Local Election Results, Inauguration Tonight

Call for Letters of Interest: Ward 6 Council Vacancy

With the election of Ward 6 Councilor Jodi MacPhail as Saco’s next mayor, we anticipate a vacancy in the Ward 6 Council seat when newly elected officials are sworn in at their December 4th inauguration.

Following the Charter-prescribed process, the Saco City Council began accepting letters of interest on November 28th from Ward 6 residents who wish to serve on the City Council for the remainder of Councilor MacPhail’s term, expiring December 2, 2024. Interested candidates must submit a letter of interest to Michele Hughes, City Clerk, at mhughes@sacomaine.org or at the City Clerk’s Office at Saco City Hall, 300 Main Street, by 4:00 PM on December 19, 2023.

Each Friday, we will release the names of the candidates who have submitted letters of interest. As of 4:00 PM on Friday, December 1st, we have received no letters of interest.

The submissions from interested candidates will be reviewed and discussed publicly during the City Council meeting on January 8, 2024.

To learn more about the responsibilities of a City Councilor or to view the ward map, please visit us online: www.sacomaine.org/citycouncil.

Winter Parking Ban Information

As other parts of Maine receive the first significant snow of the 2023-2024 season, we want to remind you of several ways to be alerted of snow parking bans in the City of Saco. If a significant storm is predicted or if additional snow removal is required, a parking ban may be ordered. The parking ban will prohibit parking on city streets, allowing Saco Public Works crews to clear the roadways effectively.

The best way to ensure you see parking ban notices and building closures is to sign up for our e-mail list today at www.sacomaine.org/parkingban. Once you sign up, just check your email as it snows. You can also always reach our parking ban hotline at (207) 282-SNOW (7669), or check local radio and TV stations, who also receive notices from us in the event of a parking ban or building closure.

For a list of public parking options available for Saco residents during snow parking bans, visit our website: www.sacomaine.org/parkingban.

During parking bans, the Transfer Station is typically closed so Saco Public Works can have all available personnel out fighting the storm, and trash and recycling collection are sometimes affected, as decided by Casella Waste. If we are notified of trash and recycling collection impacts from a winter storm, the change in collection will be shared with the parking ban notification. You can always contact Casella Waste directly at (888) 485-1469 Opt. 3.

Looking forward, the City recently acquired an additional downtown parking lot within 500 feet of the Transportation Center with approximately 70 parking spaces, which will add to future public parking options. Improvements are underway to make the lot safe and accessible for all users, and we'll update you as this project progresses.

Planning Department Publishes Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide

Saco's Planning Department has published an Accessory Dwelling Unit Guidebook in collaboration with Age Friendly Saco.

The 10-page packet gives background information on Accessory Dwelling Units, lists benefits, provides a cost/benefit worksheet, offers design and construction best practices, and links to further educational resources.

View the guidebook on our website at www.sacomaine.org/planning under the "Housing" tab or directly at www.sacomaine.org/ADUguidebook.

Saco’s Planning Department works hard to provide residents and businesses with the information they need to make their plans for the future of Saco. Learn more about how the Planning Department prepares for the future of housing, climate, water, transportation, and more at www.sacomaine.org/planning.

Saco Transportation Center Long-Term Lot to Become Paid Parking

On December 15th, the long-term parking lot at the Saco Transportation Center will become a paid lot at a rate of $5/day with a 10-day maximum. This change was approved in the fiscal year 2024 Fee Schedule adopted in May 2023 and will help better service customers of the train station.

The new $5/day structure in the long-term lot will create necessary turnover to allow station users to have access to parking spaces when they show up to catch a train. For this reason, resident parking permits are not valid in the Saco Transportation Center long-term lot.

The short-term parking lot will remain free with the limitation of no overnight parking.

Learn more about the Amtrak Downeaster: amtrakdowneaster.com

And learn more about BSOOB Transit: bsoobtransit.org

Fire Prevention Code

Updates Explained

Saco City Council recently adopted updates to the City Code, Chapter 102, Fire Prevention, with updates effective on November 23, 2023. Minor edits were made to Articles II through V of Chapter 102. Article I, Fire Code, which contained long-standing fire sprinkler guidelines, was edited to reflect that a residential fire sprinkler system will be installed in all *new* one- and two-family dwellings. This change expands residential fire sprinkler installations from only those one- and two-family dwellings in subdivisions to now include all new dwellings across the City.

