The Henryetta Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 City Council Candidate Forum at Henryetta City Hall on Tuesday, March 25. Shawn Buzan and Tristan Demmitt are both running for the At Large seat while Jennifer Munholland and Howard Sheward, Jr. are running for Councilman Ward 4 positions. The four candidates presented their visions and answered community-driven questions. Shawn Buzan, a third-generation Henryettan with a strong financial background in wealth management, emphasized budget management and street repairs as priorities. He advocated for attracting businesses, notably hotels, to boost the city’s revenue and facilitate local events.
The Henryetta Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 City Council Candidate Forum at Henryetta City Hall on Tuesday, March 25. Shawn Buzan and Tristan Demmitt are both running for the At Large seat while Jennifer Munholland and Howard Sheward, Jr. are running for Councilman Ward 4 positions. The four candidates presented their visions and answered community-driven questions. Shawn Buzan, a third-generation Henryettan with a strong financial background in wealth management, emphasized budget management and street repairs as priorities. He advocated for attracting businesses, notably hotels, to boost the city’s revenue and facilitate local events.
Incumbent Jennifer Munholland, who has served on the council for 12 years, highlighted her experience in successfully bringing businesses such as Shoney’s, QuikTrip, Taco Bueno, and Burger King to Henryetta. Munholland spoke of the complexity of city budgeting, emphasizing limitations on available funding for street repairs and property abatements, while affirming her commitment to continued economic development.
Howard Sheward Jr, a Henryetta native and Vietnam veteran with extensive experience in commercial and residential construction and large-scale project management, proposed creating a City Budget and Efficiency Committee and a Strategic Business Plan to guide future developments. Sheward stressed the importance of community engagement through town hall meetings and strategic planning, suggesting that increased citizen participation is essential for sustained growth.
Tristan Demmitt, an eighth-generation Henryettan and local youth wrestling coach, highlighted opportunities for expanding city revenues, suggesting initiatives such as city-owned electric utilities and waste management services. Demmitt addressed local challenges, including improving literacy rates through adult education programs and advocating for infrastructure projects like establishing service roads to enhance retail space.
Candidates also addressed community cleanup and property abatements. Munholland noted recent progress and the city’s proactive stance despite financial constraints. Demmitt shared personal efforts to assist with property cleanups, proposing a green waste disposal site as an additional city revenue source. Buzan encouraged continued community involvement, and Sheward called for systematic action to remove dilapidated buildings.
Regarding the city budget, Munholland defended current financial practices, emphasizing the complexities involved. Sheward advocated for meticulous budget analysis by dedicated committees, while Demmitt and Buzan highlighted their intent to closely review budget allocations to optimize spending.
In their closing statements, Buzan reiterated his commitment to budget oversight and infrastructure improvements. Munholland emphasized continued economic and community development based on her track record. Sheward stressed implementing strategic longterm planning, and Demmitt emphasized innovative revenue solutions and improved civic infrastructure and education.
