Waterville Council Sets Goals for 2026

Housing stability, tax base growth, and quality of life among top priorities

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Waterville City Council has approved a set of five key goals for 2026, focusing on strengthening housing stability and expanding home ownership, growing the tax base through strategic development, diversifying funding in a sustainable way, improving customer service and communication, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Why it matters

These goals reflect the council's commitment to addressing critical issues facing Waterville, such as housing affordability, economic development, and community well-being. By setting clear priorities, the council aims to guide the city's progress and ensure it grows in a thoughtful and inclusive manner.

The details

The council's top five goals include: 1) Strengthening housing stability and expanding home ownership by working with developers, addressing blight, and improving communication around housing resources; 2) Growing the tax base through strategic development, modernizing zoning, and attracting families and employers; 3) Diversifying funding through grant-vetting, property management, and leveraging partnerships; 4) Improving customer service and communication by holding public workshops and aligning budget decisions with council goals; and 5) Enhancing quality of life by improving mobility, supporting families and schools, and exploring public health coordination.

  • The council voted on the goals on February 17, 2026.
  • The council held a retreat on January 10, 2026 to discuss the goals.

The players

Brandon Gilley

Council Chairman, D-Ward 1, who expressed excitement about the council's goals and said Waterville has momentum.

Rebecca Green

Councilor, D-Ward 4, who chaired the city's former housing committee and believes the goal-setting process this year was the best yet.

Nicholas Cloutier

The new city manager, who was present during the goal-setting retreat after several years of instability in that role.

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What they’re saying

“Waterville has momentum. These priorities ensure we grow thoughtfully, stressing housing, expanding opportunities, improving city services and promoting long-term fiscal stability for our residents.”

— Brandon Gilley, Council Chairman, D-Ward 1 (centralmaine.com)

“I think the goal setting process this year was the best one yet because it was held early in January and because Nicholas Cloutier, the new city manager, was present after several years of instability on that role.”

— Rebecca Green, Councilor, D-Ward 4 (centralmaine.com)

What’s next

The council plans to review the new goals every three months to track progress.

The takeaway

By setting clear, actionable goals focused on housing, economic development, funding, customer service, and quality of life, the Waterville City Council is positioning the city for thoughtful, inclusive growth that addresses the needs and priorities of its residents.