The meeting will feature presentations on what homeowners can do now to reduce their home heating and electrical costs before winter sets in. Representatives from several agencies will also be present to talk about what financial assistance is available to area residents for oil and energy expenses and weatherization projects.

Elected officials have been invited to attend the meeting to talk about what is being done at the local and state level to address the impact of the high cost of energy.

Local civic and religious leaders are encouraged to attend the meeting to share ideas on what their club or church can offer in the form of support for area residents this winter.

The meeting will also feature a question and answer segment. Residents are encouraged to attend to offer suggestions. Other possible meeting topics include the establishment of a directory of emergency shelters for the area and the creation of a fuel coop.

Founded in January, 2008, the Dexter Energy Committee seeks to publicize energy saving projects for area homeowners; research alternative energy projects for the town; and find ways to make public buildings more energy efficient.

Meetings are open to the public and are held every other week at 1 P.M. at the Dexter Town Council Chambers. The next meeting is Wednesday, Aug. 27. Meeting dates are also posted at http://www.dextermaine.org/energycommittee/index.html.

More information on the committee and the August 20 forum is available by contacting committee members Ann Kendall, chairman, Ron Apel, Sam Brown, Ruth Fogg, Lois Field, Tony Larson, Tammy Lockhart, Dave Pearson or Fred Sherburne.