Wood Products Expansion: Irving Forest Products’ Ashland sawmill is set to double capacity after FAME approved about $42M in tax credit financing, adding a second sawline and 68,000 square feet, with production expected to rise and roughly 80 new jobs in rural Aroostook County. Food & Compliance: Maine is hosting a food business town hall focused on permits, licensing, and health inspection expectations, aiming to make compliance clearer for operators. Energy Costs & Grid Pressure: New mapping shows residential electricity prices climbing in many states; Maine’s average is about 28¢/kWh with modest year-over-year growth, while broader demand pressures and grid investment costs are driving increases. PFAS Regulation Push: States are again weighing PFAS bans in food packaging and consumer products, with proposed rules also targeting cleanup support for contaminated groundwater and private wells. Maritime & Environment: Four Maine derelict vessels are slated for removal starting this fall with NOAA funding, targeting ongoing oil-soaked pollution and improving public access for fishing and navigation. Local Business Displacement: South Portland approved two hotel projects near the Maine Mall, but several long-running businesses say relocation timelines and communication have been unclear. Data Centers Debate: Eastport residents are debating a proposed underwater AI data center in Passamaquoddy Bay, citing concerns for fisheries and marine life.