Kittery Development News

Kittery Recognizes Scholarship Awardees, Miss Kittery, and Plans Community Events Amidst Mobile Home Park Rent Concerns

The Kittery Town Council recognized recipients of the 2026 Recycling Educational Scholarship Awards. These scholarships were funded by the town's recycling program and donations from residents. Amelia Burke presented the awards to eight students who will be pursuing higher education in fields such as social work, biochemistry, business administration, marine biology, diagnostic medical sonography, aerospace and mechanical engineering, journalism and media communications, and medical engineering. \n\nAdditionally, Ella Hamilton was acknowledged as Miss Kittery, and she will be competing for the title of Miss Maine. Paige Lessard, Miss Maine 2025, was also present to welcome Hamilton. \n\nThe town also announced a free community cookout and concert on July 7th to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The event, hosted in partnership with several local organizations, will include food, entertainment, and activities for families. A rain date is set for July 14th. \n\nThe town manager also provided an update on the installation of three new driver feedback signs on Haley Road, Rogers Road, and Government Street, noting their moderate effectiveness in reducing speeds and their cost-effectiveness compared to larger infrastructure changes. A challenge with light from one sign causing resident distress was also mentioned, with plans to mitigate the issue. \n\nDiscussions also covered the potential installation of pedestrian crossing lights at the intersection of Government and Walker Streets, with the site meeting criteria but requiring funding of $35,000-$40,000, for which grant opportunities are being explored. \n\nThe Kittery Town Council is also actively drafting a rent stabilization ordinance to protect residents of mobile home parks from retaliation and significant rent increases. This initiative is in response to concerns raised by residents of Yankee Green and Yankee Commons regarding substantial rent hikes and the removal of amenities by new owners, Boa Vita communities. The ordinance aims to stabilize rents and prevent retaliation, with a proposed 18-month duration to allow the state legislature to address the issue statewide. Residents expressed concerns about rising lot rents, the maintenance of infrastructure, and the financial burden on those with fixed incomes.