The city of Biddeford’s 153^rd inauguration ceremony was markedly different than in years past.

For the first time, the ceremony was held online because of inclement weather.

Although typically an evening of pomp and circumstance, including an emcee and reception, this year’s ceremony – held on the Zoom platform — took less than 10 minutes.

City Clerk Robin Patterson first administered the oath of office to school committee members and then moved on to the city council members before swearing in Mayor Liam LaFountain.

The new mayor – wearing a jacket and tie – offered brief remarks, congratulating the members of the city council and school committee.

LaFountain urged the new councilors and school committee members to “govern with courage,” ensuring that “the public interest must be at the center of every decision we make.”

“I look forward to working with each of you as we address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” LaFountain said while invoking his campaign promise to ensure city government is held to strict standards of accountability and transparency.

The new mayor highlighted several policy goals and priorities for the new administration, including housing, affordability, good schools and accessible parks and open spaces.

“Biddeford has always been a community of giving,” the mayor said. “Let us continue that tradition of giving as we move forward.”

The new city council features three returning members: Councilors Marc Lessard, Roger Beaupre and Dylan Doughty. New members include Patricia Boston in Ward One; Abigail Woods in Ward Two; David Kurtz in Ward Five; Jake Pierson in Ward Six; Brad Cote in Ward Seven; and Lisa Vadnais as an at-large councilor. Both Boston and Cote previously served on the council.

The new school committee includes Emily Henry, Tim Stebbins, Michelle Landry, Megan Desjardins, Amy Clearwater, Marie Potvin and Karen Ruel.

The requirements of the city’s charter prohibited rescheduling the event. The public was invited to join the meeting as observers.

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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com

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