LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

[Nov. 6, 2025] MILLS PRAISES COMMUNITY

Editor:

I am filled with pride for the remarkable turnout in the recent election held in Biddeford on Tuesday.

This city holds a special place in my heart, and I cherish it deeply. My family and I have been fortunate enough to experience numerous extraordinary opportunities that we could never have imagined.

Bob Mills

While it is true that there were winners and losers in the election, we all played a crucial role in shaping the future of our community.

I am particularly proud of the overwhelming support our community showed for the substantial donations of food items and non-perishable goods to those in need. Furthermore, I am proud of the impact that all of us who ran for office, both newcomers and former City Council members, have had on the vibrant city and community we have become today.

From my own experiences, I can assure you that maintaining faith and resilience is essential for success. Stay strong, my friends.

I wish the new leadership of our city the best in their upcoming term, and to those who I served with over the years and others in the community I encourage them to stay engaged. It is crucial that we shape our community into one that reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of everyone.

Bob Mills, Biddeford

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[Nov. 3, 2025] JACOB PIERSON SEEKS SUPPORT IN WARD SIX

Editor:

My name is Jacob Pierson and I am running to represent the residents of Ward 6 and the entire city of Biddeford on the Biddeford City Council.

Our community has many decisions to make tomorrow that will impact our community’s future.

The buzz words in this election cycle have been transparency, communication and affordability. As someone who owns and operates a family business, these 3 terms are cornerstones of my daily life. For our team at Pierson Nurseries to be successful, we must have crystal clear communication of our expectations and roles. We must be transparent with our vendors, customers and team members to allow for honest dealings with each other. Lastly, we need to be always mindful of the bottom line and being a profitable enterprise to continue to support and invest in our team members.

City Government needs to be governed by these 3 terms as well. I will always be available to any citizen and will respond promptly to any inquiry. If I don’t have the answer, I will get you the answer. I will hold periodic Ward meetings that will have city staff in attendance. I promise to keep the lines of communication open between the citizens, our city staff and our elected officials. Last but certainly not least, I pledge to be vigilant on how the city spends your hard-earned dollars. We need to make data driven decisions that will be the best solution for the most people in our community.

I pledge to serve the best interest of all citizens of our fair city. As a Biddefordian from birth, I have a connection and love for our community that affords me the luxury of understanding our past, both the good and the bad. By raising my family in Biddeford just like my folks did, it gives me the motivation to want to work towards a brighter future for Biddeford.

I want to ask Ward 6 residents for their vote for City Councilor.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to seeing many of you tomorrow at the polls!

Sincerely,

Jacob Pierson, Biddeford

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[Nov. 3, 2025] SUPPORT FOR BIDDEFORD ICE ARENA

Editor:

I live in a rural part of Maine — but nearly every night, my family and I make the trip to Biddeford because of one special place: the Biddeford Ice Arena, York County’s only public ice rink.

That building does far more than host hockey games. It draws families “home” from every corner of southern Maine — from Scarborough to York and beyond — who come to play, coach, cheer, and connect. And every time we do, we bring our business with us. We buy groceries, wash the car, visit the dentist and doctor, grab a snack or dinner downtown, do our banking, and we pick up our supplies at Dupuis Hardware. We spend our time — and our dollars — in Biddeford. Biddeford truly has become like a second home to us.

This rink is a regional anchor. It keeps youth active, brings people together, and channels steady business into the heart of the city. In a time when so many towns are struggling to keep Main Streets alive, Biddeford has something extraordinary — a gathering place that draws visitors not just for recreation, but for community.

The Ice Arena bond isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about revitalization. It’s an investment in a proven driver of local commerce, family activity, and civic pride. Keeping this facility strong means keeping Biddeford vibrant — for residents and for all of us who depend on it as part of our shared community fabric.

If this resonates for you at all, please vote YES on the Recreation bond for the Biddeford Ice Arena. A vote for the rink is a vote for Biddeford’s small businesses, for working families across York County, and for the continued vitality of a city that gives so much to so many.

