WEST PARIS – The town is looking for people who want to share ideas, know how to listen, have an open mind and a bit of time.

They also need people who care about the future of West Paris, according to Claire Gelinas.

Gelinas is a member of the start up group working to create a comprehensive plan committee.

“A comprehensive plan is what the people want the community to be like in the next 20 years, and includes general policies and recommendations to be considered when making decisions at a local level,” Gelinas said. “Because it would have to be approved at town meeting and must be referred to by town officials when making decisions, it is a way for everyone in the town to have a say in decisions made throughout the years.”

She said the goal is to create a committee that is diverse as to income, gender, age and occupation. She said that all the neighborhoods of West Paris should be represented.

“The committee doesn’t need experts so much as it needs people who care about the future of West Paris,” Gelinas said.

She said that a comprehensive plan does not include ordinances and regulations and that it can be an opportunity to set more than general policies.

Gelinas said that working on a comprehensive plan can require a large time commitment that some people are unable to make. She said that people are welcome who may like to get involved in other ways.

The meeting is set for Nov. 20 at the town office at the end of the selectmen’s meeting, about 6:30 to 7 p.m.

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