AUGUSTA, Maine — The Land Use Planning Commission held public hearings recently about proposed rule revisions related to application of the adjacency principle, and has posted submitted comments online for the public to view.
Written comments submitted between 6/16/18 and 6/21/18, including those submitted during hearings in Mars Hill on June 14 and in Brewer on June 21, are now available on the commission’s website.
Why review the adjacency principle?
The adjacency principle is one of the commission’s policies that helps guide where new zones for development can be created. It guides most new zones for development toward existing development and away from undeveloped areas. This helps lower tax burdens, ensures land remains available for forestry, agriculture and recreation, and promotes the health of existing communities.
In recent decades, the commission has interpreted the adjacency principle to mean that areas to be rezoned for development must be within one road mile of existing, compatible development. This application of the policy through a one-mile rule-of-thumb has been recognized for a long time as an imperfect way to guide the location of development. That is why the commission is seeking public input to improve it.
How to participate
Those who have questions, would like to submit comments, or would like to request a copy of the proposal may e-mail Benjamin.Godsoe@maine.gov or write to the Land Use Planning Commission, c/o Ben Godsoe, 22 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333, Phone: (207) 287-2619.
