Meet the Republican candidates for Noblesville Township board

Five Republican candidates are running for the Noblesville township board in the May 5 primary. The field includes challengers Thomas Houghtalen and Jo Spangler, and incumbents Joe Arrowood, Mary Sue Rowland and Peggy Pfister. Voters can select up to three candidates for the three-member board. The three GOP winners will advance to the November general election to face Democrats Paula Gilliam and Jenna Stewart. The candidates answered the following questions from Current: Why are you running for this office? Houghtalen Houghtalen : As a lifetime resident of Noblesville and local business owner, it’s important to me to give back to the community. I feel this is another way for me to give back to those in the community who greatly need the services provided by the trustee’s office and board members. Spangler : My candidacy for the Noblesville Township board is a direct and accessible way to make a meaningful impact. I am committed to serving with the highest integrity, achieving real results and bringing fresh leadership to the Noblesville Township board. Rowland : I am running for a second term to continue to assist the Noblesville Township board in making important decisions toward the future of our township. My experience is unique and I am willing to work hard and help in all ways possible. Pfister : I’m running for reelection because I care about Noblesville Township and the people who live here. As our community grows, more residents need help, and I want to continue supporting practical local services, careful budgeting and township government that stays close to the people. Arrowood: I am running for this office to continue to give back to my community through my leadership and experience. What sets you apart from your opponents? Houghtalen : The current board members have all served several concurrent terms. As someone who has never held a public office prior, I believe I can bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to the board and the trustee’s office. Spangler Spangler : As a software developer, specializing in financial fund accounting, I have worked closely for 29 years with the reporting requirements of Indiana townships. This background has given me a strong understanding of accurate financial reporting, responsibilities of the trustee, compliance with guidelines as set by the state and accountability to the community. Rowland : The township form of government was established in 1823. It is still a vital part of community life and should have the most experienced board members. I am not aware of a former mayor serving as a board member for the Noblesville Township. I am happy to share my experience. Pfister : I bring experience, compassion and a long record of local service. I’ve worked in Hamilton County government for nearly 20 years, served on the township board and was twice elected assessor. I understand budgets, but I never lose sight of the people behind the numbers. Arrowood : I have numerous qualifications that will benefit the success of this office. I have over 40 years of experience leading nonprofit organizations to successful endeavors financially and administratively. What are your top three campaign issues? Houghtalen : Finding budget friendly ways to provide efficient services and financial assistance to residents in need in the community, helping find and create permanent playing fields for the Noblesville Girls Softball Association and having open and transparent trustee board meetings, financial budgets and spending plans. Spangler : To advise fiscal oversight in preparing annual budgets, approving annual financial reports and making financial decisions; To advise the trustee with policy input as to how services are rendered; To provide meaningful solutions to those in need, continuing support of outreach programs and encouraging community involvement in monthly open meetings Rowland Rowland : To provide the best and most efficient service to those in need, continue to work with the state legislature to encourage reform of the township structure, and to expand services as resources allow. Pfister : My top priorities are strong township assistance for residents in need, continued support for fire protection and careful budgeting as Noblesville grows. We need to meet real needs, protect essential services and make sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Arrowood : My priorities are to make sure that all aspects of the trustee’s office are taken care of in professional manner required by law. What do you most want voters to know about you? Houghtalen : As a 20-plus year local business owner, I have always prided myself on open communication with my employees and clients, as well as always being very efficient at tackling tough issues and problems as they arise. I plan to use these same skills as a Noblesville Township board member. Spangler : I am knowledgeable about the duties and requirements of both a township board member and township trustee. I understand the important role a board member plays in providing input that helps a trustee deliver cost-efficient and effective local government. Rowland : I take all positions very seriously including the work of the Noblesville Township board. After 24 years of government elected positions, I am committed to working hard for the township and Noblesville using my experience and dedication for the betterment of my hometown and others. Pfister Pfister : I want voters to know that I care about this community and take this job seriously. I’m not in it for politics. I believe in showing up, listening, asking questions and doing the work so township government remains helpful, practical and accountable. Arrowood : My goal is to assist in the coordination of all services and assure that all residents of Noblesville Township are provided an equal opportunity to be served when justified needs are present. Regarding recent legislative efforts to consolidate or eliminate township governments, what is your stance on township reform, and how will you justify your township’s continued existence? Houghtalen : I believe it makes sense for smaller communities to have some consolidation. However, I believe it’s a huge mistake to consolidate or eliminate large city township governments. This will put a burden on these cities and cause a reduction of services to citizens who are most in need of help. Spangler : Grassroots efforts are authentic and people-driven because they reflect the needs and voices of regular people. I do not support the elimination of all grassroot government. However, I do support the merging of certain townships to more efficiently deliver and provide local services. This keeps government close to the people. Rowland : Reform in government is always important. I am sure everyone agrees they pay too much in taxes for the return. I support reform at any level and setting standards for the reform. Please check your property tax bill to determine how much goes to township support. You will be surprised. Pfister : I support smart reform and accountability. Government should always look for ways to cut waste. But I do not support eliminating township government where it is serving people well. If a township is effective, accessible and fiscally responsible, it still has real value. Arrowood Arrowood : Township programs are extremely needed. More education is needed for the community and the legislative body to raise the level of knowledge concerning the importance of township programs. How will you collaborate with Noblesville and county officials to provide comprehensive, nonredundant services for residents? Houghtalen : I feel having open and efficient communication with Noblesville and county officials is the key to providing comprehensive, non-redundant services. I believe it is also very important to educate the citizens of Noblesville on what the trustee office truly can offer the community. Spangler : A Noblesville Township board member is to advise the trustee on all matters concerning the Township of Noblesville. Rowland : No other governmental entity provides the same Noblesville Township services. Always willing to collaborate; however, a quick takeover of services by (the) county or city would be the least productive of any options. Keep the townships that provide and work and give a hard review of the ones that don’t. Pfister : I will work closely with the trustee, city and county officials, and community partners so services are coordinated, not duplicated. When people work together and communicate clearly, we avoid overlap, use taxpayer dollars wisely and help residents get where they need to go for services. Arrowood : My relationship with the city and county government in coordinating downtown events enhance my qualifications as the best candidate for this office. Related posts: No related posts. 2026 election Share. Tumblr