RUMFORD – Gov. John Baldacci believes the area and the state must be proactive in working toward balanced growth. He is also impressed with the number of new shops and businesses springing up in the River Valley area.

Although he spoke at the annual Governor’s Night held by the Oxford County Democrat Committee, he said working together, particularly through regionalization, is a larger message than partisan politics.

“I’m not talking just to Democrats, but to all Maine citizens,” he said.

He did not speak of his opposition to the casino issue but instead emphasized the regional steps taken to improve the area and state and its economies.

“Long-range planning is needed. We’ve got to have the planning done before there is action,” he said, citing the successful melding of the Maine health care plan, the newly implemented community college system, and the state’s emphasis on long-range economic development such as several of the projects the River Valley Growth Council and River Valley Technology Center are currently working on.

He said other areas of the state are watching what the RVGC and RVTC are doing with the pursuit of a pyrolysis plant that would turn some of the area’s abundant wood resources into chemicals and fuels, and with the construction of the RVTC as a training facility for precision metal work and as a place for fledgling businesses.

He wants to reward those areas that pool their resources and work together through the Pine Tree Zone economic development program, something that the River Valley hopes to become a part of. Under that program, new businesses would be encouraged to move into the area because of a variety of tax exemptions.

“Things seem to be moving along positively in this area,” he said. “MeadWestvaco is interested in making improvements.”

Although the paper industry is crucial to the area, it is not the only business that will make the River Valley a success.

“What Joe Derouche is doing (with the RVGC and RVTC) gives us a chance to diversify. I’m strongly behind the paper industry but diversification means all the eggs aren’t in one basket,” he said.

“The times are serious,” he said. “This requires us to be more focused on solutions.”

Derouche said the area’s 10 towns have pulled together for the economic development of the region.

“We’re very proud of these projects. We’ve all had to work together. This governor has worked to pull the state together for true economic development,” he said.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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