City promotes cooling centers and discusses waiving bus fares during heat advisory

As the sun blazed down on Bangor, city officials gathered to discuss vital community resources in anticipation of a heatwave. The City Council Workshop on June 23, 2025, focused on ensuring residents have access to cooling centers and safe spaces during the upcoming hot days.

Assistant City Manager Courtney highlighted the proactive measures being taken, including social media posts that provide information on heat safety and local cooling options. The Bangor Aquatic Center will remain open, and sprinklers will be activated along the waterfront to help residents beat the heat. Additionally, the Bangor Housing Authority's splash pad is ready for families seeking relief from the soaring temperatures.

In a bid to keep the community informed, an updated list of area cooling centers will be shared on social media and the city’s homepage, reflecting real-time decisions made by local facilities. This initiative aims to ensure that everyone knows where to find respite from the heat.

Councilor Beth raised an important question regarding public transportation during extreme heat days. She suggested waiving bus fares on declared emergency days to help those who may struggle to afford transportation to cooling centers. While acknowledging the merit of the proposal, Assistant City Manager Courtney noted that such a measure has not been historically implemented.

As the meeting concluded, the council's commitment to community welfare was evident. With the heatwave approaching, Bangor's efforts to provide safe havens for its residents reflect a proactive approach to public health and safety. The city’s response underscores the importance of community support during challenging weather conditions, ensuring that no one is left to face the heat alone.