Draft Comprehensive Plan, Wayne, Maine

In the future, Wayne will still be a small, rural town that people live in because of its natural and social environments, rather than for local employment. There may be an increase in the percentage of people who work from home, but the locations of job possibilities are not expected to change very much. There will be a stable tax base supported mostly by the homes and second homes of residents and visitors. Municipal officials, staff, residents, and property owners will support programs and policies that will have a positive impact on the future of Wayne's water quality and therefore its economic base. Farm acreage will continue to grow, primarily for local markets. Similarly, increased management of timberlands for local consumption of wood and value-added wood products may create new opportunities and challenges for Wayne. Through thoughtful planning, the Town will accommodate growth while conserving and enhancing the Town's natural assets, natural resource-based economies, and rural character. The Town will profile its historic assets and at the same time will explore appropriate development opportunities to improve the community – in particular walkability and safety, Town-wide trail connections, including snowmobile trails, and restaurants and bed and breakfast establishments. There will continue to be a strong sense of community. This will be easier and more natural if the Wayne Elementary School remains open. Wayne people will continue to help their neighbors in times of need. There will be social networks for young and old and those in between. These networks will continue to help attract and retain families and bring the community closer together. These will still include good schools, library services, outdoor recreation, social organizations, and community gathering buildings for social interaction. There may be renewed efforts to address housing needs for elderly citizens. There will be undeveloped areas consisting of large tracts of open space that help maintain water quality, scenic views, wildlife habitats, and other related assets that residents enjoy. Trails for hiking and snowmobiling will be available. Churches and the Androscoggin Yacht Club will continue to be maintained to retain their serviceability and function. There will be public access to water bodies for recreational use. 1. Assessing, planning conservation and development services. Ensure that the residents of Wayne continue to receive high quality assessing, planning conservation and development services. A. Assessing. Continue to utilize private contractors (RJD Appraisal) for meeting the assessing needs of Wayne but periodically evaluate …