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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 01.03.08 |
Hartmann Runs For Commissioner
CINCINNATI --- Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Greg Hartmann announced today that he will run for Hamilton County Commissioner. Hartmann is running for the seat currently held by Commissioner Pat DeWine. DeWine is not seeking re-election.
“Hamilton County citizens deserve a responsive and accountable government guided by common sense decision making and fiscal responsibility at every level. My experience and accomplishments serving as your Clerk of Courts have further increased my desire to help our county reach its greatest potential. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to advance my ideas to make this county the best it can be,” said Hartmann.
Since taking office in 2003, Hartmann has held the line on spending and made his operations more efficient. He came in under budget every year and has returned over $1.4 million to the taxpayers.
“Fiscal responsibility continues to be a priority in how I manage my office. I have instilled a culture of ‘doing more with less,'” said Hartmann.
Hartmann forced prison inmates to pay their court costs. His office expects to collect at least $250,000 in unpaid court costs from incarcerated, convicted criminals this year alone.
“Operating government offices as efficiently as possible is critical to solving the County's budget crisis. Using existing technology is part of the solution,” said Hartmann.
This year, Hartmann expects to save $150,000 by converting to electronic return receipt for certified mail. It is projected that this change will save nearly $2 million over the next decade.
In the wake of the tragic death of Marcus Fiesel, Hartmann used existing technology to implement an instant notification program that provides daily background checks on Hamilton County foster parents. The program has now been expanded to include day care workers and school bus drivers.
“Protecting the citizens of Hamilton County is job number one. Safe streets make good neighborhoods,” said Hartmann.
From his first day in office, Hartmann has also championed the protection of citizen privacy . He opposed the release of the juror identities in the Liz Carroll case and continues to adapt his office in ways that provide public access to court records while respecting the privacy rights of citizens.
In response to the current foreclosure crisis, Hartmann's office now provides critical information to help Hamilton County residents facing foreclosure.
To better educate the public on the foreclosure process and services available to them, his office includes a one page insert that contains phone numbers and a timeline with every foreclosure notice sent.
“Homeownership is the key to the American Dream. As your Commissioner, I will fight to make the dream possible for everyone in Hamilton County,” said Hartmann.