Daily editionTuesday, July 15th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 15th of July.
Community
The MaineHousing annual report said the number of homeless people in Maine dropped to just over 2,400 in January—about 300 fewer than last year, with a 26% decrease among children.
MaineHousing credited the drop to expanded shelter capacity and state funding for supportive housing.
WGMERead more
Environment
The Chebeague-Cumberland Land Trust bought 77 acres of forest called Watson Woods, located about a mile from downtown Cumberland, to protect the land from development.
The trust raised over $900,000 from local donations and government programs and will build trails and a small parking area over the next year — joining over 450 acres of protected land for wildlife and outdoor recreation.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Portland City Council will set an election date on Monday for a vote on a proposal to raise the minimum wage from $15.50 to $20 over four years starting January 1 — if approved, wage increases will gradually occur until 2029.
Finance director Brendan O’Connell noted the change may require a tax rate increase of 3.1 to 3.6 percent for city employees.
FOX23Read more
York County ratified its $28.6 million budget on July 2 and set tax bills for 29 towns, with Kennebunkport and Biddeford each receiving a bill of $1.8 million—up $309,583 and $113,807 respectively from last year.
Towns will receive their tax bills by Sept. 1 and face a 7.5% interest rate on unpaid taxes starting after Oct. 31, as spending rises for more personnel, training centers, and utility needs.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
The Babygirl Foundation has stocked parent closets in the NICU and PICU at the children's hospital in Portland with toiletries and comfort items to support families during unexpected hospital stays, building on founder Tammy Dube’s personal experience with her daughter Addison.
The organization relies solely on community donations—an effort that will continue as demand grows with local hospital closures.
WMTWRead more
Portland Events
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour
Wednesday, July 16th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Check website for pricing — Experience Portland's scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine.
The Cedars Leadership Symposium with Howard Fillit, MD
Thursday, July 17th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Atrium At the Cedars — Free entry — Explore innovative insights on aging from a leading expert in Alzheimer's research.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, July 18th, 2025 · 3-5:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Price includes food and drinks — Discover Maine's seafood delights while walking along the waterfront and enjoying local flavors.
Outdoor Painting Class in Cape Elizabeth
Saturday, July 19th, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — 1000 Shore Rd — Cost varies — Paint outdoor landscapes while soaking in the natural beauty of Maine with guidance from a local instructor.
Wine Sail in Portland, Maine: European Wines
Sunday, July 20th, 2025 · 3:15-5:15 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Experience a scenic sail through Casco Bay while tasting exquisite European wines guided by a professional sommelier.
Kurt Vile Concert
Monday, July 21st, 2025 · 7:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Tickets from $61 — Experience the indie rock vibes of Kurt Vile live in Portland.
PMP Certification Classroom Training in Portland, ME
Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 · 9 AM – 5 PM — Portland, ME — Cost varies — Enhance your project management skills with comprehensive training and certification preparation.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour
Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Tickets available — Explore Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine.
Ask A Librarian! Drop-in Question Sessions
Thursday, July 24th, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Freeport Community Library — Free entry — Get tech support and research assistance from friendly librarians Meghan and Andrew.
Maine Yoga Festival
Friday, July 25th, 2025 · 1 PM – 5 PM — Southern Maine Community College — Check website for ticket info — Celebrate wellness with diverse yoga workshops and live music overlooking Casco Bay.