RUMFORD — The planning board presented a draft of the town comprehensive plan, referred to as Rumford 2025, during a public hearing Sept. 9.

Board Chair Travis Palmer said the plan was developed over the past 18 months and provides a 10- to 12-year roadmap to guide future growth, land use, infrastructure investment and economic revitalization tied to the area’s natural assets.

The plan was developed by the technical consulting firm Haley Ward of Bangor using public feedback from community workshops and collaborations with designers.

Vanessa L. Farr, regional manager of planning and design, told the 20 or so people that the draft plan is not a fixed document.

“If there is a need for a course correction, then we come together, and make decisions. As you move into the big ideas and action strategies in the plan, there’s a whole section that has very specific things to Rumford, things you have said are important to you,” she said.

According to the firm, the resulting plan provides clear, actionable strategies to guide future growth while preserving the character and strengths that make Rumford unique. It gives town leaders a practical framework for making informed decisions and advancing community priorities for years to come.

The plan reflects the residents, municipal leaders, businesses and organizations who contributed their time, ideas, and aspirations throughout the process, and the shared optimism they hold for a place with almost unlimited potential, the firm said.

Four members of the public commented during the 20-minute hearing.

Resident Jeff Secrest pointed out that data centers are a step into the future and Rumford is in a nice position and could take advantage of this situation “and make it known to industries who wish to create a data center that they can bring their power plants and data center into our midst and if we welcome them, their generosity is known to help the education system, the road network — anything the city is looking for.”

Following the hearing, Palmer suggested the planning board schedule a workshop to discuss any feedback and vote on a final version a month later.

If the planning board adopts the document, Palmer said it would go to residents next June for a vote.

To view the full documents on the plan go to rumfordme.org/draft-comprehensive-plan-and-appendix/

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