DIXFIELD – Scott Christiansen thinks the River Valley would be a good candidate to become one of Gov. John Baldacci’s Pine Tree Zones.

He revealed his plan to introduce the idea at the next River Valley Growth Council meeting to the members of the Dixfield Economic Development Council Monday night.

“It’s critically important that we have one of the eight in Maine,” Christiansen told the council. “Four have already been taken.”

These, he said, are in northern Maine, including Aroostook County that has lost jobs and youth, and the Millinocket area that recently experienced the shut down of two paper mills. The Canadian company buying the Millinocket mills plans to reopen one mill in a few months with fewer employees. However, that company missed its deadline to buy the mill and has been given an extension.

Pine Tree Zones would be virtually tax free for five years for businesses that locate in one. Christiansen said such businesses would be exempt from property, equipment and profit taxes. The town in which the business was located would be reimbursed by the state for these unpaid taxes.

Up to 5,000 acres would be needed to establish a Pine Tree Zone, and it could encompass several towns, an approach currently supported by the RVGC.

He said the River Valley fits the major criteria outlined under the governor’s legislative initiative. These include the loss of jobs, an out-migration of youth, an economy based primarily on one industry, and an area that is working together to improve the region’s economy. Other criteria will be announced as the PTZ plan is being developed, he said.

“We have to show that the area has suffered and needs help,” said Christiansen.

If chosen as a Pine Tree Zone, the eight areas would also be eligible for additional work-force training.

Dixfield’s part, as with other major players in the 10-town River Valley region, would be to identify and designate areas within its town that a PTZ could be established. All towns in an area must work together for the PTZ and the betterment of the region, as well.

“This could be the only time the job losses and out-migration has worked for us,” said Christiansen.

If the Pine Tree Zone emergency legislation is passed, Christiansen said those areas selected would know by autumn. He has asked for support for the PTZ designation from the area’s state legislative delegation.

He plans to take the idea before the RVGC Board of Directors at its May 7 meeting for discussion and possible approval.