City Arborist Andy Gagnon and the Parks crew have been working in Hinckley Park over the past week pruning dead branches and removing dead trees leaning over the trail for the safe enjoyment of the park. Any dead trees or limbs that were not a safety hazard were left for wildlife. Similar work will occur at other sites this spring and summer. Questions about tree work? contact the City Arborist at agagnon@southportland.gov. 207-767-7670, ext. 1.

Additional tree information can be found at: https://southportland.gov/735/Trees

During a workshop discussion at the February 17, 2026 City Council meeting, the Mahoney City Center Committee will provide its latest recommendations and ask for guidance from the City Council, including whether the Council wishes to continue to pursue use of Mahoney for a City service campus. View the agenda item and materials. 

Join the meeting at 6:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, or watch the meeting live online or on Spectrum Cable Channel 2.

At the end of February, community members will access City Council and Board & Committee meeting agendas and minutes through our new online platform, Diligent Community. Community is replacing BoardDocs. The City website will link to Community when our platform launches, anticipated on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Community will make it easier for community members to see upcoming meetings, access agendas and minutes, and search for archival information. Watch this video for a tutorial on navigating the platform.

Questions about the new system? Contact the City Clerk's office at (207) 767-3201.

Message from City Clerk Jessica A. Hughes:

We are incredibly proud of the strong tradition of civic service upheld by our Election Clerks. For many years, these dedicated individuals have been the bedrock of our local democratic process, ensuring every election is conducted with integrity, accuracy, and efficiency.

Our Election Clerks are not merely temporary employees; they are committed stewards of democracy. They embody the utmost professionalism, ensuring strict adherence to procedures and maintaining the trust of the community in the results. The passion for democracy and their meticulous attention to detail concerning all facets of election law. This level of commitment is what guarantees the fair and secure election.

A letter has been sent to local political party committees for nominations to serve as Election Clerks.  As your City Clerk, I want to share, we are actively recruiting committed, impartial, and detail-oriented residents to serve a two-year term.  You will be on the front lines of democracy!

Key Responsibilities:

• Voter Assistance: Greeting and directing voters, verifying registrations, and issuing the correct ballots.
• Process Integrity: Maintaining accurate records,  providing ballot security, and upholding all election laws and procedures.
• Polling Place Management: Assisting with the setup and closing of the polling place, ensuring a smooth and organized voting environment.
• Impartial Service: Performing all duties with strict neutrality, offering courteous and effective service to all members of the public.

Why Serve?

Serving as an Election Clerk is one of the most direct and rewarding ways to contribute to your community. The integrity and efficiency of our local democratic process depend on dedicated Election Clerks.

• Uphold Civic Duty: Play a vital and non-partisan role in securing the foundation of our democracy and instilling public trust in election outcomes.
• Community Connection: Work alongside fellow citizens, meet your neighbors, and foster a spirit of civic engagement.
• Training & Compensation: Receive paid, comprehensive training on election procedures and equipment, and earn compensation for your service on Election Day.
• Gain Valuable Skills: Develop skills in time management, detailed record-keeping, and public interaction under pressure—all highly valued in any professional setting.

State Law (Title 21-A Sec. 503-A) requires that the municipal officers consider all nominations and appoint election clerks for a two year term by May 1st of each even-numbered year. All nominations are received by April 1, 2026 shall be considered for appointment of qualified voters. Election Clerks that are appointed will be selected and scheduled by the Warden before each election in accordance with Title-21-A Sec. 503-A(4)(5).

Apply Online Today

Join us for Sweet City Services: Gems for South Portland Residents on Weds., Feb. 11, 2026 from 6 to 7:30 PM at the Main Library! Tap into services your city offers, from wildly popular programs to lesser-known treasures. Treats & sweet stories provided!

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – South Portland is proud to announce the launch of four new Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) chargers in Legion Square Park (5 Cottage Road). Starting now, these convenient, pay-for-use chargers will be open to the public, making it easier to charge your EV while visiting the vibrant Knightville neighborhood. 

WHEN: February 11, 2026

WHERE: Legion Square Park, 5 Cottage Road, South Portland

WHO: All members of the public

WHY: These new chargers mark an important step toward the City’s climate goals, including those outlined in the One Climate Future climate action plan, which prioritizes greater access to EV infrastructure.

In 2024, the City of South Portland partnered with Energy Management Consultants, Inc. to win a $40,000 grant through Efficiency Maine Trust’s EV charging initiative. This enabled the City to install four Level 2 EV charging ports in Legion Square Park, located next to the post office. The grant covered two thirds of the project cost, while the City paid for the remaining third with capital funds.

“We’re thrilled to bring more EV charging to South Portland’s downtown,” said Julie Rosenbach, the City’s Sustainability Director. “By making charging visible and convenient, we’re supporting cleaner transportation and helping our community make the shift to electric.”

Each charging port will deliver up to 11.2kW, offering drivers up to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. With four ports available, four vehicles will be able to charge at the same time. Users can access the chargers using the SWTCH app at a rate of $0.34 per kWh, plus standard credit card convenience fees. 

The City of South Portland is transitioning to a pay-for-use model for public EV charging. EV chargers located at City buildings are now for municipal fleet use only, with the exception of the public pay-for-use chargers at the Community Center. The goal is to promote an equitable and financially responsible expansion of South Portland’s EV charging infrastructure.

This project is part of Efficiency Maine’s broader statewide effort to expand public EV charging infrastructure. It is supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Grant Program, which aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles across the country. Between July and December 2024, Efficiency Maine awarded grants for 34 projects that will install 255 Level 2 charging ports throughout Maine.

For more information about South Portland’s climate action efforts, visit the Sustainability Office webpage.

As the City’s Comp Plan Committee (CPC) considers feedback from the public on the final draft of the new Comprehensive Plan, we are sharing information that may be helpful pertaining to Bug Light Park.

The new Comp Plan seeks to preserve Bug Light Park in perpetuity. More than that, the plan intends to grow/improve the park and its offerings to the community. Here’s information that’s helpful to know:

While the City owns the majority of the land at Bug Light Park, Portland Pipe Line Corporation owns two adjacent parcels that extend the Park – think of those parcels as the woodsy section that is on the right as you drive toward the boat-ramp parking lot.

The City negotiates an access arrangement annually with Portland Pipe Line Corporation, to allow public use of these parcels. We have been fortunate that Portland Pipe Line has not sought to develop these lands, and has continually allowed public use of that area, but the lands are not formally protected as a park. 

Additionally, the properties are in the Shipyard Zone, which currently allows industrial/commercial development, structures as tall as 86 feet, and unlimited paving. This current zoning is far off from the vision that the community and CPC has for this area.

The CPC’s policy is to protect Bug Light and this adjacent land from development. The Comp Plan’s KLUPA 21B deals with this land south of Bug Light Park (Lots 7-2D and 7-2E). Until the City controls the land, the Comp Plan must guide what could occur on the properties under private control. The City cannot compel a property owner to use their land as a public park, especially through zoning, without providing compensation for a loss in property rights. 

The CPC believes that the City’s Comp Plan must protect the community’s interests even under private ownership (things including open space, public access, public views, coastal resilience, etc.). The Plan must limit undesired development, without creating a prohibition on development that would cause the City to face legal action. 

So, as the City works toward the goal of formally preserving these private lands, the Plan proposes these policies to curb undesired forms of development (at a minimum): 

1. Reduce the allowed heights to 3 stories (down from 86 ft that is currently allowed) and limit allowable uses to only working waterfront activities, as many members of the community support. In the event the City cannot acquire the land to extend Bug Light Park and the property owner no longer allows public access, we need to protect against undesired forms of development. 
2. Seek to “maintain the [same] amount of land for public use” as provided by the Portland Pipe Line properties. This ensures that if a property owner is not willing to allow public use on this land, the City would seek to gain other nearby land to add an equivalent area to Bug Light Park. 
3. Seek to “reserve land closest to the water to establish connected public access, open space, and flood-resilience measures.” This policy ensures that, even if private development occurred on these parcels (because the City was not able to acquire the lands), areas closest to the water would be usable by the public and coastal resilience measures could be installed. 

The CPC has emphasized its priority for the parcels south of Bug Light Park: to acquire or permanently preserve that land. Under current draft Comp Plan policies, if the City is prevented from achieving that goal, we can be assured that the only alternative use would be working waterfront with significant public access and coastal frontage preserved.

Provide Feedback on the Comp Plan

A final draft of the City’s new Comprehensive Plan is available for public comment through February 15, 2026. We invite you to use the simple click-to-comment feature online to share your feedback, or stop by the Main or Branch Library or the Planning and Code Office (Hamlin building) to review a printed copy. Public comments are also welcome at upcoming CPC Meetings, including the one tonight, Wednesday, February 11, 2026 and another on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, both from 6 to 9PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Additional meetings will be scheduled as needed. Visit the Comp Plan website for meeting info.

