Stonington — The Board of Selectmen voted 2-1 Wednesday, with Democratic First Selectman Ed Haberek opposed, to appoint Democratic Town Committee Chairman Ray Trebisacci to the Board of Police Commissioners.

During the board’s interview of the Pawcatuck attorney last month, Haberek questioned whether the fact that Trebisacci is the cousin of Police Chief J. Darren Stewart’s wife, Beth, would pose a conflict of interest for him serving on the board. Trebisacci said it would not.

Haberek supported one of the two other candidates interviewed for the position, Ray DiPalo, citing his experience in information technology. The third candidate was Henri Gourd, who has attended numerous Board of Police Commissioners meetings over the past two years.

Haberek said he also was concerned about losing Trebisacci’s leadership on the town committee with several important local elections coming up.

A town ordinance requires that Trebisacci leave the town committee in order to serve as a police commissioner, something he has said he is willing to do.

Democrat George Crouse made the motion to appoint Trebisacci and his motion was seconded by Republican Selectman Rob Simmons.

Referring to Trebisacci’s family connection to Stewart, Crouse said as an attorney, Trebisacci understands the importance of taking an oath and commitment to the law.

“There’s no question he’ll protect the town,” said Crouse, who is scheduled to become acting first selectman when Haberek resigns Dec. 5.

j.wojtas@theday.com

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