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November 5, 2025

Election coverage: Portland voters approve minimum wage hike; Maine voters OK 'red flag' measure

election placards in Portland Photo / Peter Van Allen Election placards on Portland's Eastern Prom on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.
By Tina Fischer

Portland voters approved an increase in the city’s minimum wage from $15.50 per hour to $19 by 2028.

The city’s wage will bump up incrementally, starting with $16.75 in 2026, $17.75 in 2027 and $19 in 2028. After that, the wage would be adjusted annually for inflation.

The increase will give city workers one of the highest rates in the country and will top the state minimum wage of $15.10 per hour, which will increase from $14.65 on Jan. 1, 2026.

The wage boost is also predicted to increase the city’s budget by more than $10 million, to cover increased payroll costs, which city leaders have said will lead to higher taxes. 

Nearly 63% of voters approved of the increase.

Business response

An increase in the city's minimum wage had been hotly contested by local businesses and the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce. Proprietors of small businesses, restaurants and nonprofits said the increase could drive them to move to neighboring communities or close altogether. 

Minimum wage placard
Photo / Peter Van Allen
Portland voters approved a measure that will increase the city's minimum wage to $19 an hour.

 

“Voters made one thing clear: the cost of living in Portland is unsustainable, and too many families are struggling to make ends meet. We hear that message, and we share that concern," Quincy Hentzel, president and CEO of the Chamber, told Mainebiz Wednesday morning. 

“Real progress, however, requires thoughtful collaboration — not influenced by ideological campaigns," she added. "This increase will be challenging for businesses to absorb. It will cause the price of goods and services to increase, thus further increasing the cost of living in Portland. It will also increase the city’s budget by over $10 million once implemented, which means Portland taxes will also go up, once again further increasing the cost of living in the city."

Hentzel called on local leaders and businesses to continue the conversation. 

“Our focus remains steadfast: building a Portland where businesses can thrive, good jobs are protected, essential services stay strong, and life here remains affordable for everyone who calls this city home," she said. 

“Soon to have the highest minimum wage on the East Coast, there is work to be done in Portland. The Chamber, along with our partners and local employers, is ready to engage in the next phase of this conversation — and we intend to make sure everyone’s voice is heard."

Election news in brief

  • Maine voters approved Question 2, a measure calling for a "red flag" law that would give families the option of asking a judge to remove weapons from a troubled relative on a temporary basis. 
  • Maine voters rejected Question 1, a referendum to change voter ID and absentee ballot restrictions. 
  • In Biddeford's mayoral election, voters favored Liam LaFountain over incumbent Mayor Marty Grohman.
  • Yarmouth voters approved a measure to upgrade the sewer system. 
  • Scarborough approved a plan to invest $130 million in school infrastructure. 

Editor's note: Mainebiz staff contributed to this report. 

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