15 Apr Midcoast News April 15, 2015

Thumbs Down on Single-Use Bags

In Freeport. a unanimous town council to move toward a ban or the imposition of fees on single-use bags. It’s a move toward greater levels of recycling and less litter. The vote follows a lively wave of support for the plan from residents who spoke out prior to the vote. And there was no opposition by any of the pre-vote speakers.

In Portland, a relatively small fee of just five cents for each disposable shopping bag takes effect today, and unlike certain other communities around the nation that have taken similar action, the revenue will stay with the retailers rather than being used for educational and environmental programs.

No One Hurt

There were no injuries among 36 passengers on board as a southbound Amtrak Downeaster traveling at low speeds derailed in South Portland. The passengers were taken to Boston on a bus. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

The Dreaded Day Is Here

It’s April 15. The tax filing deadline. Police departments report an increase in the number of Maine residents victimized by identity theft and tax return fraud. Police have already received dozens of reports of residents filing their taxes and then receiving a notice from the IRS that someone already has been filed using their social security number.