SANFORD  — As Sanford moves forward with four goals — to create an economic advantage for the city, alleviate the tax burden, support an efficient organizational structure and improve the city’s image, it won’t be doing so in a vacuum.

“Everyone in Sanford has a role to play … in revitalizing our city,” said Mayor Tom Cote. “We’ll make Sanford a role model.”

Cote was sworn in Tuesday for his second term as mayor — he’ll serve a two year stint under the charter. Also taking the oath of office was Councilor John Tuttle, who was also re-elected Nov. 8 and incoming  Councilor Robert Stackpole.

When Cote first stood at the podium three years ago, “I was a nervous wreck,” he said.

Not so with his second term. Cote was confident as he addressed the council and the public watching the City Council meeting at home over their cable television network.

Projects like Sanford’s broadband initiative will create intellectual property in the city, that “can’t be replaced in Asia or Israel,” he said, referring to the move 15 years ago of some of Sanford’s manufacturing jobs to those locations. “Its future-proof and really protects us.”

Cote also referred to the project at Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport being undertaken by Ranger Solar and construction of the new high school and regional technical center.

He thanked his family, his fellow councilors for their collaborative efforts, and others, including the voters who returned him to office.

“I’ll do everything in my power to move Sanford in a path … we can be proud of,” he said.

 — Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.

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