George-Rethwisch Named Emergency Communications Director

Dubuque City Manager Mike Van Milligen has named Jessica George-Rethwisch as Dubuque County Emergency Communications Director. Effective Oct. 1, 2023, she will manage the operation of the 911 Emergency Communications Center, which includes law enforcement, fire, and ambulance emergency communication systems in Dubuque County.

“Jessica brings a wealth of experience to this critical public safety position,” said Van Milligen. “She has proven her leadership in the department and worked closely with public safety staff and volunteers throughout Dubuque County for many years.” 

George-Rethwisch has worked in the 911 Emergency Communications Center since 1999. She served as a dispatcher until 2011 when she was named lead dispatcher and has held that role since that time. She has also served as a communications training officer and 911 in schools instructor, both since 2009. Her previous experience includes working as an emergency tech/admitting clerk at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital from 1996-2001 and an emergency medical technician for the Dickeyville Rescue Squad and Jamestown First Responders from 1994-1999. 

As Emergency Communications Director, George-Rethwisch’s responsibilities include overall operation of the 911 Emergency Communications Center as well as management/supervision of the center’s public safety dispatchers and preparation/management of the center’s annual budget. 

George-Rethwisch replaces Mark Murphy who accepted a position in the City of Dubuque Health Services Department. Dubuque County Emergency Management Coordinator Tom Berger has served as interim Emergency Communications Director since June. 

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MEDIA CONTACT
Randy Gehl, Public Information Officer
RGehl@cityofdubuque.org, (563) 589-4151