Governor Mills awards Saco and Old Orchard Beach $180K for community resilience efforts

Saco City Council is set to enhance its coastal resilience efforts following the announcement of a significant grant. During the recent council meeting on May 5, 2025, it was revealed that the City of Saco and the Town of Old Orchard Beach have been awarded a joint Community Resilience Partnership grant totaling $180,000. This funding, announced by Governor Mills, aims to bolster community action towards coastal resilience, a critical initiative for the area.

In addition to the grant news, the council welcomed Matthew Duras as the new Deputy Chief of Training and Prevention for the Saco Fire Department, effective June 2, 2025. Duras brings a wealth of experience to the role, and the council expressed enthusiasm about his appointment, highlighting ongoing improvements in fire department staffing.

The meeting also included discussions about potential amendments to the budget, with Councilor Berman requesting the city administrator to prepare a proposal for future consideration. This reflects the council's commitment to ensuring that budgetary decisions align with the community's needs.

As Saco moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on enhancing public safety and environmental resilience, promising a positive impact on the community's future.