Election 2026: Howard Township Trustee Candidate Zenas Bowling

Continuing with our “Election: 2026” series, this addition to our candidate interviews features Howard Township Trustee candidate Zenas Bowling (R). Leading up to the primaries, we will continue to release candidate interviews in order to keep you well educated as you make your way to the ballot box.

Publisher's Note: The Washington County Times does not endorse political candidates. Our mission is to provide balanced and informative coverage of local politics so our readers can make their own informed decisions at the ballot box. We aim to give all candidates a fair opportunity to share their views and connect with the community. This Q&A is part of that commitment to open, unbiased political reporting.

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Zenas Bowling

For readers who may not be familiar with the position, how would you describe the primary responsibilities of a Township Trustee?

A Township Trustee is one of the closest forms of government to the people. The Trustee’s job is to make sure township services are handled fairly and responsibly especially township assistance for residents who are going through hard times and need temporary help to get back on their feet. The Trustee also helps manage township funds, supports services like fire protection, and makes sure taxpayer dollars are accounted for properly. At the end of the day, it’s a role built around service, responsibility, and being there when residents need help the most.

Can you tell us about your background and any experience that has prepared you to serve as Township Trustee?

I currently work in public service on a state level and have experience in government finance, so I understand how public funds are supposed to be handled. By following rules, keeping strong documentation, and making sure the public can trust how money is managed. I take accountability seriously and I believe every dollar should be explained.

Outside of work, I’ve always been community-oriented. I’m the type of person who believes in showing up, working hard, and treating people with respect. That’s the same mindset I would bring into the Trustee’s office every day.

What motivated you to run for Township Trustee?

I’m running because I believe Howard Township deserves leadership that is present, organized, and truly focused on serving people. I’ve always tried to live as a servant leader, someone who cares about the community and wants to help. Township Trustee is a position where you can make a real difference in people’s lives, and I feel called to step up and do that work.

How do you balance helping residents in need while also being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars?

My approach is compassion with accountability. Township assistance should be there for people who need a helping hand, but it also needs clear rules and proper documentation so it stays fair and responsible.

I want Howard Township to be a place where we help people get back to stability, without waste, without confusion, and without anyone feeling disrespected. The goal is to help residents become stable, long-term community members, while still protecting taxpayers and making sure every dollar makes sense.

How would you approach transparency and accountability in the management of township funds and services?

Transparency builds trust. I believe every dollar should be explained and nothing should feel hidden. If I’m elected, I want the township to have clear communication with residents and strong accountability in the way funds are managed.

I also support sharing information publicly in a way people can actually understand. Things like spending summaries, updates, and making it easier for residents to know how township services work.

How do you plan to work with the Township Board, county officials, and community organizations to best serve residents?

I believe good government happens when people work together. I’ll lead by listening first, communicating clearly, and focusing on solutions... not drama.

I want to build relationships with the Township Board, county leaders, and community organizations so we can better serve residents and connect people to the right resources. Even if I don’t have every connection today, I’m ready to put in the work to build those partnerships and strengthen the township.

What qualities or experiences do you believe may set you apart from any opponent(s) in this race?

I think what sets me apart is that I bring a combination of real-world work ethic and government finance experience. I understand public money and accountability, and I believe township residents deserve leadership that treats the role seriously and handles it with integrity.

But I also believe this job is about being available to the people. My phone will always be on, and my door will always be open. I want residents to feel like they can reach their Trustee, get an honest answer, and be treated with respect. I’m running to be trustworthy, approachable, and present because people deserve leadership they can actually count on.

Do you have any final thoughts you’d like to share with township residents and Washington County voters?

I want the people of Howard Township to know I’m running for the right reasons. I care about this community, and I want to serve with honesty, respect, and strong values.

My faith is important to me, and it guides how I treat people, with compassion, fairness, and integrity. 

If I earn your vote, I’ll work hard, communicate better, respond faster, and make sure township services are handled the right way.

Thank you for reading and for your support. I’d be honored to earn your vote.