By Tiffany Williams –
Maine Track Program students celebrate match day
More than three dozen students from the Maine Track Program discovered Friday where they will complete their medical residencies. The program, a collaboration between Tufts University School of Medicine and MaineHealth, has been tackling the state’s doctor shortage for the past 18 years. Match day is a critical milestone for aspiring physicians and a key step in bolstering Maine’s healthcare workforce.
Public defenders in Maine secured funding
Millions of dollars are headed to Maine’s public defenders after Governor Janet Mills signed a new bill into law Friday. The legislation ensures $13 million will be available to keep public defenders on the payroll through the end of the fiscal year in July, safeguarding access to legal representation across the state.
Furniture store sale underway in Bangor
Furniture Mattresses and More, a locally owned store next to the Bangor Mall, is in the process of being sold. The transaction marks a shift in ownership for one of the area’s familiar retail spots, though details on the buyer and timeline remain sparse.
Hartford school district faces massive deficit
Hartford’s school district is staring at a $74.5 million deficit if city aid does not arrive, according to the Board of Education. Mayor Arunan Arulampalam warned that covering the shortfall could require a 26% tax hike—an amount he says residents cannot afford. The city learned about a structural deficit of $64 million about a month ago and has attempted discussions with school officials to address the challenges. The district’s chief financial officer emphasized there are no further cuts possible, leaving taxpayers and city leaders in a bind.