July 30: Some renters may get relief from biggest apartment construction boom in decades, but not all
The U.S. is currently experiencing its largest construction boom since the 1970s. Some economists project that rents “will be down modestly this year” after rising by nearly “25% over the past four years.” Much of this new construction is concentrated in select job-growth areas, with most units being considered luxury apartments.
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August 1: Saco to Host LD 2003 Housing Ordinance Revision info session Aug. 14
The City of Saco is holding an informational session to discuss and provide an overview of the housing ordinance revisions needed to comply with the LD 2003, which goes into effect on January 1st. The City Council and Planning Board arecurrently reviewing the ordinance revisions.
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August 1: A new program gives low-income Maine mothers monthly cash. Will it help lift them out of poverty?
The Quality Housing Coalition has started a pilot program called Project HOME Trust. The program recently selected 20 single mothers from a lottery and is giving each individual a cash payment of $1,000 a month to spend without stipulations to increase their financial security. Some program participants reported using the funds so far on housing, groceries and childcare. A report on the program is expected next October.
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August 2: MaineDOT to close part of Portland park-and-ride with large homeless encampment
The Maine Department of Transportation is sectioning off part of a park and ride-along near Franklin Street in Portland. A growing homeless encampment has been in the lot for a few months. Maine DOT says this is temporary, and the encampment will eventually be removed.
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August 2: ME family struggling to find affordable housing rented a backyard with an app
An app initially used for unique outdoor experiences is now being used to find temporary affordable housing. Some are using the HipCamp app as a way to stay in people’s backyards.
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August 2: Affordable housing is the focus of grants from Maine Association of Realtors' charitable arm
The Realtor Affordable Housing Fund has awarded $80,000 to 11 organizations addressing housing needs. Five organizations each received grants for $10,000, and six organizations each received grants for $5,000.
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