Commissioner Ortiz took office in November 1994 after a Special Election for the unexpired term of then Commissioner Richard M. Borchard. He was unopposed in his bid for a full term in 1996.

Commissioner Ortiz's precinct extends from Rodd Field Road to areas west of Staples and includes Robstown, Driscoll, and the Bluntzer community.

Commissioner Ortiz graduated from Robstown High School and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Corpus Christi State University

Commissioner Ortiz is currently serving as Chairman of the Coastal Bend Council of Governments.