The Rockland city mayor and councilors are inviting all RSU 13 municipal officials — select board members and school board members — to an impromptu meeting at Rockland City Hall, Oct. 27, at 6 p.m.

“The push for withdrawal stems from the Rockland citizens frustration with unfulfilled promises of consolidation efficiencies and plans that were never implemented,” wrote Rockland City Manager Jim Chaousis, in an Oct. 15 news release. “As the largest municipal entity of RSU 13 comes the largest price tag. The city also suffers through the national economic situation with far more effect than our rural neighbors. Service-center communities are very susceptible to struggles when growth isn't apparent. The City Council responded to similar concerns over rising costs to taxpayers with unprecedented budget decisions that were painful, yet necessary for us as a community. There is little surprise from the City Council that reluctance on behalf of RSU 13 to do likewise has led to a citizen's initiative to withdraw.”

Regional School Unit 13 consists of Cushing, Owls Head, Rockland, Thomaston and South Thomaston, educating public school students K-12. Last year, St. George successfully withdrew from the union.

“The Superintendent of Schools from RSU 13 has delivered a plan that is achievable but resembles plans of the past,” wrote Chaousis “The optimism of a united and consolidated school district seems to be at our fingertips. The plan appears affordable, reasonable, and thoughtful but lacking the details needed for comfort. Regardless of these concerns, residents are starting to believe in the administration of the RSU, and the school board, and their ability to control costs while providing a quality education.”

He continued: “Rockland voters are at a crossroads. Rockland City Councilors have remained silent about which path to take but very vocal about the unsustainability of our current path. As a city official, there is a complicated and unappealing choice of supporting a citizen led withdrawal initiative or supporting a plan that lacks the level of detail required to instill confidence in our residents that changes are being made. The City Council feels the need to take a leadership role in addressing the frustration of citizens while working collaboratively with the existing district.

“We once joined the region in an optimistic venture to educate our children together in creating RSU 13. The Rockland City Council would like to invite the RSU 13 municipal leaders to one more forum before the decision to withdraw is brought to the public. I realize the notice is short but please try to attend.”