What do you want to see in South Portland's next school superintendent? Take the South Portland School Department's online survey to share your thoughts.

Your input will help SPSD create a Leadership Profile that reflects the values, priorities, and aspirations of our community.

For more information about the process, visit spsdme.org/superintendentsearch.

On February 3, 2026, the South Portland City Council passed Resolve #5 -25/26: "Resolution Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Activity and Community Safety and Well-being." View the resolve or read the text, below. View all South Portland City Council Resolves and Proclamations.

IN CITY COUNCIL AMENDED RESOLVE #5 -25/26

The City Council of the City of South Portland Resolution Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Activity and Community Safety and Well-being.WHEREAS, the City of South Portland is a diverse and welcoming community whose residents include immigrants, refugees, longtime residents, workers, students, families, and business owners who contribute to the social, cultural, and economic life of the city; and 

WHEREAS, immigrants have long contributed to the strength and vitality of the City of South Portland and the State of Maine, supporting the workforce, economy, schools, and civic life, and continue to play an essential role in small business as well as key industries such as healthcare, education, fishing and lobstering, hospitality, construction, and services, thereby helping sustain employers, communities, and Maine’s economy; and 

WHEREAS, the members of the Council condemn disparaging and untrue statements about Somali-Americans whose family members not born in the United States fled civil war, political instability, and severe drought, and who across Maine have raised families, built businesses and community organizations, served in government, and strengthened multigenerational stability and prosperity; and 

WHEREAS, there has been a recent verifiable, visible increase in federal immigration enforcement activity in and around South Portland, including reports of masked federal officers, unmarked vehicles, and detentions occurring in residential and commercial areas; and 

WHEREAS, this activity generates fear and anxiety among residents, including families, students, workers, and business owners, and has led to observable community impacts such as decreased school attendance, disruption of daily activities and work attendance, and heightened concern for the personal safety of individuals and families, including children; and 

WHEREAS, South Portland’s public safety departments—including police, fire, and emergency services—do not conduct routine operations wearing masks or driving unmarked vehicles, and the contrast between recent federal activity and local public safety practices has contributed to confusion and distress within the community; and 

WHEREAS, the City of South Portland recognizes and respects the role of federal authorities in enforcing federal law, but also affirms that public safety is best served through transparency, accountability, and trust between residents and those exercising law-enforcement authority; and 

WHEREAS, fear, uncertainty, and the perception of unchecked or unclear federal enforcement activity can undermine public safety, discourage cooperation with public safety and emergency responders, disrupt student education, link to employee absences that harm household incomes and business services and success, deter residents from accessing critical public services, and erode trust in government institutions; and 

WHEREAS, the City Council has an obligation to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of all residents and to speak clearly when conditions arise that threaten community stability, even where our direct regulatory authority is limited; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF SOUTH PORTLAND THAT: 

1. The City Council formally acknowledges the fear and disruption being experienced by residents because of increased federal immigration enforcement activity within the community and affirms its commitment to the safety and dignity of all who live and work in South Portland. 

2. The City Council urges federal immigration authorities operating within South Portland to conduct any enforcement activities in a manner that prioritizes transparency, clear identification, and de-escalation, and that minimizes unnecessary fear or disruption to the public. 

3. The City Council respectfully requests that federal authorities provide clear communication to local officials regarding the nature, scope, and duration of enforcement activity occurring within the City, to the extent permitted by law, so that local leaders can appropriately address community concerns and ensure public safety. 

4. The City Council affirms that South Portland’s municipal departments and employees will continue to operate in accordance with state and local law and will not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities except as legally required. 

5. The City Council directs the city manager and staff to provide residents with public information regarding available community resources related to their rights, and appropriate points of contact for public safety concerns, in coordination with trusted local and state organizations where appropriate. 

6. The City Council calls upon Maine’s congressional delegation and state leadership to continue to seek greater transparency, oversight, and accountability regarding federal immigration enforcement practices impacting Maine communities. 

7. The City Council directs the City Manager to communicate with Governor Janet Mills and appropriate State of Maine officials to request consideration of a temporary, statewide 60-day moratorium on residential evictions for households that have experienced substantial financial hardship associated with the recent surge in federal immigration enforcement activity. 

8. This resolution is adopted as an expression of the South Portland City Council’s concern for public safety and community well-being and does not purport to regulate or restrict federal authority, but rather to formally communicate the City’s position and the impacts being experienced locally.   

Fiscal Note: Less than $1,000

Date: February 3, 2026

In coordination with the Water Resource Protection Department, Vortex Services will be rehabilitating the Sewer Lines in front of residences in some neighborhoods through trenchless methods. Upcoming schedule and locations:

• 2/2 lining on   Bellevue Ave.
• 2/3 lining on Vincent St.

The Trenchless Rehabilitation Procedure being utilized allows for zero excavation and minimal disruption, however house services may be blocked for a short period of time. Please limit heavy use (washing machines, showers, etc.) of water while work is completed in your area.

Should you have any questions please call: David Hash at (207) 313-6251 or the Vortex OFFICE at (207) 897-3348.

UPDATE 8:10 AM: Broadway has re-opened. Ocean St. is still closed. Updates will be posted to our Facebook page.

⚠️ ROADS CLOSED: Thurs 1/29 AM. Due to a water main break, Ocean Street is closed between Broadway and Highland Ave, and Broadway is closed between Ocean and Cottage (near Library, Mahoney). Expect delays. Find alternate routes. 

Portland Water District is responding. We will post an update when we have more info.

Overview & Background

The Mahoney City Center Committee met on January 27, 2026. 

• View the agenda
• See the design firm’s presentation
• Watch the video

 At its January 13, 2026 meeting, the City Council asked the Mahoney City Center Committee to consider options to potentially reduce the cost of the project, since most Councilors did not support the $194M price tag associated with the recommended design. The options the City Council asked M3C to consider to potentially reduce the cost included: 1) Phasing the public safety and Mahoney parts of the project and 2) Mahoney design alternatives, including a "bare bones" approach.

Exploring Alternative Design Options & Project Phasing

The Committee learned that even a "bare bones" approach to a Mahoney renovation would be cost prohibitive. This is because a number of building code, life safety, and ADA accessibility requirements would be triggered in order to simply occupy the Mahoney building. Required work would include substantial and costly structural upgrades (see 15:50 in the video). 

The Committee also learned that phasing the project over a few years would not significantly change the overall impact on taxpayers (see 11:02 in the video). The Public Safety and Mahoney projects would need to be phased by twenty+ years in order to see a significant change in the impact. Construction costs also increase over time, and any facilities not renovated in the near future will require significant financial investment to remain afloat.

The Committee also expressed concern that many of the alternative options presented (for example, leaving the gym and theater unusable or not incorporating the library) do not meet the Guiding Principles they adopted for the project or meet the charge they were given by the City Council to guide "a transformation of the historic Mahoney site into a vibrant civic and cultural hub."

M3C Recommendation to the City Council

Because of the information above, the M3C voted to not recommend a “bare bones” approach and not recommend phasing the Mahoney and public safety parts of the project over a few years. The Committee also voted to request specific guidance from the City Council on how to move forward should Council not find the Committee’s recommendations acceptable.

Specifically, M3C will ask the City Council in February if they would like to expand the Committee’s charge, which is currently limited to the Mahoney City Center, to explore alternative options for consolidating city services and sequencing that prioritizes city facilities with the greatest needs (Police and Central Fire Stations). M3C will also ask the City Council to provide guidance on whether its work should include the preservation of the Mahoney building or not. (See the discussion beginning at 1:50 in the video).

REMINDER: Due to the impending storm, curbside trash and recycling will be on a delayed schedule this week (the week of January 26, 2026). Tuesday will be collected on Wednesday, Wednesday on Thursday, Thursday on Friday, and Friday will be collected on Saturday. Reminder: Please barrels curbside in your driveway apron, at least 3 feet from any obstacles, by 7 AM on collection day. Bins on top of, or behind, snowbanks will not be collected.

City of South Portland offices and facilities will be CLOSED Monday, January 26, 2026 due to inclement weather. Many services are available online 24/7. Visit https://southportland.gov/onlineservices. Stay safe!

WINTER WEATHER ALERTS for Saturday, January 24 through Monday, January 26, 2026

EMERGENCY PARKING BAN:An emergency parking ban is in effect.

