Presidential Primary Election Takes Place March 5th

Saco's Annual Budget Process Starts this Month

Saco’s Budget season is right around the corner. It’ll kick off Monday, March 18th, with a presentation from Saco’s School Superintendent outlining the Saco School Department’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Next up is the Saco City Administrator's presentation to the City Council on the City of Saco budget on Monday, March 25th.

The Budget presentations will continue throughout April with Saco’s department heads highlighting their departmental budgets, goals, and achievements from the previous year.

Then, on Monday, May 6th, community members will be encouraged to voice their feedback during a formal public hearing regarding the entire budget. On Monday, May 13th, the Saco City Council will vote to formally approve the new fiscal year budget.

To learn more about Saco’s budget process, visit www.sacomaine.org/budget.

Saco First Responders Host Public Safety Education Session for Asylum Seekers

Saco Police Department and Saco Fire Department visited with a group of asylum seekers in Saco in February, sharing information on our local public safety services.

With the help of translators speaking Haitian Creole, Lingala, and Portuguese, our first responders explained the roles of firefighters, emergency medical technicians, patrol officers, and emergency communications specialists. They also went into detail on how the 911 system works, when to call 911, and provided safety pamphlets in English with translations in the previously mentioned languages.

Saco Fire Department Deputy Chief David Pendleton and Chaplain Kevin Jacques were joined by Saco Police Department Emergency Communications Specialist/Records Specialist Katie Gilbert and Support Operations Lieutenant Ken Foss.

Lt. Foss was happy for the opportunity to demonstrate Convey911, a new mobile translation application in use now by patrol officers and emergency communications specialists in Saco. The software quickly connects responding officers and dispatchers with a translator to communicate effectively with residents who may not speak English. This allows officers to provide assistance, gather information, and ensure a safer outcome for all parties involved.

"The Saco Police Department remains dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of our community members," said Foss, "and Convey911 represents a significant step toward achieving this goal."

Watch a local news report on the new translation application here.

Saco's first responders will return for further workshops with this group of Saco residents. We're thankful for the partnership provided by Catholic Charities Maine, especially Program Director Charles Mugabe, who helped develop and deliver this training with Saco’s team. We also appreciate Rotary Club of Saco Bay - #26791, who sponsored printing costs for the informational pamphlets.

If you or your organization would like to collaborate with Saco's first responder team to provide local educational opportunities, reach out to us today at www.sacomaine.org/fire or www.sacomaine.org/police.

Joint Traffic Safety and Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee Meeting Recap

On February 22, 2024, Saco's Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) held a joint meeting with the City's Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). The two groups discussed and selected locations for a pilot project that will involve the installation of approximately 50 plastic delineators this spring.

Delineators are a traffic control device that have been used in Saco and throughout the region in recent years. These tall and skinny plastic delineators are a cost-efficient method to test traffic calming strategies meant to slow vehicle speeds and increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists sharing or crossing roadways. The observations and feedback provide the City with valuable information to make more permanent decisions on infrastructure design. Due to seasonal snow removal operations, most delineators would be installed from spring through fall and removed for the winter months.

Selected intersections for new installations this year include:

• North Street at Spring Street
• Bradley Street Corridor from Tasker Street to Maple Street
• Industrial Park Road near the hotels and park and ride lot
• Elm Street from Lincoln Street to Scammon Street
• Seaside Avenue at Bayview Road
• Beach Street at High Street

City Staff and members of TSC are now determining specific delineator plans for each location, and the project will go through Maine Department of Transportation approval before tentative installation dates are set for this spring.

TSC is grateful for the hard work and collaboration of the BPAC and community members who attended the meeting to give input and listen to the deliberation. We're working to create a safer Saco for everyone who uses our streets, crosswalks, and sidewalks to travel through town.

Learn more about the Traffic Safety Committee: www.sacomaine.org/trafficsafetycommittee

Learn more about the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee: www.sacomaine.org/BPAC

Saco Seeks Residents to Join Various Boards & Committees

For those looking to make a difference in our community, Saco’s Boards and Committees are a great way for residents to get involved. Whether through attending meetings, submitting input through correspondence or public comment, or volunteering to be nominated as a member, there are various ways to have your voice heard.

