Midwest Machinery looking to open temporary site following devastating fire

MADISON, Minn. — Midwest Machinery is developing a plan to keep its Madison dealership operating after a fire Tuesday night destroyed the main office and shop facility there.

“As we begin this long process, we are committed to keeping our Madison staff working so they can continue to take care of themselves and their families,” said Ron Reitmeier, Midwest Machinery president. “We are working on securing a long-term temporary facility in Madison so we can get back to the work of supporting the people in the surrounding area.”

The company employs 23 people at its Madison site.

“As our plans are made, we will communicate to our employees and customers how we will fill the gap this fire has created,” Jamie Borstad, Midwest Machinery location manager, said in a news release Thursday.

Macy Moore / West Central Tribune

The fire was reported around 7:15 p.m. Tuesday and quickly engulfed the building. More than 100 personnel representing 25 different agencies from Minnesota and South Dakota battled the blaze and assisted at the scene. Residents from 15 homes and two apartment buildings near the fire were temporarily evacuated.

“Thankfully, no one was injured as a result of this fire,” Borstad said. “I want to thank and commend every one of the first responders, fire departments and community members. They did a great job ensuring the safety of people living in the area, while bringing the fire under control.”

Borstad said the focus now is the spring field needs of farmers.

“With planting just around the corner, a lot of farmers depend on us to keep them in the field. Our folks and their families here in Madison need to know that we will do our utmost to support everyone,” he said.

The primary offices and shop building of Midwest Machinery in Madison have been deemed a total loss, according to Lac qui Parle County officials.

The cause of the fire is not immediately known, and is under investigation.

Midwest Machinery Co. is a privately owned corporation with John Deere dealerships in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company employs more than 700 people.