Aarik Long – The Mountaineer, Waynesville, N.C.
Feb. 24—Waynesville Fire Chief Joey Webb is hanging up his turnout gear after nearly 50 years in fire service.
Webb was recognized with a retirement party on Wednesday, his final day as the town’s fire chief.
“It’s been a privilege,” Webb said “I’ve got the best job. There’s no doubt about it. I told people before it would be a cold day before I left this job. Well, today is a cold day.”
The party was filled with those Webb has worked with throughout the years. Local politicians, co-workers, residents and state officials turned out to wish Webb the best in retirement.
“You have brought trust to the community. Your leadership and what you’ve done with your fellow employees is unmatchable,” Waynesville Mayor Gary Caldwell said. “You put our firefighters at the top of the list in North Carolina.”
The chief’s journey through fire service began back in 1977 in Waynesville. In 1983, he left to go to the Clyde Fire Department but returned as Waynesville’s assistant chief in 2006. By 2008, he was the town’s fire chief.
“Since that time, he’s graced our town with his professionality, his personality and his leadership,” Town Manager Rob Hites said.
Webb’s personal and family life has been intertwined with his work. Just about a month before beginning in fire service, Webb got married.
His wife and kids have been an integral part of his success as fire chief.
“My wife has supported me throughout the whole time,” Webb said. “My children were born and raised in it. They always knew if they got in trouble to go to the fire station and someone would be there to help them.”
While Webb is closing the chapter of his life as fire chief, he’ll still be out and about in town.
In fact, he’ll probably still be doing work for the town.
“He’s already got a plan to help us out with our fire inspections,” Hites said. “I hope, just like (former Waynesville Police Chief) Bill Hollingsed, he drops by the office frequently, because he’s one person that can always tell me what’s going on in the county.”
Webb was presented with two honors during the ceremony. He received the Order of the Guardian from Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey. He was also awarded the Service of Excellence award from State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor.
On Thursday, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Mehaffey was named the town’s interim fire chief.
“Assistant Chief Mehaffey has demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism throughout his tenure, making him a natural choice for this important role,” Hites said. “We are confident in Assistant Chief Mehaffey’s ability to lead our fire department during this transitional period. His experience and commitment to public safety will ensure that the Waynesville Fire Department continues to serve our community effectively.”
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