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V O L . X X X I I N O. I JA N UA R Y 1 2 , 2 0 2 6 20 E C O N O M I C F O R E C A S T F O C U S She lauds the addition of a Maine Office of Community Affairs online tool that provides one-stop assistance for Maine communities. Two bills that Gere's committee is shepherding, LD 161 and LD 128, seek to address burdensome process- es for state project review as well as to streamline approvals for projects in developed areas that have existing in- frastructure and services. "We will also be considering new bills based on the recommendations of several working groups, on topics including spurring innovative housing production methods and reducing regulatory barri- ers to housing construction," Gere says. "And we are working to protect assets that we already have, by advanc- ing reuse of community buildings like vacant schools for housing, helping mobile home park residents to stay in their homes, and assisting with rehab and repair of existing homes." C H A M B E R S Portland-area businesses face rising costs, other challenges B y T i n a F i s c h e r G reater Portland enters 2026 with a strong economic foundation and a vibrant business community, yet employ- ers continue to face very real pressures, according to Quincy Hentzel, president and CEO of the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce. e chamber represents 1,400 busi- nesses that employ 75,000 people. Some 90% of chamber members are small businesses, and Hentzel says many are operating on tight margins. "As we work to support their growth and stability, rising hiring costs in 2026 remain a significant concern. Increases related to health insurance, the new paid family and medical leave program, and Portland's newly increased minimum wage may force some small employers to make tough choices about staffing, pric- ing and long-term operations." Housing remains the most signifi- cant barrier to recruiting and retaining workers, Hentzel says. A lack of housing options throughout Greater Portland makes it difficult for employees to live near where they work, limiting employ- ers' ability to attract and keep talent. "is challenge is particularly acute in the city of Portland, where inclusionary zoning requirements have contributed to limited new housing production." Hentzel is hopeful that "smart reforms" could help unlock develop- ment, draw new private investment, and create more homes for people at all income levels. Despite these challenges, Hentzel sees the region's blend of historic charm, economic opportunity and quality of place continuing to draw entrepreneurs, families and professionals who want to build a future here. "Sustaining this momentum requires a continued focus on affordability, workforce availability, and a regulatory environment that encourages job creation and competitiveness," she advises, adding, "Advancing solutions in these areas will ensure Greater Portland remains Maine's economic engine for years to come." C H A M B E R S Investment is the key word in Bangor B y P e t e r V a n A l l e n D eb Neuman, president and CEO of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce, is bullish on the Bangor region. She cites the recent completion of a $45 million runway rehabilitation » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E Saying no to big-bank fees: Smart. Smart Business Checking No monthly maintenance service charge PLUS no transaction fees up to 500 items per statement cycle: now that's Smart. Switch today at maine.bank F I L E P H O T O State Rep. Traci Gere, D- Kennebunkport, chair of the Maine Legislature's Housing and Economic Development Committee. F I L E P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY Quincy Hentzel, president and CEO, Port- land Regional Chamber of Commerce.

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