Carroll Police Chief William Nelson receiving the Medal of Honor and Global Leadership Award in August 2023.

FREWSBURG – Town officials have approved the resignation of the longtime town of Carroll police chief and decided on his successor.

At the December meeting, town Supervisor Tim Burkett read the retirement letter that had been submitted by current police chief William Nelson. After a brief discussion, Nelson’s letter of retirement was approved by the board officials. Nelson will be exiting the role on Jan. 16, following more than seven years of service to the town.

Nelson’s career and service will be remembered by all in the town. In August 2023, Nelson was presented with the Medal of Honor and Global Leadership Award. Nelson’s career as an officer began with his 30 years of service to the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department. The award was presented to Nelson by COJEP International, an organization accredited by the United Nations. This award is one of the highest honors from the organization, recognizing those that have dedicated themselves to their community and made a lasting impact as a result.

Burkett stated that Nelson has been a lifelong resident of the area, having graduated from Frewsburg Central School and raising his family in the town as well. After retiring from the Sheriff’s department, Nelson would be called upon by his home town to serve as the police chief and would take on the position in 2019.

“He’s an experienced officer after his career, and he’s been a life-long resident of Frewsburg. He went to school here, he graduated from here, and has raised a family here,” said Burkett.

Town officials led a discussion pertaining to possible people to step into the role once Nelson is going. A motion was carried that decided that Joshua Ostrander will become the new chief following Nelson’s retirement. Burkett noted the specifics for when exactly Ostrander will take over are planned to be set at the next town board meeting on Jan. 14.