A letter to the citizens of Highland County

To the editor:

My name is Howard Zody, and I am a candidate for Highland County commissioner. My name will appear on the ballot without a party affiliation.

For 34 years, I served in public education as a teacher, coach and principal. I loved that work because I believed I could make a difference in the lives of young people. That same commitment to service is what motivates me to run for county commissioner.

I believe every Highland County citizen deserves to be heard.

While campaigning, I have had the opportunity to visit local businesses, talk with residents and share a cup of coffee with prospective voters. I often ask, “How is your new business doing?” or “What are your concerns for Highland County?” 

Too often, I hear the response, “Nobody has ever asked me that question.”

That should change.

As your commissioner, I will make listening to the people of Highland County a priority. I will be accessible, return your calls and messages, and make every effort to respond to your emails and concerns. County government should not operate at a distance from the people it serves. Citizens deserve to know what decisions are being made, why those decisions are being made, and how they may affect their communities.

Responsible Growth and Development

I am also hearing growing concerns about data centers, battery-storage facilities and solar farms being developed in Highland County. Residents have questions about water usage, environmental impacts and the transparency of decisions surrounding these projects.

If elected, I will not sign a nondisclosure agreement concerning Highland County decisions or business. I believe the public deserves transparency when matters affecting the county and its citizens are being considered.

Bringing Resources Back to Highland County

I also believe we should do more to identify and pursue state and federal grant opportunities that could benefit Highland County.

Those resources could help address the needs of communities experiencing population growth, including law enforcement and other essential services. I also believe we should make better use of land-bank opportunities to clean up and revitalize neglected and abandoned properties throughout the county.

We should be actively looking for every legitimate opportunity to bring outside resources into Highland County rather than leaving available funding on the table.

A More Accessible County Government

Many citizens have also expressed concerns about communication with the Commissioners’ Office. One example is the scheduling of commissioner meetings at 9 a.m. on Wednesdays, a time when many residents are at work and unable to attend.

I will explore ways to make county government more accessible to the public. Better communication and greater transparency begin by creating opportunities for citizens to participate.

People should not have to wonder whether their voices matter. They should have a meaningful opportunity to be heard.

Supporting Highland County Employees

I have also met and heard from many dedicated men and women who serve Highland County every day. Our county employees work in numerous departments and offices, and their work is essential to the continued growth and operation of our county.

As commissioner, I will respect the work they do and support them in finding ways to serve the people of Highland County as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Moving Highland County Forward – Together

Highland County is a great place to live, work, raise a family, and build a future. I believe we can make it even better as our county continues to grow.

As your commissioner, I will continue to listen – to business owners, families, farmers, employees, seniors, young people, and every citizen who wants to share an idea or concern.

County government should work with the people, not simply make decisions for them.

On Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, I respectfully ask for your vote for Howard Zody for Highland County Commissioner.

I am running to bring greater communication, accessibility, transparency and accountability to the Commissioners’ Office.

I would be honored to earn your trust and serve the citizens of Highland County.

Sincerely,
Howard Zody
Candidate for Highland County Commissioner