Linda-Jean Briggs (File photo)

RUMFORD — The Board of Selectmen voted 4-1 Wednesday night to fire Town Manager Linda-Jean Briggs.

The motion was made by Selectman Jim Windover to “terminate the town manager, without cause, in accordance with her contract.”

That was seconded by Selectman Mark Belanger.

Chairman Chris Brennick and John Pepin also voted to terminate Briggs, with Selectman Peter Chase voting against the motion.

Brennick added that Briggs will receive six months’ pay as the severance package.

Briggs, who was in the first year of a three-year contract as town manager, had been suspended with pay Dec. 14.

While more than 30 people waited in the auditorium, selectmen met in closed doors in the Jury Room downstairs with the town’s attorney, and with Briggs and her attorney for more than two and a half hours before making their decision.

Following the announcement, supporters lined up near the back of the auditorium to give a tearful Briggs hugs and to wish her well.

“I have to gather my wits and sharpen my resume,” she said.

Chase gave Briggs a hug and said, “I wish I could have done more.”

At the Dec. 14 meeting, Chase said, “I don’t think L-J has committed any crime or anything that warrants a suspension. Again, I think it’s communication and that’s something that can be worked on.”

Briggs said at that time the reason for the suspension involved the town revaluation and complaints that assessors were showing at residences unannounced.

bfarrin@sunmediagroup.net