Randy Billings

Portland 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
June 11, 2018

Portland says paid sick time proposal could add as much as $400,000 to city budget

The estimated cost includes enforcing the ordinance in the private sector, as well as the cost of providing paid sick time to all city employees.
Published
June 11, 2018

See Portland for what to expect from ranked-choice voting

Portland has used the voting method twice already to choose a mayor.
Published
June 4, 2018

Portland councilors approve development rules aimed at ‘density without claustrophobia’ on Munjoy Hill

The proposal addressing development concerns will allow the city to delay demolition requests for certain buildings.
Published
June 4, 2018

After year of groundwork, new office expands efforts to integrate immigrants into Portland economy

A TV show, workshops, industry connections and even a game to educate newcomers about available resources are some of the initiatives being rolled out by the city’s Office of Economic Opportunity
Published
May 30, 2018

Duffel bag found on street corner triggers evacuation in Old Port while bomb squad investigates

The bag was left on a sidewalk near the U.S. Custom House, prompting police to evacuate nearby businesses and close streets.
Published
May 29, 2018

Chamber, Portland mayor take simmering feud public

Tension over Mayor Ethan Strimling’s plan to make businesses offer earned paid sick time erupts into a war of words with a former key ally.
Published
May 23, 2018

Portland hires former New York City administrator as assistant city manager

Mona Bector will be one of two assistant city managers at City Hall, replacing a longtime deputy city manager retiring this summer.
Published
May 21, 2018

Portland’s $360 million budget expected to increase taxes 3.8%

The council passes the spending plan on a unanimous vote, preserving money for Fourth of July fireworks and increasing business licensing fees.
Published
May 21, 2018

Portland councilor, business owner vying for state Senate seat

Jill Duson and state Rep. Heather Sanborn will square off in the Democratic primary.
Published
May 17, 2018

Portland school board approves budget cuts recommended by superintendent

The $1.2 million in reductions brings the school budget to $110.6 million for the year that starts July 1.