ALBION — State Senator Scott Cyrway announced Monday he will run for the Maine House of Representatives in newly created House District 63, which will represent the communities of Albion, Freedom, Unity and part of Winslow.

The Republican is a longtime State Senator, currently representing Senate District 16.

Most recently he has been part of an area coalition opposing removal of the Shaumut dam, an action that would result in the closure of the Sappi mill, resulting in the loss of tens of millions of dollars and hundreds of jobs, according to a news release.

“I am running because I believe we are on the verge of turning things around for Maine families, locals businesses, family farms and young people that want to stay in Maine,” said Cyrway. “It has been a difficult couple of years for everyone, but I am optimistic we can recover and build a better future for Maine. The key is focusing on traditional Maine values, common sense solutions, and harnessing community spirit. Actions in Augusta should reflect what is happening at the local level and experienced by people in their everyday lives, not national agendas.”

Currently, Sen. Cyrway serves as a member of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee as well as the Joint Standing Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business.

Cyrway’s public service career includes a longtime service in law enforcement, where he held varied positions, including Kennebec County deputy patrol sheriff, corrections officer and assistant jail administrator. He is currently the DARE Training Coordinator for the State of Maine.

Cyrway is a graduate of Lawrence High School, the University of Maine, and the Maine Criminal Justice Academy. He grew up on his family’s farm. He currently lives in Albion, and has three children and eleven grandchildren.