Future of Bangor Mall Redevelopment Uncertain
The local investor group working to buy and redevelop the Bangor Mall says it has lost its lead backer in an 11th-hour setback.
Mike Cole, who leads Bangor Marketplace and Residences LLC, called the loss a gut punch but declined to name the investor, saying they stepped away for personal reasons.
WABI news reports the group, which signed an agreement in April to buy the roughly 30-percent-occupied mall from Namdar Realty Group, now needs $4 to $6 million to close the deal. Its vision for 200-plus condos, assisted living, medical offices and outlet retail has shifted, with housing tabled to first stabilize the property with retail and entertainment uses. Cole says new entertainment tenants are signed under non-disclosure agreements as the search for a replacement investor continues.
Former Employee Sues Bar Harbor Glamping Resort
A former lead housekeeper has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Terramor Outdoor Resorts in Bar Harbor alleging race and gender discrimination and retaliation.
Sharonda Boston, of Las Vegas, who worked from mid-August to late October 2025, claims management moved her from supervisory housing after she complained about a contractor’s sex-based insult, housing conditions, and privacy concerns.
The Bangor Daily News reports the self-represented plaintiff alleges managers told her she was making others uncomfortable, failed to discipline the contractor, and left her new room in poor condition with ongoing disturbances that caused anxiety and sleep loss.
She says race and color were motivating factors in how she was singled out and denied protection after repeated complaints to management and KOA human resources. A Terramor spokesperson declined comment on the pending litigation, which seeks a jury trial.
Ellsworth Fire Department Pump Testing on Shore Road
Heads up motorists, a contractor will be working in the area of Bridge Hill Apartments digging in the roadway on Tuesday.
The Ellsworth Fire Department will conduct fire apparatus pump testing Thursday, October 22nd and Friday, October 23rd along Shore Road near Pump Station Point.
Testing runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day to verify trucks can deliver needed water flow and pressure in emergencies.
Shore Road at the causeway will be reduced to one lane of alternating traffic, with periodic full closures of about 40 to 45 minutes for specific tests.
Drivers should expect delays, consider alternate routes, and follow signs and traffic control personnel. Officials thank the public for patience during the routine readiness checks.
Blue Hill’s Homewood Farm Listed for $4.5 Million
The popular berry-picking destination Homewood Farm in Blue Hill is for sale for the first time in a quarter-century at $4.5 million.
Owners Jeff and Trudy Beardsworth, who have run the Ackley Farm Road property for 25 years, say they’ve poured their hearts into the land and now hope to pass it to the next farmer or family.
The 170-acre listing includes a renovated mid-1800s farmhouse, 28 acres of cropland, 30 acres of pasture, managed woodland, historic barns, and packing and livestock facilities according to the Bangor Daily News. Jeff Beardsworth, 66, says he’s not rushing the sale and has even planted strawberries for next season in case it hasn’t sold. The couple plans to relocate to Penobscot, noting neither of their two children plans to take over the farm.
Honor Flight Maine Returns to Bangor
Honor Flight Maine returned to Bangor Sunday from its final Washington, D.C. trip of the year.
The nonprofit flies veterans to the capital for free to visit memorials honoring their service and sacrifice.
Coast Guard veteran Alexander Sandy Lyle said he was moved to tears gathering with fellow veterans, sharing the trip with his daughter who served as his guardian according to WABI news.
The group received a fire department water cannon salute on arrival in Washington. More information is available at honorflightmaine.org.
MDI Hospital Opens New Main Entrance
MDI Hospital in Bar Harbor has opened its new main entrance, with staff on hand to help patients find their way.
Officials say the opening is part of a broader campus modernization effort.
The work is funded in part through the $55 million Building Our Future Campaign, including a $10 million gift in August 2025 from television producer Dick Wolf.
WABI news reports the campaign also includes an emergency department expansion expected to finish in early 2028.
More renovations are planned as the hospital prepares for the next century.
Ellsworth Public Library Halloween Party
The Ellsworth Public Library is hosting an in-person Halloween Party for kids ages 5 and up.
The spooky celebration will feature Halloween-themed crafts, games, snacks, and a special scavenger hunt.
No registration is required for the family-friendly event. Check the library’s calendar at ellsworthlibrary.net for date and time details.
Costumes are encouraged for the festive gathering.
