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"I say don't complain about it and not try to fix it. I feel the county is moving in a positive direction and I want to see things continue to prosper and grow," said Howard, 37, of Grayson, who is running as a Democratic candidate.
A member of the Elliott County High School Class of 2002, Howard studied at the University of Kentucky for two years and is a graduate of Bailey's Barber College. A local business and property owner, he and his wife, Jenny, have two children, Zaydn, 12, and Zylee, 10. Howard is the son of Donnie Howard, who is the well-known owner/operator of The Big 4 Store in Elliott County, and the late Brenda Howard.
Chuckling, he notes his immediate family is rounded out by "a dog, a cat and a hog," then explains the hog is actually his son's pet.
Howard recently purchased a set of vacant buildings along Grayson's Carol Malone Boulevard, which are being renovated to house six small businesses. Three of those spaces are already occupied, "and the other three are already spoken for," he said. He owned and operated Antiques N Uniques in Grayson for 10 years, and he continues to be a fixture at nearby ZZ's Restaurant, Kentucky Kutz and Dixie Lanes bowling center.
"The county is a business, and I feel that is a strong point for me," he said.
"I've got young kids and I want to see the county have jobs for them when they get out of school," Howard said when asked about long-term ambitions if elected to serve as County Judge Executive.
"Infrastructure ... roads have to be addressed," he continued, adding "Infrastructure is what allows new business to come in. Of course, you don't really know what you can do until you get in there and see that budget."
"I avoid making promises. You can make small promises, but you can't make big promises. Some things, like fire departments and 911, I think the current administration is already working on those issues. I want to develop a plan for roads and ditches and general maintenance. Water causes problems."
"And you need magistrates who will cooperate," he said with a good-natured laugh. "Electing your magistrates is just as important as electing your county judge. Your judge is only as good as your magistrates."
Story by TIM PRESTON
Carter County Post
Editor's Note: All candidates in contested races listed on upcoming ballots are invited to schedule an interview with Community Journalist Tim Preston, for publication by Carter County Post.