By Ellie Fellers,Special to the Sun Journal

NEW GLOUCESTER – The third and final public input discussion on New Gloucester’s economic future was held Thursday and two dozen residents’ opinions will be included in a final report.

Pineland, agri-tourism, arts, housing and rural character issues were among the topics of discussion.

The report will be completed by spring to identify opportunities for economic growth, assess the demand on town services and infrastructure from development, and ensure that the town’s growth is responsible and sustainable.

Pineland’s development into a state-of-the-art business park and model farm includes roughly 5,000 acres in New Gloucester and Gray.

“Pineland doesn’t talk to your average redneck, it’s not integrated to the community,” said Anne McCormack’s group.

“We appreciate the tennis, skating, trails, gardens as passive amenities, though we feel the need for Pineland to be more proactive to the community,” she said.

Libra Foundation purchased the facility in 2000 and renovated the campus infrastructure, constructed new buildings and removed hazardous materials.

Pineland Farms, which surrounds the business campus, is a working farm that encourages a healthy lifestyle and educational opportunities to the public.

“Our concern is the long-term future of Libra Foundation and their long-term plan at Pineland. We want to see economic sacrifice made to bring in local businesses,” said McCormack.

“Libra is selling what they have in Portland. What does that mean for here?” said Cliff Andrews, who represented another citizen group.

A community advisory group to communicate with Pineland was recommended.

“There is a change in culture when you get a large development,” said David Versel, a consultant for the project team managed by RKG Associates of Durham, N.H.

There are changes in the job base, population and economy. “You think of revolutionizing the local culture for 50 years.”

Though the groups favored tourism in the area, the overall goal was to keep the large areas of property intact to preserve the rural town.

Popular day and weekend events have lured the public, such as the annual Strawberry Festival, a bluegrass festival, Community Day and the International Cultural Day at Fiddlehead Center for the Arts.

Some of the other discussion topics were:

• The Shaker Village, Thompson Orchards, Wilcox pumpkin farm and Pineland are draws for visitors.

• Small bed-and-breakfast establishments are sought, but no cottages or hotels.

• Traffic needs to be directed to the Maine Turnpike by changing the barrier toll in New Gloucester. That would help the village area of Route 100.

• Changes in land-use ordinances and zoning regulations may help in finding affordable housing for elders. Congregate housing in multiple forms should be considered. And, there was strong support to help keep the elderly locally based. Condos should be considered, some said.

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