Portland Fish Pier Authority
Regular MeetingPortland, ME · March 19, 2026
Agenda
PORTLAND FISH PIER AUTHORITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
March 19, 2026, 3:00 PM
Remote Meeting Format on the Zoom Platform
PFPA Board Members
Class A Directors: Groundfish Harvester or Representative
Mary Hudson, MCFA
Tracy Pearce, Vice President
Class B Directors: Groundfish Buyers
Vacant
Vacant
Class C Directors: Representing the seafood industry of the State of Maine
Rob Odlin, Representing the Lobster Industry, President
Matthew Moretti, Representing the Aquaculture Industry
Class D Director: Representing the Public at Large
John Arnold, Secretary
Class E Director: Representing the City Council
Wesley Pelletier, District 2
Ex-Officio Members of the Board of Directors:
Representing the Commissioner of the Maine DOT
Chris Mayo
Representing the Commissioner of Maine DMR
Meredith Mendelson, Department of Marine Resources
Representing the Portland City Manager
Brendan O'Connell, Finance Director, Treasurer
*******Meeting Link*******
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/86498562996?pwd=3JOs75AE8Kmy98HBn7YnbQ3q2wWNvo.1
Panelists will receive their own unique link via email on the day of the meeting.
To submit written public comment on an agenda item, email edd@portlandmaine.gov. Submissions must be
received by 12:00 pm the day before the Portland Fish Pier Authority meeting to guarantee their inclusion in the
agenda packet. All submissions must include the commenter's name and legal address. To help ensure your
comment is submitted for the correct item, please include the name of the agenda item (see below).
1. Approval of February 23, 2026 Meeting Minutes
a. See attached draft Meeting Minutes for February 23, 2026
Salary Reimbursement Request for funding a portion of the Waterfront Coordinator
2. Position for the 2026 Fiscal Year - Greg Watson, Housing and Economic Development
Director.
a. NOTE: The Board may go into executive session pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A. 405(6)(A)
for a discussion of personnel matters regarding the Waterfront Coordinator position.
This is the seventh annual request. Memorandum from Greg Watson, Housing and
Economic Development Director is attached.
3. Financial Update - Kaela Gonzalez, Program Coordinator
a. See attached Financial Update for March 2026
4. Facilities Update - Phil DiPierro, Project Manager.
a. See attached Facilities Report for March 2026
Review and vote to accept and forward the Draft Annual Report for FY2026 to the
5.
Corporator (City Council) as a communication.
a. See attached Draft FY2026 Annual Report.
6. PFPA Bylaws Update - Avery Dandreta
a. City Staff are requesting two volunteers from the Board to help review and refresh
the PFPA Bylaws to fit the merged Board and current operation.
7. Portland Fish Exchange Subcommittee Update - Chair of Subcommittee, Tracy Peace
a. See attached Portland Fish Exchange Report presented to the Subcommittee on
March 12, 2026.
b. Staff Update - Robert Vanmeter, PFX Exchange Manager
8. Other items not on the agenda.
9. Next Regular Meeting Date: April 16, 2026
10. Adjournment
Packet
PORTLAND FISH PIER AUTHORITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
March 19, 2026, 3:00 PM
Remote Meeting Format on the Zoom Platform
PFPA Board Members
Class A Directors: Groundfish Harvester or Representative
Mary Hudson, MCFA
Tracy Pearce, Vice President
Class B Directors: Groundfish Buyers
Vacant
Vacant
Class C Directors: Representing the seafood industry of the State of Maine
Rob Odlin, Representing the Lobster Industry, President
Matthew Moretti, Representing the Aquaculture Industry
Class D Director: Representing the Public at Large
John Arnold, Secretary
Class E Director: Representing the City Council
Wesley Pelletier, District 2
Ex-Officio Members of the Board of Directors:
Representing the Commissioner of the Maine DOT
Chris Mayo
Representing the Commissioner of Maine DMR
Meredith Mendelson, Department of Marine Resources
Representing the Portland City Manager
Brendan O'Connell, Finance Director, Treasurer
*******Meeting Link*******
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/86498562996?pwd=3JOs75AE8Kmy98HBn7YnbQ3q2wWNvo.1
Panelists will receive their own unique link via email on the day of the meeting.
To submit written public comment on an agenda item, email edd@portlandmaine.gov. Submissions must be
received by 12:00 pm the day before the Portland Fish Pier Authority meeting to guarantee their inclusion in the
agenda packet. All submissions must include the commenter's name and legal address. To help ensure your
comment is submitted for the correct item, please include the name of the agenda item (see below).
1. Approval of February 23, 2026 Meeting Minutes
a. See attached draft Meeting Minutes for February 23, 2026
Salary Reimbursement Request for funding a portion of the Waterfront Coordinator
2. Position for the 2026 Fiscal Year - Greg Watson, Housing and Economic Development
Director.
a. NOTE: The Board may go into executive session pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A. 405(6)(A)
for a discussion of personnel matters regarding the Waterfront Coordinator position.
Page 1
This is the seventh annual request. Memorandum from Greg Watson, Housing and
Economic Development Director is attached.
3. Financial Update - Kaela Gonzalez, Program Coordinator
a. See attached Financial Update for March 2026
4. Facilities Update - Phil DiPierro, Project Manager.
a. See attached Facilities Report for March 2026
Review and vote to accept and forward the Draft Annual Report for FY2026 to the
5.
Corporator (City Council) as a communication.
a. See attached Draft FY2026 Annual Report.
6. PFPA Bylaws Update - Avery Dandreta
a. City Staff are requesting two volunteers from the Board to help review and refresh
the PFPA Bylaws to fit the merged Board and current operation.
