Saco council debates details of a new supported‑entity funding request form ahead of budget season

SACO, Maine — City staff on Nov. 10 introduced a draft application and process for organizations seeking supported‑entity funds, aiming to standardize information ahead of next year’s budget.

Interim City Manager Emily Cole Prescott said Michelle Beasley compiled application language modeled on other municipalities and that the draft will return for a first reading before the budget cycle. The objective is to collect clearer program descriptions, budgets and collaboration details so the council can make informed funding decisions.

Councilor Berman said the draft is a good starting point but warned the form contains too many redundant or unclear questions — for example, how to define "client eligibility" and what constitutes a "unit of service." He urged simplifying and tailoring questions so small groups (e.g., Main Street organizations or libraries) can respond accurately. He supported clear budget and income‑source questions.

Councilor Hatch emphasized his philosophical opposition to using city tax dollars as an ongoing source of nonprofit funding (excluding quasi‑municipal entities), and suggested lowering the application’s de minimis amount from $5,000 to $1,000 to increase scrutiny on requests. He recommended expanding collaboration questions to require applicants to note any coordination with the city’s general assistance office and asked that organizations provide an IRS 501(c)(3) authorization letter when applicable.

Staff said they will refine the draft and return it to the council for future consideration and a potential first reading in advance of the budget.