Woolwich selectmen took possession of three properties for unpaid property taxes totaling $11,229 when they met Monday evening.

Chairman David King Sr. noted one of the owners hadn’t paid any property taxes in over four years. Most of the town’s 1,100 taxpayers make every effort to pay on time, he said.

“There are about a dozen or so who are totally ignoring us while enjoying all the benefits the town has to offer,” King  continued. “We’ve sent numerous overdue notices. Maybe if we start taking possession of properties for back taxes and put them on the market they’ll take us seriously.”

“It’s not fair to the people in town who have paid their property taxes,” commented Selectman Lloyd Coombs.

One of the property owners owed $4,161 in back taxes, another $1,418 and a third $5,650. “If people make an effort to pay their taxes, provide us with regular payments we’ll work with them,” King said.

Notice of the foreclosures will be advertised in the newspaper. The properties are identified by their lot number appearing on the tax map. All bids must be received at the town office by 6 p.m., Wednesday Aug. 31. Bids will be opened and reviewed at the board’s Sept. 6 meeting.

Each successful bidder shall have 15 days from the date of the bid acceptance to complete the purchase. Selectmen retain the right to reject any or all bids. More information including the minimum bid price for each property is available at the town office during business hours.

Volunteer recognized

Robert Meade of the Monument Committee was honored by selectmen for his many years of community service. The board thanked Meade and presented him with a certificate of appreciation.

On behalf of the committee, Meade thanked selectmen and the town for their support in the care of the monument and grounds around it along with the Route 1 pedestrian tunnel.

Selectmen discussed repainting the tunnel’s interior walls. One suggestion was to possibly involve the Woolwich Central School’s art department.

Also Monday, EMS Director Julia Gillespie told selectmen she had recently promoted Julie Huston to EMS II. Huston will be directing the EMS department while Gillespie is on vacation the next two weeks.

Gillespie also noted the department’s EMS service license needs to be renewed by the end of August. The ambulance recently passed its required inspection.

Jon L. Hentz was reappointed shellfish warden, Terry MacGregor animal control officer, Janice Bradford town clerk and registrar of voters, and Lynette Eastman town administrator, treasurer and general assistance administrator.