Are you passionate about Biddeford? Do you have ideas for making our city a better place to live, work, and raise a family? If so, now is the time to consider running for local office in the upcoming municipal general election on Tuesday, November 7th.

The nomination papers will be available in the City Clerk's Office starting on Thursday, July 27, providing you with an opportunity to make a difference and help shape the future of our city.

Running for office is not only a civic duty but also an enriching opportunity to contribute to Biddeford’s progress, growth, and well-being. Whether you are interested in the role of Mayor, City Councilor, School Committee Member, Warden, or Ward Clerk, there are multiple positions available that cater to various areas of expertise and interests. Each role plays a vital part in local governance and decision-making that directly impacts our daily lives and future possibilities. By serving in municipal government, you have the influence to shape policies and initiatives that address immediate community needs and set-up Biddeford on a positive long-term trajectory.

To embark on this fulfilling journey, it takes a willingness to serve others and a determination to run for office. To get started, you must gather a specific number of signatures from registered voters, depending on the position you seek. This requirement ensures that candidates have a minimum level of support from the community they aim to represent. However, the process of collecting signatures should not be seen as a daunting task but rather as an opportunity to engage with fellow residents, listen to their concerns, and understand their needs. It is also a chance to build relationships, broaden your network, and demonstrate your commitment to serving the public.

Two years ago, when I ran to represent Ward 7 on the Biddeford City Council, I dedicated several weekends in August to walking door to door, connecting with my neighbors, and engaging in heartfelt conversations about our community’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities. Those conversations deepened my understanding of my neighborhood and city and fostered stronger connections with the individuals I now have the privilege to serve. Building these relationships has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to better advocate for the needs and aspirations of Biddeford constituents. By actively engaging with the community, I have gained invaluable insights and perspectives that guide my decision-  and contribute to the overall direction of our neighborhoods and city.

 Moreover, serving in local office allows you to influence policies and decisions that directly impact the quality of life in Biddeford. You can advocate for important issues such as public safety, affordable housing, education, infrastructure investment, conservation, fiscal responsibility, recreation, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

However, serving in municipal government has its challenges. It demands time, dedication, perseverance, and a genuine desire to serve others. In today's political climate, where adversarial discourse and partisan divisions seem all too common, local government offers a unique opportunity to  transcend such divisive partisanship. The individuals who serve in these roles are not distant figures but fellow community members who share the same streets & schools, patron the same cafes & restaurants, and genuinely care about the same local challenges. This proximity fosters a sense of shared purpose and a greater likelihood of working together to find common ground for the betterment of Biddeford and its people.

By running for office, you can be a voice for those who may not have the means or platform to express their concerns. You can bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a sense of community to the decision-making process. Additionally, being actively involved in local public policy provides a platform for collaboration, building coalitions, and working together toward common goals. By engaging in the political process, you can forge connections and create partnerships that will benefit your community long after any election is over.

This democratic process is at the heart of our society, and it relies on citizens' active participation. By running for office in Biddeford, you can be a part of this process and contribute to the betterment of our community. Do not underestimate the power of your voice and your ability to effect positive change. Take this opportunity to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on Biddeford.

So, if you are passionate about the future of our city and are ready to step up and serve, I encourage you to consider running for local office. Pick up your nomination papers, gather the required signatures, and embark on this fulfilling journey. Together, we can shape the future of Biddeford and create a community of which we can all be proud.

***If you do not live in Biddeford, but are interested in running for local office, contact your City/Town Clerk’s Office to learn more about the process.

Liam LaFountain is a first-term City Councilor in Biddeford and a healthcare analyst at the non-profit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.