Port Wentworth Interim Fire Chief Resigns

Wesley Bates, who was Port Wentworth's Interim Fire Chief resigned Wednesday.

  Sources say Bates is resigning to work for a private company.

  Until City Officials can make a permanent decision, Matt Libby will oversee the Port Wentworth Fire Department.

"They approached me and asked me to assist in the day to day operations so that we can continue to provide the same level of services to citizens and effectively manage the department," Police Chief Matt Libby told News Three Wednesday Night.

   Libby says he is not worried about the additional responsibility as he has a great supporting staff around him. Stressing " there has not and will not be a drop in service."

   He admits he does not have any firefighting experience but will work to educate himself on the ins and outs of the profession.

   Chief Libby has not been given a time frame as to how long he will be managing the fire department but says it could be long term. The Council is proposing to create a Director of Public Safety position, something that would save the City money. It's also a position they have discussed with Libby. A 21 year veteran of Port Wentworth Police he says he will do whatever they need him to do.

   Libby did outline if the new Director of Public Safety Position is approved there will be a reorganization of both departments. The plan would include an "Assistant Chief of Fire" and an "Assistant Chief of Police." Libby says he would first look within the departments to fill those spots. Adding that as far as the Fire Department goes he would want someone more operational oriented since he is there in a managerial capacity.

   With the additional responsibilities however Libby is not getting a pay increase. As News Three has reported the City is in tough financial shape after an accounting error by Chatham County.

  WSAV News 3 On Your Side will continue to follow the story and will have more on what Port Wentworth Officials decide.