Bertram could start his job on Aug. 1, the day after treasurer Kelley Thorpe’s resignation becomes official, Andrew said. Thorpe is retiring for “personal reasons,” she said.
Andrew said the district was impressed with both candidates, Bertram and Teresa Napier, treasurer at New Richmond District since 1995. But since Bertram works at a larger district than Middletown and he’s familiar with the area, he was the choice, she said.
Andrew said those who attended the public forum told the board they felt both candidates would be good fit in Middletown. After the interview, Rick Pearce, president of the Chamber serving Middletown, Monroe and Trenton and moderator of the interviews, collected the comment sheets and gave them to Andrew. The board then went into executive session where members were scheduled to discuss the candidates.
Bertram, of Waynesville, also has served as treasurer at Lebanon and Edgewood for two years each, and served as assistant treasurer in Hamilton and Xenia.
He called himself “a small-town guy” and said he’d be more comfortable working in Middletown, and it would reduce his work travel time in half.
Bertram said he left every district in a “far better place” after he served as their treasurer.
Since Bertram has worked in two Butler County school districts he owns “a great understanding” of the needs of its students, he said.
He also said the districts where he has worked have passed four emergency levies in four attempts.
“I have a proven track record,” he said.
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