Ben Bragdon

1 week ago | sunjournal.com | Ben Bragdon

LISBON — The removal of dams on Sabattus River is transforming the ecosystem and the river’s relationship to the surrounding community as old industrial pollution is cleaned up and wildlife habitat restored, state officials say. In 2024, crews completed restoration work at the former Mill Street dam, also known as Lower Dam and the southern most of the three projects. Remnant concrete was removed from the river channel and a natural fishway was installed.

1 week ago | sunjournal.com | Ben Bragdon

LISBON — Hearing calls about the effect of tax increases on residents, the Town Council voted 5-2 Tuesday to reject the municipal budget offered by the town manager. When combined with the school, county and water budgets, the overall tax rate would increase by 18.6%. The proposed municipal budget accounts for 10.6 of that increase, Town Manager Glenn Michalowski said. Lisbon voters earlier this month overwhelmingly rejected the proposed 2025-26 school budget at the polls.

1 week ago | sunjournal.com | Ben Bragdon

LISBON — The School Committee listened to frustrations from the public at Monday’s special meeting, where Superintendent Rick Green proposed cutting staff positions and contracted services after voters overwhelmingly against the school budget last week. Committee members will likely approve a new budget proposal when they meet Friday. “This couldn’t be more difficult,” Green said. Residents on June 10 rejected the roughly $21 million proposal by a vote of 724-312.

1 week ago | sunjournal.com | Ben Bragdon

LEWISTON — Lagers and seltzers and beers, oh my!The annual Great Falls Brewfest will celebrate its 10-year anniversary Saturday, June 21, at Simard-Payne Memorial Park at 46 Beech St. next to the Androscoggin River. It is hosted by Baxter Brewing Co. and Baxter Outdoors. Brewers will be stationed at 8-foot tables under a large tent. From noon to 5 p.m. nearly 40 breweries, cider makers and hard seltzer makers will be featured.

1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Ben Bragdon

FARMINGTON —A 29-year-old woman was shot Tuesday afternoon inside a house at 513 Fairbanks Road, just north of Jack’s Trading Post, according to Farmington police Chief Kenneth Charles. The suspect fled the scene on foot but was taken into custody by police a short distance from the scene. Police arrested Gunthar Swan, 26, on a charge of attempted murder. The woman had a serious injury to her face and was taken to MaineHealth Franklin Hospital in Farmington by ambulance.