— Dustin Colson, Limington

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[Nov. 3, 2025] GROHMAN BRINGS A ‘THOUGHTFUL, STEADY APPROACH

Editor:

Sitting on the bottom of a slide, breastfeeding my baby one afternoon in May, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. I’d been excited to see the new playground elements the “mom chat” had been buzzing about—but to my dismay, there were no benches facing my toddler who was playing.

Around that same time, on our way to story time at the library, I noticed how the changing traffic patterns downtown had made things more hectic. Drivers were zipping through, and I worried the crosswalks by Elements weren’t visible enough.

Marty Grohman

It was the fear that a child could be hurt walking to story time that led me to reach out, completely cold, to Mayor Marty Grohman this summer. I shared my worries and frustrations, and he listened. I followed up with another concern: our friends were always leaving town to play. I worried that years of underinvestment in public family spaces were threatening the heart of our community.

Accessible sidewalks, safe crosswalks, and well-resourced recreation facilities aren’t luxuries—they’re the foundation of a city that works for everyone. Neglecting them becomes an issue of equity: families with resources move away or pay to play. I care deeply about this city, and we deserve better.

I cried, and Marty listened—probably unsure who I was—but he acted. On my next drive downtown, the crosswalks had been repainted. A few days later, I received an invitation to serve on the Recreation Commission.

Mayor Grohman brings a thoughtful, steady approach to leadership and growth. He’s been a business owner, a parent, and a problem-solver who leads with curiosity, not ego. He served on the Maine Climate Council, helping guide Maine’s long-term climate and energy strategies—an experience that informs his thoughtful approach to sustainable growth in Biddeford. He understands that sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s about affordability, accessibility, and making every family, worker, and resident feel part of the city’s future.

Growth and investment are reshaping our neighborhoods, but decades of underinvestment in playgrounds, community centers, sewers, and sidewalks have left us playing catch-up. Marty’s steady, hands-on leadership is exactly what Biddeford needs.

You don’t get slick slogans or polished talking points with Marty. As a Bernie supporter and former youth climate activist, I worried he might not be “my kind” of politician. But I listened—and learned that we share a belief that good policy doesn’t happen in silos. It happens at the intersection of people and place.

This Election Day, I’m voting for Mayor Marty Grohman—and for the $6M bond to improve recreation facilities. I hope you’ll join me in voting, whoever you support, because showing up is as integral to community strength as a playground is to a neighborhood.

— Julianna DiTomasso, Biddeford

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[Nov. 2, 2025] PLEASE SUPPORT ROGER HURTUBISE IN WARD SIX

Editor:

Experience. Integrity. Honesty. Accessibility. Hard working. Team player. Detail oriented. Due diligence. Thorough. Roger Hurtubise brings every one of these words to life and delivers these qualities daily in everything he does. The citizens of Ward 6 have an “ace up their sleeve” with Roger fighting for them. 

Roger has an unbelievable amount of pride in his city of Biddeford and a great grasp on the issues that effect it’s residents. As a proud United States Army Veteran and resident for over 60 years, Roger has a resume of local employment in the city to years of civic city leadership duty at many hands on levels including leadership in many private organizations from The Fremont Club to La Kermesse and a Franco-American DJ at Seacoast Oldies. He has always remained current on Biddeford’s growth and development and steadfast concerned on ensuring it’s on a fiscally responsible and transparent affordable course for taxpayers. He has never taken his finger off of the pulse of the direction of Biddeford’s government or taken his eye off where the city is heading. 

Roger has decided to formally run for Ward 6 Councilor because he wants to once again make a pivotal difference on a team that has an opportunity to provide relief for taxpayers, meet the needs of our growing diverse population, ensure our city is on a fiscally responsible and transparent track for its citizens, and help position Biddeford to truly “rise above where the water falls”.

It is without a doubt that I strongly recommend, my Dad, Roger Hurtubise for Ward 6 Councilor. In today’s economy and environment, I want to cast my ballot for an honest and open candidate that has my back and will fight for my family and I. Roger Hurtubise is that candidate that will “do their homework” and be prepared to advocate for the citizens of his Ward. He has proven that he will speak to all parties of every issue to gain it’s full understanding and collaborate with all shareholders to make the best decision possible for families. 

