Marissa Delilah Maes was appointed as Director of the Office of Emergency Management by the Board of County Commissioners in January of 2021. 

With over a decade of experience in crisis management and disaster preparedness, Marissa brings a wealth of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the community. Her role encompasses the coordination of county-wide emergency plans, disaster response, and recovery efforts, ensuring the safety and resilience of Blaine County in the face of natural and human-made challenges.

Before joining Blaine County, Marissa held leadership roles in emergency management at both state and municipal levels. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and went on to complete a Master’s in Emergency Management, equipping her with a robust foundation in organizational leadership and crisis response strategies. Her innovative approach to emergency preparedness has earned her recognition, including the State Excellence in Disaster Planning Award in 2019.

Under Marissa’s leadership, Blaine County has enhanced its emergency response infrastructure through improved inter-agency collaboration, advanced technological integration, and a focus on community outreach. She spearheaded initiatives like the "Ready Blaine" program, which educates residents on disaster preparedness and fosters volunteer engagement in emergency scenarios. Her dedication to inclusivity ensures that the county’s emergency plans address the needs of vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Beyond her professional commitments, Marissa is an advocate for mental health awareness within the emergency management field. She frequently speaks at regional and national conferences on topics ranging from disaster psychology to resilience-building in first responders. A proud resident of Blaine County, she enjoys hiking the local trails with her two rescue dogs and volunteering at community events. Marissa’s leadership continues to shape Blaine County as a model for proactive and compassionate emergency management.