and removal of a portable. - Facilities Update (Director Roth): The consolidated city‑school facilities department has saved money by doing work in‑house (e.g., toilet repairs costing $500‑700 externally vs. internal cost). A new generator monitoring system was installed at the middle school; a water main break at Fairfield was repaired in two days for $40,000 vs. $125,000. Groundbreaking for a new public works facility took place that day. - Long Range Planning Committee Update (Deputy City Administrator Emily Prescott): The LRPC reviewed 2025 activities: design review standards, housing action plan (public workshops in April‑June, draft received), Portland Road Master Plan (survey summer 2025, next step back to LRPC), and monitoring new state housing statutes. The next LRPC meeting is Oct. 28. - New Business – Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Increase Ordinance: City staff presented a compilation of ordinances from other communities (e.g., Sanford, Old Orchard Beach) and state law. Councilors expressed support for an emergency moratorium on rent increases followed by a permanent ordinance. Specific requests included: a clear timeline of park-wide rent increases, information from the park owners about maintenance plans, and options for enforcement of repairs. The item will return at the Oct. 20 meeting with additional research. Key Outcomes - Consent Items A‑D approved 6‑0 (Item D, FY2025 Annual Report, pulled for discussion but passed). - Resignation Accepted: The Council acknowledged the resignation of Ward 3 Councilor Joe Gunn (6‑0). Councillors praised his service and noted a charter flaw requiring resignation upon moving out of ward. - Deputy Mayor Elected: Councilor Nathan Johnston was elected Deputy Mayor by Australian ballot (5‑0, with one abstention) to serve from Oct. 6 to Dec. 1, 2025. - New City Administrator Confirmed: Ryan Pelletier was confirmed as the new City Administrator (6‑0), effective January 2026. He brings 25+ years of municipal and county experience. - Street Acceptance: Amari Court and Dupey Drive (Amari Springs subdivision) were accepted as city streets (6‑0). - Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Ordinance: Council directed staff to return on Oct. 20 with a detailed report on a temporary moratorium and potential permanent ordinance, including owner input and state law implications. - Executive Session: Council entered executive session at 8:38 PM (6‑0) for consultation with legal counsel, exiting at 9:48 PM (5‑1) with no report. Meeting adjourned at 9:48 PM.

The Saco City Council met on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 6:38 PM. The meeting began with a joint session with the Planning Board for a housing state statute update, followed by legislative updates from state representatives, public comment on a proposed rent increase at Blue Haven Mobile Home Park, and action on several agenda items. Key outcomes included tabling a street acceptance request, approving a special entertainment permit, acknowledging updates to the Planning Board's Standard Operating Procedures, and directing staff to explore options regarding a potential moratorium on lot rent increases. Consent Calendar - None presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Blue Haven Mobile Home Park Residents (Kathy, Brian LaRoche, Rodney Champagne, Linda Babbitt, Ray Halzek): Residents requested a temporary moratorium on lot rent increases scheduled for December 1, 2025. They reported a proposed increase of up to $145 per month (a 28% increase), which they described as a crisis for seniors, veterans, disabled individuals, and families on fixed incomes. They noted that they have over 75% of homeowners signed on for mediation but were told they are not eligible. They cited similar actions in Sanford, Waterville, and Old Orchard Beach. Specific speakers highlighted personal financial struggles: Rodney Champagne stated his rent would increase by $145/month, exceeding his Social Security benefit adjustment; Linda Babbitt said the increase would be more than half her monthly retirement income of $1,239; Ray Halzek, a disabled veteran, reported being charged $750/month upon moving in four months ago. Discussion Items - Housing State Statute Update (Joint with Planning Board): Emily Cole Prescott presented a recap of 12+ workshops since June 2024 on housing ordinances. Key tracked bills: LD 1829 (impacts lot sizes, units per lot, subdivision definition, ADUs, sprinkler systems) and LD 1498 (impact fee encumbrance timeline). Current work focuses on site plan review ordinance redlines, with subdivision and zoning amendments to follow. A subcommittee on design review standards has met. Upcoming: Portland Road Master Plan draft (fall 2025) and Housing Action Plan draft (winter 2025/early 2026). - Legislative Updates (State Senator Donna Bailey, Rep. Marshall