Saco is always in need of residents with passion or expertise to contribute to the city’s boards and ad hoc committees. To see a full list of city boards and committees, as well as area and regional boards on which Saco citizens serve, visit our website.

You can apply to a number of City boards online, too.

Join us at Next Week's Climate Adaptation & Action Plan Info Session

The Planning Department, with support of the Energy & Sustainability Committee, will host an information session on the creation of its first Climate Adaptation and Action Plan. Join us as we share information about the work that has been done to date, which will provide a road map for the next ten years of Saco’s climate future.

Info session details:



• Wednesday, March 6, 2024
• 5:30 to 6:30 PM
• City Hall Auditorium, 300 Main Street, or watch the live stream with digital engagement opportunities at www.facebook.com/sacomaine or www.youtube.com/cityofsacoTV.
• The meeting will be recorded and posted online after the event.

Learn more about the climate plan at www.sacomaine.org/climate. RSVP to the event online here.

Biddeford-Saco Restaurant Week Highlights Local Flavor

Calling all food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers! Get ready to indulge your taste buds as Heart of Biddeford, Saco Main Street, and the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce proudly announce the return of the highly anticipated "Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week." From March 10th to March 17th, 2024, locals and visitors alike are invited to embark on a delicious journey through the vibrant culinary scene of Biddeford and Saco.

Featuring a diverse array of participating restaurants, cafes, and eateries, Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary tapestry of these historic Maine communities. Whether you're craving classic New England fare, international cuisine, or innovative fusion dishes, there's something to delight every palate during this week-long celebration of food and community.

"Our local dining scene is truly a reflection of the creativity, talent, and passion of our community," said Delilah Poupore, Executive Director of Heart of Biddeford. "Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week is a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to support our local restaurants while enjoying delicious meals and discovering new favorites."

Throughout the week, participating establishments will offer special menu items and discounts, allowing diners to sample an array of dishes at affordable prices. Restaurants will have QR code flyers in-house, linking diners to a short feedback survey where they will be entered to win a $100 gift card to a location of their choosing. Two winners will be drawn from those who filled out the survey. Another $100 gift card will be given to a winner who uploads a photo of their food to the Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week Facebook Event. 

"We're thrilled to once again partner with Heart of Biddeford and the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce to showcase the culinary excellence of our community," said Angie Presby, Executive Director of Saco Main Street. "Restaurant Week not only highlights the incredible talent of our local chefs and restaurateurs but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and community pride."

In addition to supporting local businesses, Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week gives back to the community by contributing to local food scarcity programs. Restaurant Week kicks off on March 10th with the Community Soup-er, held at First Parish Congregational Church in Saco. Local restaurants donate pots of soup, bread, desserts and more. All ticket proceeds and food drive donations collected at the event will go to the Biddeford and Saco food pantries. Tickets are available to purchase online through Eventbrite. Other special events during Restaurant Week include Local Libations night on Wednesday, March 13th, highlighting local drink specials, as well as Restaurant Trivia on Sunday, March 17th from 5-6:15pm at Portland Pie in Biddeford.

Don't miss your chance to dine, discover, and delight during Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week. Mark your calendars, gather your appetite, and join us for a week of culinary excitement and community celebration!

For a complete list of participating restaurants and special offers, visit bit.ly/eatbiddsaco24 or follow Heart of Biddeford, Saco Main Street, or the Biddeford + Saco Chamber of Commerce on social media.

Senator Angus King Visits Saco for Winter Storm Damage Roundtable Talk

Senator Angus King visited Saco City Hall on February 15th, where we hosted a roundtable discussion on this winter’s coastal storm damage in Southern Maine. This regional meeting of city officials consisted of city staff leadership, emergency management directors, chamber of commerce directors, and elected officials from coastal communities including Saco, Biddeford, Wells, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Old Orchard Beach, and Kittery.

