The Saco City Council meeting on October 6, 2025, focused on pressing concerns from residents regarding significant rent increases in local mobile home parks, particularly affecting low-income and retired individuals. The meeting featured multiple public comments highlighting the struggles faced by residents of the Blue Haven Mobile Home Park, where rent has reportedly increased by as much as $145 in December, following a $35 increase earlier in the year.

Residents expressed their fears about the affordability of living in the park, with many relying on fixed incomes from Social Security or disability benefits. Dan Richards, a long-time resident, shared concerns about the impact of rising rents on the community, emphasizing that many neighbors are elderly and on fixed incomes. He urged the council to consider the urgent need for assistance, as continued increases could force residents out of their homes.

Sarah Belanger echoed these sentiments, stating that the rapid rent hikes are jeopardizing her family's ability to remain in the park. Other residents, including John Vette and Sarah Gardner, also voiced their distress over the financial burden imposed by the increases, which they feel are unjustified given the lack of corresponding improvements in park maintenance and services.

The council listened attentively as residents detailed their experiences, including issues with park management, inadequate maintenance, and safety concerns. Many residents noted that the new ownership of the park has led to a decline in community care and support, contrasting sharply with the previous management that was more attentive to tenant needs.

In response to the public comments, the council acknowledged the challenges faced by residents and indicated that they would take the concerns into consideration. The meeting underscored the growing tension between rising living costs and the need for affordable housing solutions in Saco, as residents called for immediate action to address their plight.

As the meeting concluded, the council's commitment to addressing these issues remains to be seen, but the voices of the community have clearly highlighted the urgent need for intervention to protect vulnerable residents from further financial strain.