Vote Roger Hurtubise for Ward 6 Councilor! He is the right candidate, in the right city, and at the right moment to provide the type of leadership and advocacy needed to drive results for Ward 6 families. Thank you!

Jim Hurtubise, Mechanicsville, Virginia

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[Nov. 2, 2025] I AM VOTING FOR MARTY GROHMAN

Editor:

I’m writing this to express my gratitude and how proud I am to have Marty Grohman as mayor for the city of Biddeford.

Marty Grohman

He has worked tirelessly to make so many improvements, especially affordable housing, much needed infrastructure repair, helped small businesses grow and so much more.

Marty has served us well and I certainly hope he will have the opportunity to continue to do so again for the next two years.

Sue Beaudoin Beaulieu, Biddeford

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Nov. 2, 2025] IF YOU WANT CHANGE, PLEASE CONSIDER VOTING FOR MILLS

Editor, We are on the brink of selecting a group of candidates here in Biddeford. On Tuesday, November 4th, we will elect a mayor, city council, and school committee for the next two years. This is an exciting time and an opportunity to bring about positive changes. It is crucial that you choose someone who aligns with your values and concerns.

If you are dissatisfied with the ongoing increases in taxes and sewer bills, it is time to take action. If you are frustrated with the disconnection and chaos that the city has exhibited over the past two years, it is time for a change. If you are unhappy with the lack of transparency and communication from the city over the past two years, it is time to make a change.

I have always been a City Council member who has been responsible for not only the ward I represented but also the entire city. It is time to stop making sweetheart deals with developers and instead listen to and heed the citizens’ desires and needs.

The citizens want lower taxes, reduced regulations, and less government waste. As a city, we cannot afford increasing spending while receiving less and less of everything. We are struggling to pay our taxes, grocery bills, medical bills, and mortgage or rent payments.

If you want change and to stop the flow of unnecessary spending and waste, I would appreciate your vote on Tuesday for the Ward 4 Biddeford City Council seat to bring about the necessary change.

Bob Mills, Biddeford

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[Nov. 2, 2025] PLEASE JOIN ME IN SUPPORTING JOHN McCURRY IN WARD TWO

Editor,

It is my honor to write this letter of recommendation for John McCurry, who is running for City Council in Ward Two.

I have had the privilege of knowing and working with John for 10 years with the school committee and on a personal level with cheering sports. I can say without reservation that he exemplifies the leadership, integrity, and dedication for our community and his family.

Throughout our time working together, John has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service. He listens to the concerns of others, seeks out diverse perspectives, and always makes decisions grounded in fairness and common sense. Whether addressing complex policy issues or working directly with school community members, John’s commitment is clearly evident.

Beyond his professional qualifications, what stands out most is John’s character. He consistently acts with honesty and humility that earns the respect and trust of everyone around him. John is not only a capable leader but also a person of deep moral conviction and empathy.

I have full confidence that John McCurry will bring these same values and skills to the Biddeford City Council. Our community will benefit greatly from his vision, experience, and steadfast dedication to the public good. I wholeheartedly endorse John McCurry and encourage others to support his candidacy.

Sincerely,

Michael Bouthillette, Biddeford

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[Nov. 2, 2025] ABIGAIL WOODS WOULD BE HONORED WITH YOUR VOTE

Editor,

My name is Abigail Woods, and I am running for City Council Ward Two with a vision to support and engage with all residents: renters, property owners, those who have just moved here, and those who have been here their whole lives.

Affordability is a concern for all residents right now, whether because of rents increasing at an unsustainable level, property taxes going up, inflation on basic needs, or assistance programs being cut.

Abigail Woods

I bring a depth of experience in addressing these issues. Personally, I have been both a renter and property owner in Biddeford in the 11 years I have lived here, and have frequently attended City Council meetings as a resident in order to stay informed of what’s going on. Professionally, I have held jobs that have required me to work closely with City Council and various city committees, so I already understand how our local government works.

