The members of Grow L+A were saddened to read about the potential demolition of the St. Louis Church in New Auburn (April 15). We feel the loss of this iconic building would have negative impacts on the Lewiston-Auburn community and should be avoided at all costs. This is due to the importance which heritage plays in the economic and social wellness of a city.

The energy, passion and commitment fueling projects such as the Riverfront Island Master Plan, Bates Mill No. 5 and the branding initiative is reinvigorating people of the Twin Cities. This momentum should not be quelled by the demolition of the St. Louis Church, especially in light of recent unfortunate demolitions such as the United Baptist Church.

Despite high redevelopment costs there are many successful businesses being run from old churches in Maine. The Maine Art Glass Studio, Grace and The Franco-American Heritage Center are all examples which have seen success. These examples show that with determination good people can do good things, and that is exactly what we are looking to accomplish.

Grow L+A believes that the St. Louis Church offers many opportunities for redevelopment efforts. However we understand that projects such as this one often need community support and it is this we are looking to establish through community ideas and local volunteers.

Brett Bisesti, Greene