7. Portland Fish Exchange Subcommittee Update - Chair of Subcommittee, Tracy Peace
a. See attached Portland Fish Exchange Report presented to the Subcommittee on
March 12, 2026.
b. Staff Update - Robert Vanmeter, PFX Exchange Manager
8. Other items not on the agenda.
9. Next Regular Meeting Date: April 16, 2026
10. Adjournment
Page 2
Agenda Item #1
DRAFT Meeting Minutes
PORTLAND FISH PIER AUTHORITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPECIAL MEETING
February 23, 2026, 3:00 PM
Remote Meeting Format on the Zoom Platform
PFPA Board Members Present
Class A Directors: Groundfish Harvester or Representative
Mary Hudson
Tracy Pearce
Class C Directors: Representing the seafood industry of the State of Maine
Rob Odlin, Representing the Lobster Industry
Matthew Morretti, Representing the Aquaculture Industry
Class D Director: Representing the Public at Large
John Arnold
Class E Director: Representing the City Council
Wesley Pelletier, District 2
Ex-Officio Members of the Board of Directors:
Representing the Commissioner of Maine DMR
Meredith Mendelson, Department of Marine Resources
Representing the Portland City Manager
Brendan O’Connell, Finance Director
PFPA Board Members Unable to Attend
Class B Directors: Both positions are vacant
Ex-Officio Members: Chris Mayo, representing the Commissioner of the Maine DOT
Staff Present
Diane Albert, PFEX
Philip DiPierro, Facilities Manager
Avery Novak, Associate Corporation Counsel
Kaela Gonzalez, Program Coordinator
Heather Moretti, Waterfront Coordinator
Greg Watson, Housing and Economic Development Director
Public
There were approximately two (2) members of the public present.
1. Approval of November 20, 2025 Meeting Minutes
Page 3
Agenda Item #1
Motion to approve Meeting Minutes from November 20, 2025.
Arnold, 2nd Mendelson
No Public Comment
Approved 8-0
2. Financial Update. Kaela Gonzalez, Program Coordinator
Gonzalez presented the financial update, noting YTD revenues at 70% and expenditures at
87.6% (above target). It was clarified that a portion of the "land pier building repair line"
expenditure is reserved for the shore power project and will eventually come out. A significant
discussion took place regarding the large year-over-year differences in the financial report,
particularly in parking revenue. Gonzalez will seek clarification.
3. Facilities Update. Phil DiPierro, Project Manager
DiPierro presented the Facilities Update. A contract has been executed with Northern Electric,
Inc. for the Shore Power Upgrade project, which is estimated to start in late March or early April
due to long lead times on materials. Dredging at the Portland Fish Pier is ongoing (started
February 18th, set to end February 28th).
A contract has been executed with Chase Excavation for the stormwater outfall project at the
West Parking Lot. Phase 1 (Fish Pier parking lot): Mobilization starts in July, with construction
through September. The lot will receive a base coat of pavement and be turned over in October
to be open for the winter. Phase 2 (Commercial Street Drainage): Construction from October
through May of the next year. Approximately half of the west parking lot will be disrupted. Efforts
are underway with the Marine Trade Center to secure temporary parking for affected parkers
(including the home fleet). Fuel services are not expected to be disrupted.
The sinkholes at the Lux Lobster site and near the home fleet birthing area were filled and
paved in October/November.
4. Portland Fish Exchange Update. Tracy Pearce, PFEX Subcommittee Chair
Pearce provided an update on the Portland Fish Exchange for the month of January 2026.
Landings were significantly down in January at 90,000 pounds, compared to a budgeted
225,000 pounds. This drop was later attributed by Odlin to the unprecedented cold and wind,
noting there were only 5 auctions that month compared to 11 in the year prior. Total land
unloads were 142, with no contract unloads.
The full line of credit and the $50,000 cash reserve remain available. Receivables are up at
approximately $187,000, covering fees for rent, birthing, and yard use. The checkbook is at
$60,000. Diane Albert later noted the PFE had an operating loss of negative 35,000 for the
month.
The condenser and compressors are running well. The installation of the new operating control
system was scheduled for the end of February, which was a delay from the previously
anticipated January date.
Page 4
Agenda Item #1
Motion to approve Quality Custom Packing Inc. as a new buyer at the Portland Fish
Exchange.
Arnold, 2nd Mendelson
No Public Comment
Approved 8-0
5. Discuss and vote on recommendation by Portland Fish Exchange Subcommittee to
amend the Portland Fish Exchange Rules and Regulations.
The changes to the bylaws are aimed at explicitly allowing the Exchange Manager to
temporarily grant a new seat applicant the privilege of purchasing fish on the auction since there
are time gaps between Board meetings.
The proposed language:
2.5.1 New Seat Applicant Auction Privileges
Upon receipt of a properly posted cash deposit or letter of credit, the General Manager may
grant a new seat applicant the privilege of purchasing fish on the auction before a Board of
Directors' admission.
Motion to approve as written with the following additional language: “and a fully
completed application” after “Upon receipt of a properly posted cash deposit or letter of
credit…”.
Arnold, 2nd Pearce
No Public Comment
Approved 8-0
6. Vote to approve the Subcommittee Roles as provided in the meeting materials.
There was a brief discussion on the process and length of time members have had an
opportunity to comment, led by Mendelson.
Motion to approve the subcommittee roles as provided in the meeting materials.
O'Connell, 2nd Mendelson
No Public Comment
Approved 8-0
7. Discussion vote on infrastructure needs and available funding opportunities (taken out
of order).