Archer, Rep. Copeland): - Housing/Zoning (Sen. Bailey): The overarching themes were increasing affordable housing stock and preserving existing affordable housing. Key bills include $3 million for Mobile Home Park Preservation Fund, right of first refusal for residents to purchase parks, exemption from real estate transfer tax for sales to resident-owned communities, and extension of rent-to-own protections to mobile home purchasers. LD 1829 is the most comprehensive bill cutting red tape and amending zoning. Other updates include an affordable housing TIF update, increased historic property rehab tax credit, a real estate property tax relief task force, and a pilot program for rehabilitating aging stock. Carryover bills: residential renter unit registry (LD 1806), statewide housing resolution board (LD 1921), and workforce housing density requirements (LD 1926). - Education (Rep. Archer): Over 20 education-related laws passed, covering school temperature standards (LD 11), air quality in new schools (LD 1887), student homelessness prevention (LD 384), local seafood in schools (LD 1858), school funding formula study (LD 318), charter school commission independence, loan forgiveness for school counselors, teacher compensation study, and workforce credential pathways. He emphasized downstream effects on municipal budgets and capital planning. Councilor Hatch expressed concerns that housing initiatives may not lower consumer costs and could increase property values, straining taxpayers and local authority. Councilor Hewitt asked about state initiatives to improve Maine's last-ranked education system; Rep. Archer noted no specific quality-improvement bills passed but that the funding formula is under review. - Shoreline (Rep. Copeland): LD 228 (allows seawalls to be raised up to 2 feet) and LD 65 (updated coastal wetlands definition) were enacted. LD 560 (bond for coastal climate resiliency, led by Sen. Bailey) was carried over. Councilor Berman asked about eligibility for counties; Sen. Bailey confirmed counties would be eligible and emphasized the need for two-thirds legislative support. Rep. Archer noted the importance of messaging to inland legislators about fiscal impacts. - Committee Correspondence: - Age-Friendly Saco (Councillor Edwards): Announced appointment of Rebecca Hadiaris as new executive director effective October 21, 2025. Upcoming events: Wellness Fair at Thornton Academy on November 8 (9:30 AM, registration required), a meal on October 9 at the Elks Club, and Sand Buckets for Seniors on November 15. - Traffic Safety Committee (Councillor Johnson): Reported a joint workshop with B-Ped to rank infrastructure needs for the Transportation Master Plan, and a three-hour Traffic Safety Committee meeting with numerous requests for improvements across the city. Anticipates budget for such requests may be used quickly. - Ethics Complaint Form (New Business): HR Director Hunter Cox presented a draft form for submitting code of ethics concerns, as recommended by the Citizen Grievance Review Committee. The form is designed to be accessible, with disclaimers about public record status. Councilors Berman and Hatch raised concerns about frivolous complaints and the need for complainants to specify the ethics code section and provide evidence. Councilor Gunn suggested clarifying legal protections for good-faith complainants. Staff will refine the form and bring it back for council feedback before finalizing. - Executive Session: The council voted 7-0 to enter executive session at 8:09 PM and exited at 9:43 PM; no report was given. Key Outcomes - Street Acceptance (Amari Court and Dupey Drive): Motion to table to the October 6, 2025 meeting passed 7-0. - Special Entertainment Permit (Elks Lodge 1597): Public hearing opened and closed; motion to approve renewal concurrent with liquor license through November 6, 2026 passed 7-0. - Planning Board Standard Operating Procedures: Council acknowledged receipt of the SOP revised through September 16, 2025, and declared recommendation 2 of the Grievance Review Committee complete. Motion passed 7-0, with a note to correct the appointments/resignation section to align with the city charter (include City Council on resignation). This correction will be brought to the Planning Board. - Mobile Home Rent Increase (Blue Haven): Councilors Berman, Johnston, Hatch, and Hewitt requested that staff bring a report to a future meeting (before the December 1 increase) outlining the city's options, what neighboring towns have done, and the potential scope of a moratorium. No formal vote was taken, but the consensus was to place it on a future agenda. - Ethics Complaint Form: Staff will work with IT/Communications to create a web page and share the form with the council for comments by the end of the following week, with finalization to occur after feedback and upon the new city administrator's input.

