SUN JOURNAL • February 14, 2022
LD 1884, introduced by Rep. Bruce Bickford, R-Auburn, would make it illegal for municipalities to use income requirements as a condition for home construction, something that Auburn has used in its agricultural zone since the 1960s. Those opposing the bill said the zoning rules have been used to concentrate growth in the city’s urban neighborhoods and to ensure that farmland stays that way. Those in favor of striking down the rule say it’s been unfair for the majority of taxpayers and has stifled new housing. Among those testifying against the proposal Monday were Lewiston officials, who are concerned about more development in the Lake Auburn watershed, impacting water quality at the lake, which is the drinking water source for both cities. Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said the filtration waiver used by both cities to avoid a costly filtration plant “would be put in jeopardy should development occur within the lake’s watershed.”