RUMFORD — By unanimous vote Tuesday night, selectmen appointed local lawyer Jennifer Kreckel as the town’s attorney for a year.

Kreckel, who replaces Rumford lawyer Thomas Carey, previously held the position for several years prior to Carey’s appointment.

At a special board meeting on Aug. 11, Town Manager Carlo Puiia nominated Carey for the position, according to the minutes. Chairman Greg Buccina then motioned to approve the appointment.

However, Selectman Jeremy Volkernick wanted to seek someone who works with municipalities in Maine and asked Puiia to check with other attorneys.

Like Volkernick, Selectman Jolene Lovejoy also wanted an attorney experienced with Maine municipalities, but also one who specializes in tax-increment financing for a more cost-effective approach.

However, Rumford’s charter requires that town attorneys reside in Rumford, something Volkernick suggested changing.

Because selectmen voted 2-2 on Aug. 11 on Buccina’s motion, Carey wasn’t appointed. Selectman Jeff Sterling was absent.

Since then, Carey told Puiia to remove his name from the list of Rumford lawyers from whom to choose, Puiia said Tuesday evening.

“I have no problem with Tom Carey. His work is acceptable,” Volkernick said Tuesday night.

“As for myself, we work for the taxpayers to find the best attorney for the best price and I feel we couldn’t do that this time because of the town charter,” he said.

The board then voted 5-0 for Kreckel, ending the special board meeting in 10 minutes.

tkarkos@sunjournal.com

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