The Saco City Council met on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered a street acceptance request for the Amari Springs subdivision, administrative updates, recognition of the fire chief, and an executive session that led to authorization for negotiations for the city administrator position. All votes were unanimous 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - The public comment period was opened and closed with a motion and second, but no members of the public stepped forward to speak. Discussion Items - Street Acceptance Request (Amari Springs Subdivision): Director Moore reported that all final punch list items have been completed and legal documents have been reviewed by Tim Murphy and sent to new legal counsel for additional review. Councillor Hatch commented that the subdivision is beautiful and noted the strong demand for single-family homes in Saco, expressing a personal view that state-level efforts to minimize single-family housing may not align with local demand. The item will come forward at a future council meeting. - Administrative Updates: Interim City Administrator Emily Cole Prescott provided three updates: - A traffic advisory: Main Street will be closed on September 17, 2025, from 9 AM for CSX railroad maintenance; detour information is available in the administrator's report. - The Saco Schools strategic plan survey is open; community members can participate online or email Meg Parkhurst to join the strategic planning committee. - A GP COG public meeting on reimagining Route 1 will be held September 24, 2025, from 6-8 PM at Saco Public Works. - Congratulations to Fire Chief David Hamill: The Mayor announced that Chief Hamill graduated from the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program on August 22, 2025, a prestigious program completed by fewer than 5,000 leaders nationwide and only 18 in Maine since 1985. A motion to recognize this achievement passed unanimously. - Executive Session & City Administrator Search: The Council entered executive session at 6:38 PM and exited at 7:08 PM. Following the session, Councillor Hatch moved to authorize Interim City Administrator Cole Prescott and HR Director Cox to enter negotiations with the Council's chosen candidate for the city administrator position. The motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval (7-0) to recognize Fire Chief David Hamill's EFO graduation. - Unanimous approval (7-0) to authorize the interim city administrator and HR director to negotiate with the selected candidate for the city administrator position. - The street acceptance request for Amari Springs subdivision (Amari Court and Dupey Drive) was discussed but will be brought back for a future vote.

The Saco City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, beginning at 5:00 PM. After the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call (Councillors Edwards, Parks, Gunn, Berman, Hatch, Hewitt, and Johnston were present), the council voted unanimously to enter executive session. The council reconvened at 10:40 PM, voted to exit executive session, and then adjourned. Key Outcomes - Entry into Executive Session: Motion carried 7–0 at 5:00 PM. - Exit from Executive Session: Motion carried 7–0 at 10:40 PM; no report was issued. - Adjournment: Motion carried 6–1 at 10:41 PM (Councillor Parks dissenting).

The Saco City Council met on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. to address routine approvals, several action items, and a lengthy discussion on proposed updates to the Administrative Code. The meeting included public tributes, unanimous passage of consent items and most action items, and a 6-1 vote to table the first reading of the Administrative Code update for further revisions. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the August 25, 2025 meeting (7-0). - Confirmed the mayor's appointments and reappointments to the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee, Arts Commission, Planning Board, and Coastal Waters Commission (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Delano (111 Elm Street) and Beth Johnston (62 Pleasant Street) both spoke in appreciation of Tom Hardy, a departing member of the Historic Preservation Commission, praising his conscientious and balanced approach. Discussion Items - Pepperell Park Ad Hoc Redesign Committee Amendment (Action Item A): Councillor Hewitt moved to add one alternate member to the committee. Passed 7-0. - Budget Amendment for Beach Management Plan (Action Item B): Councillor Berman moved to appropriate $46,000 from unassigned fund balance for inventory analysis and initial outreach. Councillor Johnston expressed reservations about using unassigned fund balance but voted yes after the interim administrator confirmed the fund balance was sufficient. The city will apply for a $75,000 Community Resilience Partnership grant. Passed 7-0. - Lease Amendment with BSOOB Transit (Action Item C): Councillor Hatch moved to incorporate a decommissioning plan for EV chargers into the lease. Passed 7-0. - Technical Design and Construction Standards Manual Update (Action Item D): Final reading approving updates to the manual, including pump station details, lighting standards, and traffic signal standards. Councillors Berman and Johnston thanked staff. Passed 7-0. - Proposed Updates to Administrative Code, Chapter 4, Article 5 (Action Item E): Councillor Johnston introduced the first reading. Extensive discussion followed: - Councillor Berman asked about the distinction between department and division and noted missing roles in the organizational chart. The interim administrator agreed to update the chart. - Councillor Gunn suggested stylistic edits (use of "theirs") and adding language that the mayor appoints the city administrator with council approval. - Councillor Johnston proposed numerous changes, including requiring council confirmation for several department heads, moving the harbormaster appointment authority, adding a review period for the city solicitor, and creating a student advisory member for the Parks and Rec board. She also suggested tabling the public hearing to allow a more holistic review of Chapter 4. - Councillor Hatch preferred tabling the entire item to incorporate all feedback into a redlined version. - Councillor Gunn advocated for passing the first reading and holding a workshop afterward. - Councillor Berman moved to table the item, seconded by Councillor Hatch. The motion passed 6-1 (Councillor Johnston opposed). Key Outcomes - All action items except the Administrative Code update were approved unanimously. - The Administrative Code update (Item E) was tabled by a 6-1 vote to allow staff to incorporate comments from multiple councilors and return with a revised version. - The council entered executive session at 7:30 p.m. under MRSA Title 1, §405(6)(A) for personnel matters related to the city administrator search, and exited at 8:00 p.m. with no report. - The meeting adjourned at 8:04 p.m.