Wood County Treasurer Robert Van Horn, North Baltimore, is seeking re-election. Serving since 1988, Van Horn has implemented numerous changes in the office to better serve the taxpayer. "Paying taxes is what most of us have to do and none of us like, so whatever this office can do to make the process any easier for the taxpayer, we should," he said.

The taxpayer return envelope, the escrow program and the over 50 tax paying financial offices in the area were several instances noted by the treasurer. A delinquency tax monthly repay program is often suggested and offered. Real estate tax billings have gone from slightly over $58,000,000 for 1991 payable in 1992 on 50,000-plus parcels to $68,000,000 for 1995 payables in 1996 on 60,000-plus parcels. An efficient and professional office staff of four provide the service the taxpayer expects and is entitled.

As treasurer, Van Horn serves, in conjunction with the county commissioners, as the chief investment officer of the county. He conservatively oversees a current investment portfolio of over $40,000,000. He additionally serves on the Board of Revision, Budget Commission and Data Processing Board. A lifetime resident of Wood County, Van Horn previously held elective office on the Wood County Board of Education, North Baltimore board of Education and village of Hoytville clerk-treasurer and was an appointee to the Wood County Selective Service System. Prior to becoming treasurer, Van Horn was in banking for 34 years.

In the community Van Horn is or was involved with North Baltimore and Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, American legion, VFW, Boy Scouts, United Way, Lions Club, Exchange Club, BAI, Wood County Historical Society and committee on Aging, Community Improvement corporation, Wood County Hospital trustee and foundation board, and an Army Veteran. He is also active in the Wood County Republican party as a precinct committeeman and previously served as a chairman of both the executive and central committees.

Van Horn is a member and lay speaker of the North Baltimore St. James methodist Church. He and his wife, the former Doris Kline, have two married children and four grandchildren.