In an effort to save money, the town has been testing a restructured public safety system in which a public safety director would oversee the fire and police departments.
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Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, News
Augusta program could be first in Maine to offer overdose victims medication on-scene to treat withdrawal symptoms
Plans to help Augusta residents recover from substance use disorder include a proposal to offer people revived from an overdose by rescue workers immediate, on-scene treatment with Suboxone and help accessing longer-term treatment.
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Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, News
Passersby rescue ATV riders who broke through ice at Litchfield pond
Officials say quick action by two men, one of whom broke through the ice at Pleasant Pond during rescue efforts himself, could have been lifesaving.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, News
Landlords say Augusta rental ordinance requiring inspections, annual fee, would raise rents
A rental inspection ordinance proposed by city staff to address safety concerns in rental housing in the city would charge landlords a $100 fee, require inspections and has drawn strong opposition.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, Maine Crime, News
Security stepped up at old Kennebec County courthouse after threats, safety concerns
Visitors to the historic building that houses Kennebec County District Attorney’s Office and Probate Court office are now being screened by security.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, News
Work to begin soon on replacing bridge that provides main access to downtown Augusta
Construction on the bridge to replace the Rines Hill Bridge on Water Street, between the Augusta Fire Department headquarters and downtown, is expected to start this month and take about a year.
Posted inLocal & State
Legislature considers big hike in fines for distracted driving
A proposal would hike penalty for drivers using mobile phones from $50 to $500 for a first offense.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, Morning Sentinel
Somerset County cuts 911 answering service for Kennebec County, citing staffing challenges
Kennebec County officials are now considering what steps they can take to fill the gap in emergency communications after Somerset County commissioners voted to not renew contracts with 16 communities across northern and western Kennebec County.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, Maine Crime, News
Augusta City Council expresses concerns about short-term housing rentals
Officials question whether the city’s ongoing housing shortage could be worsened if more housing were converted into short-term vacation rentals.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, News
Concerns about dangerous rental housing in Augusta may prompt inspections through license system
Due to the ongoing housing shortage, tenants are afraid to report safety hazards to the city for fear they could lose their housing, officials say.