RUMFORD – Local businessman Ron Theriault on Thursday night called for a public vote to recall Jim Thibodeau from his position as selectman.

Then he presented the selectmen with a petition signed by 27 residents, an action that automatically triggers a special meeting by the board to consider his request.

“Jim Thibodeau has a negative attitude toward existing and other businesses, which has a negative impact on Rumford’s economy,” said Theriault.

Thibodeau, a longtime selectmen, is also the board’s chairman.

The board, later in the meeting, set a special selectmen’s meeting for 4 p.m., Monday, Oct. 11, to discuss the petition request under articles cited in the Town Charter.

Theriault, in the petition, wrote, “Our claim of cause’ is Mr. Thibodeau’s persistent negative attitude towards existing businesses and his unwillingness to cooperate with other towns and organizations for the purpose of economic development. We further claim that his actions have brought about an anti-business atmosphere and reputation that has had a negative impact on Rumford’s economy and its citizens.”

Under the charter, a minimum of 25 signatures requires that a board meeting be held within five days to consider the request. The board can then accept the request and set a special town meeting, or reject it. If rejected, a petition signed by a minimum of 500 qualified voters can force a special town meeting.

In response to Theriault’s petition, Thibodeau said, “I have no idea what he’s talking about.”