During major emergencies such as Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis, the City activates an Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Staff from various departments and community partners collaborate to respond to the crisis and offer resources to community members.  Leading that effort is Director Rachel Sayre, who calls the EOC “the focal point for coordination.”  Watch our video

Staff pause their regular duties and gather in one room, focused entirely on the emergency at hand as a single, unified operation. They streamline decision-making, deploy resources quickly, and meet the most urgent needs of residents and community members. 

The EOC also brings together critical partners from outside City government. Organizations such as the American Red Cross, the National Weather Service, along with county and state representatives and other experts, work side by side with City staff. Having everyone at the same table ensures a timely and coordinated response. 

Preparing for Emergencies  

When the EOC is not activated, preparation continues. Director Sayre and her team train City staff, strengthen partnerships, and refine response plans to ensure readiness for future emergencies. Coordination—before, during, and after a crisis—remains the foundation of Minneapolis’ approach. 

Learn how you can prevent, prepare for and recover from emergencies.