I am also adept at navigating complex systems, and understanding how one decision may impact another. I am committed to finding the best solution for as many people as possible. Ultimately, we are all neighbors who want the best for Biddeford.

Ward 2 residents deserve a responsive representative, who will hear their concerns and work with them to find a solution. I would be that representative, and hope to earn your vote. You can learn more about me at the links here – linktr.ee/abigailforbiddeford – or contact me directly, abigailforbiddeford@gmail.com. Thank you for your consideration and see you on Election Day!

Abigail Woods, Biddeford

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[Nov. 2. 2025] LESSARD URGES VOTER TURNOUT

As the time for deciding your vote draws near, I wanted to remind our citizens to get out and vote.

Every vote really counts. In the more than 30 years that I have been honored to serve on the Biddeford City Council, I have seen multiple races won by less than five votes and several won by only one vote. 

“Everyone, — regardless of who you support — please gets to the polls and make your voice heard.

Thanks,

Marc Lessard, Biddeford

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[Nov. 2, 2025] I AM SUPPORTING MARTY GROHMAN

Editor,

This is a letter to endorse Marty Grohman for mayor of Biddeford.

Marty Grohman

My name is Dennis Anglea, and I have known Marty for approximately 20 years. We have served on committees in Biddeford in the past .

Marty has the best interest for Biddeford. He cares about this city and wants to make sure the right things are done. That is why Marty has my vote.

– Dennis Anglea, Biddeford

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[Nov. 1, 2025] BIDDEFORD NEEDS LIAM LaFOUNTAIN

Editor,

I am proud to endorse Liam LaFountain for Mayor of Biddeford.

Liam LaFountain

I have known Liam, and his family, for many years and have witnessed his constant commitment to serving all residents of Biddeford.

Liam has shown honesty, integrity, and leadership skills on multiple city committees and as councilor and council president. His energy, willingness to listen to all opinions and experience are qualities we need in our future mayor.

Please join me in supporting Liam LaFountain as the next mayor of Biddeford.

— Patty Fisher, Biddeford

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[Nov. 1, 2025] JOHN McCURRY WANTS YOUR VOTE IN WARD TWO

Editor:

My name is John McCurry, and I am running for the honor to serve the people of Ward Two on the Biddeford City Council.

John McCurry

I have had the honor in the past to serve as your councilor and would like the opportunity to serve again.

Most people I talk to across the city all have the same main issue, taxes are too high and I agree with them .  It’s not the only issue we need to work on but it has to be a priority.

If I am elected I can hit the ground running.  I will not have a learning curve before I get up to speed because of my past experience on the council and a proven voting record on trying to reduce cost.

Thank you for your time and consideration! 

I would be honored to have you vote for me on Tuesday, Nov. 4

— John McCurry, Biddeford,

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[Oct. 31. 2025] BRAD COTE MAKES HIS CASE FOR WARD SEVEN

Editor,

Biddeford’s residents are frustrated. Frustrated with multiple years of large property tax increases. Frustrated with local government that doesn’t tell them the whole story. Frustrated with a system that allows developers to stuff their pockets with cash while residents are stuck with their tax burden.

Brad Cote, Ward 7

We need a change. We need a leader that will set up a maintenance plan to be proactive with city repairs to prevent tax spikes. A leader that will use data and review all available information to make the best decisions for Biddeford residents. A leader that will listen, be kind and get back to all requests within 24 hours.

I am that leader. I have the experience, drive and lifelong connection to Biddeford that it takes to succeed in this role.

Please vote for Brad Cote as your Ward 7 councilor.

Sincerely,

Brad Cote, Biddeford

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[Oct. 31, 2025] NORMAN BELANGER SHOULD BE BIDDEFORD’S NEXT MAYOR

Editor,

As a lifelong supporter of the Biddeford community and a local business owner on the city’s west side, I am writing to express my full support for Norman Belanger candidacy for Mayor of Biddeford.

Norman Belanger

I operate a small livestock farm here in Biddeford, where I sell locally produced jams, honey, eggs and handmade goods to residents and visitors alike. Beyond commerce, our farm represents a commitment to preserving Biddeford’s agricultural roots and providing a sustainable, welcoming environment for those seeking to explore our city’s natural beauty.

