Saco, Maine — Week of March 28-April 3, 2026

Saco, ME (pop. 20,000) -- York County. Week of March 28-3, 2026.

City Government

Saco city officials focused this week on infrastructure and regulatory matters, with particular attention to utility services and ongoing development. The Maine Public Utilities Commission published three new dockets, 2026-00020, 2026-00028, and 2026-00055, all pertaining to utility rate cases for the Maine Water Company. These dockets contain capital improvement plans that could impact Saco residents' water rates and service upgrades in the coming years. City Administrator Martha Jones confirmed the city's intent to monitor these proceedings closely to ensure resident interests are represented during the regulatory review process.

The City Council convened Tuesday evening, deliberating on a proposed ordinance to update the city's stormwater management regulations. Councilor David Chen highlighted the importance of proactive measures given recent weather patterns and regional trends in environmental regulations. The draft ordinance, which aims to improve water quality and reduce runoff, was introduced after recommendations from the Conservation Commission and the Energy and Sustainability Committee (March 25 City Council Agenda Packet). The Council voted 5-2 to send the ordinance to public hearing next month, with Councilors Emily Rodriguez and Robert Peterson requesting further review of potential impacts on small businesses.

The Planning Board also met, reviewing a preliminary subdivision plan for the "Riverbend Residences" project proposed by Saco Island Developers, LLC, on a parcel near Front Street. The project, which includes 36 residential units and commercial space, drew discussion regarding traffic flow and green space allocation. Planning Board Chair Alan Brooks requested additional studies on vehicular impact before the next review session (March 27 Planning Board Minutes). Meanwhile, the Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for facade improvements at the historic Pepperell Mill complex, allowing for the restoration of original brickwork and window sashes at 100 Main Street.

Schools

The Saco School Board held its bi-weekly meeting Wednesday, primarily focusing on the fiscal year 2027 budget proposal. Superintendent Eleanor Vance presented a detailed overview, emphasizing increased costs for special education services and a proposed expansion of vocational programming at Thornton Academy, which serves Saco students. The board reviewed departmental requests, with Finance Committee Chair Michael Davies noting a projected 3.5% increase in the municipal share of school funding. A public workshop on the budget is scheduled for mid-April.

Police

The Saco Police Department responded to 187 calls for service during the past week. Officers investigated a motor vehicle accident on March 29 at the intersection of Main Street and Spring Street, involving two vehicles and resulting in minor injuries to one driver. On April 1, police responded to a report of shoplifting at a business on Route 1, where a suspect allegedly attempted to leave with approximately $200 worth of merchandise. A noise complaint on Elm Street on March 30 led to a verbal warning being issued to residents for excessive late-night music.

Fire & EMS

The Saco Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services responded to 98 calls this week, including 65 EMS incidents and 33 fire-related calls. On March 28, crews responded to a report of a structure fire alarm activation at an apartment building on Saco Island, which was determined to be a false alarm caused by cooking smoke. Firefighters also provided mutual aid to Biddeford for a residential chimney fire on April 2, ensuring rapid response and containment with no significant damage reported. A medical emergency on Beach Street on March 31 required transport to Southern Maine Health Care.

Real Estate

Several property transactions were recorded this week at the York County Registry of Deeds. - 12 Ocean Park Avenue, a three-bedroom single-family home near Ferry Beach, sold for $585,000. - 37 Pepperell Square, a commercial condominium unit in the historic mill district, sold for $310,000. - 20 Bay View Road, a two-bedroom cottage in the Camp Ellis neighborhood, changed hands for $495,000. - 5 Maplewood Drive, a four-bedroom suburban residence, was purchased for $620,000.

Permits

Saco's Code Enforcement Office issued several permits over the past week: - A residential building permit for new construction at 14 Oakwood Lane. - A renovation permit for an interior remodel at 22 Elm Street. - A commercial permit for a new business sign installation at 150 Main Street. - A permit for a residential solar panel installation at 35 Willow Street. - A deck addition permit for a property at 8 Riverview Drive. - A permit for an accessory dwelling unit conversion at 40 Hillside Avenue.

Coming Up

April 8, 2026: City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers. Expected discussions include the stormwater management ordinance public hearing.
April 10, 2026: Planning Board Meeting, 7 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers. Agenda to include further review of the Riverbend Residences project.
April 12, 2026: Saco Farmers Market opening day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Saco Island.
April 14, 2026: Saco School Board Budget Workshop, 6 p.m. at the Saco Middle School Library.
April 15, 2026: Historic Preservation Commission Meeting, 5:30 p.m. at City Hall Annex.

This week: 4 boards met, 3 new documents published, 187 police calls, 98 fire/EMS calls, 4 property sales, 6 permits issued.

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