On WABF 1480 AM Radio Thursday morning, Fairhope Police Chief Joseph Petties announced his retirement from his position, effective Aug. 10.
“It’s come to the point that I’m going to step down as police chief,” Petties said. “I met with a couple of councilmen and talked to the rest on the phone. I’m going to put my family first.”
Petties said he felt it was the right time for him to leave given the health issues his family was facing and that he didn’t feel right continuing to take leave from his position.
“I don’t feel comfortable continuing taking off because it’s not fair to the citizens and it’s not fair to my parents,” Petties said.
When asked by radio host Lori DuBose if his departure had anything to do with the recent negative performance review and requested resignation by Fairhope Mayor Karin Wilson, Petties said he wasn’t focused on that.
“A lot of that played a part, but at the end of the day, I know it has been tough on my family,” Petties said. “Right now, the way I’m looking at it, I”m not going to make it about what was going on in the past. I’m looking at what is going on with my parents and that’s how I’m approaching this.”
Petties said he had not directly communicated with Wilson about his decision to retire.
“I haven’t talked with her,” Petties said. “She’s been out of town. I did send the paperwork over last Friday.”
Petties said he was proud of his 35 year career with the city and said he felt the department would still run smoothly in his absence.
“I feel like the city will be in great shape,” Petties said. “I have some great people who work under me and they do a great job, and I just can’t say enough about them.”
DuBose thanked Petties for his service on behalf of the city.
“The entire community respects you, and we certainly appreciate your 35 years of service to the city,” DuBose said.
