Lewiston Council Swears In New Members, Approves FY27 Capital Plan Process

The Lewiston City Council convened on January 5, 2026, to swear in newly elected members and kick off the fiscal year 2027 budget process with a presentation on the Local Capital Improvement Program. The council voted to re-elect David B. Chittim as Council President and approved Scott A. Harriman for a second term on the School Committee despite significant public and internal dissent. Additionally, the council debated and voted on several board appointments, including a contentious nomination for the Voter Registration Appeals Board.

Key points

• The council unanimously approved the 10-item consent agenda and re-elected David B. Chittim as Council President for the 2026 term.
• Scott A. Harriman was appointed to the School Committee by a 4-3 vote, with Councilors Nagine, Roy, and Martel voting no due to concerns over his recent censure and time commitments.
• The council voted 4-3 to appoint Joseph Philippon to the Public Health Committee, over the objections of Councilors Nagine, Longchamps, and Martel who cited his recent separation from the police department.
• Lisa Jones was appointed to the Voter Registration Appeals Board following a debate on whether the council is legally required to accept the Republican Party's nominee under state statute.
• Public comment focused heavily on the residency of new Ward 5 Councilor Iman Osman, with residents expressing both strong support for his candidacy and concerns regarding his housing status.
• City Administrator Bryan Kaenrath presented the FY27 Local Capital Improvement Program, highlighting a $239 million five-year plan and noting that the city is currently over its 80% debt authorization limit.

Next steps

• The council will hold a public hearing on the Local Capital Improvement Program on February 3, 2026.
• Finance Committee and Planning Board recommendations for the capital plan are due by February 15, 2026.
• The council is scheduled to adopt the Local Capital Improvement Program on February 17, 2026.
• A presentation on the police department's proposal for take-home vehicles is expected at the next council meeting.

Read the full transcript