A document outlining all changes to Chapter 102 can be viewed here: https://ecode360.com/SA1647/laws/LF1897805.pdf

These updates are not retroactive and do not apply to existing dwellings or projects undergoing the City’s building permit process before the effective date.

With these updates, Saco’s code aligns with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) which has called for residential fire sprinkler systems since 2006. The technical details for the installation of residential fire sprinkler systems can be found in NFPA 13D, the Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes. NFPA 13D was written in 1975 and updated regularly.

Learn more about why fire sprinklers are important and see a list of builder resources by visiting the Saco Fire Department online: www.sacomaine.org/residentialfiresprinklers

Saco Parks & Recreation Hosts Annual Thanksgiving Meal

Last month, Saco Parks & Recreation SENIORity Programs hosted their annual Thanksgiving lunch in the newly refinished gymnasium at the Saco Community Center!

We always appreciate the opportunity to gather with community members to celebrate this holiday. Thank you to SPR staff, City department volunteers, and Saco Middle School volunteers, who all played a role in hosting another successful Saco Parks & Recreation Department event.

Happy belated Thanksgiving!

Arts Commission Call for Members

The Saco Arts Commission is currently accepting applications for new members!

The commission was created in 2021 to bring together members of the community, elected officials, and staff to improve the aesthetic quality of the City’s public spaces. In support of City beautification efforts, the Arts Commission’s first major project was completed in April 2022, featuring the installation of art-wraps on three downtown traffic light signal cabinets. More recently, they installed wheat paste murals around town following a juried selection. Learn more about the Saco Arts Commission and their projects on their website: www.sacomaine.org/artscommission

Fill out an application today if you'd like to take part in exciting local art initiatives alongside this working committee: www.sacomaine.org/advisorybodyapplication

Saco Seeking Proposals

for 12 School Street Property

The City of Saco is requesting proposals from interested buyers for the sale and redevelopment of city-owned real estate located at 12 School Street, the former location of Saco’s United Methodist Church.

The original church, built in 1900, is situated on a 0.15 acre lot and has an area of 6,534 square feet. The building is connected to public water and sewer. The parcel is located in the downtown historic district.

Proposals will be evaluated on several factors including, but not limited to: ability to maximize the economic development potential of the site, negotiated sale price as well as other criteria.

Proposals will be accepted until Monday, February 5, 2024, at the Finance Office at Saco City Hall, located at 300 Main Street, Saco, Maine, 04072. Learn more by viewing the full bid packet: www.sacomaine.org/bids.

Any questions regarding the project specifications should be directed to Tracey Desjardins, Economic Development Director, by emailing TDesjardins@sacomaine.org.

Dog License Deadline Approaching

You can license your dog(s) in person at City Hall or online at State of Maine Dog Licensing: https://www.maine.gov/online/dog_license/faq.html.

New Licenses - If this is a first-time registration, and the dog has been Neutered or Spayed, please bring in the Certificate showing the dog has been altered as well as the Rabies Certificate. New licenses need to be processed before the dog turns 6 months old, or if the dog is over 6 months old, then within 10 days of taking ownership, otherwise a $25 late fee will be assessed.

Renewal Licenses - For renewal registrations, you just need to bring in a current Rabies Certificate. 

The fees are as follows:

• $6.00 for altered dog
• $11.00 for unaltered dog
• $42.00 for a Kennel with up to 10 dogs (Kennel means dogs used for breeding, hunting, show, training, field trials, sledding, competition or exhibition purposes). If more than 10 dogs in a Kennel, an additional fee of $42.00 will be charged.
• New Service Dogs - No Fee (A Service Dog Verification Form for Waiver of License Fee will need to be completed by applicant and a licensed Practitioner). These forms are available in the City Clerk’s Office or online at State of Maine Animal Welfare Applications: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ahw/animal_welfare/forms.shtml
• Renewal licenses processed after January 31st will incur a $25.00 late fee.  
• $5.00 to have a rabies certificate faxed to City Hall.

Note: Online licenses cost an additional dollar to cover postage for mailing the license and tag out.

You must present the following at the time of registration:



• A current Maine rabies certificate - If you need to have a rabies certificate faxed to City Hall, there will be $5.00 fax service charge in addition to the license fee.
• A neutering or spaying certificate if the dog has been altered.

