PARIS — Residents said town officials made a mistake when they funded an economic study aimed at encouraging business growth in the Market Square area.

Addressing selectmen Monday night, residents voiced their opposition to the $8,500 comprehensive study approved by selectmen last month that will result in recommendations for revamping the downtown’s business landscape.

The plan is a mission statement of the future look for downtown Paris. It will consist of a comprehensive list of commercial real estate, unique features, buildings’ square footage and ideal uses and a general condition of spaces.

Sandy Swett, owner of Paris-based Swett Signs, signed a contract with the town several weeks ago to draft the study. It would devise a series of recommendations — with input from business leaders and community groups — to make the downtown area more business friendly and attractive.

Residents remained unconvinced of the plan’s merits. 

“I just don’t understand why we think Market Square, in less than an eighth of a mile, will pop once we have an $8,500 strategic plan,” Lawrence Reed said.

Reed faulted selectmen for not asking more questions before approving the study.

“You (selectmen) spoke more about putting ‘don’t let your dog poop on my grass’ signs than you did at that meeting.”

Impetus for the plan grew several months ago, when a group of downtown business owners formed the Paris Revitalization Forum with the goal of the increasing the business tax base to ease the tax burden of residents.

According to Town Manager Amy Bernard, several quality insurance measures are built into the contract to ensure the final document meets the town’s expectations, including holding a public hearing on the plan and contacting every civic organization to get their input.

Funding for the study came from a $15,000 contingency fund, she said.

Janet Jamison said she didn’t object to the study outright, but questioned why it was funded when her proposal to send copies of the annual Town Report to every property owner was deemed too costly.

“Don’t we deserve the same consideration as the business owners?” she asked.

According to Robert Kirchherr, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, the idea originated with local business leaders — not selectmen.

Selectman Samuel Elliot said the study likely will uncover unforeseen opportunities.

“It will pay for itself,” Elliot said.

Dennis Creaser, owner of Creaser’s Jewelers, said he did not oppose the decision.

“I think it’s a step in the right direction if something constructive comes out of it,” he said.