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🌱 Patch AM: Why Augusta’s Olde Federal Building just landed a six-figure roof repair grant

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Tuesday December 23rd Patch AM
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Hi Augusta! We have the latest buzz right here. Let's keep you in the loop and get this morning started right! ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why Augusta’s Olde Federal Building just landed a six-figure roof repair grant
  • How an I-95 police chase ended on Augusta’s streets
  • How a federal shutdown slowed Maine home sales this fall

Also on today's calendar: Raven & Goose @ Kennebec ME contra.

Find out what's happening in Augustafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did one magnet say to the other magnet? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Augustafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Tuesday: A bit of p.m. snow, up to 1", with a high of 31 and low of 22 degrees.
  • Wednesday: A little snow, up to 1", temps: high: 27, low: 16. ⛄️ Brr!
  • Thursday: A little snow in the morning, with a high of 32 and low of 3 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. MDF's Maine Downtown Center awards $600,000 in sub-grants to four historic preservation projects (bangordailynews.com) — Augusta’s Olde Federal Building is getting $140,000 to repair and insulate its slate roof as part of a new $600,000 historic preservation grant package. The funding, awarded by MDF’s Maine Downtown Center, also supports key projects in Ellsworth, Dover-Foxcroft, and Skowhegan. Organizers say these repairs will protect landmark buildings while boosting downtown economies.
   

2. Waterville man arrested in Augusta after I-95 police chase (centralmaine.com) — Police say a Waterville man was arrested in Augusta after a high-speed chase down I-95 that ended near Exit 113 and Old Belgrade Road. The suspect is being held at the Kennebec County jail in Augusta on multiple charges, with bail set at $10,000 after a court appearance.
   

3. Maine home sales ease 11.59% in November (boothbayregister.com) — Housing data released in Augusta shows Maine’s single-family home sales fell 11.59% in November compared to last year, while the median price reached $399,000, still below October’s record. Realtors blame the recent federal government shutdown for delayed mortgages and buyer uncertainty but expect a rebound into 2026 as inventory rises and buyers keep searching statewide.
   

4. The agency that negotiated the opioid settlements has the fewest reporting requirements (newscentermaine.com) — State officials in Augusta are directing millions from Maine’s opioid settlements, but the attorney general’s office faces fewer transparency requirements than other recipients. Newly released data show how $10 million has been spent so far, including major infusions to DHHS, shelters, and treatment programs statewide. The story raises questions about oversight while highlighting efforts to sustain critical recovery services.
   

5. Obituary: Sandy Lee Gagnon (centralmaine.com) — Augusta is mourning the loss of 55-year-old Sandy Lee Gagnon, who passed away peacefully on December 12 surrounded by loved ones. Born in Waterville and raised in central Maine, she worked in retail and mental health, cherished outdoor adventures, and leaves behind her partner, two daughters, grandchildren, and a large extended family. Service details will be announced later.
   

📸 Around Augusta

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Burger King posted a job opening for Team Member in Augusta. Apply here.
  • TJX Companies, Inc. posted a job opening for Retail Merchandise Associate in Augusta. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Augusta here.

Ok Augusta! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I find you very attractive!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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