Jeffery Bertram

Meet Jeffery Bertram, your friendly neighbor who is stepping up as the 2023 Republican candidate for mayor of Norwalk, Ohio.

Now, if the name sounds familiar, that's because Jeff is the great-nephew of the legendary former mayor, Harold Finch. He's a hometown guy through and through, growing up right here in Norwalk. He kicked off his educational journey at St. Paul's elementary school, cruised through Norwalk Jr. and Sr. High Schools, and obtained his diploma in '78. But Jeff’s training did not stop there – he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management from Walsh University. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, class of 2017-41. Yep, he's got the chops.

Jeff chose to engage in a dual career. Working with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (ODRC) where he climbed upward from Corrections Officer to Warden’s Assistant. His decorated U.S. Army journey began as Private and included several duty assignments. His hard work and grit fostered his rise to the rank of Military Police First Sergeant. He is a veteran of the Afghanistan war, even earning the Bronze Star Medal for his leadership in a combat environment.

On the personal side, Jeff's happily married to his High School heart-throb Dana (Neel) Bertram, also a lifelong Norwalk resident. It is clear he's rooted in this place. But wait, there is more! Jeff's a familiar face around town, a member of The Chapel, Norwalk Campus; an officer of American Legion Post 527 and Life member of VFW Post 2743. He has also got a seat at the table in the Huron County Area Veteran's Council and chairs the Huron County Republican Party Central Committee. Oh, and Jeff has a big heart too – he is the treasurer behind Safety Service Fundraising LLC, a non-profit organization making sure foster kids in our community get what they need.

When Jeff talks about Norwalk, you can feel his passion. He wants this place to shine, to be safe, and to thrive. And honestly, he has the track record to make things happen...consider that Jeff was a certified public manager through the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at the Ohio State University. At the same time, he became a certified corrections manager through the American Correctional Association. These certifications qualified Jeff to perform detailed audits of Ohio’s prisons which led to Ohio being ranked among the best correctional agencies in the nation. Jeff was appointed mentor to numerous correctional employees and singled out for special recognition by the Director of the Department of Rehab and Corrections. He is also the recipient of a number of Army meritorious service, commendation, and achievement medals issued for conduct above and beyond the call of duty.

As a candidate for mayor, he has his sights set on a few things:

•Making sure the relationship between Norwalk City Schools and the city's growth is rock solid.

•Ensuring zoning ordinances are followed to spruce up neighborhoods.

•Paving the way for better ties between the city's Administration, Police, and Fire Departments.

•Determine a stable monetary means of better supporting city services.

•Delivering top-notch city services that really help folks with what they need.

With his strong Christian faith, military expertise, and knack for keeping things in line, Jeff's the guy to steer this ship. He is all about keeping things fiscally responsible while making big strides.

 

If Jeff's got your attention, and you're thinking, "Yep, this is the kind of leader we need," then show your support! Cast your vote for Jeff Bertram, or better yet, drop him a line at BertramForNorwalk@yahoo.com or give him a friendly ring at (330) 421-1861. It is time for a Better Norwalk, and Jeff's ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work.