Paulding Putnam would like to thank Brenda Ball for her dedicated service on the Operation Round Up Board. Brenda represented District 3 (Putnam County) from 2018 to 2025, helping to allocate funds that made a lasting impact across our service territory. 

At the October 2025 board meeting, ORU Board Chairman Philip Rolsten welcomed Ken Kottenbrock as the new District 3 Trustee. 

Ken has been a Paulding Putnam member since 1998 and brings a wealth of experience in agriculture, conservation, and community service. A lifelong Putnam County resident, Ken grew up on his family farm and graduated from Ottawa-Glandorf High School in 1991. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in agriculture with a minor in economics from The Ohio State University in 1995. 

After college, Ken began his career as a sales representative and customer applicator for the Terra Latty Plant. In 2000, he joined the Van Wert Soil and Water Conservation District as a district technician, and since 2010, he has served as the NRCS District Conservationist for Paulding and Van Wert Counties. 

Ken's wife works at the POET Ethanol Plant in Putnam County. Their daughter is currently attending graduate school at The Ohio State University, and their two sons attend Ottawa-Glandorf High School, where they both play football. All three of Ken's children have been active in 4-H. 

In addition to his professional experience, Ken is also involved in the community:

• Putnam County Swine Committee - Treasurer (2020-present)
• Leipsic Hunting and Fishing Association - Committee member (2023-2024), Trustee (2024-present) 
• OG High Risers 4-H Club - Head advisor (2007-present)

Ken has also volunteered for numerous local fundraisers, including events for the OG Band Boosters, OG Jaycees, OG Choir Boosters, OG High Risers 4-H Club, and Putnam County United Way. 

When asked what he hopes to bring to the table as an ORU trustee, Ken shared: 

"I have experience working with governing board and multiple nonprofits. I work closely with the Paulding and Van Wert SWCD boards and currently serve on several community committees. Having lived and worked in this area for over 20 years, I look forward to helping spread the word about Pualding Putnam Operation Round Up and the positive impact it makes." 

The Operation Round Up Board of Trustees meets quarterly to review grant applications and allocate funds to local projects based on need, community impact, and available funds. To learn more, visit the Operation Round Up page.