Participants took the opportunity to discuss damage from the historic January storms, sharing familiar stories of flooding, erosion, and property/infrastructure damage. The group also discussed details of related issues our communities are facing, like climate resilience for wastewater treatment plants, future planning vs. immediate needs, ongoing local and regional climate action planning processes, increasing stormwater flow, commercial fishing and tourism impacts, flood insurance, federal aid, beach erosion, and more. The deep knowledge, experience, and passion for our communities was evident, and we appreciated the opportunity to host this group. On behalf of York County coastal communities, we extend a special thank you to Senator King and his team for making time for this visit.

Saco will host a Saco Climate Plan Information Session, with details on our ongoing climate adaptation and action planning process, on March 6, 2024, at Saco City Hall at 5:30 PM. Join us at this event led by the Planning Department and Energy & Sustainability Committee by visiting with us in-person or watching the live-stream on our Facebook page at City of Saco Government or YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/cityofsacoTV. For more event details, and to RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/278538365022306

Learn more about Saco’s climate planning process on our website: www.sacomaine.org/climate

Help Us Fill Our Donor Slots at Saco FD Blood Drive This Month

Saco Fire Department has another blood drive coming up soon. The drive will take place on March 18th from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Saco Central Fire Station, 271 North Street.

Donors can schedule their appointment online here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Saco%20Fire

Help save a life by signing up today.

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. 

Economic Development and Local Educational Partnerships Provide Value to Local Community and Its Future

In addition to short-term training, academic certificates and degrees that align with local workforce demands, York County Community College offers custom training solutions that range from quick, high-impact workshops to custom-designed corporate trainings tailored to meet a business’s needs. Training can be delivered onsite or at one of YCCC’s locations and at a time that is convenient for your team. YCCC works with all sizes of companies, governments, health care, and community organizations. They will also support businesses in securing grant funding, when available, to assist with the cost of training.

Common training requests include Conflict Resolution, Leadership Development, Customer Service, Creating an Inclusive Work Environment, Creating Efficiencies in Outlook, Excel Level I & II, Blueprint Reading, and more!

YCCC can also support businesses in the development of new registered pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships. They can connect apprentices to various types of related technical instruction (such as college courses and workforce training) to meet the requirements of a registered apprenticeship.  

Designed to fill critical, in-demand workforce needs, apprenticeships are an employment pathway that benefits everyone involved. Sponsoring an apprenticeship enables employers to customize training that will support both the apprentice and their business. There are training and wage incentives for the employer as well as intrinsic rewards, including the ability to pass on occupational knowledge to the next generation. Apprentices benefit by being able to earn as they learn in a safe and inclusive environment. 

For more information on training solutions, contact Sarah Bachand at sbachand@yccc.edu or call 207-216-4474. To learn more about apprenticeships, contact Michelle Gayne at mgayne@yccc.edu 207-216-4490.

If you would like more information about Saco’s Economic Development programs, visit their website at www.sacomaine.org/economicdevelopment.

Mayor MacPhail Participates in World Read Aloud Day at Young School

Mayor Jodi MacPhail celebrated World Read Aloud Day on February 8th with two classrooms of 1st graders at Young School.

She read two books, "Who Loves the Dragon" by Bianca Schulze and "Henry and the Valentine Surprise" by Nancy Carlson, selected with the help of Dyer Library/Saco Museum Children's Room Coordinator Brooke Palmer.

We encourage you to read books year-round, too! Stop by Dyer Library at 371 Main Street to find one that is right for you.

Ribbon Cutting Roundup: Four New Local Businesses and the Return of a Longtime Local Favorite

We welcomed a flurry of new businesses to Saco this month. Learn more about each of our five new local businesses below:

EASE MASSAGE & MANUAL THERAPY

Owner and operator Stefani Sellers is a Nationally Board-Certified Massage Therapist (BCTMB) and focuses on orthopedic and medical massage. On her website, she says she started pursuing this career at a young age.

"My journey into massage therapy started when I was in diapers - literally," her website reads. "I have a picture of me crawling and walking on my grandpa's back so it hurt less."

