MARKLEEVILLE, Calif. – The Alpine County Board of Supervisors recognizes Sheriff-Coroner Tom Minder for 22 years of dedicated service to Alpine County, honoring a distinguished career defined by leadership, integrity, community partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. The sheriff is retiring.
At its October 20, 2026 meeting, the Board of Supervisors presented a resolution recognizing Sheriff Minder’s remarkable contributions to the County and its residents as he prepares to retire after more than two decades of public service.
Sheriff Minder began his full-time career with the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office in 2004 as a Deputy Sheriff. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2014 and Undersheriff in 2020 before being appointed Interim Sheriff in June 2022. He subsequently assumed elected office in January 2023, becoming one of only a few Native Americans to serve as Sheriff in California.
Throughout his career, Sheriff Minder demonstrated an exceptional understanding of Alpine County’s unique public safety challenges. From navigating remote backcountry terrain during search and rescue operations to maintaining critical emergency communication systems, his hands-on approach and extensive institutional knowledge proved invaluable to the County.
Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office strengthened emergency preparedness, enhanced interdepartmental coordination, and fostered a culture of accountability and teamwork. His contributions included improvements to the County’s emergency radio infrastructure, development of the Sheriff’s Office shooting range as a training resource, and establishment of collaborative Emergency Operations Center team meetings.
Beyond his operational accomplishments, Sheriff Minder was widely respected for his approachable leadership style and commitment to building meaningful relationships throughout the community. His longstanding partnership with the Washoe Tribe, particularly the Hung-A-Lel-Ti Community, helped strengthen trust, communication, and cooperation in support of public safety.
Perhaps most importantly, Sheriff Minder’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. Known for his humility, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand wherever needed, he exemplified the spirit of public service that defines Alpine County.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to Sheriff Minder for his 22 years of service to Alpine County and his lifelong commitment and dedication to public safety,” said Alpine County CEO Sam Booth.
“Sheriff Tom Minder has dedicated years of service to Alpine County and its residents. I’m grateful for his leadership, commitment, and the foundation he has built for our Sheriff’s Office. I wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement,” said the county’s undersheriff, Taylor Green.
As Sheriff Minder concludes his distinguished career, Alpine County extends its sincere appreciation to him and his family, including his wife, Kim, for the many years of dedication, sacrifice, and service to the community.
The Board’s resolution recognizes that Sheriff Minder leaves behind a lasting legacy of practical leadership, mentorship, collaboration, and genuine care for the residents, employees, and visitors of Alpine County.