Mayoral Candidates: Lucas J. Lanigan

Lucas Lanigan has served in Sanford’s city government for the past 6 years, including one year on the Planning Board and almost 5 years as a City Councilor. He serves on the Sanford Land Bank Authority and Parks & Rec Advisory Board, and is on the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce. He is co-owner and operator of Event Lighting Concepts and Deco Lightscapes, and lives in Springvale with his family.

Mr. Lanigan believes the mayor’s primary role is to promote Sanford’s reputation as a place to do business. He feels he is the best person to advocate for our community and attract the resources we need to grow, adding that his experience as Deputy Mayor and relationship with our current Council and City Hall employees will allow Sanford to continue moving in a positive direction.

He sees economic development as crucial to the city’s future. He believes that Sanford needs to build its own sustainable economic infrastructure, rather than relying on the State for assistance. Shifting the tax burden away from single-family home owners, to make Sanford more affordable for young families and seniors, is key, he says. “I want people to believe in Sanford again. I want others to see Sanford for what I see it is: a great place to live, a great place to do business, a great place to work, and a great place to invest in.”

The planning process is an area where Mr. Lanigan sees an opportunity for change. Formulating a simple process that protects the city, while expediting the procedure to open a business, would remove one major roadblock to development. Having a business liaison at City Hall would help, he adds.

Housing is another area on which he would like to focus. Creating newer updated housing will be beneficial for current residents, as well as attracting new residents, he says.

When asked what can be done to revitalize Sanford’s retail landscape, he replied that making the city more business-friendly, with a clear and efficient process for starting a new enterprise, and continuing to use TIF and other tax credit enhancements to encourage development, will pay off in this area. “With more jobs we will have higher and more competitive wages. That ultimately attracts more retail to any community.”