Wood County Auditor Matthew Oestreich has filed petitions to seek re-election. Oestreich has worked in the Auditor’s office for over 25 years and has served as Wood County Auditor since October 2017. He previously held the positions of Assistant Chief Deputy Auditor and Weights and Measures Inspector.
In 2006, while serving as Wood County Weights and Measures Inspector, Oestreich was honored with the Frank P. Gallo Award, which recognizes excellence in the field of weights and measures. More recently, under Oestreich’s leadership, the Auditor’s Office received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, marking the 24th consecutive year the office has earned this distinction.
“It is a great honor to serve the citizens of Wood County as their auditor,” said Oestreich. “Twenty-five years ago, I began my career in the Auditor’s Office and had the privilege of learning from one of the best, former County Auditor Mike Sibbersen. Mike was instrumental in mentoring me and helping develop my leadership skills.”
During his most recent term, Oestreich has used that experience to successfully install two new software systems to improve efficiencies, lower capital expenditures, and enhance security. His approach prioritizes efficiency, accountability, and fiscally responsible service to the residents of Wood County.
As Wood County Auditor, Oestreich serves as the county’s chief fiscal officer and appraiser, sealer of weights and measures, and secretary to the Budget Commission, Board of Revision, and Data Processing Board. He is a member of the Wood County Republican Party Executive Committee and currently serves on the Legislative Committee of the County Auditors Association of Ohio (CAAO).
In recognition of the need for legislative action to address property tax concerns, Oestreich hosted a press conference in May of 2025 urging state lawmakers to pursue meaningful property tax reform for the benefit of homeowners. After attending the press conference, The Toledo Blade encouraged legislators to “Follow the Auditors.” By December, the Ohio General Assembly enacted legislation signed by Governor Mike DeWine that represents the first step toward right-sizing government and will provide approximately $2 billion in property tax relief over the next three years.
Active in the community, Oestreich is a member and past director of the Bowling Green Kiwanis Club and serves as the Kiwanis liaison to the Eastwood Key Club. He serves on the Finance Committee of the Wood County Historical Society, is a friend of Wood County Parks, and has coached youth sports.
A lifelong resident of Wood County, Oestreich is a graduate of Elmwood High School and holds an associate degree in Agricultural Business from Owens Community College. He farms in Montgomery Township, where he resides with his wife, Leslie, and their three children.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust and support the people of Wood County have shown me throughout my career,” Oestreich stated. “As a lifelong member of this community, it has been an honor to serve in the Auditor’s Office for more than 25 years. I look forward to continuing to serve Wood County with integrity, transparency, and dedication in the years ahead.”
