Community engagement in emergency management illustrates preparedness in Grand Rapids.
Allison Farole, Grand Rapids’ emergency management administrator, is leaving to lead the HSEM division in Minnesota. Her contributions to emergency preparedness in the city since 2019 include establishing the Office of Emergency Management and coordinating major responses. As her departure approaches, the city reflects on her impactful legacy and prepares for a national search for her successor.
In a bittersweet turn of events, the city of Grand Rapids is preparing to say goodbye to its dedicated emergency management administrator, Allison Farole. After serving in this role since 2019, Farole has decided to take her talents to the state of Minnesota, where she will start her new position leading the Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) division within the Department of Public Safety on May 7.
During her tenure in Grand Rapids, Farole played a crucial role in establishing the city’s Office of Emergency Management along with its Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This significant achievement marked a transformative moment in the city’s approach to emergency management. Farole was instrumental in transferring emergency management responsibilities from Kent County to the city itself, ensuring that Grand Rapids could respond more effectively to emergencies.
Farole’s time in Grand Rapids wasn’t without its challenges. She coordinated planning and response efforts for major events like the presidential elections in 2020 and is already gearing up for the 2024 elections. Her expertise was also put to the test during severe weather events, the COVID-19 pandemic, and civil protests, where she managed emergency operations with skill and dedication.
One of Farole’s standout accomplishments was the creation of Grand Rapids’ very first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). This initiative not only strengthened the city’s emergency response capabilities but also engaged community members in making their neighborhoods safer. Under her guidance, the Office of Emergency Management became a cornerstone of resilience for the city.
Mark Washington, the city manager, has been vocal about Farole’s contributions to Grand Rapids, noting that her efforts have significantly enhanced the city’s readiness for large-scale emergencies. As her departure approaches, the city is now in the process of determining the future of its emergency management leadership.
As she prepares for her move, Farole reflects on her time in Grand Rapids with gratitude and passion. With a background in communications and a master’s degree in public administration, she also holds a graduate certificate in homeland security and emergency preparedness. Her experience is underscored by her previous role as the emergency management coordinator for the Charlottesville-University of Virginia-Albemarle County Office of Emergency Management.
In her new position in Minnesota, Farole will oversee statewide efforts to ensure that communities are well-prepared, can effectively respond to emergencies, and recover swiftly from disasters. Her impressive portfolio includes roles with notable organizations like the International Association of Emergency Managers Region 5, where she currently serves as president, and she’s a co-chair of the FEMA Region 5 Regional Advisory Council.
For now, the Grand Rapids Fire Department will take the reins of emergency management coordination while a national search for Farole’s successor kicks off. Fire Chief Brad Brown is set to appoint an acting emergency manager before Farole officially makes her transition.
As Allison Farole sets off on her new adventure in Minnesota, she leaves behind a legacy of enhanced preparedness and community resilience in Grand Rapids. Her passion and commitment have truly made a difference, and she will certainly be missed. Wishing her all the best in her future endeavors as she continues to serve communities in need!
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