The Business Buzz...

Welcome to the City of Saco’s Economic Development Department’s “Business Buzz.” Each month we will feature information about programs, opportunities and highlight Saco’s business sector. 

Are you stressed with what seems like a never ending to do list this holiday season? Are you stumped coming up with thoughtful gifts to give the important people in your life? Saco’s small businesses can help!

Saco has become a hub for wellness. From aligning your back to aligning your chakras, getting a fabulous hairstyle to make you feel like a new person, or having a relaxing massage after a tough week of work, wellness of all kinds is important, especially during this time of year. The Economic Development Department recently welcomed a few new businesses that can help you achieve your wellness goals: the Harmonic Eggo Saco – Healing Waves, offering a powerful sensory experience that promotes relaxation, stress relief, and allows natural healing of mind, body and spirit, along with Energymend, a group of holistic energy workers, and Pelleteri Chiropractic, a doctor who treats all types of aches, pains, and injuries. These new businesses join an established group of holistic healers, doctors, and experts in their given fields.

Are there people in your life who would benefit from a visit to one of these wellness centers? Support our local small businesses by booking a service for yourself or purchase a gift card for someone special this holiday season. 

Veterans Day Parade Recap

Thank you to the many community members who joined us last month for the Biddeford-Saco Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. The communities of Saco and Biddeford gather annually to witness and take part in this parade and ceremony as a way of showing appreciation for the service of all veterans. This year, Master of Ceremony Roger Beaupre led the celebrations alongside others:

• Grand Marshal: Saco Ward 7 City Councilor and USMC Veteran Nathan Johnston
• Guest Speaker: USAF Veteran Paul Gagne
• Youth Reader: Girl Scout Milan Vire
• Chaplain: Retired Episcopal Priest Shirley Bowen
• Flag Raising: Massabesic NJROTC Cadets
• National Anthem: Seacost Band of Biddeford and Old Orchard Beach, and Thornton Academy

Thank you as always to City departments on both sides of the river who worked to ensure the parade and ceremony went smoothly and safely. This includes but is not limited to Saco Parks & Recreation, Saco Public Works (Including Facilities Division), Saco Police and City of Biddeford Government departments.

Thank you also to Heart of Biddeford, Saco Main Street, and AmVets for their efforts behind the scenes to make this event a success year after year.

Socks for Seniors Program Underway for 2023 Season

Socks for Seniors is back!

This annual program was created to provide older residents of Saco with new, warm socks just in time for winter.

If you would like to participate, please drop off new, clean pairs of socks at the following locations:

• Saco Police Department (20 Storer Street)
• Saco City Hall (300 Main Street)
• Saco Parks & Recreation Department (75 Franklin Street)
• Saco Fire Department (271 North Street)
• Dyer Library (371 Main Street)

Donations are being collected until noon on December 15th, so if you’d like to participate, don’t delay.

Holiday Festival & Parade of Lights Comes to Downtown This Weekend!

Saco Main Street's biggest winter holiday event is just around the corner! Will you join us? Read an event preview below, and find full details at www.sacomainstreet.org.

12th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights & Parade - Saturday, December 9, 2023

(Rain Date: Saturday, December 16)

The Holiday Festival & Parade of Lights brings joy to downtown each year! The Holiday Festival runs from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and includes Santa storytime, children's activities, downtown specials, and more. Beforehand, you can take part in Dyer Library crafts in the morning and check out Saco Museum's 19th Annual Festival of Trees from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. At 4:30 PM, the Salvation Army Brass Band plays at the corner of Main and Storer streets as people begin to line up for the parade. The Parade of Lights kicks off at 6:00 PM, running down Main Street from Beach Street to Pepperell Square.

RSVP here.

View the full schedule here.

Pictures: City Tree Lighting Ceremony

We were happy to join so many of you for the Saco Main Street tree lighting ceremony at the Saco Transportation Center on December 1st!

Amy and Kevin DesRoberts were recognized for donating this year’s tree while attendees sipped on hot cocoa provided by Coldwell Banker Realty - Saco Office. The beautiful blue spruce was lit among a crowd that gathered to sing carols led by the Saco Middle School Choir and York County Commissioner Justin Chenette.

