Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County, Alabama, has found itself in the unique position of hosting not one but three leaders at the helm of major statewide associations. Jacksonville Police Chief Marcus Wood, Sheriff Matthew Wade, and County Commissioner Lee Patterson now hold the presidencies of their respective statewide organizations. This rare alignment of leadership puts Calhoun County at the forefront of law enforcement and governmental collaboration in Alabama.
Chief Marcus Wood was sworn in as President of the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP) on August 1, 2024, a role he will hold for a one-year term. Sheriff Matthew Wade is set to take over as President of the Alabama Sheriffs Association (ASA) in January 2025, a leadership position he has worked his way toward over the years. Meanwhile, Commissioner Lee Patterson assumed the presidency of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama (ACCA) on August 22, 2024. Patterson will be responsible for promoting ACCA’s legislative agenda across Alabama’s 67 counties, ensuring that county commissions receive the support they need. With this trifecta of leadership, Calhoun County’s local governance now holds significant sway over the direction of policy and legislation at the state level.
A Unique Moment for Calhoun County
For Chief Wood, the significance of this moment goes beyond individual achievement. “To my knowledge, I don’t think we’ve ever had three people from a single county hold all three of these positions,” said Wood. “It gives us an opportunity to be at the table where law enforcement and policy decisions are being made, not just for our local communities but for the state as a whole.”
Wood emphasizes the importance of leadership in shaping the future of law enforcement across the state. His goal as president of the AACOP is to ensure that police chiefs from all over Alabama receive the training and resources they need to effectively lead their departments. “We’re focusing on executive training so that chiefs are equipped to lead in their respective communities,” said Wood. “It’s about making sure that all chiefs have the tools to adapt to the challenges law enforcement faces today.”
For Sheriff Wade, his upcoming presidency marks the culmination of years of dedication to both the Alabama Sheriffs Association and the people of Calhoun County. “It’s an honor to serve not just my county but all 67 sheriffs across the state,” Wade remarked. “Our role is to make sure laws that affect law enforcement are both fair and beneficial, and to stand against any legislation that could negatively impact the office of sheriff or the people of Alabama.”
Wade has also been vocal about his plans to introduce legislation during his tenure that would impose harsher penalties on perpetrators of sexual crimes. “There’s already legislation we’re working on that would make the laws tougher for those who seek to harm others, particularly in cases of sexual violence. Our job is to protect the people, and I intend to make sure we’re doing everything in our power to do that,” Wade said.
The Power of Collaboration
Commissioner Patterson’s role as president of the ACCA places him at the helm of an organization that represents all 67 counties in Alabama. As president, Patterson is responsible for promoting the legislative agenda of the ACCA, attending district meetings across the state, and advocating for county commissions on a state and national level.
Patterson sees this moment as an unprecedented opportunity for collaboration between the police, sheriff’s office, and county commissions. “It’s rare to have three people from the same county serving as presidents of statewide organizations at the same time,” said Patterson. “This creates a unique opportunity for us to work together and address issues that affect not just Calhoun County but the entire state of Alabama.”
Having a direct line of communication between these three powerful organizations could prove invaluable in shaping policies and addressing key issues. Wood, Wade, and Patterson are already planning to collaborate on initiatives that would benefit their respective fields, while also ensuring that their combined efforts are aligned with the needs of Calhoun County.
“Sometimes, different organizations have competing priorities,” Wood explained. “But having personal relationships with both the Sheriff and the Commissioner means that we can work through any disagreements and find solutions that work for everyone. This is about making sure that, as leaders, we’re putting the needs of the people first and ensuring Alabama gets the best possible representation.”
Mentorship and Shared Success
For Chief Wood, the chance to serve as president alongside his mentor, Sheriff Wade, adds a personal touch to this historic moment. “Sheriff Wade was a mentor to me when I worked under him, and now, for us to both be presidents at the same time is something really special,” Wood shared. “It’s an honor to share this experience with someone who has had such a profound impact on my career.”
Wade echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the importance of mentorship in law enforcement leadership. “To see someone you’ve mentored rise to a position of leadership is incredibly rewarding,” said Wade. “It’s even more meaningful when you get to work alongside them in a capacity where you’re both serving your communities and your state.”
Both men believe that their shared leadership will bring positive outcomes not just for Calhoun County but for law enforcement across Alabama. “This is a chance for us to not only lead but to set an example for future generations of law enforcement,” said Wood. “It’s about leaving a legacy that prioritizes integrity, service, and the protection of our communities.”
A Bright Future Ahead
With three Calhoun County leaders now in positions of statewide influence, the potential for positive change is greater than ever. Chief Wood, Sheriff Wade, and Commissioner Patterson each bring their own unique perspectives to their roles, but together, they form a unified voice advocating for the best interests of their county and their state.
“This is a unique moment in time,” said Patterson. “We’re all in positions where we can make a real difference, and I think that’s something special. It’s an honor to represent Calhoun County on the state stage, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together.”
As the trio embarks on their respective leadership roles, one thing is clear: Calhoun County’s influence in Alabama’s political and law enforcement arenas is stronger than ever, with the potential to leave a lasting impact on the state for years to come.
