AUBURN — Republican Brian Ames is seeking a second four-year term on the Androscoggin County Commission when he faces Democratic challenger William Coffin in District 3, which includes Durham, Greene and part of Lewiston.

Brian Ames

The election is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Ames, 36, of Lewiston, who is originally from Wales, is married with one daughter.

Coffin, 74, is a graduate of Lewiston High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in vocational technology from the University of Southern Maine.

The Lewiston resident has been married for 53 years and has two adult children. Coffin was a former eucharistic minister and usher at St. Patrick’s Church, where he served on the parish council. A former president of the McMahon School PTO, he also served as a Cub and scoutmaster and still serves on the board of directors for the Pine Tree Council of the Boy Scouts in Maine.

Why are you running for Androscoggin County Commission?

Ames: To contribute to my community by caring for taxpayers. I want to influence decisions made by local government, recognizing the impact those decisions have on an individual’s tax bill.

William Coffin

Coffin: I am the retired area director for 27 years with the U.S. Department of Labor with two offices in Maine, 28 employees and a significant budget. I will work for the best interests of Greene, Durham and Lewiston citizens, applying my management and financial experience.

What is the biggest challenge facing the county, and how would you solve it? 

Ames: Rising crime rate, and the increasing homeless situation are two areas that need to be focused on. My position during my first term has been in support of law enforcement. I want to continue supporting them with the tools and personnel needed to effectively keep our county communities safe. Putting law enforcement as a priority improves the lives our children, our overall economy and quality of life.

Coffin: Fiscal responsibility and adequate manpower. Also, the strong desire to maintain the Sheriff’s Department as a strong and competent law enforcement agency within Androscoggin County and not have it reduced to a political entity.