• Begins: Sunday, 1/25 at 5PM
• Ends: Tuesday, 1/27 at 6AM

No parking is permitted on any city street during the ban. Vehicles violating the parking ban are subject to ticketing and towing. Get parking ban notices and other weather-related email notifications. Sign up for "Public notices, updates and alerts" at southportland.gov/signup. Learn more about the winter parking and temporary parking options at: southportland.gov/winterparkingban

CITY OFFICES & FACILITIES CLOSED:All city offices offices and facilites are closed Monday, January 26 due to the weather. Many services are available online 24/7: https://southportland.gov/566/Online-Services

TRASH & RECYCLING SCHEDULE CHANGE:Due to the impending storm, curbside trash and recycling will be on a delayed schedule next week (the week of Jan. 26). Tuesday will be collected on Wednesday, Wednesday on Thursday, Thursday on Friday, and Friday will be collected on Saturday. Reminder: Please barrels curbside in your driveway apron, at least 3 feet from any obstacles, by 7 AM on collection day. Bins on top of, or behind, snowbanks will not be collected.

FREEZING TEMPS: Take caution in the extreme cold this weekend. If you observe or are aware of someone with medical needs during the cold snap, contact South Portland Fire-EMS. If you have a general concern, contact the South Portland Police Department. Always dial 911 in an emergency. If power outages should occur, the City may open a warming shelter. This will be announced on our website and social media channels. For anyone in need, there is an emergency overnight warming shelter in Portland this weekend. Visit the City of Portland website for info.

SNOW REMOVAL:Do not place or push snow or ice into public streets, sidewalks, or any city property. This is prohibited by city ordinance. This includes snow moved by contractors—property owners are responsible for their contractor’s actions. Get more winter weather/plowing season reminders at: southportland.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/421

City of South Portland crews work around the clock to the clear the streets, followed by the sidewalks, during and after a storm. Please have patience and follow all city ordinances to help ensure our Public Works crews can do their work and make the roads safe for travel. If you have an issue to report, please use our Citizen Requeste Portal. Your request will be directed to the appropriate staff for action. Please note that response times may be delayed during winter operations. southportland.gov/reportanissue

STORM CLOSURES:Should city offices and facilities close or have a delayed opening during inclement weather, an announcement will be posted on our website, southportland.gov, on our social media channels, and shared with news outlets. Get email notifications of a closure: sign up for "Public notices, updates and alerts" at southportland.gov/signup

NOTICE: Sewer Line Rehabilitation

In coordination with the Water Resource Protection Department, Vortex Services will be rehabilitating the Sewer Lines in front of residences in some neighborhoods through trenchless methods. Upcoming schedule and locations:

• 1/23 lining on Lowell St. 
• 1/28 lining between Bowers St. and Bellevue Ave. 
• 1/29 lining on Vincent St.
• 1/30 lining on Bellevue Ave. and Pillsbury St.

The Trenchless Rehabilitation Procedure being utilized allows for zero excavation and minimal disruption, however house services may be blocked for a short period of time. Please limit heavy use (washing machines, showers, etc.) of water while work is completed in your area.

Should you have any questions please call: David Hash at (207) 313-6251 or the Vortex OFFICE at (207) 897-3348.

The City Council heard a presentation from the Mahoney City Center Committee (M3C) on Tuesday, January 13. The City Manager and Mayor provided background about the project and the many years of work on the city’s facilities planning. The Committee Chair, Mike Hulsey, gave an overview of M3C’s work to date. Craig Piper from SMRT (the design firm) provided detailed information about the planning and design process and presented the committee’s recommended option for the Mahoney campus. Finance Director Ellen Sanborn recapped the Funding Subcommittee’s work to date and potential options for reducing the impact of the project on taxpayers. Finally, members of the public provided comments and the Council discussed the topic. 

If you missed the meeting, you can:

• Read the City Manager’s position paper
• View the Design Team's presentation
• View the Finance Director's presentation
• Watch the full meeting video

Importantly, the design team emphasized that a major cost driver is the work required on the Mahoney site, including the Mahoney building itself. Since converting the building from a school to a municipal building would constitute a “change of use,” significant, costly, and unavoidable investment would be required to bring the building up to code and make the site suitable.

The Committee asked the City Council to provide guidance for how to move forward. Specifically, they asked the Council to respond to the following questions:

1. Confirm whether it supports the recommended conceptual plans for the Mahoney campus, and
2. Whether or not the unanticipated price tag of $194 million changes the direction Council wishes to take with this project.

While most City Councilors expressed favorable views of the conceptual plans, the Council did not support advancing it due to the cost and potential impact on taxpayers.

The City Council directed the SMRT design team to work on options to present to M3C at its January 27, 2026 meeting. The options requested include:

• Phasing the project
• Renovating Mahoney with and without the Library
• Renovating Mahoney with and without the gym/auditorium fully renovated

M3C will discuss these options at its next meeting, and will present its recommendations to the City Council at a February workshop.

Join for the Tuesday, January 27, 2026 M3C meeting at 6 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, or watch on SPC-TV Spectrum Cable Channel 2 or live online.

Cities of Portland & South Portland Celebrate Five Years of Climate ActionMore than 70% of the climate strategies included in the plan are now underway

PORTLAND & SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – The Cities of Portland and South Portland are celebrating an important anniversary this year. Five years ago, the two cities joined forces to create and adopt One Climate Future, a bold plan charting a course to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050 and use 100% clean energy for municipal operations by 2040, while building resilience to the impacts of climate change. 

Over the past five years, One Climate Future has delivered meaningful and tangible progress by enabling Sustainability staff to hit the ground running and maintain momentum. More than 70% of the climate strategies included in the plan are now underway. Additionally, the plan has enabled the cities to leverage external funding, build municipal capacity, and provide leadership at the regional, state, and even national level: 

• Staff from both cities have worked creatively and efficiently to maximize the impact of their work. By leveraging funding from external sources, they have been awarded 32 grants since 2020 –  totaling $5,134,222 – to carry out One Climate Future strategies.
• Long-term capacities and partnerships have been built. By investing in people, the cities have created a solid foundation for carrying out the work of One Climate Future. Nine full-time Resilience Corps Fellows have been hosted over the last five years, training the next generation of climate resilience leaders.
• Setting an example and providing leadership. As one of the few multi-city climate action plans in the country, One Climate Future broke new ground and has served as a national model for regional cooperation and innovation.

With One Climate Future as a road map, staff have been able to make significant strides toward realizing the “Six Big Moves” – these are high impact, cross-departmental initiatives that touch on multiple aspects of the climate plan. Over the last five years, the Sustainability staff have partnered with various city departments, community organizations, citizens, and businesses to: 

• Power everything with clean renewable energy, including generating more than 63 million kWh of solar power, combined saving the cities over $5 million.
• Build community resilience and the collaborative capacity to create a better future through climate resilient land use planning and zoning, as well as educational campaigns to help inform the public about climate risks.
• Reduce waste and grow a circular economy by introducing 15 free composting drop-off sites that have diverted over 3.6 million pounds of food scraps from the waste stream.
• Build better buildings by adopting the state’s first Energy Stretch Code, improving the efficiency of new buildings by 30-35%.
• Nourish ecosystems which nourish us by adopting Landcare Management Ordinances and soil quality standards for new development. In addition, Portland planted 892 trees and South Portland supported the installation of 230 resilient yards.
• Connect people to places, to opportunity by adding density, incentivizing development around transit corridors, and promoting biking and walking. The Cities took a large step to coordinate and expand transit in 2024 by merging South Portland Bus Service with Greater Portland METRO.

The work continues. Join the One Climate Future team on Friday, January 16, 2026 from 9 AM – 10 AM to hear from Sustainability Directors, Troy Moon (Portland) and Julie Rosenbach (South Portland), as they discuss some of the major successes of the joint climate action plan and share a first look at what the future holds.

Learn more and read about the progress at: oneclimatefuture.org

###

Nutter Rd. is closed today, Monday, January 12, 2026 for drainage improvements. The road is expected to re-open around 4 PM. There will be access to the back parking lot at the Community Center during the closure.

On Tuesday, January 13 at 6:30PM in City Hall Council Chambers, the City Council will hear an update on the work of the Mahoney City Center Committee. The Council is being asked to provide guidance as to next steps on this project. 

Specifically, the Council is being asked to: 1) Confirm whether it supports the recommended conceptual plans for the Mahoney campus — including a combined City Hall, Hamlin, and Library in the existing Mahoney building along with a new Police station in the adjoining field — as well as for a new Central Fire Station on Broadway; and 2) Whether or not the unanticipated price tag of $194 million changes the direction Council wishes to take with this project.

See the meeting agenda, materials, and a recap of facilities assessment and planning efforts from 2019 to date at: https://go.boarddocs.com/me/sport/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DP6JTB4EB4C7

Members of the public may comment at the workshop. Community members are also welcome to email the City Council at citycouncil@southportland.gov. Those unable to attend may watch the meeting live on SPC-TV Spectrum Channel 2 or online at: http://bit.ly/SPCTV_Live

Learn more about the Mahoney City Center & Public Safety Facilities project at: southportland.gov/mahoney

Earlier this week, community members joined Fire Chief Selberg and members of the design and project management teams to discuss the design of the proposed new Central Fire Station. Watch the recording.

