The recent public hearing on cleaning up the Androscoggin River centered mostly on economic versus esthetic/health issues (May 9). There seems to be an impression on the part of many in the Legislature that a continued cleanup will cost jobs.

It seems apparent to me that communities on the river have seen an impressive upsurge in development, property value and tax base as the river has become an attraction to the area. As the river gets cleaner the process will continue. That’s got to be good for job growth as well.

Moreover, evidence acquired by the state suggests that adoption of newer, cleaner technologies in the paper industry in Maine would pay for itself through improved efficiency and lower energy cost (Been to a gas pump lately?) within a few years.

Let’s keep encouraging our mills to clean up and become more efficient. Otherwise, jobs will keep flowing out of the state.

Debra Reny, Greene