Like many on the west side, I take great pride in our land, our history, and the quiet strength of the people who have long cared for it.

That is why I believe Norm Belanger is the right leader for this moment in Biddeford’s story. Norm was born and raised here and has carried his Biddeford values with him throughout an extraordinary career. A Harvard College and Harvard Law School graduate (cum laude and magna cum laude, respectively), Norm returned home to Maine after his studies to dedicate his professional life to helping Maine businesses and healthcare providers thrive.

Since 1982, he has practiced law with a concentration in business, healthcare, and tax law—guiding small business owners through formation, growth, and transition, and helping healthcare professionals navigate complex regulations.

Norm’s contributions to his field have been widely recognized: he has been listed in Best Lawyers in America for corporate, healthcare, and tax law—at the time, as the youngest attorney in Maine ever to receive that honor—and was named Healthcare Lawyer of the Year in 2011. But beyond the accolades, what defines Norm is his deep commitment to community service.

He has served on the boards of organizations such as Community Health Services and Tomorrow’s Promise Children’s Center, and on the Biddeford Environmental Board—always working to expand opportunity and preserve the well-being of the city he loves.

Norm’s leadership is grounded in compassion, intellect, and experience. As mayor, he will bring together Biddeford’s diverse communities—from the historic and agricultural west side to the vibrant and growing downtown—ensuring that every voice is represented and every neighborhood has a stake in the city’s success. His understanding of small business, his advocacy for sustainability, and his long history of civic engagement make him uniquely qualified to lead with both vision and balance.

Biddeford is in a period of tremendous growth, but with that growth must come thoughtful stewardship. Norm understands how to preserve what makes our city special while planning intelligently for its future. I have no doubt that under his leadership, Biddeford will continue to grow in a way that honors its history, uplifts its residents, and strengthens its sense of community.

For these reasons and many more, I proudly support Norm Belanger for Mayor of Biddeford.

Camille White, Biddeford

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[Oct. 30, 2025] PLEASE SUPPORT ABIGAIL WOODS IN WARD 2

To the editor,

We are writing today to offer our enthusiastic endorsement for Abigail Woods for Biddeford Ward Two Councilor. We’ve known Abigail for a number of years and have seen her dedication to Biddeford.

She is a person who throws herself deeply into her work and wants to understand the needs of all the residents of our community – whether they have lived their entire lives here in Biddeford or they have more recently arrived.

Abigail Woods

As Main Street small business owners and Ward Two residents, we trust that Abigail will do what is right for us and all of our neighbors.

In this time of division and uncertainty, we need a councilor who will listen deeply to the concerns of her constituents and help us work toward compassionate solutions. Abigail is that person.

Thanks so much for your time. 

Briana Campbell and Jon Phillips, Biddeford

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[Oct. 30, 2025] FORMER MAYOR SUPPORTS LIAM LaFOUNTAIN

Editor,

I am hoping my friends and neighbors will be supporting Liam LaFountain to become Biddeford’s next mayor.

Liam LaFountain

Over the last few years, Liam has demonstrated a strong knowledge of how Biddeford’s government works as shown by his leadership as chair of the Finance Committee and as the City Council president.

Liam doesn’t have all the answers, but he has the leadership qualities that are necessary to bring people together in search of common-sense solutions.

Liam has the energy, experience and leadership that Biddeford needs right now.

— Bonnie Pothier, former Biddeford mayor

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[Oct. 30, 2025] PLEASE JOIN US IN SUPPORTING MARTY GROHMAN

Editor,

I am writing in support of Marty Grohman’s campaign for reelection to the post of Mayor of Biddeford. When my wife & I moved here in 2023, we were immediately encouraged by Marty’s vision for the city as a destination for new generations, for businesses small and large, and for the remaking of the city’s image while keeping its beloved history front and center.

Marty Grohman

We’ve consistently seen Marty stand up for causes that are important to us and that we feel are in the best interests of Biddeford’s population, whether having been here for generations or just discovering the community.