Traffic Alert: Highland Ave. between the Transfer Station and Wainwright is single-lane traffic due to a work crew in the road. Flaggers controlling the flow of traffic. Work is expected to be completed by 3 PM today, Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Thank you for subscribing to receive Public Notices, Updates, and Alerts from the City. You can also follow the City of South Portland on Facebook and Instagram to see more messages and updates like the one below.

Dear Community,

We'd like to thank you for your patience with garbage and recycling collection over the last few weeks, especially those of you on the Wednesday route.

A Christmas Eve snowstorm impacted trash and recycling pickup that day, as Casella, the company the city contracts with for collection, cancelled service due to the weather conditions. Casella was unable to accommodate an extra pickup due to the holiday week, but agreed to pick up the following Wednesday, including any extra trash that had accumulated. The city also welcomed impacted residents to bring overflow garbage to the Transfer Station the weekend following the missed pick-up, free of charge. Casella offered that residents could bring their trash to its Transfer Station in Westbrook as well.

Casella did return to collect last Wednesday (New Years Eve) as planned, but they were not able to pick up the entire route. This is because there was so much extra garbage and they needed to load the overflow by hand, and they ran out of time to collect the whole route. (City ordinance says they are only able to collect between 7 AM and 9 PM.) They returned on the New Years holiday to pick up any trash they were unable to get to on Wednesday.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding that the combination of bad weather and the holidays made for a challenging garbage and recycling pickup the last few Wednesdays. Please understand all did our best under the circumstances, but we understand this was an inconvenience, especially during the holidays when trash builds up. For anyone who missed the updates we posted on social media (the algorithm is tricky that way sometimes), please sign up to receive email notifications for "Public Notices, Updates & Alerts" at southportland.gov/signup.

Finally, thank you to the Casella staff who worked to collect all of the accumulated garbage, to our South Portland Public Works staff who cleared the snow and salted the roads all day on Christmas Eve, and to the staff who responded to many inquiries about the changed collection schedule. It takes a village sometimes.

Thanks, everyone.

The City’s Landcare Management Advisory Committee (LMAC) is looking for community volunteers to fill three vacant member positions. 

Two open committee seats are for South Portland residents to be appointed by the City Councillors for District 1 and District 2, respectively. 

The third open committee seat should be filled by a landscape professional who is licensed as a pesticide applicator by the Maine Board of Pesticide Control, also appointed by the City Council. (Learn more about the MBPC).

Interested persons are encouraged to read more about the LMAC and fill out an application online on the City’s “Boards & Committees” page, or in person at the City Clerk's office at City Hall during normal business hours.

Curbside Christmas tree collection begins today, Monday, January 5, 2026. Place decoration-free trees curbside. If there is a snow event prior to your pickup, please prevent trees from being buried in snow. If you should miss the collection period, trees can be brought to the Transfer Facility, free of charge.

Visit the News Hub for the latest from your city government. Read news releases, public notices, City Council updates, and more.

We want to hear from you! Learn how to report an issue and contact City Council and City of South Portland staff.

2026 Observed Holidays

View the Garbage & Recycling Schedule.

Thursday, January 1 - New Year’s DayMonday, January 19 - Martin Luther King DayMonday, February 16 - Presidents’ DayMonday, April 20 - Patriots’ DayMonday, May 25 - Memorial DayFriday, June 19 - JuneteenthFriday, July 3 - Observed Independence DayMonday, September 7 - Labor DayMonday, October 12 - Indigenous Peoples DayWednesday, November - 11 Veterans DayThursday, November 26 - Thanksgiving DayFriday, November 27 - Day After ThanksgivingFriday, December 25 - Christmas

Please Note: Some departments (for example, Parks & Rec, Library, Public Works) may have adjusted schedules around the holidays. Please sign up for Public Notices, Updates & Alerts to receive notices.

Learn about current bid and contract opportunities available to consultants, service providers, contractors, vendors, and suppliers.

Casella, the company the city contracts with for garbage and recycling pickup, confirmed with us today that anyone whose trash was not picked up last Wednesday due to the company's snow cancellation may leave bagged overflow trash next to bins for collection Weds. Dec. 31 ONLY. This applies to the Wednesday route only.

All recycling must fit in a bin or be brought to the South Portland Transfer Facility (there is no charge for recycling). Please do not leave loose recycling curbside.

Casella announced this morning that it has suspended Wednesday trash/recycling collection due to the inclement weather. We will send an update once they communicate their plan for collecting today's route.

Casella, our waste collection company, has advised us that because this week already includes a holiday delay for Christmas, they will be collecting Wednesday’s route next Wednesday. They noted they will gladly take any extra material that has accumulated as a result of the additional delay at Casella's Westbrook Transfer Station, located at 594 County Rd in Westbrook, between now and next Wednesday. They are open Sat 8-1, and Tue 8-4.

City offices & facilities will close at 5 PM on Tues., Dec. 23, 2025 due to expected snow. This includes the Community Centers & Library. As of this posting, trash collection is NORMAL for Tues. & Weds. Will update this post if a change is announced.

Due to the inclement morning weather and early closure for the holiday, City offices & facilities will be CLOSED all day Wednesday, December 24, 2025. This includes the Library & Community Centers. Garbage and recylcing pickup will proceed Wednesday as normal. If Casella announces a change, we'll post an update. As a reminder, Thursday's route will be collected Friday and Friday's route will be collected Saturday this week and next week due to the holidays.

Senior Property Tax Assistance

Senior Property Tax Assistance applications are available now and must be returned by April 30, 2026. 

• Seniors who are 65 or older may apply.
• To be eligible, you must have qualified to receive a tax credit under the Maine Property Tax Fairness Credit program.
• You must include a copy of your 2025 State Tax Return (1040ME) and Schedule PTFC with your application. 
• Applications may be dropped in the secure drop boxes by the front and rear door of City Hall. 
• You must apply every year. 
• Those who qualified last year and those who inquired about the program this fall will receive this year's application in the mail. 
• Visit the Tax Relief Programs webpage to access the online version of the application and get more information. Paper applications are also available in the Treasury office at City Hall.

Pennies Will Be Discontinued

Due to the removal of pennies from circulation, pennies will no longer be available as change for cash transactions with the City once current supplies run out (expected in mid-2026). Cash purchases will be rounded to the nearest $0.05. 

Following the standard banks will adhere to:

• If the total is $10.01 or $10.02, you will pay $10 cash.
• If the total is $10.03 or $10.04, you will pay $10.05 cash.

Payments made with credit cards, debit cards, or other non-cash methods will not be rounded.

Apply now to serve on a City of South Portland Board or Committee!

• Be the youth voice on important local issues that matter to you! Several City of South Portland Boards & Committees are seeking Youth Representatives. Learn more and apply.
• The Mahoney City Center Committee has vacancies for District 1 and District 5. Learn more and apply by January 9, 2025. (Those who previously applied will be automatically reconsidered.)
• Improve your community by volunteering in an area that matters to you! View all Boards & Committees and vacancies.

New Central Fire Station Conversation

Join us on Monday, January 5, 2026, from 5:30 to 7 PM at the Cash Corner Fire Station (use rear entrance). Enjoy snacks and refreshments, hear a short presentation from the Fire Chief and design team, and ask your questions about the proposed design for the new Central Fire Station.

RSVP at: https://bit.ly/SPCFSConvo

Your RSVP is not required but is strongly suggested.

New in the FAQ: Central Fire Station Location and Design

This new FAQ entry answers a lot of questions about the location, considerations, and design of the proposed new Central Fire Station. Get answers!

Follow-up to Last Night’s M3C Meeting: Project Cost

During last night’s Mahoney City Center Committee (M3C) meeting, the design team presented cost estimates to consolidate City Hall, Assessing, Hamlin and the Main Library at Mahoney (with theater and gym maintained for community use) and build new Police and Central Fire Stations. The cost, $193.8M, is significantly higher than expected. To understand more, we encourage you to read this meeting summary, watch the meeting video, and review SMRT’s presentation.

How would a $193.8M project impact you as a taxpayer? 

It’s too early to say, since the committee and city staff still have a lot of work to do on the Funding Plan, which will be presented to the City Council by July. Cost estimates were finalized just this week, so staff has not yet had time to dive into things like how, for example, phasing the project could alleviate the year-to-year impact on taxpayers.

