Richard DesJardins, 53

585 Baird St.

[email protected]

Occupation: Owner, food service concession at state office buildings in Augusta

Education: Lewiston High School, 1976.

Political experience: None

Community organizations: None

What is broken in your city? What problem do you perceive, and how will you, as an elected leader, fix it? 

I’m hearing the same thing over and over and it’s about downtown revitalization and the riverfront. We’ve had so many studies and plans, it sounds like old news at this point. Is it moving or is it stagnant?  I’d like to see something move forward on it. I’d like to see us do something instead of just talking about it.

What is your opinion of the casino? Would you urge Maine voters to support it or not? And why?

I think whatever the people want. I plan on being a councilor in the old-fashioned way, representing the people and taxpayers. If the people want it, I’m going to support it. And it looks like the people here want it.

What is your solution to improving Lewiston’s downtown housing stock, and why would it work?

I’m new, and I’m not sure what the solution is or what can be done. But I’m anxious to get in and get involved and help.