Residents gathered at the community center on School Terrace last night to express their concerns regarding the proposed development plans that could reshape the town’s landscape. The meeting, attended by over 100 locals, highlighted the mixed feelings about the potential benefits versus the drawbacks of the project. The development, aimed at increasing housing availability and attracting new businesses, has been met with skepticism from some community members. Rosemary Scott, a 64-year-old grandmother who has lived in the area for decades, shared her perspective. "Change can be good, but we need to ensure it doesn’t disrupt our way of life. If it means more shops like Batess Pharmacy, that could be nice, but we must be cautious about losing our community feel," she said, reflecting a sentiment echoed by others in attendance. Town officials presented the plans, emphasizing the need for growth in light of the town's stagnant population of 6,222. They argued that new developments could lead to increased economic opportunities and enhance local amenities. However, several residents raised concerns about potential traffic congestion, environmental impacts, and the potential loss of green spaces. "We want progress, but not at the cost of what makes our town unique," said another resident. The discussion included suggestions for more community engagement and transparency in the planning process to ensure that all voices are heard. As the meeting concluded, the town council was urged to reconsider aspects of the plan and to provide more detailed information on how it would affect the community. With the project still in the planning phase, residents are hopeful that their input will lead to modifications that better reflect the needs and desires of the community.