Former Burnsville Cop Named New Emergency Coordinator for Dakota County

A man who used to be one of "Burnsville's finest" will now lead Dakota County's emergency management team.

According to a statement from Sheriff Dave Bellows, the county's new Emergency Preparedness Director will be Dan Carlson, formerly of the Burnsville PD. Carlson takes over for Dave Gisch, who retired in early January after 29 years with the county. In his new position, Carlson will be responsible for leading disaster preparations, response and recovery. The seven-page job description issued by the county on Jan. 22 lists a salary range of $57,700 to $81,300 annually. 

Carlson has a Master's Degree in Police Leadership, Administration, and Education from the University of St. Thomas and over 30 years of direct experience in law enforcement. He was a member on the BPD from 1986 to 2010. In his final years on the force, Carlson served as Burnsville's emergency management coordinator. 

Since then, Carlson he has worked as a private Homeland Security consultant.

“Dakota County is fortunate to find an individual with Dan’s expertise and experience in emergency management,” Bellows said in a prepared statement.

Carlson will officially start his new position on March 18.