Bobby Howell | Leading the County

COUNTY JUDGE | BOWIE COUNTY

Bobby Howell has served as the Bowie County Judge for the past two years.  As the chief administrator for the county, he works hard to take care of the welfare of its citizens.  Since he is also the county leader responsible for the Joint Emergency Operations Center, Judge Howell was instrumental in Bowie County acquiring a 20-chair infusion center for monoclonal antibody treatment from the State of Texas. Judge Howell keeps an open door policy and presides over the county government with fairness and honesty

photo by: ROBIN ROGERS

Why did you decide to be a county judge?  

Initially, I was asked by a few close friends if I would agree to do the job when Judge James Carlow retired. I agreed to accept the job and was appointed by the Bowie County Commissioners Court on October 1, 2019, to serve until the next General Election.  In November of 2020, I received over 75% of the vote to fill the unexpired term, which runs through the end of 2022.  After serving for two years during a very difficult and unique time, I find that I enjoy the challenge of helping guide Bowie County through all that we have experienced.  I have announced my candidacy for another term and will run in the 2022 election.  

Name one thing about your profession that people might not know.

In addition to being the presiding Judge of the Constitutional County Court and the Commissioners Court, the County Judge is also the Chief Executive Officer of the county, responsible for the day-to-day operations, which include responsibility for the budget, finances, emergency management, elections, building maintenance, and operations.  The County Judge wears many hats.

Who has helped you become the person you are today, and how did they inspire you?  

My father taught me to treat all people with respect, work hard, and be truthful.  

Tell us one thing you can’t do without on Thanksgiving Day and explain why.

I certainly enjoy the traditions of food, fellowship with family, and college football.  Mostly, I am thankful for all that God has blessed me with in my life.

What do you love most about the Four States area?

I guess it has to be the people of our area.  I grew up here, went off to college and worked a few years, but I came back to start a family.  I worked for several years, then went to Law School, but came back.  It is just a good place to live.

What lessons have you learned from the pandemic?

I have learned not to take anything for granted.  No matter how many blessings God has bestowed on us, they can all be gone in an instant.  The pandemic has touched all aspects of everyone’s daily lives.  We have to adjust.

How would you like for others to remember you?  

I would like to be remembered as an honest, hardworking guy who loved his family and friends.