November 28: Rent control expands as tenants struggle with the record-high cost of housing  

A recent Maine Public article discusses the expansion of rent control across various cities and states, including Portland, ME, this past electoral season. The growth of rent control despite “years of research that shows rent control can actually reduce the overall amount of affordable housing, and may not help those who need it most” is examined.  

Read the full article here.  

November 28: New transitional housing plan for asylum-seekers arriving in Southern Maine  

The Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG), a regional agency in Cumberland County, is viewing an undeveloped 20-acre lot in Portland for 200 temporary homes. The project would provide asylum-seeking families with free housing for 12 to 15 months.  

Read the full article here.   

November 30: EV charging infrastructure will soon be required in some of South Portland’s new parking areas  

An Electric vehicle charging ordinance was passed in South Portland, requiring large housing developments to install at least 10% of their parking spaces as EV charging. This new rule goes into effect on December 5.   

Read the full article here.  

December 1: Legislative leaders vow to tackle housing crisis  

On Thursday, Maine Democratic Legislative leaders announced “Maine’s lack of affordable housing will be a top priority” for leaders “when state lawmakers return to Augusta next week.” The Joint Select Committee on Housing looks to build off the previous Legislatures work.   

Read the full article here.