TOPSHAM – The town’s former fire chief has declined comment on his dismissal and says he will follow his lawyer’s advice on whether to appeal.

After meeting behind closed doors for more than four hours, the Board of Selectmen voted unanimously Wednesday night to fire Robert Stiehler.

Town Manager Gary Brown said Thursday that the firing was job-related but did not elaborate.

Stiehler, who had been on paid administrative leave since Oct. 3, can appeal the decision within 30 days in Superior Court, town attorney Linda McGill said.

Stiehler’s lawyer, Michael Feldman, said he and his client were evaluating their next step.

Stiehler began work in July 2002 as Topsham’s fire chief after serving for more than 22 years in the Brunswick Fire Department.