Inside Climate News - It’s one of Maine’s most desirable locations—home to a vibrant and diverse community, nearby beaches, and close proximity to Portland’s downtown. But for years, residents in South Portland have wondered: With 120 massive petroleum storage tanks dotting the shore and knitted into some neighborhoods here, is the air safe to breathe?
Now the first answers are in, thanks to a year of emissions monitoring along the fencelines of the city’s tank farms. At two of those locations, in particular, the results showed levels of benzene—a known carcinogen—well above the state’s limit.
“We’re about 300 feet from those tanks,” said Ted Reiner, whose home is surrounded by three of the city’s tank farms. It’s where he and his wife raised their two daughters, now 38 and 28. Around Christmas, Reiner had surgery for bladder cancer. Now he’s undergoing immunotherapy, and he can’t help but wonder whether his environment is contributing to his health woes.
Press Herald - Maine leaders are divided on the appropriateness of text messages that were sent among local police officials and an immigration agent during a surge of enforcement in January. Some say the communications are normal and a necessary part of public safety. Others are concerned by the messages – and the tone of some that convey supportiveness for enforcement. Read more.
Portland Foreside developers want to build a cogeneration plant next to the densely populated Munjoy Hill neighborhood, raising concerns about emissions, exhaust stacks and other environmental impacts. But what is it and how would it work? We dig into some answers.
- Hearts of Pine fans chase that elusive goal: Getting tickets
- Arrest warrant issued for Hancock County probate judge
- Janet Mills has a new Supreme Judicial Court nominee
BRUNSWICK — Applications are open for Brunswick's Nathaniel Davis Fund, which supports local events and programs serving Brunswick residents. Grants range from $200-$2,500. Applications are due on April 23.
FREEPORT — The Freeport Town Council will have a budget workshop on its 5-year capital program on March 17 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers.
TOPSHAM — The Topsham History Committee is looking for volunteers to dig into the archives and help digitize the town's historical records, dating all the way back to 1787!