You don’t need to be an economic development expert or a city planner to see the remarkable changes that are taking place in Lewiston.

The city’s gateway projects and the proposals for Island Point have made a real difference in the look and feel downtown. Major urban renewal – namely the Heritage Initiative – is in the works.

A clear plan for the long-term has been developed and carried out. It has included risks, like public investment in the Colisee, that have paid off, and braving criticism from segments of the community concerned about rapid change and the people who will lose out as some housing units and longtime businesses are lost.

That’s why it’s a bit unnerving to hear about the city’s plans to purchase 308 Lisbon St., which is the current home of Treasure Chest III, an adult bookstore.

According to Assistant City Manager Greg Mitchell, the city doesn’t have a firm plan for the property or the bookstore. Count us among the skeptical.

In February, the city toughened zoning restrictions on adult bookstores. New ones are limited to an area east of Main Street, around Mollison Way, nowhere near the Treasure Chest’s current location.

Naomi Bruce, who owns the Treasure Chest, said she doesn’t have a lease and is concerned that the city might be trying to move her out. It looks like a good bet.

The City Council will vote on the purchase April 5. Council members should make sure the city reveals its intent before then. If the city’s gunning for the Treasure Chest, say it out loud and take into consideration the effect on the owner. If not, then the councilors should make clear what the plans for the property are. Without that information, it’s hard to judge the consequences of taking private property off the tax rolls.