Heather Moretti presented the Board with a plan to seek a $2 million grant through the Maine
Department of Transportation's Working Waterfront Infrastructure Fund (WWIF) to replace
Service Piers 1 & 3.
Page 5
Agenda Item #1
Gabriel Lambert and Gordon Armstrong, with TEC Associates, presented an updated
assessment of Service Piers 1 & 3, showing heavy corrosion on bracing and piles, particularly
around the high tide line, reducing the structure's ability to withstand lateral loads (wind/ships).
TEC Associates recommended that Service Pier 1 be taken out of service for all ships tying up
or birthing immediately, due to its poor condition and risk of failure from a large impact (only very
small craft, such as work boats, are deemed acceptable). Service Pier 3 is in better condition,
but not far behind. The project proposal includes not just rebuilding the piers but raising them to
be more resilient to the impacts of climate change. There is also an opportunity to reconfigure
the piers to help with storm resiliency without losing berthing space. Moretti will meet with
stakeholders to discuss pier design before submitting the grant proposal.
Motion to approve moving forward with the Maine DOT WWIF grant application to replace
Service Piers 1 & 3 and approve the expenditure of up to $71,687 to hire TEC Associates
for the project scope and design.
Mendelson, 2nd Arnold
No Pubic Comment
Approved 8-0
DiPierro inquired about funding for TEC Associates since there is only $25,000 in the budget for
engineering services.
Motion to fund TEC Associates' scope and design work out of the Portland Fish Pier
Authority Capital Fund.
Mendelson, 2nd Arnold
No Public Comment
Approved 7-0 (O’Connell left the meeting)
8. Review and vote to recommend to the City Council an amendment to the Portland Fish
Pier Authority Board Bylaws.
Heather Moretti introduced a proposal to amend the PFPA Bylaws to remove restrictions on
Class B Directors due to vacancies and difficulty filling those vacancies, to broaden the pool of
candidates. There was a discussion by the Board regarding other ways to recruit Board
members and whether the Class A requirements should also be broadened to create equality
for buyers and sellers.
This item was tabled for another meeting.
9. Update on PFEX Manager Review.
Novak is recommending that the Board postpone the review of the Exchange Manager until a
consultant is brought in to provide guidance. The City is seeking an external consultant to
advise on how to properly perform the duties of an employer when reviewing an employee
considering the Board is in a unique position and also has a “quasi-municipal” status.
Page 6
Agenda Item #1
10. Election of Officers.
Motion to approve the following slate of nominated officers:
President: Rob Odlin
Vice President: Tracy Pearce
Treasurer: Brendan O’Connell
Secretary: John Arnold
Assistant Secretary: Heather Moretti
Odlin, 2nd Arnold for Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary
Pearce, 2nd Arnold for President
No Public Comment
Approved 8-0
11. Other items not on the agenda.
DiPierro inquired about the derelict vessels, which is now in the hands of the federal
government. Arnold thanked Odlin for his role in the remembrance ceremony to honor the seven
people lost at sea on the F/V Lily Jean.
12. Next Regular Meeting Date: March 19, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.
13. Adjournment.
Motion to adjourn the meeting.
Hudson, 2nd Pearce
Approved 6-0 (O’Connell and Pellietier left prior to the vote)
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 5:02 p.m.
Attachments included in the meeting packet:
Draft Meeting Minutes from November 20, 2025
Portland Fish Pier Authority February Financial Update
February Facilities Update
February Portland Fish Exchange Update
Quality Custom Packing Inc. Seat Application
Portland Fish Exchange Rules and Regulations - redlined
Draft Portland Fish Exchange Subcommittee Responsibilities
Fish Pier Grant Proposal memo and backup material
Portland Fish Pier Authority Bylaws amendment memo and backup material
Page 7
PFPA 3.19.2026
Agenda Item#2
City of Portland | Housing and Economic Development Department
Gregory P. Watson, Director
MEMORANDUM
To: Portland Fish Pier Authority
From: Gregory P. Watson, Director
Subject: Annual Request to use Portland Fish Pier Authority Funds to Support
the Waterfront Coordinator Position in FY2027
Date: March 13, 2026
This memorandum requests the Portland Fish Pier Authority (PFPA) to consider and approve using
PFPA funds in the approximate amount of $32,844 to cover thirty (30) percent of the FY2027 annual
compensation costs (which includes benefits) for the City Waterfront Coordinator position.
This is the seventh annual request. For FY2026 the Board approved 30% of the salary and benefits of
approximately $38,210; FY2025, the Board approved 50% of the salary and benefits of approximately
$63,320; FY2024, the Board approved 50% of the salary and benefits of approximately $61,476;
FY2023, the Board approved 50% of the salary and benefits of approximately $58,030; and for FY2022,
the Board approved 33.3% of salary and benefits of approximately $37,021.
BACKGROUND
The City continues to struggle with budget challenges and the impacts of inflation, particularly for the
upcoming FY2027 budget process. To prepare the FY2027 City operational budget, the Finance
Director has challenged Department Directors to reduce overall Department budget expenditures and to
propose creative approaches to fund needed staff to support ongoing City service delivery. This is a
result of that response for the Waterfront Coordinator position; the remaining funding for this position is
from the Waterfront TIF fund.
Examples of the Waterfront Coordinator’s time dedicated to the PFPA include:
● lead staff to prepare and issue all meeting agendas, minutes, and backup;
● liaison between PFPA tenants and the fishing industry, as well as the Portland Fish Exchange;
● Ongoing lease negotiations;
● intra-city departmental coordination;
389 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101 – www.portlandmaine.gov – (207) 874-8683
Page 8
● press and community relations contact; and, lastly,
● Research and apply for relevant grant opportunities.
REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION
I ask that the PFPA consider and vote to approve the request to fund 30% of the City Waterfront
Coordinator Position, including benefits.
I will attend your March 19, 2026, PFPA Board meeting to discuss this with you and answer any
questions.
389 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101 – www.portlandmaine.gov – (207) 874-8683
Page 9
Page 10
3.19.2026 PFPA
Public Buildings & Waterfront Division Agenda Item #4a
Director Robert Kierstead
To: Portland Fish Pier Authority Board
From: Philip DiPierro, Facilities Project Manager
Date: March 12, 2026
RE: Facilities Update
CC: Rob Kierstead, Director
Please find below a listing of the monthly improvements to the Portland Fish Pier by the
Public Buildings and Waterfront Division:
Updates February 2026
● The Shore Power Upgrade Project is scheduled to begin in April. Submittals are being reviewed
and materials have been ordered.
● TEC Associates completed an inspection for Service Piers 1 and 3. The report has been revised
and updated, and it will be used as the basis for a grant application for funding to replace the
piers.
● Dredging around the Fish Pier has been completed. The Mavodones Landing floats will remain at
their temporarily offsite location until they are reinstalled at the seasonal Mavodones Landing site
by Sail Maine.
● The fiber optics line for the security system is in the process of being installed. As soon as a PO is
issued, Consollidated Communications is expected to complete the work. Camera installations
will follow later this year.
● Fender system maintenance is ongoing. City staff will continue to develop a plan, and a scope of
work for completing this project.
● General site maintenance and grounds maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates November 2025 thru January 2026
● The City executed a contract with Northern Electric, Inc. for the shore power upgrade project.
Materials have been ordered and work will begin when materials are received.
● TEC Associates completed an inspection and is updating the condition report for Service Piers 1
and 3.
● Dredging around the Fish Pier is scheduled for 2/18 thru 2/28. The Mavodones Landing floats
and fishing boats will be temporarily relocated during the dredging.
● City staff has reviewed options for installing fiber optics at the Fish Pier site, and connecting
security cameras to the City’s network. The fiber optics line is in the process of being installed.
Camera installations will follow later this year.
● The City of Portland Water Resources west parking lot stormwater/sewer project is scheduled to
start in July of 2026, and be completed by Memorial Day of 2027. Water Resources can provide
an update at the Board’s request.
● Fender system maintenance is ongoing. City staff will continue to develop a plan, and a scope of
work for completing this project.
● The sinkholes at Look’s Lobster’s site, and adjacent to the home fleet berthing area have been
filled and paved.
● General site maintenance and grounds maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Public Buildings & Waterfront Administrative Offices
212 Canco Road, Suite C, Portland, Maine 04103
(207) 808-5400
Page 11
Updates October 2025
● The City received two bids for the shore power upgrade project. I am working with the City’s
Purchasing Department to finalize a contract so that the project can start.
● City staff has reviewed options for installing fiber optics at the Fish Pier site, and connecting
security cameras to the City’s network. The project will need to be funded before it can move
forward.
● The City of Portland Water Resources west parking lot stormwater/sewer project is scheduled to
start in July of 2026, and be completed by Memorial Day of 2027. Water Resources will provide
an update during the winter, or earlier if needed.
● Fender system maintenance is ongoing. City staff will continue to develop a plan, and a scope of
work for completing this project.
● New parking signage around the Fish Exchange site has been installed.
● The parking areas in front of the exchange, and the loading docks have been restriped.
● The sinkholes at Look’s Lobster’s site have been assessed. City staff is working with Look’s to
determine a schedule for completing the work. A contractor has been hired to complete the work.
● The Mavodones Landing floats have been relocated to sorting pier 1 for the winter. They will be
moved back to the Maodones Landing site in the spring, for the summer and fall seasons.
● General site maintenance and grounds maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates September 2025
● The pre-bid meeting for the shore power upgrade project was held on October 15’th. Bids are due
by October 29’th.
● City staff is in the process of reviewing options for installing security cameras throughout the
Fish Pier complex. The IT Department is pricing options for cameras and equipment to figure out
the most cost-effective way to deploy the system i.e. standalone system vs connecting to the
network.
● City of Portland Water Resources west parking lot stormwater/sewer project update to follow.
● Fender system maintenance is ongoing. City staff will continue to develop a plan, and a scope of
work for completing this project.
● City staff is working with the Fish Exchange to update and reinstall new parking signage around
the Fish Exchange site. New signs have been made and will be installed within the next month.
● City staff is working with the Fish Exchange to re-stripe the parking areas in front of the
exchange, and to re-stripe the loading docks. A striping company has been hired and work is
expected to be completed the weekend of the 18’th.
● The sinkholes at Look’s Lobster’s site have been assessed. City staff is working with Look’s to
determine a schedule for completing the work.
● General site maintenance and grounds maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates August 2025
● The bid package for the shore power upgrade project has been sent to the City’s Purchasing
Department for review. It is currently in the queue for review. Once approved, it will be
advertised for bidding.
● City staff met a second time with a vendor to look at a portion of the Fish Pier site for the
installation of security cameras. A revised proposal has been received and it is currently under
review by City staff.
● City staff has inspected the fender system of all the piers to assess maintenance needs. Several
piles need to be either pulled and rebolted, or replaced. There are also several chocks and walers
that need to be either repaired or replaced. City staff will develop a plan and scope of work for
completing this project.
