📰BIDDEFORD | Public Hearing OCT. 7 | Proposed Increase to General Assistance Maximums for Fiscal Year 2026

September 30, 2025, According to City Officials, the Biddeford City Council will hold a Public Hearing on October 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers to discuss a Proposed Increase to General Assistance Maximums for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26).

The Public Hearing is being held to consider the adoption of updated General Assistance maximums for housing, utilities, food, and other necessities, as mandated by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS):

SECTION V. MAXIMUMS, CATEGORIES AND LEVELS OF ASSISTANCE – (D)(8)(a) has been updated to “A municipality may choose to consider the actual costs of an emergency shelter up to the housing maximums allowed by ordinance, applying the zero-bedroom level for one person, in accordance with 22 M.R.S. § 4305(3-B): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/about/rulemaking/general-assistance-rule-26a-pl-2024-chapters-575-and-643-2025-04-02

These maximums are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and ensure adequate support is provided to individuals and families in need within our community.

The proposed maximums would take effect immediately following Council approval and would be in place for the entirety of Fiscal Year 2026.

All interested persons are encouraged to attend this Public Hearing to present comments concerning the proposed changes.

For further information or to review the proposed General Assistance maximums in detail, please contact the General Assistance Office at 207-284-9514 or via email at GA@biddefordmaine.org.