We continue to be impressed with Marty’s drive to bring the city forward from an economic and infrastructure perspective, while encouraging belonging for all residents, and will proudly cast our ballots for him on Tuesday.

Ken & Amy Jordan, Biddeford

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[Oct. 29, 2024] LaFOUNTAIN SHOWS HONESTY, INTEGRITY & LEADERSHIP

Editor,

“I am proud to endorse Liam LaFountain for Mayor of Biddeford. I have known Liam, and his family, for many years and have witnessed his constant commitment to serving all residents of Biddeford.

Liam LaFountain

Liam has shown honesty, integrity, and leadership skills on multiple city committees and as councilor and council president. His energy, willingness to listen to all opinions and experience are qualities we need in our future mayor.

Please join me in supporting Liam LaFountain as the next mayor of Biddeford.”

— Patty Fisher, Biddeford

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[Oct. 28, 2025] LaFOUNTAIN IS THE RIGHT LEADER AT THE RIGHT TIME

Editor,

Liam is the real deal. Biddeford is a city built by the working class. I’d like to see it remain a home for the working class. At a time when Biddeford may need it most, we need someone with a focus on the taxpayers and not the developers. Progress can and will continue to happen without having to sell the farm (MERC site) for pennies on the dollar.

Liam LaFountain

But folks need a break whenever they can get it financially these days. And every resident has to live within their means. It’s due time our local government starts doing the same. This endorsement is not an indictment of either of the other mayoral candidates.

I am confident Liam LaFountain for Mayor is the right leader at the right time for Biddeford.

— Dominic Deschambault, Biddeford

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[Oct. 28, 2025] JOIN ME IN SUPPORTING MARTY FOR MAYOR

I write to endorse Martin Grohman’s reelection campaign to continue serving as the Mayor of Biddeford.

To friends and neighbors in Biddeford, I wanted to thank our Mayor, Marty Grohman, for his leadership, dedication and service to the city of Biddeford. He has been the best tour guide, and I enjoy seeing his enthusiasm when he presents his walks around our great city.

Marty Grohman

From Clifford Park to the bathhouse at Biddeford Pool, to his presence at the recycling center during Hazardous Waste Disposal day, to his support for local businesses and encouragement to our downtown community.

Marty has been a long time friend and I appreciate his business knowledge and support to citizens issues.

When you vote, please join me in supporting Marty’s reelection campaign.
Mayor Marty, 2 more years!

Joseph A “Joey” LeBlond, Biddeford

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[Oct.27, 2025] MARTY IS THE REAL DEAL & DESERVES YOUR VOTE

Editor,

Over the years I have been involved in this community and served on a variety of boards, committees and commissions.  Currently, I am helping out at the West Brook Skating Rink, President/Chairman of the Saint Louis Alumni Association, member of the Board of Directors of the Vietnam Veterans of America and   serve on Biddeford’s Veterans Committee. 

I’ve met a lot of folks over the years, and I can tell you Mayor Marty Grohman is one of the best.  He shows up, listens, and actually gets things done.

Marty Grohman

He is not out there playing politics — he’s focused on keeping Biddeford running right and moving forward.  Marty respects veterans, supports local volunteers, and truly cares about the people who work hard every day to make this city better.

That’s the kind of leadership WE NEED TO KEEP.  I’m voting for Marty Grohman for Mayor, and I hope you will too.

Paul Therrien, Biddeford

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[Oct. 27, 2025] LaFOUNTAIN IS RIGHT CHOICE FOR MAYOR

Editor,

It is with great conviction and hope for the future of our city that I write this letter to endorse Liam LaFountain as the next Mayor of Biddeford. In these times of both challenge and opportunity, our city needs a leader with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the community. I have had the privilege of witnessing Liam’s distinguished record of service, effective communication, constituent service, and genuine care for the people who call this city home.

