Elgin's interim police chief leaving for job in Schaumburg

Elgin's interim police chief is taking a job in Schaumburg, causing major uncertainty about who will be the next top cop in Elgin.

Bill Wolf, 49, served as deputy chief in Elgin since 2013 and was named interim chief Saturday. He's a 26-year veteran of the department.

Elgin City Council members were informed via email by City Manager Rick Kozal that Wolf provisionally accepted an offer to serve as deputy chief in Schaumburg.

"Schaumburg's recruitment for that position is with the recognition that the deputy chief will transition to the chief of police when the incumbent, Jim Lamkin, soon retires," the email stated.

Wolf declined comment at this time.

Schaumburg Communications Manager Allison Albrecht declined to confirm the information. "Once we get confirmation from human resources that everything is completed, then we will release the appropriate information," she said.

As for Lamkin, "he's our current police chief," she said.

Wolf was appointed interim chief by Kozal in the wake of the departure of Chief Jeff Swoboda, who took a job in Colorado. Kozal said he respects Wolf's decision "to do what he believes is best for him and his family."

"During this transition, we will continue soliciting input from the community on the qualities desired in Elgin's next police chief," Kozal said. "As we review options for replacement, we are confident that our process will consider the solid, diverse pool of candidates we have within the ranks of the Elgin Police Department."

Several Elgin council members endorsed Wolf as the next chief, while some advocated doing an outside search.

Wolf had "tremendous community support" to become the next chief, Councilman Terry Gavin said. "It's a big blow for the city," he said.