PORTLAND, Maine (AP) A Maine judge has rejected a former Portland mayor’s contention that he was evicted in retaliation for organizing on behalf of tenants.

The judge ruled Wednesday that the landlord’s actions against Ethan Strimling, who was mayor of Portland from 2015 to 2019, were not retaliatory and that Strimling could be evicted.

In Maine, landlords can evict tenants without providing a reason.

But it’s illegal to target someone for forming a tenants union, which is encouraged under a rent control ordinance adopted in November 2020.

Strimling refused to leave when he was served with the eviction notice last year, contending he was being targeted for organizing a tenants union to fight alleged illegal rent increases.

His attorney, Scott Dolan, said the judge’s decision sends a “chilling message” to renters who participate in a tenant union, attempt to negotiate for better living conditions, or file a complaint over code violations.

“If this ruling is allowed to stand, landlords will now be free to retaliate against the tenant with impunity so long as the landlord has even the flimsiest excuse for doing so,” he said.

Dolan said he’ll likely seek a jury trial. In the meantime, Strimling will continue to reside in the apartment.