DURHAM — At their meeting Tuesday, selectmen accepted the resignation of road commissioner Daryl Pratt, effective Dec. 31, and voted to call a special town meeting on Dec. 17 to change the position from elected to appointed.

Pratt, who defeated longtime road commissioner Clifton Larrabee Sr. last year, gave his resignation in person Tuesday.

When contacted Wednesday about his decision to leave his post Pratt cited a “philosophical difference,” with the five-member Board of Selectmen. He said he was sorry to disappoint those who voted for him, “But I can’t work with that board, that’s all.”

Board Chairman Wesley Bennett said in accordance with state law, selectmen will appoint a road “supervisor” who will answer to the Board of Selectmen, to fill the remaining three and a half months of Pratt’s unexpired term until a town meeting in April.

To change a position from elected to appointed, state law requires a decision be made by voters at least 90 days prior to the annual town meeting/election — which is why the special town meeting is being called so quickly Bennett explained. Selectmen will recommend that voters approve the change.

A special town meeting will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at the elementary school gymnasium. For more information, call Town Clerk Shannon Plourde at 353-2561.