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Residents , business interests , non-profit organizations , and governments within the proposed area are involved in the planning , have developed a conceptual financial plan that outlines the roles for all participants including the federal government , and have demonstrated support for designation of the area .
The significant and consistent public input and information gathered over a dozen or more years underscores that the Downeast Maine study area has a unique and nationally important story beloved by many , as well as the potential and desire to better support interpretation of that story and expand on opportunities .
Nearly 100 % of people who provided input during the years-long planning process support establishing a National Heritage Area in Downeast Maine .
Public discussions about NHA designation took place over the course of several years prior to officially conducting a Feasibility Study . Beginning with smaller focus groups , the conversation widened to eventually include multiple interest groups from communities across both Washington and Hancock Counties . The public provided input through community convenings , public discussions , organization board meetings , one-onone , and online . Input was solicited from local , regional , state , and national groups . A core team of 13 people representing key heritage sectors helped guide the development of this Feasibility Study . They also helped solicit input from the general public , municipal and community leaders , and organization members .
Ultimately , nearly 100 % of people involved in the planning process express full support of the proposed National Heritage Area . See Chapter 3 for details on community involvement ; see Appendix B for Letters of Support and other statements of endorsement .
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