Public Buildings & Waterfront Administrative Offices
212 Canco Road, Suite C, Portland, Maine 04103
(207) 808-5400
Page 12
● City staff is working with the Fish Exchange to update and reinstall new parking signage around
the Fish Exchange site. Several signs are missing and faded and need to be replaced.
● City staff is working with the Fish Exchange to re-stripe the parking areas in front of the
exchange, and to re-stripe the loading docks.
● General site maintenance and grounds maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates July 2025
● A bid package for the shore power upgrade project has been sent to the City’s Purchasing
Department for review. Once approved, it will be advertised for bidding.
● City staff met with a vendor to look at a portion of the Fish Pier site for the installation of security
cameras. A proposal has been received and it is currently under review by City staff.
● City staff has inspected the fender system of all the piers to assess maintenance needs. Several
piles need to be either pulled and rebolted, or replaced. There are also several chocks and walers
that need to be either repaired or replaced. City staff will develop a plan and scope of work for
completing this project.
● The parking lot striping project on the west side (next to GMRI) of the Fish Pier site has been
completed.
● Grounds maintenance for the season is ongoing.
● General site maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates May through June 2025
● Engineering and plans have been completed for the shore power upgrade project in the net yard
and sorting pier one. The project is ready for bidding upon securing financing.
● A local contractor has been hired to complete the restriping and numbering of the parking lot on
the west side (next to GMRI) of the Fish Pier site. The work is expected to take place within the
next month.
● Several camels throughout the facility have been cleaned of marine growth and several camel
chains and weights have been replaced due to corrosion and wear.
● Grounds maintenance for the season is ongoing.
● Ongoing maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates March through April 2025
● Engineering and plans have been completed for the shore power upgrade project in the net yard
and sorting pier one. City staff has reviewed it with the Fish Pier Board and Fish Pier staff, and a
bid package has been prepared. The project is ready for bidding upon securing financing.
● City staff met with an engineer/representative of TRC Companies, an engineering firm involved
with the dredge operation in the harbor, to discuss the next phase of dredging. Dredging is
expected to take place between November 2025 through March 2026. The next phase will involve
dredging in the area of the Fish Pier.
● Grounds maintenance for the season is ongoing.
● Ongoing maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Updates January through February 2025
● Engineering and plans have been completed for the shore power upgrade project in the net yard
and sorting pier one. City staff has reviewed it with Fish Pier staff and a bid package is being
prepared. The project is scheduled to go out to bid in April or May.
● Grounds maintenance for the season is ongoing.
● Ongoing maintenance continues throughout the facility.
Public Buildings & Waterfront Administrative Offices
212 Canco Road, Suite C, Portland, Maine 04103
(207) 808-5400
Page 13
PFPA 3.19.2026
Agenda Item# 6
Portland Fish Pier Authority
FY2026 Year-to-Date Communication to the Annual Meeting of the Corporator
At the April 27, 2026 Meeting
Page 14
Introduction:
The Portland Fish Pier
Authority is a
quasi-municipal corporation
established in 1990 to
administer the Portland Fish
Pier complex and to provide
economic assistance to the
Portland Fish Exchange as
needed and available from
the Pier’s revenues.
The Fish Pier itself is a
City-owned 12-lot industrial
subdivision on the Portland
Waterfront dedicated to the
landing, sale, processing,
and transportation of
seafood and products
derived from the sea. The
Fish Pier is home to the
Portland Fish Exchange, 5
monthly berthing tenants, 7
ground lease tenants,
tenant parking, gear
storage, and a 260-space
commercial parking lot.
The Portland Fish Exchange
is an independent
City-owned display auction
for Maine seafood,
concentrating on service to
groundfish harvesters
(sellers) and
processors/distributors (buyers). The PFE is located at #6 Portland Fish Pier and
handles as much as 90% of Maine’s groundfish harvest.
The Portland Fish Pier represents critical infrastructure for Maine’s remaining
groundfish fleet and is evolving to expand service to the lobster, bait, tuna, and
aquaculture fisheries.
Page 15
Organization and Management:
In June 2024, the Portland Fish Pier Authority merged with the Portland Fish
Exchange, retaining the name of the Portland Fish Pier Authority. The Portland Fish
Exchange operates as a unit of the merged organization, continuing the important
job of landing, auctioning, and distributing groundfish and other seafood products
from the Gulf of Maine.
The Portland Fish Pier Authority Board of Directors has eleven seats, of which two are
currently vacant. Robert Odlin, representing the seafood industry, is the current
President. Tracy Pearce, representing groundfish harvesters, is serving as the Vice
President. Brendan O’Connell, Finance Director, is the Treasurer. The Secretary is
John Arnold, representing the public at large. Heather Moretti, Waterfront
Coordinator, serves as Assistant Secretary. Board members include City Councilor
Wesley Pelletier, Deputy Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine
Resources Meredith Mendelson, and Maine DOT Marine Infrastructure and Ports
Director Chris Mayo. Representing the aquaculture industry is Matthew Moretti,
owner of Bangs Island Mussels.
Staffing for the Portland Fish Pier Authority is shared among multiple City
Departments, including Parking, Public Facilities, Finance, Corporation Counsel, and
Housing and Economic Development.
The Portland Fish Exchange currently has 14 employees, including Robert Vanmeter,
the Exchange Manager.
Current Budget and Outlook:
The Fish Pier generates revenue through ground leases, berthing leases, and
parking. For Fiscal Year 2026, projected revenues are $738,546, with current
year-to-date totals on track to meet this expectation. Total estimated expenses are
$422,131, resulting in a projected profit of $316,415. These profits are held in a
dedicated account and are used to cover operating deficits at the Portland Fish
Exchange and to fund emergency repairs and capital for essential future pier
maintenance.
