Yuma County Emergency Communications Director Knudsen Resigns, Interim Leader Named

Lonnie Knudsen resigned as communications director of the Washington–Yuma Combined Communications Center effective March 6, 2026, ending his tenure at the agency that handles emergency dispatch for Washington and Yuma counties. The WYCC board has appointed Chris Marst to serve as interim director.

WYCC released a formal notice of the leadership transition, confirming both Knudsen's departure and Marst's appointment. No reason for the resignation was included in the notice, and neither Knudsen nor the board offered public comment beyond the announcement.

The Washington–Yuma Combined Communications Center serves as the combined public safety answering point for the two-county region, handling 911 calls and coordinating emergency response across law enforcement, fire, and medical services. A leadership change at the agency carries direct implications for the continuity of those operations, though WYCC's notice did not address any transition plan or expected duration of Marst's interim service.

Details about Marst's background, his prior role within or outside WYCC, and whether he will be considered for the permanent director position have not been released by the agency.