If the City borrowed 100% of the cost at once and had no other funding sources, the $193.8M project would result in a roughly 16.5% tax increase for property owners, which would equate to $1,160 for the average homeowner. But this project needs to be phased practically and financially, which will impact how the tax rate is actually affected by spreading the cost out over several years. This is part of the work that will be done over the next several months.

Importantly, the committee and city staff will continue to fully examine all alternative funding sources like private philanthropic support, commercial partnerships, TIF funds, grants, and other ways to reduce the impact on the tax rate. It's also important to note that the figures above do not factor in the potential sale of City properties that would be vacated, like the current City Hall. Please see the report from the Funding Subcommittee, which goes into more detail.

By July, the consultants will have completed schematic design, M3C will have made its recommendation, and a funding plan will have been created. This will give an accurate picture of the property tax implications. We will aim to make a tax impact calculator available on our website for residents at that time.

What’s coming up next?

We encourage you to attend the January 13, 2026 City Council Meeting at 6:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. During the meeting, M3C will present its recommended conceptual design and seek guidance from the Council. You can make a comment during the meeting, or email the City Council at citycouncil@southportland.gov.

Here's an update from tonight's M3C meeting. For those unable to attend or watch live, the video will be posted on Vimeo in the next few days (please check back). Thanks to the many community members who have participated and continue to be a valuable part of this process.MEETING OVERVIEWAt tonight’s meeting, the Mahoney City Center Committee (M3C) voted in support of a conceptual design for the Mahoney site that maintains the Mahoney theater and current gym area, builds a 1-story addition to accommodate the Main Library, and situates the Police Station on the site (a decision previously made by the City Council). The design firm, SMRT, also presented recently completed cost estimates for the project, which also includes a new Central Fire Station on Broadway. The estimates are significantly higher than expected for all of the options that were presented. The Committee will seek guidance from the City Council at its January 13 workshop.In response to the information presented at the meeting, Mayor Elyse Tipton shared the following: “The cost estimates presented tonight are sobering, but a strong planning and review process remains in place. Our City Council will hear M3C’s recommendations at our workshop next month. The City Council has an obligation to ensure that our public infrastructure is strong and that our community can access services and amenities that support a safe and healthy quality of life here in South Portland. We also have a duty to be fiscally smart and not overburden taxpayers. We thank the committee members and staff who have worked on this potentially transformational project over the past nine months to get it to a place where we can now talk about how a funding plan can balance these priorities.”KEY MEETING TAKEAWAYS

• The conceptual site design option the Committee selected to recommend to the City Council maintains the theater and current gym area. It is estimated to cost roughly $193.8M, which includes escalation and contingency costs.
• The cost difference between the Mahoney option that maintains the theater and gym area for community use and an option that repurposes the theater for municipal use is $5.7M (+ escalation and contingency costs). Based on community input, the Committee selected the design that maintains the theater and gym area.
• Alternative funding sources like private philanthropic support, commercial partnerships, TIF funds, grants, and other creative financing solutions are essential to reduce the burden on taxpayers and will continue to be fully explored.
• There are several reasons that the cost estimate is higher than the rough numbers provided early in the process by another firm. The current estimate uses more accurate and up-to-date cost per square foot figures, includes site work and cost escalation, and is based on actual, detailed space needs for city programming. The design work done to date was all required to calculate this more accurate estimate.
• SMRT also presented costs for an alternative: renovating or rebuilding existing city buildings at their current locations to meet the space needs for various city services. The cost to renovate or rebuild the Police Station, Central Fire Station, City Hall/Assessing, Hamlin, and the Main Library at their current sites is estimated to cost roughly $153.6M, which includes escalation and contingency costs. It’s important to note that for some facilities, the current site may not actually be feasible to accommodate the future buildings and/or would require structured parking, the cost of which is not reflected in this estimate.

NEXT STEPSThe City Council invites the public to attend its January 13, 2026 workshop at 6:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. During the workshop, M3C will present its recommended design, and the City Council will discuss and provide feedback to the Committee. The Council encourages the public to attend. Public comments can also be submitted by emailing citycouncil@southportland.gov.

Tax Assessor Brent Martin presented assessment data for Fiscal Year 2026 at the December 9, 2025 City Council meeting. Watch the meeting and view the presentation.

Dear Community Member,

Thank you for your interest in the Mahoney City Center & Public Safety Buildings Project!

An important project milestone is coming up at the next Mahoney City Center Committee (M3C) meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6PM in City Hall Council Chambers, and we invite you to join and share your thoughts with the Committee! There are two public comment periods, including one at the start of the meeting.

Here's what's on the agenda:

• Public Hearing to select a conceptual design proposal to recommend to the City Council. M3C will continue its discussion of 3 options for the Mahoney building (including whether to maintain the theater and/or gym area space for community use). Cost estimates for each option are expected to be presented, as well as estimates to renovate city buildings at their current locations. The design team is currently finalizing these estimates to present to the Committee on Tuesday.
• An update from the Funding Plan Subcommittee on its research to date into potential funding sources for the project to help minimize the property tax impact on taxpayers. 
• An update from the Communications Subcommittee on public input received from the many hundreds of community members who have taken part in outreach events and shared their input in the Community Space Needs Survey. Thank you for participating and helping to shape this project!

View the meeting agenda and materials.

Can't make the meeting? No problem! You can email comments to the Committee at M3C@southportland.gov. Watch the meeting live on SPC-TV or online.

Get the latest updates on the project at: southportland.gov/mahoney

Join Mayor Elyse Tipton, Councilor Carter Scott, and special guest Senator Anne Carney for drop-in office hours this Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 10 AM to 12 PM downstairs at the South Portland Public Library Community Room (downstairs).

Stop by to connect with your elected officials about local matters that matter to YOU now and in the new year! We'll have coffee and snacks to fuel you up for your holiday errands and weekend fun. We also welcome you to bring food donations to benefit the South Portland Food Cupboard.

Tonight's City Council meeting will be HYBRID due to a Councilor needing to attend virtually. Join in Council Chambers tonight, Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 6:30 PM or use this link to attend remotely: https://meet.google.com/hoh-xvvh-rid

View the meeting agenda and materials.

Members of the public have up to 3 minutes each to comment. Participants may also watch the meeting live on SPC-TV (Spectrum Channel 2) or online at: https://bit.ly/SPCTV_Live

Get the latest! Read the most recent bi-weekly e-newsletter from the City of South Portland.

Police and Central Fire Stations: At the heart of the Mahoney City Center project

For years, the City has examined how we can provide long-overdue upgrades to our public safety buildings. Building a new Police Station on the Mahoney site allows Central Fire Station to be rebuilt at its current location on Broadway – which is critical to meet target EMS and Fire response times in an emergency. These are critical components of the Mahoney City Center project.

Why South Portland needs a new Central Fire Station and Police Station

But why do we need a new Central Fire Station, you might be wondering? Ask a South Portland firefighter. The facility, built in 1955, is literally crumbling. Our firefighters cannot get away from the toxic chemicals of their equipment, because there isn’t adequate separation from their living quarters. The station has no dedicated decontamination area to clean turnout gear. And the Emergency Operations Center, the dedicated space for city leaders to convene in an emergency? It’s frequently under water in wet weather. The facility was also built for an all-male firefighting crew, isn’t ADA compliant, and our own Central Fire Station doesn’t have a sprinkler system in case of fire.

The adjacent 1967 Police Station isn’t any better. It floods all the time, has mechanical systems that are hanging on by a thread, lacks adequate space for basic police functions…the list goes on. Watch the Police Station and Central Fire Station tours at our recent Building Crawl and this panel discussion with Police Chief Dan Ahern and Fire Chief Phil Selberg to learn more. You can also read this FAQ about the condition of these buildings.

Why the Mahoney site was selected as the site for the new Police Station

In order to build a modern, climate ready Central Fire Station that meets our community’s needs at the current location on Broadway, the Police Department must move to a different location. During public meetings over the past few years, the City Council discussed various location options for the new PD and considered feedback from several consultants. All agreed: the Mahoney site is the City’s best option. So the City Council made the decision to locate the new police station on the field area adjacent to the Mahoney building.

Why there? First, there’s enough space on the site and it doesn’t require the purchase of new land, which is hard to come by in South Portland (and expensive). Second, a phased approach means we wouldn’t need to temporarily relocate the Police Department during an extensive renovation – which would be extremely complicated (and also expensive). With the anticipated phased construction approach, PD can move into its new building and then Fire/EMS can temporarily relocate from Broadway to other fire stations during construction of its new building. Finally, being part of the City Center campus will enable our Police Department to build even greater trust, transparency, and partnerships with and in the community – keys to continuing to reduce crime in South Portland. Many communities (like Scarborough, for example) have consolidated city services and public safety facilities on a common municipal campus.

What about the green space at Mahoney? 

