Emergency management’s Lindquist resigns after decades of service

Jake Sias

Grant County Herald

Grant County commissioners accepted the resignation of Emergency Management Coordinator Tina Lindquist during a recent board meeting. Lindquist, who has served the county for 25 years, has been instrumental in overseeing and managing the county’s emergency and continuity plans.

Lindquist’s role involved managing the Emergency Management Department, coordinating the county’s response to natural and man-made emergencies, and implementing safety protocols. She collaborated closely with city governments, public safety agencies, and volunteer organizations to ensure the county was prepared for any emergency. Her responsibilities also included developing and guiding procedures and standards, as well as overseeing the County Employee Right to Know safety training.

In the past year, Lindquist received recognition for her work, earning both the Minnesota Emergency Management Professional of the Year Award and the Outstanding Contribution to Emergency Management Award. In 2007, she also received the Association of Minnesota Emergency Managers Non-Director of the Year award during her time as deputy director. 

Her efforts were critical during crises such as the Hoffman Northstar Apartments explosion, where she coordinated relief efforts for those affected. Additionally, Lindquist was instrumental in enhancing the county’s preparedness by bringing in Minnesota’s first X-band weather radar to Wendell. The radar helped fill the weather radar gap that covered Grant County and many of its neighbors. By filling this gap, vital information can now be available to first responders and emergency management teams, benefiting not only the local community, but much of the surrounding area. 

Lindquist plans to continue her career in emergency management in Pope County. Grant County is actively seeking candidates to fill the position. 

Jake Sias: 

jake@grantcountyherald.com

Reed Anfinson: 

reed@swiftcountymonitor.com