BIDDEFORD — City Councilor Rick Laverriere resigned from his position representing Biddeford Ward 6 Tuesday night, and attorney Norman Belanger has been sworn in as his replacement.

Laverriere said he was he was grateful to serve on the council and for the people of “this great city,” and he wished the council continued success.

“My decision to resign was a very difficult decision, but in the end, it was a personal family decision,” said Laverriere.

Biddeford Mayor Alan Casavant said Laverriere had been a valuable member of the council and he appreciated the work he had done for the city.

Councilor Bob Mills said though he and Laverriere hadn’t always agreed on everything, they were able to be “good team players” even when they disagreed on an issue.

Belanger was appointed by Casavant. The appointement was confirmed by the council Tuesday night, after which he was sworn in by the city clerk and immediately seated on the board.

“I’m proud to be part of the council. Hopefully I’ll be a valuable addition,” said Belanger after Tuesday’s meeting.

Belanger served on the city’s first environmental board and is married with three grown children and three grandchildren.

He is a Harvard-educated attorney who practices in Portland, was born and raised in Biddeford and graduated from Biddeford High School  in 1975.

Laverriere served four consecutive terms as the Ward 6 city councilor before losing to Roger Hurtubise in 2013. He was reelected in 2015.

Laverriere said earlier this week he planned to continue as chairman of the Biddeford Airport Commission. He was also appointed to the city’s Fire Advisory Committee Tuesday night.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.

Comments are not available on this story.