Outdoor community spaces will be an important feature of the proposed City Center. Green spaces, including potential areas for athletics and places to enjoy the outdoors, are all part of the vision for the campus. The Mahoney City Center Committee is working with the community to make recommendations for outdoor spaces residents would like to see there. While there will not be as much green space as there currently is, we have the potential to create new and inviting outdoor spaces that our whole community can enjoy.

Do you have questions about this project?

Visit the project FAQ.

Learn more and get involved

The proposed Mahoney City Center is not only envisioned to be a vibrant new hub for city services, culture, and community connection. The project is key to enabling the city to build the safe, healthy, functional, long-lasting Police and Central Fire Stations our community needs. The project will move forward if voters approve it at a bond referendum tentatively scheduled for November 2026.

Learn about the project, see upcoming meetings, provide input, contact the Mahoney City Center commitee, and sign up for email updates at: www.southportland.gov/mahoney

Thanks to the many hundreds of community members who have taken the Community Space Needs survey (closing Dec. 9), joined us for committee meetings, attended the Building Crawls and Community Design Deep Dive, and shared your ideas, questions and concerns about the Mahoney City Center and Public Safety Buildings project. Your collective feedback guides the Mahoney City Center Committee (M3C) to shape the project our community wants to see.

Coming up! An important project milestone is coming up at the next M3C meeting. The design team is expected to present initial cost estimates for three Mahoney site plan options, as well as estimates for renovating or rebuilding city facilities at their current locations. During the meeting, the committee is expected to decide which City Center option to recommend to the City Council in January. And we want to hear from you!

Join us on Tuesday, December 16 at 6 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. There is a public comment period at the start and end of the meeting. You can also watch live online at http://bit.ly/SPCTV_Live. You can email comments to the committee at M3C@southportland.gov. The meeting agenda and materials will be posted by 4:30 PM Thursday, December 11 on BoardDocs.

Last chance to take the survey! What kinds of community spaces do you think we need in South Portland? Take the city's 3-minute survey at https://bit.ly/CommunitySpaceNeeds to help inform decisions about the future, including community-oriented spaces at the proposed new City Center at Mahoney. The survey closes Tuesday, December 9.

On November 8th, the Water Resource Protection (WRP) Department held an open house at the City’s wastewater treatment plant on Waterman Drive. The event provided the public with an opportunity to learn about the essential and diverse work we do to safeguard South Portland’s vital water resources. Engineering Project Manager Lacey Kremer, Stormwater Program Coordinator Aubrey Strause and Director Fred Dillon gave a presentation on various aspects of the wastewater treatment system with an emphasis on the upcoming upgrade to the Pearl Street pump station. This station conveys sewage from the entire western side of the city and is at the end of its useful life after nearly 50 years of service. The upgrade will require a significant investment of nearly $35M that will result in substantial increases to sewer rates. For more information, please visit WRP’s website.

The presentations were followed by tours of our wastewater treatment facility, which were led by Treatment Systems Manager Tom Wiley and Wastewater Operators Dave Durant, Kyle Sanborn and Lewis Therrien. The tours highlighted how the facility removes most of the pollutants from residential, commercial and industrial wastewater through various physical, chemical and biological processes. All of these processes are operated and maintained by our highly trained and credentialed staff in strict compliance with water quality and occupational safety requirements. To schedule a tour of the City’s wastewater treatment facility, please contact us at 767-7675.

Wastewater Operator Lewis Therrien (2nd from left) gives a very informative tour of the City’s wastewater treatment facility to attendees of the Water Resource Protection Department’s Open House on 11/8/25

Want to help keep a neighbor warm this winter? The City is accepting donations to our Heating Assistance Fund. The fund helps South Portland residents in need of support with heating costs. To donate, make your check payable to the City of South Portland with "Heating Assistance Fund" in the memo line, and send to: South Portland Social Services Dept., PO Box 9422, South Portland, ME 04116-9422. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extend allowed by law.

If you are in need of heating assistance, reach out to our Social Services department at: (207) 767-7617.

The City of South Portland is exploring a public bikeshare program to help fill gaps in our transportation network. We are seeking your feedback to understand how a bikeshare program might best serve people in South Portland. The survey takes about 3–5 minutes to complete. Take the survey.

Due to inclement weather, all city offices and facilities, including the Community Center and Library, will close at 5 PM today, Tuesday, December 2, 2025. Tonight’s City Council meeting has been postponed. Join us in City Hall Council Chambers on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 6:30 PM, or watch live online.

The city has been notified that CSX Transportation will be working to repair an issue on its railroad track on Broadway near the intersection with Evans St. on Monday, December 1 beginning around 2 PM. South Portland crews will assist with traffic control and aim to maintain 2-way traffic. However, delays are expected. Please plan accordingly.

Join us tonight for the Mahoney City Center meeting at 6PM in City Hall Council Chambers, or watch live online. Public comments are welcome during the two comment periods at the start and end of the meeting.

M3C will hear updates from the design team and owner's rep, the funding plan subcommittee, and the communications subcommittee. M3C will discuss public input received so far about community spaces at Mahoney, and hear a presentation from the Public Arts Committee. View the agenda and materials.

Join us Monday, December 1, 2025 at 4 PM in the South Portland High School Lecture Hall for the Inauguration Ceremony for Councilors Elect Richard Matthews, Carter Scott, and Natalie West, and the installation of the 2025-2026 Mayor, Elyse Tipton, immediately followed by the installation of School Board members Eleni Richardson, Daniel Feller, Tyler Smith, and George Risch. The School Board will also appoint Rosemarie De Angelis as Chair and Adrian Dowling as Vice Chair.

There is a force main break on Lincoln St. near the intersection with Main St. Shaw Brothers is on site conducting the repair. Traffic is down to one lane in this area, and there may be delays today, Wednesday, November 19, 2025. Please plan an alerternative route. 

City facilities will have a delayed opening at 9:30 AM on Tuesday, November 18, as staff will be taking part in the annual Employee Appreciation Breakfast. The Community Center will open at 10 AM.

At the November 6, 2025 City Council meeting, the Council approved updates to South Portland’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure Ordinance (Chapter 27, Sec. 27-1558).

The updates are in response to changing EV market conditions, developer feedback, and shifts in federal funding. They are designed to make requirements more cost-effective and easier to comply with, while still supporting South Portland’s commitment to clean transportation by increasing the number of EV chargers in South Portland in a way that is both practical and impactful. 

The revised ordinance will take effect on November 26, 2025.

Here’s what’s changing:

• Simpler requirements: The previous “EV-capable” parking space requirement has been removed to focus on EV-installed parking requirements.
• Small parking lots exempt: The minimum lot size has been increased. Only parking lots with 25 or more spaces that are newly built or reconstructed will be subject to EV-installed requirements.
• Fewer required chargers: The percentage of new or reconstructed spaces that must have EV chargers has been reduced, and a maximum number of chargers has been set.
• New “EV-Ready” standard: All newly built residential units with dedicated parking within 25 feet of the structure must now include wiring and infrastructure to easily add a charger later.
• Support for affordable housing: Affordable housing projects will have a cap of two required EV chargers.
• More flexibility: Options for off-site installations or in-lieu fees are now available.

For more information on the changes to these regulations please contact Community Planner Marin Stephens at 207-347-4133 or mstephens@southportland.gov.

Get the latest! Read the most recent bi-weekly e-newsletter from the City of South Portland.

• November 19, 2025: CPC meeting to finalize the draft plan and send to the community for input.
• November 24, 2025 through January 28, 2026: View the complete draft plan, submit feedback online or in person at both libraries.
• February 4, 2026: CPC meets to review feedback and finalize plan for Council's review.

South Portland Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Department will be removing cattail plants from Mill Creek Pond in November or December 2025. 

Cattails are taking over the shoreline of the pond and expanding throughout it, as it is a very shallow man-made pond. It is not fed by any natural water source and does not drain into a natural water source.

Visitors enjoy Mill Creek Park in all seasons, including in the winter for recreation and ice skating. The cattails are reducing the size of the pond allowing a smaller amount of area to skate. If we don't stay ahead of this now for maintenance it will be a lot more costly and time consuming to deal with later when half the pond is covered in cattails.

The other reason for the removal is to reduce breeding and nesting areas for ducks and geese, and hopefully reduce the amount of goose droppings around the park. 

The Parks Department will drain the pond a foot or so down as the first step. Crews will then use an excavator to dig up the cattails in the pond and haul it away. Anything crews can't reach with the excavator will pulled or cut by hand.

Curbside leaf collection will begin on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Please place leaves curbside in a pile in biodegradable bags by 7 AM on November 12. Bags not curbside by this date may not be collected. Leaves may also be brought to the Transfer Facility, year-round, free of charge, during normal hours of operation and during special hours every Sunday in November, 8 AM to 3:30 PM.

