How much does it cost to become mayor?

December 17, 2025December 18, 2025 ~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By RANDY SEAVER, Editor

According to campaign finance reports, a total of more than $14,200 was spent by the three mayoral candidates in Biddeford’s Nov. 6 municipal election.

Yesterday (Dec.16) was the deadline for filing those reports with the city clerk.

*Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain (City of Biddeford photo)*

Former Mayor Marty Grohman spent the most money in his campaign for a second term, a total of $6,539.31.

Mayor Liam LaFountain spent a total of $4,957.13, and former city councilor Norman Belanger spent $3,135 on his campaign.

In terms of votes, LaFountain edged Grohman by a margin of just 212 votes (2,626 – 2,414). Belanger finished in a distant third with 1,273 votes.

Based on data from the finance reports, Grohman also spent the most on a per-vote basis, roughly $2.71 per vote; Belanger spent $2.46 per vote and LaFountain spent the least on a per-vote basis at $1.89 per vote.

As required by state law, all candidates are required to file two reports regarding details about their campaigns, contributions and expenses. The first report must be filed in mid-October.

The second cumulative report is due no later than 42 days after the election. The city maintains public records of all campaign spending by municipal candidates, including city councilors, school committee members and mayoral candidates.

You can view or download the final reports submitted by the mayoral candidates below.

Candidates are required to detail line-item totals for all money contributed to their campaigns by specific individuals or businesses.

Each candidate must also provide details about how they spent their money during the campaign.

All three mayoral candidates had similar expenses, including direct mail, lawn signs, website design and social media advertising.

*Campaign signs are a major expense for most local campaigns.*

Candidates are allowed to donate an unlimited amount to their own campaigns.

To obtain copies of other campaign finance reports, please contact the Biddeford City Clerk’s office.