DIXFIELD – Dixfield selectmen and former police Sgt. Mark Dow verbally agreed Thursday night to his retiring with all credentials and a lump sum payment of $5,000.

The two sides held a meeting at the library to discuss Dow’s grievance over his dismissal from the force after prolonged medical leave.

In explaining to the board why he wanted the opportunity to retire, Dow cited a discounted health care plan sponsored by the Maine Municipal Association, and also the pride he has in the work he did for the town.

“Nothing I’ve done begins to compare with serving as a police officer in terms of identity,” he said. “You might think (retirement status) is a small thing, but that’s a major consideration to me.”

Giving his endorsement to Dow’s request for retirement was Dixfield Police Chief Richard Pickett.

“I agree 100 percent with Mark about identifying as a police officer,” Pickett said. “He has certainly fulfilled those duties, and I have absolutely no problem with him having the credentials that go along with retirement.”

According to the terms of the agreement, Dow will receive the badge and ID of a retired police sergeant, and he will be allowed to train and instruct with the force on firearms pending police chief approval.

The terms were presented to Dow after Town Manager Tom Richmond met with board members James Dejardins, Raymond Carlton and Bettina Martin in executive session to discuss the agreement.

Dow, a Rumford man who has been on the force since 2001, said the situation started after doctors discovered in June of last year that he has a yet undiagnosed medical condition, one that affects his muscles and could damage his kidneys. After that discovery, medical advice dictated that he avoid excessive exertion, advice that has kept him off the force ever since.

Citing hardship to the force and the town, the town ultimately terminated his employment at the start of 2008.

That termination eventually led to the grievance Dow submitted in December. At issue for Dow was the town’s application of its personnel policy, which governs sick leave and vacation time.

Stating Thursday that he wanted what was best for all involved, he requested that he be allowed to retire from the force rather than be terminated or push for reinstatement.

Upon learning the board’s proposed settlement, Dow agreed and expressed his appreciation to the board and to the town of Dixfield.

“I want to thank you for the chance to serve that past seven years. I appreciate the chance to serve you folks,” he said.

The settlement, while only agreed to verbally on Thursday, should be written up and signed “in short order,” according counsel Lee Bragg of Portland.