Stonington - Resigning First Selectman Ed Haberek took to Facebook Sunday to criticize Republican Selectman Rob Simmons for saying he would be interested in challenging Democratic Selectman George Crouse to fill his seat, something that would trigger a special election next year.

Minutes after Haberek announced last week that he would resign Nov. 30, both Crouse, who has been Haberek's running mate in three elections, and Simmons, the former congressman and state business advocate, said they would be interested in filling the remainder of Haberek's term, which ends in November 2015.

"George Crouse deserves to take over as first selectman. He has served admirably with me for five years. For Selectman Simmons to force an election and cost to town for his own gain possibly is disrespectful. He has only been serving for months. Very sad," wrote Haberek.

Facebook face-off

Later in response to comments posted on his Facebook page, he wrote, "I admire George for his dedication and sacrifice also. Unfortunately Selectman Simmons didn't check his 'ego at the door.'"

When one resident told Haberek to stop chiming in because he is no longer part of the process after resigning and argued that it is appropriate to hold an election and let voters make their choice, Haberek shot back: "I still own property here and pay taxes, I am still leading my party till end of month and George and I are the only ones elected for our respected offices. Thank you."

Simmons could not be reached to comment Sunday night.

As of Nov. 30, Crouse, a retired teacher and the longtime coach of the Stonington High School's girls tennis team, will serve as acting first selectman. He and Simmons will then have 30 days to agree on who should replace Haberek. If they cannot do that, which appears likely, the town's elected Democrats, with the exception of the boards of finance and education, will then have 30 days to name a successor to Haberek. The elected officials are Crouse, Town Clerk Cindy Ladwig, Treasurer Paul Cravinho and the four constables.

Once they name a successor, voters will have 15 days to collect the signatures needed to file a petition to force a special election. A total of 5 percent of the town's 12,359 registered voters would have to sign the petition. Under state law, the special election would be held about five months later. That election would also be open to candidates other than Crouse and Simmons. If either Crouse or Simmons becomes the first selectman, the process would be repeated to fill the selectman's vacancy.

Simmons, criticized Haberek during the 2013 election campaign, and Haberek initially balked at appointing him to serve the remainder of Republican Glee McAnanly term when she resigned this summer. But Simmons and Crouse served together on the police commission and both men have said they respect each other and can work together for the good of the town.

j.wojtas@theday.com

@joewojtas