LEWISTON — Mayor Carl Sheline announced this week that he will seek reelection this November.

Sheline said that throughout his first term, he has “consistently advocated for the best interests of the city in a challenging environment, seeking to protect our drinking water, building more affordable housing, and ensuring that the business community can grow.”

He said during his next term, he would continue his focus on “building Lewiston’s economy, adding more quality and affordable housing, and adequately funding our schools.”

“Over the past year and a half, we’ve made progress filling vacant storefronts and buildings, but there is still more to be done,” he said. “With adequate housing, we will be able to retain and attract people to live here. Supporting our schools is vital to ensuring that our students and community are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

He also added, “We must protect Lake Auburn from irresponsible development.”

Sheline said he often talks with residents who ask if he enjoys being mayor, “and I always answer yes.”

“It’s an honor to lead the best city in Maine,” he said. “I enjoy getting to know the people who live here and working with them to move our community forward by listening and finding common ground. I look forward to continuing these conversations and serving you for three more years in City Hall.”

Sheline is an entrepreneur and a member of the Lewiston business community. He founded Munka, a co-working space in downtown Lewiston, in 2016. He has also served on numerous boards for local and state organizations, including the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Young Professionals of Lewiston Auburn Association (now Uplift), the Maine Music Society, Central Maine Community College Foundation, USM-LAC Community Advisory, Make-A-Wish Maine, and others. Sheline has lived and raised his children in Lewiston for over a decade.