James Theriault

RUMFORD — James Theriault has resigned from the Board of Selectmen, saying that his recent appointment by Gov. Paul LePage as Oxford County sheriff does not leave him the necessary time to be an effective board member.

Board Chairman Chris Brennick read Theriault’s brief resignation letter at the selectmen meeting Thursday, adding that the resignation is effective immediately.

Theriault was elected last June to a three-year term on the Board of Selectmen.

Brennick said that by the town charter, because the vacancy is less than 120 days from the annual town meeting in June, the position will remain open until the June election to complete the two-year unexpired term.

Theriault was appointed Feb. 7 to serve the remainder of Wayne Gallant’s term as Oxford County sheriff. Gallant resigned Dec. 6 after allegations surfaced that he had sexually harassed members of his department.

Theriault said Gallant’s term ends Dec. 31. The new sheriff says he’s preparing to run for a full three-year term.

Prior to the meeting, held a public hearing to discuss an application being submitted to the Maine community development block grant program for a $1 million public infrastructure grant for the downtown project.

The purpose of the grant application is to replace water, sewer and storm drains, separating roof and floor drains from the sanitary sewer system.

A total of 17 letters of support were read into the public record, which Town Manager Linda-Jean Briggs said will enhance their chances of winning the grant.

During the regular meeting, selectmen gave unanimous support to authorize Briggs to submit the CDBG application.

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