Submit your nominations for the 11th annual South Portland Business Awards! Nominate a business or businesses that make a difference in our community. Winners will be announced at the Business Awards Ceremony scheduled for February 25, 2026. Nominations will be open until November 17. To learn more about the award categories or to nominate a local business, head to our nomination form.

John Switzer, the superintendent of Highland Memorial Cemetery, is retiring this month after a 33-year career highlighted by significant improvements to the 14-acre property.

“It’s the best job I ever had,” said Switzer, 81, who will be relocating with his wife to Arizona to be closer to their children and grandchildren. “The chance to help people through a difficult situation and provide their loved ones a final resting place has been a special privilege.”

John “Linky” Erskine has been hired by the Highland Memorial Cemetery Association Board of Directors to succeed Switzer. Erskine’s primary responsibilities will focus on the upkeep and continued improvement the grounds and equipment. His wife, Michelle, will be responsible for burial plot sales, records and details.

Both men had been colleagues at South Portland’s Parks Department, which Switzer headed for many years. He retired from that job in 2010. Erskine retired from the department in 2024.

Switzer faced myriad challenges when he took on the part-time job in December 1992. Some cemetery records were amiss, and the property itself had lacked regular upkeep. Few families chose the cemetery to bury loved ones. But by that point, said Switzer, “the board became more active,” and a master plan was envisioned that could “bring Highland Memorial Cemetery out of obscurity.”

The results are easy to see. Granite walls and entries, a granite sign, multiple flagpoles and a dramatic veterans’ monument and columbarium enhance the area closest to Highland Avenue. A gazebo and a large, two-story garage and storage facility have also been built during Switzer’s superintendency. With greater visibility, a little advertising and some word-of-mouth, the nonprofit, non-denominational cemetery has established itself as a popular burial site. Its open land, surrounded by woods and trails, has also attracted a strong community of dog walkers, walkers, bikers and hikers.

Tim Michaud, president of the board of directors, called Switzer “the heartbeat of the cemetery, from meeting with people at their saddest time to keeping the grounds in top condition.” He said the board anticipates that the level of services and compassion Switzer established will continue under the Erskines. For more information about the cemetery, see highlandmemorialcemetery.org.

Casella / Pine Tree Waste (the garbage/recycling company the City contracts with for collection) had some breakdowns last night that caused them to not finish the Wednesday route.  Here is a partial list of streets affected. They'll be back to collect today, Thursday, November 6, 2025.  

• Smokehouse
• Barnstable
• Tamarack
• Cross meadow
• Elderberry 
• Boysenberry
• Winding
• Old farm
• Some of Highland
• Jessica Ln
• Spurwink

Join us for the Mahoney City Center Community Design Deep Dive!

WHAT: During this lively session, attendees will weigh in on community space options at the proposed new Mahoney City Center site. Community members will be invited to give input on indoor and outdoor spaces, the Library, city service areas, community-centered elements of the Police Station, and access to and around the site.

WHEN: Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 9 to 11 AM. The event will begin right at 9 AM. Doors will open at 8:45. Please plan to arrive early and stay for the duration of the event.

WHERE: Former Mahoney School (240 Ocean St.) gym. Use the rear entrance on Broadway.

WHO: South Portland community members, committee members, City staff and members of the project design team

WHY: The Mahoney City Center Committee and design team want to know what community spaces and features South Portland residents would like to see as part of the proposed new City Center at Mahoney. Your feedback will be used to inform the design of the proposed project.

RSVP: Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP to help organizers plan for the event. Please respond via this form.

Please note that while the Mahoney building is not ADA accessible, there will be an accommodation for those unable to use stairs. A tour of Mahoney will follow the event.

Questions? Contact Shara Dee at (207) 347-4143 or sdee@southportland.gov.

We hope you can join us this Saturday, November 15 from 9 to 11 AM in the Mahoney gym (rear entrance) for the City Center Design Deep Dive! Doors will open at 8:45 and the event will begin promptly at 9. Please help us plan for the event - RSVP today! (Your RSVP is helpful, but not required).

Join us for the Mahoney City Center Community Design Deep Dive!

WHAT: During this lively session, attendees will weigh in on community space options at the proposed new Mahoney City Center site. Community members will be invited to give input on indoor and outdoor spaces, the Library, city service areas, community-centered elements of the Police Station, and access to and around the site.

WHEN: Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 9 to 11 AM. The event will begin right at 9 AM. Doors will open at 8:45. Please plan to arrive early and stay for the duration of the event.

WHERE: Former Mahoney School (240 Ocean St.) gym. Use the rear entrance on Broadway.

WHO: South Portland community members, committee members, City staff and members of the project design team

WHY: The Mahoney City Center Committee and design team want to know what community spaces and features South Portland residents would like to see as part of the proposed new City Center at Mahoney. Your feedback will be used to inform the design of the proposed project.

RSVP: Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP to help organizers plan for the event. Please respond via this form.

Please note that while the Mahoney building is not ADA accessible, there will be an accommodation for those unable to use stairs. A tour of Mahoney will follow the event.

Questions? Contact Shara Dee at (207) 347-4143 or sdee@southportland.gov.

The City Council heard a presentation of air quality data analysis by Maine DEP and Maine CDC at its October 14, 2025 workshop. Watch the presentation.

Follow-up to questions asked during the meeting:

• A public commentor asked about the Sprague fine and violations. Please see this document summarizing EPA’s settlement with Sprague. The document is from EPA’s website and covers Sprague’s South Portland facility and Sprague facilities in New England that were subject to the settlement. It also mentions a similar settlement with Global.
• During the follow-up discussion after public comment, one of the city councilors asked about facility reported benzene emissions.  This document shows benzene emissions from the South Portland petroleum storage facilities for 2023. (Note: 2024 emissions data have been submitted to DEP; however, those data are still in the review process and are expected to be available by the end of the year.) All six facilities reported benzene emissions. Four facilities reported emissions for each individual tank. Chapter 137 specifies the reporting threshold for benzene as 0.5 tons (1000 lbs.). None of these six facilities reached the benzene reporting threshold in 2023.

We invite you to our free event Seeds of Culture: An Indigenous Family Experience on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 10:30 AM at the Redbank Community Center. The event is presented by the South Portland Human Rights Commission and led by Casa Areyto and includes hands-on fun, lunch, and learning for the whole family!

Get the latest! Read the most recent bi-weekly e-newsletter from the City of South Portland.

Here's the latest news about the Mahoney City Center & Public Safety Facilities Project:

• At the next Mahoney City Center Committee meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 6PM in City Hall Council Chambers, the project design team will present a general site plan for consideration of approval by the Committee. This includes:
  • access to the site (connection to Highland Ave.)
  • strategy on parking
  • general location of the Police Station on the site
  • general location of active green space on the campus
• Can't join in person? You can watch live online at http://bit.ly/SPCTV_Live and/or email your thoughts to the Committee at M3C@southportland.gov.
• In the new FAQ, get answers to questions like, "Why did the City Council select the Mahoney site as the location for the new police station?" and "How much will the project cost?" (Spolier alert: We'll know more in December).
• Watch this recent panel discussion with South Portland Police Chief Dan Ahern and Fire Chief Phil Selberg: "Your Police and Central Fire Stations: Current Problems and Future Potential." The Chiefs answer top questions about the need for new facilities, the locations of the new buildings, future benefits to the community, and more.
• SAVE THE DATE for the Mahoney City Center Community Design Deep Dive on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 9 to 11 AM in the Mahoney gym.
• Visit the Mahoney Reimagined page to get project info, sign up for updates, get meeting information and more.

Reimagining the South Portland Public Library

Wednesday, October 22 at 6:30 PM - South Portland Public Library (downstairs)

Join Library Director Kevin Davis at the Main Library on Wednesday, October 22 at 6:30 PM for a presentation and discussion about the past, present and potential future of the South Portland Public Library (SPPL). The session will include a brief history of the city’s library services to the present day and a review of the SPPL’s important role in both our local community and in the state. The discussion will then turn to the proposed new City Center at the former Mahoney School, including a review of why the Main Library is proposed to be located at this new “downtown hub for civic and community life.” Participants are invited to share their thoughts and ideas about the future of library services in South Portland.

Your Municipal Buildings: Current Problems and Future Potential Panel Discussion

Thursday, October 23 at 2 PM - South Portland Public Library (downstairs)

Join us at the Main Library on Thursday, October 23rd at 2pm for a Panel Discussion on the current problems and future potential of your municipal buildings. Learn about the condition of the current City Hall, Hamlin, and Assessing buildings in this panel discussion with City Planner Milan Nevajda, City Clerk Jessica Hughes, Assessor Brent Martin, and Finance Director Ellen Sanborn. Staff will discuss how the problems at current facilities impact the services their departments provide, and the potential that a new facility could bring to the community.

