JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Stutsman County will have a new Emergency Manager and Assistant Emergency Manager this spring.

It was reported in September 2020 that current Emergency Manager and 911 Coordinator Jerry Bergquist would be looking to retire in 2021. He has served as the Emergency Manager since 1988.

The county then began the hiring process. Earlier this month, Bergquist brought forth their recommendation for the position.

Bergquist added that Andrew Kirking would begin as the new Emergency Manager on March 22nd, giving the county a few weeks before he starts.

For the assistant position, Bergquist says they had 8 applicants and interviewed 4.

Because the county was in the unique spot of hiring for both positions, they looked for two individuals who would work well together personality wise.

Bergquist added he would try to stay on until the end of April to help with training and a transition.