"In the face of disaster it is imperative our statewide communications ability is an asset not an obstacle," Blunt said. "Jim has an impressive background spending the last 35 years involved in public safety communications, and his extensive credentials make him the best choice to fill this important role. We must continue to implement a viable short-term answer to interoperability while seeking a more global solution over the long term."
"I am honored to accept this position, and my mission to promote a statewide interoperable communication environment is clear. First responders should be able to talk to each other on demand to support critical incident response, and I am dedicated to ensuring our state makes that happen," Lundsted said.
Blunt established the State Interoperable Executive Committee under the Homeland Security Advisory Council, committing more than $13 million in federal grant funds. The Committee oversees statewide emergency communications planning and has helped ensure a coordinated response during major emergencies. The grants focused on promoting interoperability and narrow banding for smaller jurisdictions that otherwise would experience difficulty meeting the FCC Narrowband deadline of 2013.
Lundsted, 54 of Jefferson City, has been involved in public safety communications at the municipal, county, and state level, including directing a joint city-county 911 center. He is an original member of the SIEC and has served two terms as president of the Missouri APCO Chapter.
Prior to his current appointment, he served in the Information Technology Section of the Missouri Department of Conservation. In his last assignment, he was responsible for wireless, telephone and data communications services, including management of a statewide radio communications network for the Conservation Department.
