Meet your trustee candidates

Candidates running unopposed for election in Districts 3, 7 and 8

Timothy Derck
District 3

“I have been a member-owner of Paulding Putnam Electric for 30 years and live in Antwerp, Ohio. I am a member of the Antwerp Rotary Club, Paulding County Farm Bureau, Antwerp Chamber of Commerce, and Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Antwerp. I am also employed at Antwerp Insurance Agency and, along with two partners, own Zuber Farms. My wife, Lisa, and I have three children. I still make time to go boating, kayaking, hunting, and play pickleball.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your trustee since 2003, and I am looking forward to serving you in the future. I have completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director and Board Leadership certificates, as well as earned my Director Gold Credential through training programs from NRECA. I know the importance of serving our community and membership.”


Ken Niese
District 7

“My wife and I reside in Putnam County, where I have been a member-owner for 42 years. I am a retired farmer, but I still enjoy farming and spending time with my grandchildren. I am on the maintenance committee for Miller City, a part of the Miller City Sportsman Club, and a member of St. Nicholas Parish, Knights of Columbus, and Putnam County Farm Bureau.

“I have gained many skills through this opportunity of being on the board. I have completed my Credentialed Cooperative Director certificate classes and am now working to complete my Board Leadership classes to further understand the cooperative. I like to talk to members who are proud to be with Paulding Putnam; it gives me a feeling of purpose to serve on the board.”


Douglas Fortman
District 8

“I have been a member of Paulding Putnam Electric for 30 years and live in Cloverdale, Ohio. I do maintenance work for Unverferth Manufacturing Co. My wife, Norma, and I have been members of Ottoville Immaculate Conception church for 30 years. I am also a member of Putnam County Farm Bureau, Ottoville VFW, Ottoville Eagles, Delphos Eagles, and Kalida Fish and Game Club. When I have free time, I enjoy building wine barrel tables and drying racks, being outside, and giving the grandkids rides on the Kubota.

“I see a great future for the co-op. I have served on the board for three years, and the knowledge I have gained will help me to better serve my members. I like and believe in the co-op model, as I am a proud co-op member.”