While we disagree with the Court's decision, we respect it and will comply with its terms. Today's decision is about an unsettled area of law in terms of when citizen's can propose a referendum. The Court recognized that this was an area of law that had not been addressed to date in Maine, and the decision now gives municipalities a precedent to follow and apply as necessary. The City has a long history of supporting the right of citizen's to petition their government and put forward various ordinances, and plans to continue that tradition moving forward.
The City of Portland has been incredibly proactive in terms of dedicating and protecting its park space for its citizens and visitors. The City has substantial existing protections in place for its parks - and the recent parks ordinance that the City Council adopted doubly ensures those protections.
Additionally, the City has made considerable recent efforts with regard to Congress Square including working collaboratively with the Friends of Congress Square throughout the legal proceedings.
Portland voters will now have the chance to vote on June 10 about the future of Congress Square.
