Hey there, Augusta! Let's get started with what's happening in and around town. Read on and stay in the loop. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Maine Brass Collective Concert at UMA and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What has a cap but no head? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Augusta breaks ground on permanent housing project for those in need (wgme.com) — A new permanent housing complex called The Riverlands is now under construction in Augusta, bringing much-needed stable apartments and on-site services for vulnerable residents under Maine's Home for Good initiative. Local leaders, including the mayor, say the project will provide a safe, long-term place to live and strengthen the wider Augusta community as similar developments roll out in other Maine cities.
2. Former Maine Capitol Police chief agrees to deal over Hallowell bar scuffle (centralmaine.com) — A former Maine Capitol Police chief who oversaw security at Augusta's state government buildings has struck a deal that could leave him with only a $300 fine over a bar scuffle in Hallowell. The agreement requires months of sobriety conditions and substance abuse treatment, with more serious charges dismissed if he complies through 2027.
3. The best places to enjoy foliage in central Maine (centralmaine.com) — If you're looking to soak in peak foliage close to home, the Kennebec River Rail Trail offers an easy 6.5‑mile walk between Gardiner and Augusta with river views and a Hallowell stop for food or drinks. The guide also suggests nearby drives, hikes, and lakes around central Maine, giving Augusta residents plenty of options for colorful day trips this fall.
4. Federal officials warn Maine of faulty sprinkler heads that may fail during a fire (wmtw.com) — State officials in Augusta are being urged by federal safety regulators to help track down millions of recalled fire sprinkler heads that may still be installed in Maine homes and businesses. The faulty devices, subject to a 2001 recall, have been linked to a deadly 2025 assisted-living facility fire, and property owners are encouraged to check whether their buildings still use the affected models.
5. Some low-income Mainers to see automatic discount on their CMP, Versant bills (wabi.tv) — Announced in Augusta, a new "support-link" initiative will automatically enroll eligible low-income Mainers in electric bill discounts using existing data from programs like SNAP and MaineCare. The plan will direct about $40 million through the state's Low-income Assistance Program to CMP and Versant customers, while those not already in state aid programs can still apply through local community action agencies.
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Ok Augusta! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: "What has a cap but no head?" — A bottle (Thank you Glo M. for sending it in!)
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