PORTLAND, Maine (July 29, 2020) The Maine Real Estate & Development Association announces retirements from its Board of Directors.
James M. Whelan, Vice President, Business Loan Officer at Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution has retired from the Maine Real Estate & Development Association’s (MEREDA’s) Board of Directors after 20 years of service.  MEREDA recognized Jamie in 2015 with its Robert B. Patterson, Jr. Founders’ Award, a career recognition award to acknowledge members of MEREDA who have distinguished themselves by making significant contributions to the real estate industry and/or to MEREDA over many years. Jamie was instrumental in MEREDA beginning to take on legislative issues which were an impediment to responsible real estate development. Jamie was a dedicated past president of MEREDA having served a 3-year term rather than the customary 2-year term and also participated on MEREDA’s executive, public policy, and conference committees.
James Palmer, a Partner at Verrill, one of New England’s leading midsize law firms, served as a contributing member of MEREDA’s Board of Directors for the past 16 years. During this time, Jim participated on MEREDA’s Public Policy Committee. At Verrill, Jim has practiced commercial real estate law for more than 30 years. Over that time, he has represented lenders in commercial lending, handled a variety of lease negotiations, and represented developers of office buildings, hotels, and other commercial projects.
Amy Booth, Facilities & Property Management Expert, served on MEREDA’s Board the last 6 years.  Amy was active on MEREDA’s Membership & Marketing Committee helping develop ways to create additional value for MEREDA’s membership and brainstorming ideas to further enhance the effectiveness of the organization. She was also active on MEREDA’s “Strikes for Scholars” Bowl-a-Thon fundraising committee.
Also retiring after serving for 6 years is Eben Adams, Partner and Chair of Pierce Atwood’s Real Estate Practice Group. Eben’s practice includes all aspects of real estate law with a focus on commercial and residential development, acquisitions, sales and leasing. Eben participated on MEREDA’s Conference Committee.
“MEREDA has been fortunate to be able to work with so many talented individuals over the years. We are grateful for their dedication and service,” stated Shelly R. Clark, MEREDA Vice President of Operations, “Their contributions are very much appreciated.”
For further information, please contact MEREDA’s Vice President of Operations, Shelly R. Clark at in**@de*.org.