Since then, she's gone from massaging friends to attending massage school and learning advanced techniques. Stefani is Maine's only nationally board-certified medical massage therapist who is certified in manual lymphatic drainage.

Ease Massage & Manual Therapy strives to embody its name, putting you at ease, with a priority on creating a safe, accessible place for all people.

Stefani has worked with Maine SBDC and received two grants from Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission that have helped provide the foundation for the business to expand. We look forward to seeing her business continue to grow and were proud to host the ribbon cutting yesterday to welcome them to the community!

Ease Massage & Manual Therapy is located at 209 Main Street, Suite 303 in Saco and is open Thursday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM by appointment only. Learn more about their business, find links to follow their social media pages, and book your visit today by visiting their website: www.easemanualtherapy.com

HILLVIEW MARKET & DELI

The highly anticipated return of Hillview Market & Deli is here!

They opened on February 15th, and our Economic Development team hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony before the opening, joined by Mayor Jodi MacPhail, Saco Main Street, and Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce + Industry. We encourage you to stop in soon for a cup of coffee, a snack, lunch, or the original breakfast pizza recipe, among other thoughtfully curated items.

Owners Justin Main and Mario Hale said they have been eager to open the doors to this community gathering space.

"We wanted a local place back where people could stop and see their favorite cashier," said Main, who began the process to lease the building as soon as he saw it was available. Beyond acting as a community hub, they have a focus on flavor.

"Every item when you come in this store has been gone through from top to bottom with the best ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible," he said.

View Hillview Market & Deli's opening schedule below and stop by soon at 21 Buxton Road.

SCHEDULE

Monday-Thursday: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Friday: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Saturday: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Sunday: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

GREAT ESCAPES MASSAGE

Joshua Hauck is a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) and was born and raised in Biddeford. He has worked as a massage therapist for five years, moving to the third floor of 209 Main Street in Saco this January.

Joshua provides deep tissue massage in a relaxing atmosphere using aromatherapy, hot stones and towels, and has a CBD and herbal business associated with his practice. He said his deep connections in Saco and Biddeford have helped him run a successful business.

"Saco-Biddeford is so special because it's a city with a small-town vibe," Joshua said. "I enjoy being in the Saco community working, and Saco has been very business friendly."



Joshua was the winner of best Biddeford-Saco Massage in 2022 and 2023, an award given by Market Surveys of America. He also won the Best of 207 award from the Portland Radio Group in 2022 and 2023. Stop by Great Escapes Massage's website and learn more: www.greatescapesmassage.com

ZIGGI'S COFFEE

Ziggi's Coffee, located at 3 Waterfall Drive (or use 1001 Portland Road for your GPS), has opened their doors. Join them tomorrow, Saturday, March 2nd, for their grand opening celebration from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. They'll be offering a free 16 oz. drink of your choice, limit one per customer and excluding mobile app orders.

The City's Economic Development team joined Saco Main Street and Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce + Industry this morning to cut the ribbon on this new Route 1 business with franchise owners Rachel Sawyer and David Melevsky along with their stellar team.

This drive-thru and walk-up window location has a wide-ranging menu including far more than just coffee. On the menu you'll find other refreshing drinks, smoothies, energy drinks, chai teas, waffle sandwiches, six types of burritos, and more. They also have sugar free options for 18 different flavors used to customize any drink.

Energize your weekend and stop by to see the crew at Ziggi's. They are open Monday to Friday from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Learn more about Ziggi's Coffee on their website: www.ziggiscoffee.com/saco-me-location/

SALON 212

City officials and Saco Main Street joined the Salon 212 team on February 8th to celebrate as they cut the ribbon on their bright and beautiful space located at 829 Portland Road!

Owner Julie Meikle's dream of owning a salon began when she was in high school.

“Girls from other neighboring towns would ‘hire’ me to do their hair for proms and homecomings,” she said. “That’s when the idea of owning my own salon started.”



