Public works garage & shoreline rehabilitation is the focus during public hearing

Southwest Harbor residents have two infrastructure projects to consider when heading to the polls on March 24 for a special town election.

One project is on the town’s public works garage which is aging and the second is shoreline rehabilitation following storm damage in 2024.

The Mount Desert Islander reports the breakdown costs will amount to $3.2 million and the town manager stressed the importance of consideration around the public works garage renovation in order to protect assets.

A public hearing will take place March 17 at 6 p.m. at the Southwest Harbor fire station for residents to ask questions about the project.

https://www.mdislander.com/news/public-hearing-scheduled-to-discuss-public-works-garage/article_65cb0fcf-732e-4ab1-8fd5-3f281c39c6b9.html?utm_campaign=blox&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwY2xjawQfhZ9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe-7WelPVfvR43X700QVzUemJqNQaURiaCx_R9gmVXhhM9jR_QSgGLSHU7uCo_aem_EidhezIDwnoGW5_28bhvuQ

Bar Harbor breakwater could see renovation project in May

If things continue to move long, Bar Harbor’s breakwater could see construction efforts in May.

An Army Corps of Engineers representative confirmed work could begin on the underwater structure meant to protect harbor as fishing, recreation and storms roll through.

The Bangor Daily News reports the area is also a major tourist attraction in which they’d like to repair; however, Bar Harbor officials are worried about pushback during the federal project. 

The publication reports the repairs could start in May with an end in March 2028 however engineers tell the paper they hope to finish well before that.

https://www.bangordailynews.com/2026/03/13/hancock/hancock-government/bar-harbor-maine-breakwater-summer-construction/

Gas prices continue to surge

The average price of gas in Maine has risen over 10 cents in the past week.

GasBuddy reports prices at the pump have reached $3.57 per gallon which is 67.7 cents higher than a month ago.

Compared to one year ago, it’s 57 cents per gallon higher.

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/16/maine-gas-prices-continue-rise-amid-national-fuel-cost-surge/

‘The Princess Project’ returns to assist father-daughter dance attendees

The Ellsworth Lioness Lions Club are back at it again as they gear up for a busy two day shopping spree for the upcoming father-daughter dance.

Club members collect dresses to give out for free to relieve stress for local families.

The Ellsworth American reports the two pop-ups will be at Poppy and Polka Dot Boutique at 97 Main Street in Ellsworth on March 28 and Thursday, April 2.

The publication reports those who wish to shop can pick out one dress and each girl must be accompanied by an adult and all adults must be accompanied by a child.

Tickets are still available for the dance on April 11.

https://www.ellsworthamerican.com/news/the-princess-project-lioness-lions-club-hosts-two-dress-shopping-days-for-father-daughter-dance/article_308871af-07a7-4670-b717-8ba3700cfb98.html

ElevatED seeking ‘Every Teacher a Leader’ conference proposals

The Maine Department of Education has announced their ElevatED- Every Teacher a Leader conference will be held at Thomas College in Waterville on July 29-31.

In the meantime, organizers are seeking proposals designed specifically for classroom teachers by classroom teachers.

The proposal will be implemented into day two and three where organizers hope to address the needs of educators statewide to improve outcomes for all Maine students.

They’re looking for a 75-minute session focusing on leadership in Innovation, Equity, relationships, best practices in the classrooms and teacher leadership.

Organizers are looking for proposals by March 31, just follow the link on our website for further information on the conference.

https://mainedoenews.net/2026/02/27/save-the-date-2026-maine-doe-annual-summit-and-every-teacher-a-leader-conference-combine-for-an-elevated-experience/

Join Blue Hill Public Library for film and hands-on art series

Leaders at the Blue Hill Public Library are continuing to find ways for locals to engage in film and hands-on art series.

Happening Thursday, March 19 starting at 6 p.m. you can join Margret Baldwin to expand your art skills by participating in the ‘Deconstructed Rearranged Reality’ painting session.

The free event requires registration.

The materials needed for the project will be provided.

https://bhpl.libcal.com/event/15698589