BUCKFIELD — Silence filled a packed room of over 35 people as town officials returned from an executive session and acting Chairman Eileen Hotham motioned to accept the resignation of Floyd Richardson Jr. from the Board of Selectmen.

Richardson said in a letter that it is with deep regret that he was resigning from the board immediately. Richardson stated in the letter, "I do so without hesitation or regret of the actions I have taken while serving on the board." He said he would offer a news release soon to state his reasons for resigning.

Richardson had been accused of a conflict of interest in his votes on matters involving Buckfield Rescue where he is assistant chief.

Town Manager Glen Holmes said the next step will be for the selectmen to act at their next meeting to set a date for a special election for a new selectman.

Holmes gave a report on the Fire Department Staffing Committee that has representatives from Buckfield, Sumner, Hartford, Hebron, Turner and Paris.

The first meeting will be in Buckfield and towns will be working together on Fire Department staffing.

Holmes reported on a new form that residents can fill out on road complaints. He said complaints can also be done by phone.

He also reported on the junkyard court case involving Roger Bennett. He said on Aug. 17 that the town will enter the Bennett property and begin removing junk from the premises. This is in compliance with a court order to clear up the site. Holmes indicated there will be a county deputy and the town lawyer on site at the time.

The board moved to accept funds from the Rural Initiative Program for capital improvement on Allen and Bear pond roads. The $13,761 is to be paid to the town quarterly.