Randy Billings

Press Herald

Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been covering Portland City Hall for the Press Herald since 2012. His beat touches on a wide range of topics, including immigration, homelessness, education, tourism, real estate development and the economy in Maine’s largest city. He has been a Portland-based journalist since 2005. A life-long Mainer who loves the outdoors, Randy is also a bassist who brews his own beer at his North Yarmouth home, where he lives with his wife and two children.

Latest

Published
February 13, 2017

City of Portland considers selling downtown parking lot to developer

The city would net nearly $1.2 million for the 175-vehicle parking area and also receive two parcels it needs on Canco Road from the buyer.
Published
February 12, 2017

USM student Hamdia Ahmed inspires others to rally behind American dream

In an era of disquiet, the 19-year-old Muslim emerges as a formidable voice for the community.
Published
February 9, 2017

Maine’s high hunger rate persists even as national rate falls

A new study shows that 16 percent of the state’s households experience food insecurity, the third-highest rate in the country.
Published
February 9, 2017

New force in Portland politics packs a one-two punch

Emily Figdor and Steven Biel are using their deep experience as advocates in Washington to push a progressive agenda and tackle other local issues.
Published
February 8, 2017

Portland council will consider regulating short-term rentals like Airbnb, VRBO

The council’s Housing Committee votes 3-0 to recommend regulations including a 300-unit limit on short-term rentals in homes that aren’t owner-occupied.
Published
February 7, 2017

LePage breaks with Maine’s attorney general to support Trump’s immigration ban

The governor tweeted Tuesday that Janet Mills ‘speaks for herself’ in opposing Trump’s temporary ban.
Published
February 6, 2017

Portland-based immigration lawyers facing questions they can’t answer

Legal wrangling over President Trump’s immigration ban has created uncertainty and confusion among visa holders and refugees trying to enter the U.S.
Published
February 1, 2017

Protesters say ‘immigrants are welcome here’ as 1,500 rally in Portland to oppose Trump’s order

The crowd shows support for Maine’s Muslims and immigrants in response to the president’s suspension of refugee programs and admissions from seven Muslim-majority nations.
Published
February 1, 2017

Groups press Portland officials to stand up to Trump, add immigrant protections

They want to let police resist helping federal agents enforce immigration laws, but stop short of seeking a ‘sanctuary city’ designation.
Published
January 30, 2017

Portland wants input on future of 2 parcels

City councilors are looking to sell a 2.5-acre parking lot on the eastern waterfront and 4 acres in West Bayside, but want to hear from the public first at a hearing Tuesday.

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