Liam LaFountain

For years, Liam has been a tireless advocate for positive change. His involvement in local government, as a member of the Biddeford Recreation Commission, to his current role as City Council President, makes him uniquely prepared to take on the position of mayor of this great city. He has a deep understanding of the issues facing our city: from infrastructure and public safety, to education, to housing affordability, and most importantly, fiscal responsibility and transparency. Liam has consistently shown an ability to listen to diverse voices, build consensus, and act decisively for the public good.

His leadership style is marked by both empathy and pragmatism. Whether addressing neighborhood concerns such as the May Street traffic problem or collaborating with city departments to address the opioid crisis, Liam approaches every challenge with an open mind and a determination to find solutions. He has cultivated relationships built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect—qualities essential for effective governance.

What sets Liam apart is not only his experience but also his forward-thinking vision for our city’s future. His platform is grounded in the belief that cities thrive when their residents are empowered, their voices heard, and their needs met. Liam champions sustainable development, equitable access to resources, and innovative policies that foster responsible growth while protecting the fabric of our community.

Our city has always been a tapestry woven from many cultures, backgrounds, and traditions. Liam has long recognized the strength that comes from diversity and has worked to ensure that every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. By establishing programs and events that celebrate multiculturalism and accessibility, he has helped build bridges across communities and create spaces where differences are embraced.

Liam actively promotes civic engagement, encourages participation in local government, and consistently seeks input from all segments of our city.

Central to Liam’s candidacy is a pledge to lead with honesty and accountability. He has demonstrated, time and again, a willingness to confront difficult issues and make decisions that best serve the public—even when those choices are not politically expedient. As Mayor, he will prioritize transparency in government, open communication with residents, and responsible stewardship of public funds.

Residents can trust Liam to address concerns directly, provide clear explanations for policy decisions, and remain accessible to the community. His dedication to ethical leadership ensures that our city will not only prosper but do so with fairness and integrity.

As Election Day approaches, I urge my fellow residents to consider the future we wish to shape together. The choice of mayor is among the most consequential we make as a community, and it is vital that we elect someone who embodies our shared values and aspirations. I have no doubt that Liam will serve with honor, with vision, and with an open heart.

It is for these reasons and more that I endorse Liam LaFountain with the utmost confidence, and I encourage you to support his campaign for Mayor.

Sincerely,

Richard “Dick” Lambert, Biddeford

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[Oct. 27, 2025] MAYOR DESERVES A SECOND TERM

To the editor, 

I urge the citizens of Biddeford to vote Marty [Grohman] as mayor again, His energy and can-do attitude was very evident in his first term. I feel he will work hard to make sure our hard-earned taxes will be spent wisely.

Marty Grohman

He has been working very hard to raise awareness to the business community which will help the tax base. His dedication to veterans and the elderly is another priority for him.

Please consider Marty when you vote on Election Day.       

— Steve Audie, Biddeford

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[Oct. 26, 2025] PLEASE JOIN ME IN SUPPORTING LIAM LaFOUNTAIN FOR MAYOR

Dear Editor,

The City of Biddeford is fortunate to have three outstanding mayoral candidates, and I thank each of them for stepping up to lead our community. At the end of the day, however, I am proud to endorse Liam LaFountain—and here’s why:

Liam is deeply committed to public service. It’s rare to see a talented, intelligent young person choose a career in public service over private sector opportunities, and Liam has made that choice with conviction.

Liam LaFountain

He brings valuable experience as a Biddeford City Councilman and has already taken the crucial first steps in his public career. His leadership is proven—his peers elected him Council President, a testament to the respect he’s earned.

I appreciate the thoughtful approach Liam promises to bring to the mayor’s office. In these challenging times, Biddeford needs a leader who is smart, deliberate, and committed to weighing all options carefully. Liam doesn’t shoot from the hip; he pledges to evaluate every decision using data, considering all perspectives, and advocating for solutions that serve the entire community. That’s not an easy job, and I’m grateful someone like Liam is willing to take it on.

Liam is a native of Biddeford. He knows this city—he grew up here, and his family has a long tradition of public service. He understands what the role demands and has already proven himself as a councilman. Now, he’s ready to take the next step. Let’s give him that chance. Biddeford will be better for it.

