WILTON — A 14-year incumbent selectman was defeated in his reelection bid for a three-year term Tuesday by a challenger who said it is time for more open government and less micromanaging of town departments.

Rodney Hall, an eighth-generation farmer from East Dixfield, was defeated by Irving Faunce, program manager for Western Maine Community Action, 321 to 240. Douglas Hiltz came in third with 89 votes. Another three-year term was won by incumbent Russell Black over Keith Swett, 425 to 222.

Faunce went door-to-door to talk to residents and said earlier it was time for more open and positive approach to government in Wilton. Several times he has asked the board for more information on problems plaguing the police department that centered on domestic assault investigations.

He also questioned the necessity of some executive sessions. It was not until Chief Dennis Brown was hired in January and conducted an internal investigation that all four former full-time officers eventually quit or retired.

Hall could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

Angela LeClair won as a write-in candidate for a two-year term on the board of directors for School Administrative District 9 with 651 votes. Running unopposed for reelection to the school board was Robert Pullo, who received 484 votes.

Betty Jespersen
Staff Writer