By Carol McCracken  (Post # 331)

Five years ago, Ready Seafood opened its business doors on Hobson’s Wharf.  Since that time, this lobster selling business has grown sufficiently to need more space in which to operate.  That’s why Brendan Ready petitioned the Community Development Committee yesterday afternoon for a 3-year lease at the Portland Ocean Terminal at the bottom of the Hill.  The space sought is about 9,000 sq. ft, about double the space the  business currently occupies on Hobson’s Wharf.

Gregory Mitchell,  director of the city’s economic divsion, said:  “There is no other location for them in Portland.  We want to keep them here in Portland.”  The two other councilors present at the committee meeting echoed the same sentiments.  Councilor Leeman, presiding over the committee, in the absence of Chair Dan Skolnik said:  “We are excited to have you here.  You are doing an incredible job down there.”  Soon-to-be mayor, Nick Mavadones concurred.

Brendan was at the CDC meeting representing his company “A Piece of Maine” which buys and sells lobsters all over the world.  He said business is very good.  His brother John Ready is his business partner.  Most of the Portland Ocean Terminal is a storage facility.  Portland Tugboat has storage space there as well.  The three year lease would  cost the company $100,000.

The matter goes to the full council on Monday, December 7, for its approval.