Let's Connect

Why Historic Preservation Still Matters

Host Tom Bell speaks with Kate Lemos McHale, the Executive Director of Greater Portland Landmarks about why historic preservation still matters in a time shaped by housing shortages, political division, and rapid change. The conversation explores the role preservation plays in strengthening communities, supporting local economies, and shaping Portland’s identity, while also tackling difficult questions about development, affordability, and the balance between protecting the past and building for the future. Kate discusses the history and mission of Greater Portland Landmarks, the challenges facing preservation efforts today, and how residents can get involved in protecting the architectural and cultural legacy of Greater Portland. Produced by Greater Portland Council of Governments for broadcast on WMPG90.9FM [https://www.wmpg.org] Edited by C.Carter

The vanishing meadows beneath Casco Bay

Host Tom Bell explores the alarming decline of eelgrass in Casco Bay with Ivy Frignoca, Casco Baykeeper with Friends of Casco Bay [https://www.cascobay.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com], and Janelle Goeke, Staff Scientist for Casco Bay Estuary Partnership, [https://www.cascobayestuary.org] who coordinates eelgrass restoration projects in Casco Bay. Often overlooked beneath the water’s surface, eelgrass is a critical foundation species that supports fisheries, improves water quality, stores carbon, and provides habitat for marine life throughout the bay. But nearly half of Maine’s eelgrass has disappeared over the past two decades, with especially dramatic losses in Casco Bay. The conversation examines what’s driving the decline, what restoration efforts are underway, and what the future of the bay could look like if communities succeed—or fail—in protecting this vital ecosystem. Host: Tom Bell Produced by: Speak Up Greater Portland Recorded at WMPG 90.9FM [http://www.wmpg.org] for live broadcast and podcast Podcast edit: C. Carter

Tight budgets. Tough choices.

Regional mayors come together to talk through the financial challenges facing their communities. Host Kristina Egan speaks with Portland Mayor Mark Dion, South Portland Mayor Elyse Tipton, Saco Mayor Jodie MacPhail, and Biddeford’s newly elected mayor, Liam LaFountain.

Is an ADU right for you?

Are you thinking about building an accessory dwelling unit in your backyard? Host Tom Bell talks with some experts: Matt Grooms, deputy planning director of the Planning & Economic Urban Development Dept. for the City of Portland [https://www.portlandmaine.gov/429/Planning-Urban-Development], Portland Press Herald reporter Hannah LaClaire [https://www.pressherald.com/author/hannah-laclaire/], who has been doing extensive reporting about ADUs for an upcoming story, and Austin Gregory, Chief of Operations & Engineering at Backyard ADUs [https://backyardadus.com/], a Brunswick-based builder of modular-style accessory dwelling units that are constructed offsite and installed across New England. Produced by Greater Portland Council of Governments for broadcast at WMPG FM Edited by C.Carter

Bridging the Digital Divide in Maine

Host Tom Bell sits down with Kayla Lewis to explore the real-world impacts of the digital divide and the ongoing effort to expand broadband access across southern Maine. Kayla shares what it means to be on the front lines of digital equity—helping people navigate essential tasks like applying for jobs, housing, and benefits in an increasingly online world. While she’s not a policymaker or engineer, her work as a connector between communities and digital access programs is critical to ensuring that broadband investments translate into meaningful, equitable access for all Mainers. Recorded by WMPG Edited by Tom Bell Produced by Greater Portland Council of Governments.