Wortman files for county commissioner

Van Wert independent/contributor content

Denzil “Denny” Wortman has formally announced his candidacy for the Van Wert County commissioner position that takes office on January 2, 2013.

Wortman is a lifelong resident of Van Wert County who graduated from Ohio City-Liberty High School, earned a degree from ITT institute in electronics engineering and attended Rhodes State College and Bluffton University majoring in business administration. He was employed at the Chrysler Amplex/GKN Sinter Metals Company.

“Over the 31 years at the company I enjoyed positions of increased responsibility until the company closed in 2000,” Wortman noted. “Throughout my working career I completed my education and pursued continuing studies in the interest of self improvement.”

Along with working a full-time job, Wortman is a farmer working in Van Wert County and is a licensed private pilot with an Instrument rating. He also volunteers many hours of my free time aiding in the operations of the Van Wert County Regional Airport.

He is also a member of American Legion Post 178 and Van Wert Lodge 1197, Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks.

Wortman said he will bring his experience and expertise to the position of county commissioner, where he will serve in the best interest of the residents of Van Wert County.

“Amongst my priorities and at the top of that list is economic development,” he noted. “Upon entering office I will become directly involved in the process of bringing employment to our county.”

Wortman said he is also concerned about the future of the county’s young people and would work within the educational system to assist in developing technical programs for industries interested in expanding or locating in Van Wert County.

Wortman also cites his business experience as a plus for the position of county commissioner.

“Operating my own business has expanded my skills in the management of budgets 
and living within my means,” he said. “I will bring these skills to the commissioner’s position when dealing with the county budgets and spending your hard earned tax dollars. I 
will pursue every opportunity to reduce the county’s operating expenditures.”

Wortman has been married to the former Kaulene Hoverman for 42 years and is the father of two children and grandfather of three.