During the recent City Council Workshop held on September 22, 2025, in Bangor, Maine, council members received updates on several key issues affecting the community, particularly concerning vacant properties, ongoing legal matters, and infrastructure improvements.

One of the primary topics discussed was the enforcement of the vacant building registration ordinance. The city’s code enforcement department reported a slight decrease in the number of vacant properties, with five properties having been reoccupied since the last update in July. However, two new properties were identified as vacant, bringing the total to 65. Notably, the number of registered properties has dropped significantly from 53 to 30, attributed to many registrations expiring without renewal. This situation has resulted in an increase in unregistered properties, which now stands at 35. The council emphasized the importance of addressing these vacancies to maintain community standards and property values.

The meeting also touched on ongoing legal actions related to the Bangor Mall. A hearing regarding violations at the mall was continued, with evidence presented showing progress in addressing stormwater management issues. However, the violations have not yet been fully resolved, and the council is awaiting further developments in the litigation process.

In addition to these pressing matters, the city manager provided updates on various initiatives. The refurbishment of the airport runway has been completed, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for October. Furthermore, plans for a historical timeline installation in the council chambers were shared, showcasing Bangor's rich history through artifacts and information.

The city manager also reported on the status of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, noting that many grant recipients have begun to spend their allocated funds more actively. However, some recipients are still lagging, prompting the city to engage with them to ensure the funds are utilized effectively before the 2026 deadline.

Overall, the workshop highlighted the council's commitment to addressing vacant properties, ongoing legal challenges, and infrastructure improvements, all of which are crucial for the continued development and well-being of the Bangor community. The council plans to follow up on these issues in future meetings to ensure progress is made.