PILOT policy

Portland Trails' director backed the trail, citing $142 million in annual local sales from trails, and separately opposed the PILOT policy.

Chamber advocacy director urged rejection, saying the policy strains the nonprofit sector amid tax-status uncertainty.

Maine Association of Nonprofits director called the policy counterproductive and misleading, urging rejection.

Suggested alternatives like selling park land and asked the council to table the item.

Maine Medical Center's chief medical officer warned PILOT could force cuts to free care, food programs and addiction services.

UNE's external relations AVP said no public outcry supports PILOT and asked for case-by-case partnerships instead.

MECAD's executive VP said every PILOT dollar means fewer scholarships and community programs, and urged a no vote on the amendment too.

Said the reporting amendment would mislead the public since Avesta already pays property taxes through LLCs; urged opposing both.