UNITY TOWNSHIP — Voters in Unity Township will choose between Brenda Povenski and Mark Guy to fill the township fiscal officer seat during the Nov. 4 general election.

Povenski currently serves as the fiscal officer having been appointed at the end of last year when Nancy Herr, who served as fiscal officer for 49 years, tendered her resignation.

Herr was to hold the office until 2028. Her retirement resignation led to next month’s special election.

Povenski, 42, lives in East Palestine with her husband Thomas – an East Palestine councilman — and her sons, Thomas and Tripp.

Povenski brings over 20 years of accounting experience and a strong commitment to serving her community. She holds an associate’s degree in business management and accounting and has worked in various roles, including managing accounting operations for her family’s electrical business, serving as an accounting manager for a printing company, and working as a payroll specialist for a trucking company.

In addition to her professional experience, Povenski said she is deeply involved in community activities. She serves as Secretary of the East Palestine Park Board, volunteers and substitute teaches in the East Palestine School District, and is active in her church Our Lady of Lourdes. She has also held leadership roles, including Treasurer of the East Palestine PTO and President of the East Palestine Rotary Club, where she ran the youth soccer program for four years.

Since taking on the role, Povenski said she has worked diligently to ensure the township’s financial operations run smoothly. She has collaborated with the trustees and county auditor to process financial records, adhere to state regulations, and prepare year-end reports and future budgets. She has also negotiated with suppliers to reduce overhead costs for the township, including trash services and internet and phone expenses.

She hopes voters will elect her to retain her seat, citing her college background, work history, and dedication to the township’s successful operation. If elected, she plans to continue reviewing ways to improve township spending and maintain strong relationships with neighboring townships and county associations.

“I have a passion for accounting and working to create good financial decisions,” Povenski said. “I am dedicated to ensuring that everything within the township runs smoothly and adheres to local, state, and federal guidelines.”

Guy, 69, resides at Neeld Road in East Palestine. He did not return a questionnaire to the newspaper.