Now, that dream is a reality. Salon 212 is a full-service hair salon specializing in blonding and offering skincare services and facials with a professional esthetician. Nail services will be offered soon.

Salon 212 is a commission and booth rental salon, with a station open for a stylist wishing to rent. Julie hopes to recruit a full-time lash artist to start in the summer and complete the salon family.

“I was born and raised in Saco, and am so happy to have a business here,” she said.

Visit Julie and her team soon, with online booking available here: https://salon212.glossgenius.com/

Are you starting a new business or looking for support for your existing business? Saco’s Economic Development team would love to hear from you. Start the conversation today by visiting our website at www.sacomaine.org/economicdevelopment.

City Council Recognitions

Saco City Council recognized the excellence of community members again through several ceremonies this month. Read about each below:

AGE FRIENDLY SACO

Age Friendly Saco presented the Saco City Council with a Certificate of Completion last month, noting that the City is a member in good standing in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.

"It states that the city has successfully completed a cycle of improvement and is recognized for its age-friendly leadership, achievements, and continuing commitment toward being a livable community for all," said Director Jean Saunders.

During the City Council meeting, Saunders and volunteer David Steed presented the certificate. Saunders also gave an overview of the history and recent projects conducted by Age Friendly Saco and its volunteers. View the presentation here.



The City is proud to have partnered with Age Friendly Saco on many of their initiatives, including their initial needs assessment in 2016 all the way up to a recently published Accessory Dwelling Unit guidebook, with many projects in between. View the ADU guidebook on the Saco Planning Department's website here: https://www.sacomaine.org/departments/planning/housing.php

SACO MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

On February 26th, Saco City Council recognized a group of 7th grade students from Saco Middle School (SMS) for their stunning achievement, winning the statewide portion of the annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow US contest.

Led by SMS teacher Lindsay Girard, these Saco students were awarded for their work on a project to create 100% biodegradable, sustainable, and refillable markers. According to SMS, “The project aims to combat the staggering environmental impact of the 400 million markers discarded annually in landfills throughout the United States. The team's commitment to utilizing locally sourced materials and an efficient production process underscores their dedication to reducing the carbon footprint.”

The Solve for Tomorrow contest is a national competition by Samsung that challenges students in grades 6-12 to use their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics skills to address real-world issues in their communities. Outcompeting other schools across the state, including several high schools, SMS has been awarded a $12,000 Samsung prize package, a video kit to assist in the national competition, and a designated Samsung Employee Mentor.

Congratulations to these bright young minds and please join us as we wish them the best of luck in the upcoming national competition!

THORNTON ACADEMY FOOTBALL STATE CHAMPIONS

Saco City Council welcomed the Thornton Academy football team to the City Hall auditorium on February 5th to recognize their impressive season, concluding in a state championship.

On Nov. 18, 2023, they won the Class A title, beating Portland 24-14. This was Thornton Academy's sixth football championship since 2012.

"I, along with the members of the City Council, would like to congratulate these players for their hard work and dedication to the sport," said Mayor Jodi MacPhail. "The community is proud of you."

"Everyone has a story when it comes to TA football, their memories, and what they've shared," she continued. "Guys, this is your story. Cherish it, remember it, and remember to tell it."

Congratulations to the team, led by head coach Kevin Kezal.

Click each item for more information, if available.

City Council Meetings

• March 4, 2024
• March 11, 2024
• March 18, 2024
• March 25, 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

• March 5, 2024
• March 19, 2024

Other Advisory Body Meetings

• Visit the City calendar here for more.

Saco Parks & Recreation Programs

• Visit www.sacorec.com for a full list of upcoming SPR programs for all ages!

Saco Fire Department Blood Drive

• March 18, 2024. Register online or by calling (207) 282-3244.

Mayor's Office Hours

• Weekly on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 7:00 PM on the second floor of Saco City Hall. Please check our calendar for any alterations to this schedule before attending.

Saco Main Street Events

• Biddeford-Saco Restaurant Week 2024, March 10th to 17th, 2024. RSVP here and learn more here.

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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.