PORTLAND, Maine — Twelve meetings in six months. That's the plan for Portland's recently established, "Waterfront Working Group." This, on the heels of a six-month moratorium approved by city council members, to temporarily freeze any new development in the central zone of Portland's waterfront.
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The group consists of three lobstermen, two wharf owners, two community members, and several business owners, including Becky Rand of Becky's Diner. This is in response to the a debate that's been building for decades.
Fishermen say it's important to maintain a working waterfront for their livelihoods. They feel the finger wharves are being over developed, as more plans for condos and hotels roll out.
"The city of Portland fully supports, and will always support, the working waterfront," said Jon Jennings, Portland city manager. "We believe this process will allow us the time to develop policies that are good for everyone who enjoys Portland's waterfront."
The meetings are open to the public and are scheduled for the first and third Thursdays of the month at 3:00 p.m. in room 24 of City Hall.
The first one is planned for Thursday January 3rd.