As of the current date in FY2026, the Portland Fish Exchange has a net income
budget deficit of $239,877. This deficit has been covered by the Portland Fish Pier
Authority.
A year-to-date budget summary for both the Portland Fish Pier Authority and the
Portland Fish Exchange, prepared by the City Finance Office and the Portland Fish
Page 16
Exchange, is included at the end of this report. The City is working toward merging
the finances of the two entities, and a combined snapshot may be presented in
FY2027.
Portland Fish Pier Authority and Fish Exchange: FY2026 Accomplishments (to
date)
Financial Stability and Business Development
● Increased financial stability by implementing an increase in auction fees, in
collaboration with the Portland Fish Pier Authority.
● Secured five additional companies to purchase on the Exchange auction,
which increases competition and enhances market value and revenue for
fishermen and the Exchange.
● Maintained needed stable revenue through continued relationships with two
long-term sub-tenants: Cozy Harbor and Look Lobster Co.
● Expanded Exchange services to the aquaculture and tuna industries by
working with one month-to-month sub-tenant (Warshore) and one seasonal
sub-tenant (Seafresh).
● Continued to provide financial support to the Portland Fish Exchange.
● The Finance subcommittee continues to meet as needed to focus on the
financial health and budgets of both the Portland Fish Pier Authority and the
Portland Fish Exchange.
Operational and Infrastructure Improvements
● Continued to explore options to update the Portland Fish Exchange auction
system software to address existing buyer difficulties.
● The Portland Fish Exchange subcommittee has met seven times this fiscal
year to focus on Fish Exchange issues, including equipment, software, and
financial stability.
● Collaborated with the Exchange to supply funding for the installation of
modernized condenser and control system units for the existing cooling
system.
● Installed a new ice machine in 2025 in collaboration with the Gulf of Maine
Research Institute and Vessel Services, resulting in considerable savings.
● The Shore Power update project is scheduled to begin in April.
● The Board approved an amended lease with Waterfront ME.
● The Waterfront Coordinator submitted two $2 million grant applications
through the Working Waterfront Infrastructure Fund to replace Service Piers 1
& 3, based on an updated structural assessment by TEC Associates concluding
that Pier 1 needs urgent repair and Pier 3 has only several years of life
Page 17
remaining.
Staffing and Marketing
● The Portland Fish Exchange operates with nine full-time and five part-time
employees, conducting 2–3 auctions per week with an average of 20 boats and
18 buyers.
● Application submitted to the University of Southern Maine (USM) to secure a
summer intern for the Fish Exchange to focus on building a social media
presence and revamping the website.
Groundfish Landings Update
● The Exchange's groundfish landing data shows a continued decrease against
budget:
○ 2024 Fishing Year: Actual landed weight of 1.8 million pounds against a
budget of 2.5 million pounds.
○ 2025 Fishing Year (to date): Actual landed weight of 1.6 million pounds
against a budget of 2.2 million pounds.
Challenges Moving Forward:
Working to develop solutions for the Portland Fish Exchange to maintain a more
consistent and predictable budget.
Securing funding to replace and repair the Service and Sorting Piers is vital to
keeping the Fish Pier operational.
Page 18
Page 19
Portland Fish Exchange
Fiscal Year 2026
Jul-25 Aug-25 Sep-25 Oct-25 Nov-25 Dec-25 Jan-26 Feb-26 YTD Fiscal 2026
Seller Fish Fees (Sales) 14,756.40 17,368.56 24,409.44 21,629.36 22,060.16 17,392.04 11,253.92 25,494.48 154,364.36
Buyer Fish Fees (Sales) 11,452.00 6,195.00 8,722.42 679.20 (9.78) (903.58) (321.12) (705.00) 25,109.14
Rebate Inc 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Fee Income 57,329.38 70,016.37 63,733.65 51,692.12 37,844.58 36,880.17 28,996.67 49,307.44 395,800.38
Buyer Application Fees (Svcs) 0.00 0.00 250.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 250.00
Sale of Totes (Totes) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Sale of Boxes - 50's (Production) 250.00 700.00 1,280.00 110.00 0.00 0.00 20.00 20.00 2,380.00
Sale of Boxes - 100's (Production) 265.00 1,560.00 2,700.00 1,149.98 370.04 0.00 330.00 1,320.00 7,695.02
Sale of Pallets (Pallets) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Sale of Misc. Items/Ice 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Berthing 5,456.18 3,188.18 8,644.36 4,548.32 187.67 2,389.65 4,237.36 2,799.00 31,450.72
Berthing - Landings Rebate (308.00) (213.63) (521.98) (385.89) 0.00 127.08 (127.08) (1,429.50)
Rental Income - Tenants 18,874.73 18,348.00 18,348.00 19,013.00 18,633.00 18,633.00 18,831.00 37,266.00 167,946.73
Utilities- Income Tenants 450.00 1,417.33 450.00 637.55 0.00 842.92 450.00 1,491.03 5,738.83
