Sagadahoc County has formed an economic development office and is seeking residents throughout the county to represent their towns during a general assembly in Bath on October 18. 

The county's Office of Economic and Community Development has contracted with the Midcoast Council of Governments to provide various services to the communities, according to a recent press release issued by the Woolwich Town Office.

The number of representatives from each town at the meeting will be determined by the following population factors: two representatives for the first 1,000 residents, four representatives for towns with fewer than 3,000 residents and five representatives for towns up to populations of 6,000. 

Since Woolwich has 3,072 residents, five residents would be able to attend the meeting as representatives for the town. 

Members will be elected to serve on a Board of Directors at the general assembly, after a discussion and overview of the organization's services and goals. 

According to a flyer for Midcoast Council of Governments, the organization is a “public-private non-profit development corporation” based in Bath. 

In March, Woolwich officials objected to having to pay annual dues to the organization. Selectmen at the time said they did not see a benefit for their town in return for a $4,500 investment. Town Administrator Lynette Eastman said at least one selectman feels the same way. 

Following approval of the county budget in June, towns received their share of the budget, which according to Eastman included membership in the organization. 

Woolwich is responsible for paying $651,265 to the county, which was due in its entirety on or before September 1. 

Woolwich does not have the tax bills out yet, Eastman said, but will pay its portion of the county budget in October. After November 1, municipal payments are assessed a seven percent interest surcharge.

Since the town's payment to the county includes membership in the organization, some residents may wish to participate in the general assembly and seek to join the Board of Directors.

The general assembly will take place at the Sagadahoc County Courthouse, 752 High St., Bath, on October 18, starting at 10 a.m. Those Woolwich residents interested in attending as a town representative may call Lynette Eastman at the town office at 442-7094 or email administrator@woolwich.us.