NORTH TONAWANDA: City treasurer, also a soldier, visiting tonight
The Tonawanda News
By Neale Gulley —One city employee who long ago answered the call of duty abroad will use his leave from the military to share his experiences with other North Tonawanda residents tonight.
Robert Ortt, still the city’s official treasurer but who has been serving with the U.S. Army National Guard in Kandahar, Afghanistan since January, will be home briefly before returning to finish what was originally a one-year tour.
He is using part of his current leave from active duty to update the city on the conflict abroad, said City Clerk Tom Jaccarino, who has been promoting the event.
A gathering in his honor including what is expected to be some kind of presentation based on his experiences will be held at 7 p.m. tonight at Stephen Sikora Post 1322 in North Tonawanda.
Ortt was unavailable for comment Tuesday.
Senior Accountant Denise Proefrock, also typist for City Clerk Tom Jaccarino, has filled in for Ortt, who is still considered treasurer as he completes his military obligation. She has worked in the office since 2004, and was chosen by Ortt to act in his stead. Mayor Larry Soos and the Common Council approved the choice just days after the department head’s departure.
The position is elected and Ortt was voted in at the start of the last election cycle, Soos said.
Pizza, wings and pop will be offered. The event is free and open to the public.
The Tonawanda News quoted Common Council President Brett Sommer at the time Ortt left about eight months ago as stating “She basically has been handling that office when he’s been called up previous times.”
Ortt was scheduled to serve as the executive officer for company A 2-101 Calvary providing security for teams training Afghan police officers. At that time, he expected a return to municipal duties next January.
Contact reporter Neale Gulley at 693-1000, ext. 114.
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