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
July 23, 2015

Private poll tests waters in Portland mayor’s race

The partial poll results show a virtual tie between Michael Brennan, who is running for re-election, and Ethan Strimling, who has not yet said whether he will run or not.
Published
July 22, 2015

Organizers appear to end insistence that Portland didn’t block medical pot fest

The group initially said the Aug. 9 event would go on despite denial of an amended permit amid concerns over an admission fee and public marijuana use.
Published
July 22, 2015

Minimum wage uncertainty makes Portland business owners fearful

Eighteen months into the debate, business owners tire of the battle as the City Council delays its vote on a $10.10 standard, and a referendum on a $15 minimum looms.
Published
July 20, 2015

Portland voters will take up $15 an hour minimum wage in November

The City Council also votes to delay reconsideration of an ordinance approved earlier this month that inadvertently doubled the base wage for tipped workers.
Published
July 20, 2015

Councilors approve land purchase to relocate Portland public works to Canco Road

City councilors approved a purchase of land on Canco Road to free up land in Bayside for redevelopment.
Published
July 20, 2015

Portland City Council approves master plan for redesigning Franklin Street

Construction on the estimated $34 million project is unlikely to begin until federal money becomes available.
Published
July 20, 2015

Portland council rejects permit for marijuana market in Deering Oaks

In a 5-4 vote, they reverse a previous decision after hearing an ad for the event that suggested pot would be available for use there.
Published
July 20, 2015

Portland City Council to revisit pot festival permit request

The New England Cannabis Farmers Market would run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 9 in Deering Oaks.
Published
July 18, 2015

Groups prepare to help immigrants losing aid

Word that 86 people will be cut off mobilizes nonprofit agencies, advocacy groups and some in the faith community.
Published
July 15, 2015

Portland Green Party chairman announces candidacy for mayor

Thomas MacMillan says he wants to give voice to city residents who are struggling to make ends meet by advocating for livable wages and controlled development.

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