Lewiston welcomes new mayor

LEWISTON – Laurent “Larry” Gilbert Sr. took office Wednesday as mayor of Maine’s second-largest city, a day after he won a four-way race for the post.

In a brief address, Gilbert listed as top issues in the city strong support for education, keeping taxes in check and consolidation and efficient delivery of services. Gilbert’s wife and three adult children were present for his swearing-in ceremony in the Lewiston Council Chambers.

Lewiston has been without a mayor since November, when Lionel Guay stepped down. Guay’s resignation came two months after he was acquitted of groping a teenager who worked at his accounting firm. Gilbert will finish out the term that ends in January.