LEWISTON — Former Fire Chief Michel “Mike” A. Lajoie is making a bid for the State House representing House District 96.

In addition to his extensive background in public safety, the lifelong Lewiston resident will bring to the State House his management skills and deep understanding of how state policies affect local communities, according to a written statement from the candidate.

Lajoie retired from the Lewiston Fire Department in 2006 after 31 years with the department, the last 11 as chief. He served two terms as a Lewiston city councilor and served four two-year terms in the Maine House, starting in 2009.

“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 as well as on the Lewiston City Council have enhanced my ability to be an effective member of the House of Representatives. The City of Lewiston has dedicated employees and a dedicated administration. With a proactive leadership 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 Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety, 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 as a volunteer.

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

Retired after serving 24 years on the board of directors of the Lewiston Municipal Federal Credit Union, he sits on the board of directors at the Franco Center and is a community volunteer leader with the American Red Cross of Maine.