LEWISTON — Former Fire Chief Michel “Mike” A. Lajoie is making a bid for the Ward 4 City Council seat.

In addition to his extensive background in public safety, the lifelong Lewiston resident would bring to the post his management skills and deep understanding of how state policies affect local communities.

Lajoie retired from the Lewiston Fire Department in 2006 after 31 years with the department, the last 11 as chief. He was then elected to four two-year terms as a state legislator representing Lewiston.

“Lewiston is a forward-thinking city with much opportunity before it,” Lajoie said. “The experiences I gained on the city’s management team and advocating for Lewiston at the State House have enhanced my ability to be an effective member of the City Council. The city has dedicated employees and a dedicated administration. With solid leadership and a pro-active City Council, we can continue to move Lewiston forward.”

Lajoie is a graduate of Lewiston High School, Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute and the Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute. He earned his associate degree in fire science from Southern Maine Technical College.

While in the Maine House of Representatives, Lajoie served on the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, the Maine Fire Protection Services Commission and the Maine Fire Service Institute Advisory Board. He continues to serve on the commission and the advisory board on a volunteer basis, representing the fire service.

Lajoie is a member of the Holy Family Council 10019. He served in the 1125th Army Hospital Reserve Unit and is a member of Franco-American War Veterans Post 31.

Lajoie has served on numerous professional associations and boards. He is in his 20th year on the board of directors of the Lewiston Municipal Federal Credit Union. He is also on the board of directors at the Gendron Franco Center and a community volunteer leader with the American Red Cross of Maine.

Michel Lajoie