Over 250 people attended the forums and there was significant consensus countywide. Residents were in favor of restricting new development in rural areas, directing new development in and adjacent to existing towns, and reinvesting in the County’s downtowns, villages, and commercial centers to support business and job growth. While not everyone agreed completely with the growth framework there were many who did, as over 80% responded favorably.

Preserving farmland and natural resources has repeatedly been identified as a priority throughout the planning process and residents are asking that future development be guided in a manner that has the least amount of impact on these lands and the rural economy that depends on such resources. Similarly, citizens continued to show a preference for maintaining the unique town and country lifestyle that presently exists with the many small historic communities surrounded by farmland and forest.

Additionally, 72 county farmers were interviewed as part of the “Future of Agricultur” program being coordinated with the comprehensive plan by local volunteers. Early results of those interviews show that one major concern cited as a threat to farm viability by agricultural producers is the encroachment of development. Furthermore, the majority of those interviewed were not interested in selling their land for development and many were open to enrolling in the county’s agricultural land preservation program. A smaller number indicated they would even consider donating development .