The Cumberland Town Council voted Sept. 22 to adopt the Maine Municipal Association General Assistance Appendices A through H for the period Oct. 1, 2025 through Sept. 30, 2026.

Town staff explained the appendices set the maximum payment levels municipalities may use when administering general assistance for food, housing, utilities and similar needs. Town Manager Matt Sturgis told the council the MMA updates those figures annually and that they draw on market data such as local rental surveys and other cost indices. “They adjust those annually,” Sturgis said, adding that the town may supplement assistance in specific cases.

Councilors discussed cost pressures, including a pending rate request from the regional utility Central Maine Power that could affect future utility assistance needs. The council also discussed available local resources such as the town’s benevolent fund and the food pantry; staff said stewardship and outreach are important to ensure residents know about available aid.

A motion to adopt the MMA General Assistance appendices A–H for the coming fiscal year passed unanimously.