Jennings Hired as City Manager, Bank News & Fundraiser Block Party Approved for August on Exchange Street

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Jon P. Jennings Hired by Portland to be City Manager, Effective on Monday, July 13th.

Jon P. Jennings Hired by Portland to be City Manager, Effective on Monday, July 13th.

By Carol McCracken  (Post # 2,323)

Jon P. Jennings was hired this evening by the Portland City Council to be the City’s next manager, effective on July 13, 2015.  His salary is $148,064.38 and is part of a three-year contract.  He is currently assistant city manager for South Portland.

“I can’t tell you how extraordinarily pleased I am to be in this position,” said Mayor Michael Brennan, of the city’s hiring of Jennings for city manager.  The city had 60 applications for the position.  “We need him at this time in the city’s history…Portland will be able to continue to move ….with his unique blend of public and private experience.”  Councilor David Brenerman said that Jennings is a “motivator with a vision for Portland with a non-traditional background.”

Bangor Savings Bank received permission from the Council for a text amendment to develop a drive-in bank at 20 Marginal Way where a car wash facility is now located. The Bank is expected to start construction on a the three-story building around August 1,  2015. Construction is expected to take nine months according to a representative from C.J.Developer Inc.  Bangor Savings Bank is also moving into a space at 77 Middle Street, currently occupied by Northeast Bank.  Northeast is expected to  vacate the property by September 1st with Bangor up and running there  by December 1st.

Finallly, a B. Good Block Party Festival was approved by the Council as well. It’s a fundraiser for the B. Good Portland Foundation.  It is to be held on Sunday, August 9th 23015 from Noon – 5:pm.  The Foundation uses micro-grants to help “inspired” individuals improve their communities. Exchange Street will be closed from Middle Street to Fore Street, starting at 10:00 am.   The Festival will be held in front of and around the B.Good restaurant on Exchange Street.  Other stores along Exchange Street may participate as well by holding sidewalk sales.  The event will cost $10 – $15 for an “all you can eat plate” as well as extra for beverages and beer.Portland’s ‘downtown district has endorsed the event.