Yes, the town of Rumford is moving into the future with confidence.

The town’s government gained new life when citizens approved a secret ballot vote for the annual town budget and also voted to follow the legal town charter.

The beautiful Rumford Town Hall, which is on the National Historic Register, is receiving a major renovation and the Rumford Hospital is expanding with a new wing.

RiverWalk, was begun this summer as town crews cut and trimmed trees along the Androscoggin River overlooking the Shoppers’ Island and laid out the walking trails.

The Rumford Revitalization Committee meets monthly to discuss and take action on projects related to economic development such as Route 2 rerouting, redevelopment of Waldo Street and the Shoppers’ Island, ATV and snowmobile trails, etc.

The River Valley Growth Council recently contracted for a dental clinic, moved forward with a multimedia presentation to promote the town and area and is looking at possibilities for a much needed parking garage. Rumford selectmen contributed additional funding to the Growth Council.

Rumford selectmen have also begun regionalization meetings with the Mexico selectmen and have focused on the public works departments.

And an economic summit took place in Rumford with state officials, local government officials and interested citizens with a focus on methods to develop the town and area economy.

So, it is many Rumford citizens see these positive activities as a sign that their town has gained new life.

Tom Fallon, Rumford