The new station is expected to speed response times to fires, crashes and medical emergencies in a rapidly growing part of the city.

White nose syndrome has decimated some species of Maine bats, but a new effort to put up bat houses around the city is aimed at helping them survive.

The state of Maine signed a community covenant with the military in 2009, and a few communities, such as Lewiston and Houlton, also have signed such pledges.

The lighting upgrade is projected to save $48,000 a year in electricity costs, with a payback of less than nine years.

Experts say tenants and landlords must work with pest control companies to get rid of the insidious insects.

Mayor David Rollins said ‘a series of unfortunate circumstances and communications breakdowns’ led to the mix-up and the girls will be invited back to address council.