BIDDEFORD, Maine — Biddeford is expecting a significant change on Election Day.
After 12 years of dedicated service, Mayor Alan Casavant is stepping down, leaving the city to embrace new as voters cast ballots on Nov. 7.
Under Casavant's leadership, Biddeford has witnessed substantial growth, with developments flourishing in the downtown area and new shops and restaurants adding to the city's charm.
"Sometimes, I get teary-eyed thinking about all the good things that have happened while I've been in office," he said.
He expressed his proudest moment as "having people believe in the community again."
As Casavant bids farewell to his mayoral role, the city prepares to welcome one of the two candidates vying to become the city's next mayor: Susan Deschambault and Marty Grohman. Both bring unique experiences and perspectives to the table.
Deschambault, a former state senator, said, "I really don't envision a change. I think we are on a trajectory, and whoever the mayor is, they are inheriting the same city councilors."
Both candidates, former city councilors themselves, find common ground on the city's most pressing issues.
Grohman, who has Casavant's endorsement, brings a fresh perspective to the mayoral race. He runs his own business and currently represents Ward 3 on city council. His experience, he believes, has uniquely prepared him for the task at hand.
Addressing the challenges facing the city, Grohman said, "I think the challenges people mention to me frequently are issues around affordable housing, homelessness and the way our parking garages run."
Deschambault, too, is ready to tackle the responsibilities of being mayor. She expressed her approach to leadership, saying, "I know the issues and I like to collaborate and come to a consensus. I said I am not a boss but I'll be a leader; that's what I'll do."
One common theme among both candidates is a shared commitment to addressing the city's pressing issues and improving the lives of Biddeford's residents. They are determined to continue the progress the city has made under Casavant's leadership.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., giving citizens the chance to cast their votes and shape the future of their beloved city.