Miscellaneous Income 0.00 12,519.85 0.00 0.00 0.00 123.13 150.00 0.00 12,792.98
Auction Discrepancies 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Unloading - Contract 721.40 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 721.40
Total Income 109,247.09 131,099.66 128,015.89 99,073.64 79,085.67 75,357.33 64,074.91 116,865.87 802,820.06
Cost of Totes Sold - Totes 0.00 0.00 0.00 (9,515.00) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 (9,515.00)
Cost of Boxes Sold - 50's (Production) 355.05 428.51 416.27 67.34 0.00 165.28 12.24 12.25 1,456.94
Cost of Boxes Sold - 100's (Production) 316.17 1,060.67 1,835.79 1,397.23 1,387.19 1,815.60 224.40 897.60 8,934.65
Costs of Pallets Sold (Pallets) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Cost of Goods Sold Total 671.22 1,489.18 2,252.06 (8,050.43) 1,387.19 1,980.88 236.64 909.85 876.59
Gross Profit 108,575.87 129,610.48 125,763.83 107,124.07 77,698.48 73,376.45 63,838.27 115,956.02 801,943.47
% Gross Profit to Revenue 0.99 0.99 0.98 1.08 0.98 0.97 1.00
Operation Expense
Direct Regular Payroll - Ops 25,599.95 27,806.16 34,476.16 26,626.73 31,724.92 41,624.06 28,198.71 30,751.03 246,807.72
Indirect Regular Payroll 16,122.49 22,593.72 31,279.39 19,871.94 16,881.28 25,174.30 19,965.73 18,822.74 170,711.59
Direct ER FICA Medicare Tax - Ops 370.16 451.77 560.60 497.84 429.45 602.57 397.62 445.22 3,755.23
Direct ER FICA Soc Sec Tax - Ops 1,582.87 1,931.74 2,397.02 2,128.71 1,836.59 2,576.03 1,745.19 1,903.65 16,101.80
Direct SUTA Tax - Ops 145.97 131.75 141.02 241.48 60.80 62.38 1,359.54 1,483.05 3,625.99
Direct ME Pd Leave 127.63 155.79 193.30 171.69 148.12 207.78 140.75 153.55 1,298.61
Indirect ME Pd Leave 116.89 95.09 134.12 98.64 93.88 124.96 99.11 93.39 856.08
Indirect ER FICA Medicare Tax - Accounting 232.00 275.78 388.92 286.07 272.28 362.43 297.94 270.85 2,386.27
Indirect ER FICA Soc Sec Tax - Accounting 992.02 1,179.13 1,663.07 1,223.27 1,164.34 1,549.81 1,229.08 1,158.21 10,158.93
Indirect SUTA Tax 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 957.55 693.59 1,651.14
Indirect Payroll Processing Fee 344.25 339.95 440.05 357.15 394.25 575.80 342.10 351.30 3,144.85
Administrative Expenses Total 45,634.23 54,960.88 71,673.65 51,503.52 53,005.91 72,860.12 54,733.32 56,126.58 460,498.21
% Direct Expense to Revenue 0.42 0.42 0.56 0.52 0.67 0.97
Indirect Health Insurance 734.22 734.22 0.00 0.00 0.00 805.00 805.00 0.00 2,273.44
Direct Health Insurance - Ops 3,841.44 5,027.94 7,387.20 6,566.40 6,566.40 9,849.60 6,566.40 5,745.60 39,238.98
Indirect Dental Insurance 74.80 80.72 74.80 80.72 80.72 74.80 80.72 80.72 466.56
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Direct Dental Insurance - Ops 114.05 98.87 65.45 65.45 21.50 91.45 91.00 95.44 456.77
Indirect Disability/ Life Insurance 433.19 433.19 433.19 433.19 449.76 433.19 433.19 435.80 2,615.71
Direct Disability/Life Insurance - Ops 600.37 882.95 449.76 449.76 449.76 449.76 449.76 447.15 3,282.36
Indirect Employer Match to 401k 307.28 231.76 917.59 885.44 651.80 321.03 886.89 327.55 3,314.90
Direct Employer Match to 401k - Ops 350.25 359.64 664.60 847.33 1,230.30 654.20 1,135.02 362.64 4,106.32
Medical Expenses 55.07 312.28 257.80 367.02 649.20 303.42 236.18 231.62 1,944.79
Education Expenses 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Safety Expenses - Ops - Supplies 0.00 381.10 257.80 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 638.90
Rent - City of Portland 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Waste Removal 0.00 1,311.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,311.67
Business Insurance 3,025.64 0.00 7,043.00 0.00 0.00 6,725.00 700.00 0.00 16,793.64
Business Insurance - Commercial 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Dues, Subscriptions & Services 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Fees & Licenses - Ops/Auction 443.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 443.00
Travel & Subsistence 61.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 366.23 177.05 61.00
Travel & Subsistence - Admin 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Uniforms/Gear Allowance- Ops 181.95 296.29 250.36 366.25 187.77 251.12 1,655.80 804.54 1,533.74
Cleaning Service & Supplies 210.00 210.00 0.00 2,404.72 210.00 579.65 210.00 0.00 3,614.37
R&M Operations Equipment - Ops 0.00 250.00 0.00 1,322.66 155.00 430.00 8,094.72 260.81 2,157.66
R&M Doors - Ops 0.00 0.00 0.00 4,000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 4,000.00
R&M Building 5,134.00 940.00 7,707.83 6,622.85 4,213.32 519.00 1,549.00 9,170.90 25,137.00
R&M Building - Ops 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 663.89 0.00 0.00 663.89
R&M Office Equipment 0.00 56.35 0.00 222.95 911.60 56.35 112.70 0.00 1,247.25
Security - Ops 454.62 0.00 0.00 345.00 309.45 281.48 0.00 309.45 1,390.55
Utilities - Electric - Ops 12,324.68 17,203.53 13,167.72 12,569.84 13,424.91 14,000.00 14,093.00 13,113.37 82,690.68
