Travis Gransee selected as new Olmsted County administrator

The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners has selected Travis Gransee to fill the county administrator role effective October 7, 2024.

As county administrator, Gransee will make recommendations to the county board, implement county policies, provide leadership to the Olmsted County government organization, and ensure effective delivery of county services.

Gransee’s career spans 20+ years serving Olmsted County residents (since 2004) and nearly 30 years in the field of human services. Since 2021, he has served as a member of the county’s executive management team and led the county’s Health, Housing, and Human Services division as deputy administrator. Prior to that, Gransee worked in Community Corrections in various roles increasing in responsibility before serving as the director of the department for over seven years.  

“Olmsted County is very fortunate to have Travis Gransee ready and willing to take on the added responsibilities as county administrator,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Sheila Kiscaden. “Travis is an experienced and talented leader who knows the county well, respects our staff, and understands the role of county government. He has had a career dedicated to meeting the needs of our residents and communities and is fully prepared to take on this new leadership position.”   

Heidi Welsch had previously served as Olmsted County administrator from 2017 to late July 2024. After Welsch’s departure, Pete Giesen was selected to serve as interim county administrator and will continue in that role through October 4, 2024.  

“Travis is an excellent leader and a dedicated public servant,” noted Giesen. “He is the perfect choice to fill this important leadership role.”

Olmsted County anticipates additional organizational changes in the coming weeks and months to correspond with this transition. Information will be shared as decisions are made.