Otter Tail County has been home to Jeff Gontarek since 1975. Raised on Big Pelican Lake at his family’s resort, Jeff learned early the value of hard work, community, and protecting the quality of life that makes Otter Tail County special.
Jeff has spent more than 30 years serving Otter Tail County residents on the front lines of public safety, accountability, and community service. A 1985 graduate of Pelican Rapids High School, Jeff and his wife have raised their family in Otter Tail County and have been proud residents of their homestead since 2001.
With more than 30 years of public service experience, including over 25 years serving Otter Tail County, Jeff worked as a Correctional Officer, Water Patrol Officer, Community Service Specialist, and DWI Court Surveillance and Training Officer. Those roles provided him with firsthand knowledge of county operations, budgeting, public safety, and the challenges facing local government. Built on accountability, problem-solving, and practical leadership, his experience has made him a battle-tested leader committed to responsible government and putting taxpayers first.
Following his public service career, Jeff transitioned into real estate, helping families, young adults, retirees, and businesses establish roots in Otter Tail County. Through that work, he has continued listening to community members and learning what residents value most about the area—and where they believe improvements are needed.
Community involvement has always been important to Jeff. He has volunteered with youth guided fishing programs at Kamp Kacee and Lutheran Island Camp, taught fly fishing to youth and veterans, served as a Youth Firearm Safety Instructor, supported Relay for Life, coached youth baseball, and led a local high school fishing league team.
Jeff believes in giving back. His family has proudly allowed the Lakes Area Snowmobile Trail to cross their property, supporting outdoor recreation, local tourism, and a tradition enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Jeff believes Otter Tail County's future depends on responsible leadership, fiscal accountability, public safety, support for local businesses and agriculture, and protecting the lakes, roads, and natural resources that make our county a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