Utilities - Natural Gas - Ops 2,591.87 226.52 410.86 605.69 0.00 0.00 3,659.96 459.79 3,834.94
Utilities - Sewer/Water - Ops 1,005.74 1,563.65 2,149.97 2,131.41 1,516.05 1,484.09 1,436.89 1,773.84 9,850.91
Utilities -Internet Service 710.58 717.32 710.58 717.32 710.58 710.58 710.58 710.58 4,276.96
Utilities - Telephone - Acct'g 48.58 104.16 55.58 0.00 48.70 48.58 48.58 58.58 305.60
Utilities - Telephone - Ops 1,072.86 1,067.46 376.62 536.34 660.31 545.13 534.57 0.00 4,258.72
Tech Services- Accounting 221.50 995.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 25.00 79.95 1,216.50
Tech Services - Auction 3,307.59 3,307.59 3,157.59 3,334.28 71.19 8,458.43 2,970.00 7,343.56 21,636.67
Technology Hardware 0.00 0.00 0.00 828.71 0.00 15,456.56 0.00 1,002.81 16,285.27
Technology Software 0.00 0.00 1,154.65 0.00 0.00 0.00 2,200.00 0.00 1,154.65
Postage Expense 204.40 6.62 0.00 267.30 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 478.32
Office Supplies 233.58 162.42 0.00 568.95 177.16 0.00 1.03 418.98 1,142.11
Indirect Expenses - Administration 0.00 1,013.06 0.00 0.00 26.38 310.63 674.24 0.00 1,350.07
Indirect Expenses - Acct'g 0.00 0.00 311.86 225.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 536.86
Indirect Supplies Expenses - Ops 0.00 296.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 296.01 0.00 296.01
Direct Supplies Expenses - Ops 2,598.79 8,268.55 6,724.46 12,348.25 12,209.41 398.08 1,750.02 4,827.15 42,547.54
Miscellaneous Expenses 129.83 585.00 914.72 158.00 484.00 1,248.00 148.00 148.00 3,519.55
Miscellaneous Expenses - Admin 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Gift Expenses 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 750.00 1,100.00 0.00 750.00
Legal & Accounting Expenses 5,120.00 2,950.00 1,295.00 1,200.00 1,450.00 1,100.00 1,640.00 1,760.00 13,115.00
Banking fees 182.29 191.49 172.63 173.93 164.65 170.00 170.10 138.31 1,054.99
Administration Fees- 401k Plan 140.00 136.00 136.00 136.00 136.00 136.00 136.00 136.00 820.00
Penalties & Fines 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Loss on Operations - Write offs 0.00 0.00 27.81 0.00 0.00 58.30 0.00 0.00 86.11
Operating Expense Total 45,913.17 50,401.36 56,275.43 60,780.76 47,165.92 67,363.32 54,966.59 50,420.19 327,899.96
% Admin Expense to Revenue 0.42 0.38 0.44 0.61 0.60 0.89 0.86
Total Expenses 91,547.40 105,362.24 127,949.08 112,284.28 100,171.83 140,223.44 109,699.91 106,546.77 788,398.17
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% Total Expense to Revenue 0.84 0.80 1.00 1.13 1.27 1.86
Operating Profit/Loss 17,028.47 24,248.24 (2,185.25) (5,160.21) (22,473.35) (66,846.99) (45,861.64) 9,409.25 13,545.30
Page 22
3.19.2026 PFPA
Agenda Item #8a
PORTLAND FISH EXCHANGE
Management/Financial Report for February, 2026
GF Landings – Auction Actual Budgeted Variance
February 2026 – 8 205K 175K 30K
GF Landings – Auction Actual Budgeted Variance
February 2025 - 7 83K 225K (142K)
Contract Unloads - GF Actual Budgeted Variance
February 2026 0 0 0
Total GF Land/Unloads Actual Budgeted Variance
February 2026 205K 175K 30K
Pumping Actual Budgeted Variance
2026 YTD 650K 1.2M (480K)
Financial Report Net Income Budgeted Variance
February 2026 $4670 ($17,855) $22,525
Financial Notes
• $70K of $250K LOC currently in use.
• $30K was repaid on 3-9-26 taking it from $100K to 70K owed
• $50K Cash Reserve currently in use
• Current receivables are $134K consisting of rent, buyer fees, berthing, net yard use, bait storage,
barrel storage & warehousing
• Current checkbook is at $110K before payments to vendors, fleet, and payroll
• High checking balance for the month was $105K, a low of $41k, and an average of $55k.
• Fiscal 2027 Budget was completed and submitted to the city on Feb 27 for review
Page 23
February Auction Sales
• Of the 204,480 pounds landed at the Exchange for the month of February, 110,800 pounds were
sold during the normal bidding process to one of our Exchange buyers - seat holders.
• 70,024 pounds were scratched or not bid on, but still sold through the auction.
• 23,656 pounds were refused by the seller to be sold on the Exchange auction platform. All scratch
and or no bid fees are applied and the fish is given back to the seller to do with as they will. As
stated in the Exchange rules and regulations, ‘Refused or No Bid fish remains the property of the
seller and may be removed or left for the next auction.’
• Zero pounds were left on the floor for the next auction.
Operations Notes
• Nothing to report
Monthly Payments of Note
• Nothing to report
Facility Report
• New condenser and compressors running well – no issues.
• New control system installation is under way with electricians currently running conduits and
wiring for new unit.
Staff Report
• We had one part time employee leave and another start who is currently in their 30-day trial
period. The young man picks things up quickly, is a hard worker, and liked by the crew.
New/Returning Vessels
• Nothing to report
New / Returning Buyers
• Nothing to report
Page 24