NEW GLOUCESTER – A six-member committee of local leaders was asked Thursday to consider what design restrictions or standards are needed to guide development in town.
The New Gloucester Business and Economic Development group was requested to answer a half-dozen planning questions and present its report in May.
Project consultant David E. Versel of Biddeford asked members to study:
• incentives that may be coupled with a Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance;
• how the town can promote affordable housing;
• strategies to promote business opportunities;
• development potential for Shaker Village; and
• the maximum acceptable residential density in village areas.
The town of more than 5,000 residents has seen rapid residential growth, with most commuting to jobs outside New Gloucester. Versel said the growth has changed some facets of life: newcomers don’t have strong ties to the community; development threatens historic and natural resources; and socioeconomic diversity is threatened.
The town relies on private wells and septic systems, which limit the potential for developments.
Comments are no longer available on this story