Heidi Welsch
County Administrator
As the county administrator, Heidi Welsch, DPA makes recommendations to the county board, implements its policies, provides leadership to the organization, and assures effective delivery of county services.
Dr. Heidi Welsch began serving as Olmsted County’s Administrator in June 2017. Previously, she served as Director of Family Support and Assistance in Olmsted County, and for Dakota County, she worked as Director of Policy and Analysis as well as the Deputy Director of Employment and Economic Assistance. She has also worked in city, metropolitan, and state government in Minnesota. Dr. Welsch started her career as a Peace Corps volunteer in Niger, West Africa.
Olmsted County accomplishments
Dr. Welsch has reorganized county structures and processes to focus on accountability, transparency, and efficiency. Highlights of this work include closer integration and collaboration between Public Health, Housing, and Human Services functions; a more transparent and accountable budget process that is aligned with county priorities and initiatives; a focus on integrated, efficient, and responsive internal services; and improved communication of the value of county government to taxpayers and residents.
Education & credentials
DPA, Doctorate in Public Administration, Hamline University
M.S., Geography, University of Wisconsin – Madison
B.S., Geography and Anthropology, University of Wisconsin – Madison