I hope you’ll join me in supporting Liam LaFountain for mayor.

– Nancy Drapeau, Biddeford

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[Oct. 26, 2025] SAM PECOR IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR WARD SEVEN

Dear Editor, We are writing in support of Sam Pecor for City Councilor of Ward 7.

While both candidates are good people, we have decided to support Sam because of his advocacy for many issues we care about, such as concrete solutions for sustainable housing, fighting climate change, advocating for better communication with constituents, and asking for more accountability in our local government, among other issues.

City Council candidate Sam Pecor

Sam has been an energetic and enthusiastic campaigner, going door to door throughout Ward 7, and holding weekly “open-porch sessions” on Wednesdays to listen to the citizens of the Ward, and find out what they care about, and what they want and need from their City Council.

Often we hear older folks (like us!) proclaim that it is time for the “younger generation” to step up and work to make things better. Sam and others running in this election are admirable representatives of that younger generation, ready to do the job, and enthusiastic and hopeful about supporting and working for positive change in the City of Biddeford. Now is the time to get behind them.

Thank you.

Kathy and Ken Griffin, Ward 7

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[Oct. 14, 2025] WHY I AM SUPPORTING MARTY FOR MAYOR

I am supporting Martin Grohman for a second term as mayor of Biddeford because I have directly observed his work in one important area — addressing the city’s homelessness issues.

I know that’s far from the only issue facing our city right now, but this is the one I have some first-hand knowledge of. In addition, I think the way Mayor Grohman has handled this extremely sensitive issue shows why he has been an effective mayor and deserves a second term.

The Oct. 10 mayoral debate reaffirmed that belief, even though all three candidates were thoughtful on this subject. The difference is that Mayor Grohman has actually stepped up and managed the crisis, first of an out-of-control tent city, then facilitating an expanded Seeds of Hope and now establishing a system to move sheltered people into housing. No one is claiming that Biddeford — or any other American city — is solving homelessness, and in fact the number of people who are or who will become homeless is only likely to grow during the Trump years.

Mayor Marty Grohman


But by building partnerships with Seeds of Hope, providers including Spurwink, Preble Street, MaineMed and Opportunity Alliance, as well as our own Biddeford Housing Authority and a number of private landlords, the city and its General Assistance office have made a real dent in our homeless population. The goal of the weekly “huddle” is one win a week, and in fact the number after a year and a few months now stands at 70 housed and connected to services.

Mayor Grohman initiated the weekly huddles and still attends most meetings. I have attended a few of these meetings, and what I see is a leader who sets clear goals but also fosters information sharing and collaboration. While Seeds of Hope is now housing a good share of Biddeford’s homeless, and is feeding more than 100 a day, there is still much to do.

It is clear to me that Mayor Grohman is the leader who can tackle those issues, and that
his approach to governing is the right path for Biddeford.

Tom McPheeters, Biddeford

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[Oct. 8, 2025] PLEASE JOIN ME IN SUPPORTING RECREATION BOND

This November, Biddeford voters will have two bond initiatives to consider:  one targeting continued work on the required sewer separation project, while the second – the Recreation Bond – feels like something truly for the people of Biddeford. 

I will be voting for both bonds and am writing to enthusiastically support the Recreation Bond!  Our parks, trails, beaches and athletic facilities are assets in which we should regularly invest to provide as many opportunities as possible for people – young and old – to remain active and healthy.   

Biddeford voters will decide a $6 million bond question to improve the city’s parks and recreational assets

In addition to this bond possibly supporting Clifford Park, May Field, St. Louis Field, Doran Field, the Community Center, and the Biddeford Ice Arena, there could also be funds available for investing in a new skate park…all for what amounts to about $3 per month for the average taxpayer. 

Thank you to Councilor Liam LaFountain and the members of the City Council who voted to send this bond to the voters and for championing an initiative that allows Biddeford taxpayers to have a direct say in how our tax dollars are spent. 

I believe this will benefit our community for years to come, so please join me in voting to approve the Recreation Bond and ensuring that Biddeford remains a great place to live!

— John Laverriere, Biddeford

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