WATERVILLE — Thomas A. McCormick Sr., the incumbent Ward 7 city councilor, faces challenger Catherine Tamara Herard in the race for his seat in the Nov. 5 election.

McCormick, who is unenrolled, was elected to the seat in 2021.

Herard, a Democrat, is running for elected office for the first time.

City councilors are paid $1,500 a year.

Elections are set for 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5, at the Harold Alfond Athletic Center at Thomas College at 180 West River Road.

McCormick, 62, of King Court said he is running for reelection for a three-year term “to continue to be the strong advocate and voice for the needs of my community and Ward 7.”

Herard, 52, of Silver Street said she is running for the seat because she is “committed to Waterville and to serving a community that is inclusive, affordable and welcoming to everyone.”

McCormick, a machine operator and bench carpenter at Duratherm Window Co. in Vassalboro, said that if elected, he would focus on creating jobs and improving infrastructure.

“Waterville was built on manufacturing,” he said, “and we need to find ways to bring these jobs back to create a stronger community.”

Herard is assistant men’s and women’s cross-country coach at Thomas College. She said that if elected, she would work toward creating more economic opportunities for the city, including affordable housing and safe spaces for children and adults to learn, play and grow.

“I am also committed to making Waterville a more accessible and walkable community for all,” she said.