CANTON – Approximately 25 people toured the site of the stalled Village Ridge housing development on Edmunds Road on Monday before hearing about who might live there.

The project to relocate the main village of the town began after scores of homes and public buildings along routes 140 and 108 were damaged or destroyed when the Androscoggin River flooded in 2003. Estimated to cost between $6 million and $7 million, the project progressed with state and federal financing approved by voters, but stopped when those votes were rescinded three times.

Before voters changed their minds, the town bought 30 acres on Edmunds Road and cleared it in preparation for sewer and water lines and construction of about 40 houses to replace some of those lost to the flood.

Monday’s hearing at the municipal building was the second of three scheduled after the town was presented a petition last month to consider new information about the relocation effort.

Frank O’Hare of Planning Decisions of Portland told residents that 18 of the homes would be for senior citizens. He said people looking to downsize would be looking for energy-efficient, low-maintenance homes, which the village would provide.

Several people questioned why seniors would want to come to Canton, which is far from hospitals and doctors. Others asked why someone would leave a city and move to the country.

Another objection to the development was commuting distance from jobs.

O’Hare said the study showed the demand for energy-efficient homes is high and the town should be able to sell 10 houses a year.

His survey also noted that Canton has great family benefits such as the lake, parks, trails, four-season recreation, a new elementary school and numerous community organizations and activities.

Some people questioned whether the lots were large enough to accommodate a well and septic system.

They were told they were.

Debbie Hutchins of the Canton Water District said every house added to the town system would help make up for the 15 customers lost because of the flood.

The final hearing on the project is at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at the municipal building to discuss its impact on taxes.