Important decisions will be made soon that will shape the path of development in areas of�northern, western, and downeast Maine � including Maine’s North Woods.�Let�Maine’s Land Use Planning Commission know you don’t want them to�weaken zoning laws by�taking a few minutes to complete their survey.
Loud voices are urging Maine’s Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC, formerly LURC) to allow scattered development throughout their jurisdiction,�potentially negatively impacting wildlife habitat, clean water, large undeveloped landscapes, and more.
The LUPC is taking stock of the adjacency principle it uses to guide�new development in its jurisdiction to appropriate places. New development�is�limited to�locations within one mile of existing compatible development unless the area is already zoned for development. Learn more about the adjacency principle,�by visiting�this link.
Revising or eliminating�the adjacency principle could mean that subdivisions and other incompatible development would be allowed in areas now reserved for wildlife habitat, recreation, agriculture, and forestry.�
The LUPC has created a survey to�develop an understanding of the land use needs and desires of Mainers. They want to hear from�you about the areas in their jurisdiction that mean the most to you and the qualities that make�them�places�you want to live, work, own property, or recreate.
Please fill out the LUPC�survey�and�be sure to express concern with scattered development and sprawl throughout the entire jurisdiction.
Let the LUPC know what you hope for�the�future of the areas they serve so they can evaluate the importance of the adjacency principle in managing�development to preserve�the qualities�Mainers most value.
Thank you for speaking up for Maine’s special places!
Jenn Burns Gray
Maine Audubon Staff Attorney and Advocate
jgray@maineaudubon.org
(207) 781-2330 x224
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