Town News

With each department gearing up for the summer season in their own ways, there is quite a variety happening within Town offices and meetings lately. Learn more about the many big projects Town Council is talking through, from final budget reviews and a second reading next week, to the next steps toward the K-3 Unified School solution. Brush up on your beach info and find out about some fun summer events! Read our June 1 newsletter for more.

By Don Hamill, Town Council 

The first day of summer is approaching and the end of our annual budget process. My fifth round as a councilor dealing with it. Our Town Council FY2024 goal is as close as possible to +3% mill rate increase, or a 15.85 mil rate (percent of taxes per $1000 of assessed value). Nearby towns are dealing with similar challenges. Recent budget approvals, however, have exceeded 5% in some towns including Cape Elizabeth and South Portland. Are we addressing the right priorities?  Are we focused on the most critical issues?

It’s beach season! Make the most of these fleeting few months of warm weather in Maine by heading to Scarborough’s stunning coast. Here is some information on parking, dogs, and more to know for May through Labor Day.

With Election Day on Tuesday, June 27, we're sharing details about absentee voting, what's on the ballot, and more. The election is to vote on the school budget and a Special Election for an open seat on the Portland Water Trustee Board. The full municipal budget will be reviewed and approved by Town Council during their second reading and vote on June 7, and the school budget additionally requires a referendum election. Read the special edition newsletter for details.

Curbside Trash & Recycle collection will remain ON SCHEDULE for Memorial Day week!

This project will include road realignment, drainage improvements, and repaving.

Included in the exhibits of the budget document, but not in the proposed budget due to overall budget considerations, are a Vulnerability Assessment ($100k) and an Open Space and Conservation Plan ($50k). These capital investments were considered by staff, as they serve to support and advance Town Council goals and priorities; however, they are not included in the proposed Capital Budget due to impact on the tax rate.

Beach passes, used for parking in Town-operated lots during the summer season, are available for purchase at the Town Clerk's office beginning in May. The season for beach parking passes runs from the start of Memorial Day weekend (May) to the end of Labor Day weekend (September).