Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bangor public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in business jobs with high priority
Airport Security Checkpoint Expansion
Bangor International Airport is getting a $12 million security checkpoint expansion. The money comes from passenger facility charges and airport funds, not property taxes, and officials say ticket prices won't go up.
Roux Institute Venture Forward entrepreneurship partnership
Bangor is working to bring the Roux Institute's entrepreneurship program to town, aimed at helping existing businesses expand rather than just chasing startups.
Downtown Ambassador Program and Streetplus Contract
Downtown businesses are outperforming national averages, but the Streetplus Ambassador contract enters its third and final year with street challenges arguably worse than when it launched. Councilors discussed possibly replacing it with a constable program while stressing that services must not lapse.
Hotel shortage limiting convention business
The Cross Center manager said lost convention bookings come down to one thing: not enough hotel rooms downtown. Councilor Carson wants data on missed opportunities, and a long-dormant hotel idea on a parking area may be revisited.