As School Administrative District 6 officials have promised to foster a culture of more open dialogue among the public, they’re bringing that spirit to the upcoming cost-sharing negotiations with Frye Island.

The first meeting of the review committee has not yet been scheduled, as the finalized roster of committee members is still being decided, according to Lester Harmon, school board chairman.

But, Harmon said, the meeting will be well advertised in advance because “part of the process is getting the committee to speak but there will also be an opportunity for the public to speak,” he said. The meetings will also be televised.

The review committee will comprise two residents of each of the five municipalities in the district – Buxton, Hollis, Limington, Standish and Frye Island – and one school board member from each town.

The Standish Town Council decided in workshop Aug. 23 to appoint councilors Michael Delcourt and Greg Sirpis to the committee, according to Gordy Billington, town manager. The appointments will be voted on at the council meeting Sept. 13.

Residents will vote whether to approve the new cost-sharing formula once it is developed. Harmon said a meeting facilitator has estimated the negotiations can be done in two or three meetings, although he’s unsure how much time will pass between each meeting.

In May, the SAD 6 board met with representatives from Frye Island to discuss the cost-sharing formula. Although Frye Island is a seasonal community and does not have any students in the school system, residents pay taxes for the school.

At the meeting, Frye Island officials said high taxes are making it difficult for residents to keep their homes on the island.

Bonny Eagle students wait for their diplomas during graduation at the Cross Insurance Arena in June.