Stop by and see the tree at 138 Main Street.

Age Friendly Saco Launches

New Mobility Shuttle

Age Friendly Saco has officially launched its newest service for older residents! The Age Friendly Saco Mobility Shuttle provides door-to-door transportation for community members aged 60+ to various local destinations for non-medical services. City Administrator John Bohenko and City Councilor Phil Hatch were pleased to join the group for the program's ribbon cutting last week alongside Age Friendly Saco's operations team and volunteers.

The shuttle provides regularly scheduled transportation to Walmart, Market Basket, Target, Hannaford, and Shaw's. Stops by request include Saco Main Street businesses, Saco Transportation Center, Dyer Library, Saco Community Center, Saco Sport & Fitness, YMCA, Saco Food Pantry, and election polling locations.



Rides are free during this initial rollout phase of the program. Once the initial phase is completed, residents of Saco aged 60+ "will be able to purchase an affordable 20-ride punch card," according to Age Friendly Saco.

Age Friendly Saco asks that residents call 48 hours before their ride to book a seat. Call Age Friendly Saco at (207) 710-8527 to schedule a ride and for more program details.

This program was possible through a shuttle van donation by BSOOB Transit and a 2023 Community Challenge Grant from the AARP/Toyota Foundation. Age Friendly Saco is a supported entity of the City of Saco and receives funding from the City to support its mission of making Saco a community for a lifetime.

Age Friendly Saco will continue offering existing medical appointment transportation services to residents alongside this new program. To book a ride to a medical appointment, call Age Friendly Saco's Transportation Program Director at (207) 200-7668.

AGE FRIENDLY SACO MOBILITY SHUTTLE SCHEDULE*

Shuttle runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Monday – Walmart

Wednesday – Market Basket and Target

Friday – Hannaford and Shaw's

*The schedule is subject to change. Please refer to Age Friendly Saco for a current schedule.

Owners of Pizza by Michael Retire, Restaurant Continues

We took the opportunity to thank Pizza by Michael owners Michael and Vera Kalagias last month as they prepared to say farewell to the business.

Michael and Vera have provided Saco residents with fresh, hot pizza in Pepperell Square for decades. On Sunday, November 26th, the couple retired and handed off the reins to their successor, who will keep the shop running.

Pizza by Michael was opened by Michael's father in 1966. Fifty-seven years later, the small shop is still bustling with people happily enjoying tasty food.

We sincerely thank Vera and Michael for all the delicious, shared meals they've served to this community over the decades.

Santa Visits Saco Fire Department

Santa made his annual visit to Saco Fire Department last week, where the Call Division was happy to invite families inside the warmth of the station! The apparatus bay was full, and many families enjoyed treats and hot chocolate while they waited for their turn to visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a few elves.



If you missed it, don't worry - Santa will be back in Saco on Saturday, December 9th, during Saco Main Street's 12th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights & Parade. RSVP for this full-day event, which ends with a stunning light parade down Main Street at 6:00 PM.

Click each item for more information, if available.

City Council Meetings

• December 4, 2023
• December 18, 2023
• January 8, 2024
• City Council agendas are available at www.sacomaine.org/councilagendas. Sign up for e-mail alerts when meeting materials are published at www.sacomaine.org/enotify.

Planning Board Meetings

• December 5, 2023
• December 19, 2023

Other Advisory Body Meetings

• Visit the City calendar here for more.

Saco Parks & Recreation Programs

• Saturday with Santa 2023, December 9th, 9:30 to 11:30 AM at the Saco Community Center.
• Visit www.sacorec.com for a full list of upcoming SPR events!

Saco Main Street Events

• 12th Annual Holiday Parade & Festival of Lights, December 9th, all day, Main Street, Downtown. Visit Saco Main Street online for more information.

Other Supported Entity Events

• Dyer Library Festival of Trees, ongoing, visit Dyer Library online for more information.

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If you encounter any issues with this system, please reach out to the Saco Communications Department at sacotv@sacomaine.org.

Apply Today to Join Our Team

The City of Saco has open positions.

We encourage you to take a look at the job opportunities currently available with the City of Saco on our Careers page. There is so much important work that goes in to keeping the City running, often behind the scenes.

If nothing is a great fit for you, consider passing the listings along to friends and family who might be looking for a satisfying and important career.