In a deeply personal farewell speech before the Baldwin City Council Monday night, Baldwin Police Chief Charlie Webb announced he’s resigning. Webb’s been police chief for the last three-and-a-half years and said the job’s taken a toll on his health. Also, his wife was just recently diagnosed with cancer.
“Never in my life have I chosen myself and my family over my career and it’s time for me to do that,” said Chief Webb.
He thanked the Baldwin City Council members for their support and the example they set.
“What drew me to Baldwin was watching you guys as a group completely make decisions that were the best for your citizens and not just for any other reason,” Webb said. “I really respect all of you for that and I always will.”
Webb was promoted to chief from assistant chief in 2016 when Chad Nichols resigned to become the sheriff of Rabun County. While tendering his resignation he gave a shout-out to his colleagues in the department and at the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC). “You all have an amazing police department right now. I’m really going to miss them. I’m really going to miss the city,” he said.
He’ll also miss Baldwin Elementary School. Under Webb’s leadership, the Baldwin Police Department has actively supported students and staff through fundraisers, Christmas toy drives, and enhanced school safety measures.
“I love those kids and I love those teachers,” Chief Webb told the council. “Baldwin Elementary’s got it. That’s the best school in this whole state.”
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A reluctant Mayor Joe Elam and city council accepted the chief’s resignation. Elam called Webb an “inspirational” part of the city. “I respect you as a man to step forward and put your family as a priority.”
District 5 Councilwoman Alice Venter got choked up talking about the job Chief Webb he has done.
“In the past, we have not had a good reputation and I really appreciate what you have done to improve that and to build the department that you have,” Venter told the chief. “I’m very sad to see you go.”
Following Webb’s resignation, Elam introduced Matthew Nall as Baldwin’s interim police chief. He’ll work alongside Webb before taking over the job on May 1.
“I really appreciate this opportunity,” Nall told the council. “I know I couldn’t do it without the incredible team we’ve got. Chief Webb, I’m going to greatly miss him. I’m going to do the best I can to honor everything he’s done.”
Chief Webb’s resignation marks the second high profile departure from the department in recent days. His second-in-command Captain Israel Segers also resigned from Baldwin PD. His last day on the job was Friday, April 17.
In a statement to Now Habersham after the meeting, Elam said “The council and I are saddened of Chief Webb’s resignation. He has lead our police department to be one which we are very proud of. Chief Webb is the type of leader which makes everyone around him perform at their best. He is a humble man and I know he will find success in all he does. I pray for him and his wife.”
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