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Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain announced his run for mayor this weekend. (Courtesy of city of Biddeford)

Biddeford City Council President Liam LaFountain is the latest candidate for mayor in Biddeford. LaFountain announced his run over the weekend, joining incumbent Martin Grohman and fellow council member Norman Belanger.

Born and raised in Biddeford, LaFountain is currently serving his second term as councilor for Ward 7. Before serving on the council, he served on the Biddeford Recreation Commission, where he pushed for greater access to recreational activities for residents of all ages.

As council chair, LaFountain continues to advocate for Parks and Recreation, most recently pushing for a $2 million bond package to improve the city’s Parks and Recreation facilities.

LaFountain also serves on the board of directors for York County Community Action, supporting programs that strengthen housing stability, transportation access, and economic security across the county.

In a press release, LaFountain said he is running for mayor “because too many decisions are being made without enough accountability.”

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“City government exists to serve the people,” LaFountain said. “People are frustrated because they feel unheard, and in recent years, we’ve drifted away from the kind of leadership that takes responsibility and delivers results.”

As a professional data analyst, LaFountain believes his experience and skill set have helped him bring a fact-based, detail-oriented approach to Biddeford City Hall, which he plans to continue if elected.

“I want every resident and taxpayer to know that in my opinion we need to right this ship and guesswork isn’t good enough,” LaFountain said. “Data analysis will get us to evidence-based, forward-thinking policies that prioritize the public good over narrow interests. I hope to win the support of every Biddeford voter who agrees with that.”

If elected, LaFountain hopes to increase public engagement, strengthen oversight of city operations, and uphold the city’s responsibility to manage taxpayer resources wisely, while advancing the city’s priorities.

“I know for sure that smart decisions start with good information,” he said. “Voters are smart. They know we have serious problems, and they want hard facts.”

LaFountain said he is already receiving support from a wide range of Biddeford residents.

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“I’m getting tons of encouragement for the idea that Biddeford should work for the people, not around them,” he said.

Biddeford Mayor Martin Grohman, who is running for reelection alongside LaFountain, said he “welcomes” LaFountain to the race.

“This election is about continuing Biddeford’s positive momentum — more housing, more jobs, continuing investment in our schools, and a stronger, better run city,” Grohman said. “That’s what I’ll keep working for every day.”

The mayoral race is just beginning, and there is still a chance that more candidates could join the race. The election will take place in November.

Sydney is a community reporter for Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel and previously reporter for the Courier and Post. Sydney grew up in Kennebunk and is a graduate...

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