HARTFORD — Selectmen have formally accepted the resignation of Town Clerk Becky Downey, Chairwoman Lee Holman said, calling it an a “mutual agreement” and an “unhappy” situation.

Holman declined to comment on the reason for the resignation, which came Sunday after an executive session at an emergency meeting of the board.

“The sooner we can put the painful part behind us the better,” she said.

Downey’s last day on the job was Nov. 8.

Isaac Haylock, deputy town clerk, will become interim town clerk.

A hiring committee will be formed, comprised of the Select Board and Christine Mumau, human resources director for Auburn.