Elected Officials profiles

Jody Fortwendel
County Commissioner, District 3

Jody is currently serving his 3rd term as county commissioner. He is a life-long resident of Perry County. Jody is married to the former Mary Kleaving. They are the parents of three children, Sara Gehlhausen of Bristow, Emily Winter of Tell City, and Neil Fortwendel of Evansville. Jody and Mary are also the proud grandparents of three grandsons, Cole Harpenau, age 5, Kaden Winter, age 2 and Nolan Gehlhausen, 8 months, and grandson # 4 is due in November. Jody is a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

During the past ten years as commissioner, Jody has served on the Perry County Solid Waste board, Perry County Planning and Zoning board, Board of Directors for the Animal Shelter, Board of Directors for Region 15, and a member of the Perry County Development Corporation. Jody believes that "Our past accomplishments have been made successful by many individuals working together for a common goal."

Jody started his political career by serving as a precinct committeeman. Before being elected as commissioner, Jody served as the Vice-Chairman of the Democrat Central Committee, Sheriff's Merit board, Perry County Redevelopment Commission, Perry Central Little League baseball coach, and St. Isidore Church council.

"Putting Perry County and its people first has always been a priority in any decision that has had to be made."