Former Republican Congressman Rob Simmons, right, speaks Wednesday with First Selectman Edward Haberek Jr. It was Simmons' first meeting as a member of the Board of Selectmen since he was appointed two weeks ago to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Republican Glee McAnanly. Before serving three terms in Congress, from 2001 to 2007, Simmons had served with Selectman George Crouse on the town's Board of Police Commissioners. Just before the meeting ended, Simmons thanked the board for appointing him and praised McAnanly for her service, saying it was a great honor to replace her.