Learn about the Mahoney City Center & Public Safety Buildings project.

The following City Boards, Committees and Commissions are seeking youth representatives. Apply Today: onboard.southportland.org/apply

Public Arts Committee - Promotes and develope artistic and cultural activities and initiatives that advance the quality of life and vibrancy of the City.  Filled

Human Rights Commisssion - Provides support for the people of South Portland, specifically marginalized groups, in order to build community; provide education and training; celebrate diversity and inclusion; increase community engagement; and review policies and provide policy recommendations

Conservation Commission - Acts as a research, advisory and advocacy group on environmental issues relating to the city. Including, but not limited to keeping an index of all open areas within the city and recommending programs for the better protection, development or use of those areas; prepare and distribute books, maps, charts, pamphlets, etc. that is pertinent; promotion of its open space and park plans.

Comprehensive Plan Committee - Serves as a guide for the decisions the City must make about growth, development, redevelopment, and change over the coming decade.

At its October 21, 2025 meeting, the South Portland City Council passed a Resolve expressing opposition to Question 1 on the November 4, 2025 State Referendum Ballot. See this and all City Council Resolves and Proclamations.

The Economic Development Department is happy to introduce Economic Development Intern Tavia Godfrey and Economic Development Project Manager Ted Choi!

Tavia is a student in the Muskie School of Public Policy at USM, seeking a Masters degree in Policy, Planning & Management.  Tavia received her bachelor's of science from the University of Vermont, majoring in community development and applied economics with a double minor in public communications and community entrepreneurship.  She has also worked in a diverse set of roles as an Americorp volunteer in Baltimore, General Manager at Old Smith Farm and Operations Manager at Highroller Lobster.  

Tavia assists in a variety of economic development department tasks with a focus on Business Marketing & Outreach.  Her projects include the Business Recognition Program - Out & About, Business Spotlight and the Annual Business Awards.  She leads our social media program and produces the monthly economic development newsletter. Tavia is instrumental in developing our business database and will be integral in the digitization of the Business Resource Center that will include a searchable business database and user friendly tools to support new, existing and aspiring businesses in our community. 

Ted is a graduate of the Master of Public Administration program at Auburn University with a certificate in Economic Development. He earned his bachelor's of arts from Auburn University majoring in Political Science. 

Ted has worked in a range of roles across community and economic development, including with Opelika Main Street and Lee-Russell Council of Governments. He currently assists the South Portland Economic Development Department with a variety of projects supporting business growth, downtown revitalization, and job creation efforts.

Welcome, Tavia and Ted!

The South Portland Police Department (SPPD) is one of only four municipal agencies in Maine accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). CALEA is a voluntary, non-governmental credentialing authority that promotes professional excellence in public safety by maintaining standards and offering accreditation programs for law enforcement agencies.

SPPD is currently undergoing the process for re-accreditation with CALEA. As part of the assessment process, CALEA provides a web-based public comment portal to allow community members to provide feedback. The posting of this portal is required under CALEA Law Enforcement Standard 45.2.3.

The purpose of this public comment portal is to gather input on the South Portland Police Department’s compliance with CALEA standards, engagement with the community, delivery of public safety services, and overall performance as a candidate for re-accreditation. Comments may include commendations or concerns and are an important part of the department’s continuous improvement efforts and commitment to professional excellence. We invite you to submit your comments today.

Please Note: CALEA is not an investigatory agency. Therefore, the public comment portal should not be used to submit complaints or request investigations. To file a formal complaint or commendation, please contact the South Portland Police Department directly.

Additionally, those submitting comments will receive only an acknowledgment of receipt. All submissions will be reviewed for relevancy to CALEA standards and considered in the accreditation process.

To submit a comment about the South Portland Police Department, please visit the CALEA Accreditation public comment portal.

Absentee voting has begun! Get info.

• You can vote absentee without cause now through October 30, 2025 at City Hall. Or you can pick up your ballot to complete and return later. You do not need a reason to vote absentee.
• Alternatively, you can request that your absentee ballot be sent to you in the mail. Request your absentee ballot online or call the City Clerk's office at (207) 767-3201 by 10/30.
• The Clerk's office will have special hours for election services only Sat. 10/18 & Sat. 10/25 from 8 AM to 12 PM, plus Tues. 10/28 until 7 PM.
• Polls will be open 7 AM - 8 PM on election day, Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
• You can register to vote at City Hall or at your voting place on election day.
• All absentee ballots must be returned to City Hall by 8 PM on November 4.
• See sample ballots, polling locations, a link to info about the School Bond Referendum questions, and more on the November 2025 election page.

Check out the new Mahoney City Center & Public Safety Buildings project FAQ and these upcoming events:

• Weds. 10/15 at 12 PM (Virtual) - Drop-in with the Design Team question and answer session with SMRT Architects & Engineers
• Thurs. 10/16 at 2 PM (Main Library) - Your Police and Central Fire Stations: Current Problems & Future Potential discussion with Police Chief Dan Ahern and Fire Chief Phil Selberg
• Weds. 10/22 at 6:30 PM (Main Library) - Reimagining the South Portland Public Library presentation and discussion with Library Director Kevin Davis
• Thur. 10/23 at 2 PM (Main Library) - Your Municipal Buildings: Current Problems & Future Potential discussion with City Planner Milan Nevajda, City Clerk Jessica Hughes, Assessor Brent Martin, and Finance Director Ellen Sanborn
• Weds. 10/29 at 12 PM (Virtual) - Drop-in with the Design Team question and answer session with SMRT Architects & Engineers

⚠️ There will be lane closures on Western Ave. near Basic Fitness Center starting Tuesday, October 7, 2025 and lasting approx. two weeks as a new pedestrian crossing is installed.

Travel will remain open in both directions, with traffic delays possible. Please plan ahead and use caution when traveling through the work zone. 

Get the latest! Read the most recent bi-weekly e-newsletter from the City of South Portland.

The Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off is Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 8 AM to 12 PM at the Russ Lunt Municipal Services Facility. You must have a current transfer station sticker or proof of residency.

Learn more on the Household Hazardous Waste page.

The Maine Turnpike Authority has informed the City of the following night closures for paving/road repairs:

• Exit 45 Northbound beginning Tuesday, 9/23 from 7 PM to 5 AM
• Exit 45 Southbound beginning Sunday, 9/28 from 7 PM to 5 AM

The work for each will last approximately 3 days. Work is weather dependent.

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – The City of South Portland is thrilled to announce the launch of its first neighborhood byway. Spanning the Thornton Heights, Cash Corner, and Ligonia neighborhoods, the byway utilizes local streets and trails as an alternative to busier roads, providing a safer route for biking to the South Portland Middle School. The Sustainability Department is holding a launch party to familiarize kids with the route and promote biking to school. On the morning of Wednesday, September 24, 2025 beginning at 7:00 AM for 7-8 graders, and 7:45 AM for 5-6 graders, staff will greet participants at two starting points: Bishop/Huntress St. and Lincoln/Church St. The launch party will include a group ride to school and free drinks, snacks, music, and giveaways in Firefighter’s Park at Cash Corner. 

WHEN: Wednesday, September 24, 2025

• Grades 7-8  meet at 7:00 AM
• Grades 5-6 meet at 7:45 AM

WHERE: There will be two starting points for group rides: Bishop/Huntress St. and Lincoln/Church St.

WHO: All South Portland Middle School students are invited to bike to school! Bicycle Coalition of Maine will lead safety lessons at both starting points, and then kids will ride with guides to Firefighter’s Park to share snacks, drinks, giveaways, and music before continuing to school. 

WHY: The City’s goal with this project is to provide a safer route for walking, biking, scootering, or any other form of active transportation to South Portland Middle School. Access to bike lanes, multi-use trails, and sidewalks makes it easier and safer to get around without a vehicle. People-powered transportation (like biking or walking) fosters resilience, healthy and sustainable habits, independence, and joy.

The Neighborhood Byway Project Team worked in phases on this project, bringing it to fruition in 2025 with the help of a Community Action Grant. Sustainability staff closely collaborated with the Public Works Department to coordinate ADA accessibility, signage, road stencils and use of existing safe street crossings.

The South Portland Sustainability Department would like to recognize and thank our partners on this project: Bicycle Coalition of Maine, Portland Gear Hub, South Portland School Department, and Bike Bus South Portland. For additional information, visit the Thornton-Cash Neighborhood Byway web page.

Aerial Map View of the Neighborhood Byway

About the City of South Portland

The City of South Portland is a vibrant Southern Maine community of nearly 27,000 residents and over 1,500 businesses located on picturesque Casco Bay. www.southportland.gov