The Effingham Industrial Development Authority’s board is under new leadership, as one of its most senior members was voted in as chairman Thursday night.

Chap Bennett was named chairman, succeeding Dennis Webb. Webb resigned from the board, citing health concerns in a letter to the IDA.

Webb thanked the IDA board and staff for their well wishes during his recovery, which is under way.

“I want to thank all of you for your dedication to the board and for allowing me to serve as chairman,” Webb wrote. “It has been an honor and one of the best experiences of my life and I will miss it more than I can express.”

Bennett, who was reappointed to the board by the county commissioners last Tuesday, had been the IDA’s vice-chairman. Jimmy Wells, the city of Guyton’s IDA representative, was chosen as the new vice-chairman and Charles Hinely, the city of Springfield’s member, was named secretary.

“All of us are praying for Dennis and his recovery,” Bennett said. “We all acknowledge the amount of time, energy and passion he gave to working with the board and being here.”

Swaid Rahn was chosen to take Webb’s seat on the IDA.

Bennett previously served as chairman from January 2008-January 2010.

IDA member Dick Knowlton asked if the board members could present something to Webb to show their appreciation for his leadership. Webb was named IDA chairman in January 2010.

“He played a big part in some tough times,” Knowlton said.