After more than 30 years on the job, Mandeville Police Chief Tom Buell is calling it quits.  "I'll miss it," said Buell, who gave his resignation speech during Thursday night's Mandeville City Council. 

WWL-TV

Buell is retiring on the heels of harsh criticism from a state legislative audit that blasted his handling of the police department's Toys For Tots Program.  "There's been some rough times lately," said Bull.  "It's a heck of a way to leave, but it's all got to stop sometime."

An emotional Buell said his goodbye at the podium in the council chambers with Mandeville Mayor Eddie Price at his side.  "He has done an excellent job as chief," said Price, who is now charged with naming a new chief.

"It's going to be hard to replace him," said Price.  "He's chosen to retire and that's a sad day for this community."

Buell says he will officially leave his post on January 2, 2009.  But the Mandeville Police Chief says he may not be without a badge for long.  "I hope down the road I will find something in law enforcement."