By DONNA KENNY KIRWAN

PAWTUCKET — The word on the street has been confirmed: Mayor James E. Doyle told The Times that he intends to seek a sixth term in office.

Doyle said he plans to make his official announcement at a fundraising breakfast that is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Portuguese Social Club, School Street. However, when asked of his election plans this week, Doyle said, “Yes, I intend to be a candidate again.”
Doyle, 69, who lives on Pullen Avenue, is in his 11th year as mayor. Although typically a two-year term, Doyle had one three-year post when the city changed its charter regarding when elections are held. He is currently serving his fifth term.
Doyle, a one-time teacher and a former territory manager for Massachusetts Envelope Company, served on the City Council for 27 years. He first ran for mayor in 1973 in a special election, but was defeated by Dennis M. Lynch. In a second bid for the top post made in 1997, Doyle was the victor, beating challenger Elaine Coderre by a 2-1 margin.
According to the Pawtucket Board of Canvassers, the city’s primary election will held on Sept. 9 and and the general election will be Nov. 4.
In January, John S. Baxter, Jr., currently a School Committee member, announced his candidacy for City Council at-large.
Baxter, 39, of Brewster Street, served as chairman of the School Committee and is also a member of the Pawtucket Riverfront Commission. He works on the staff of the Rhode Island Senate, as Director of Constituent Services for Senate President Joseph A. Montalbano.