Howland Township was selected as a winner in the sixth annual Red Carnation Community Awards competition of the Ohio Development Association (ODA). The awards competition is sponsored annually by the ODA to recognize the outstanding economic community development efforts of Ohio communities. (Watch Video Below)

Howland Township was selected for its achievements in economic/community development, education, health and medical, and recreation and travel. Community representatives submitted written documentation and a video presentation, and participated in an interview with a panel of judges from outside of the state. The award was presented by Director Joe Robinson, Ohio Department of Development, during the Awards Luncheon of the 1998 ODA Annual Meeting and Fall Conference on Monday, October 19th at the Holiday Inn in Worthington, Ohio. Representatives of the community who made the presentation and participated in the panel interview process were: Rich Baringer, Rick Clark, Pat Crowley, John Emanuel, Darlene St. George and Sally Wehmer.

Since the award was first presented in 1992, eighteen communities throughout the State of Ohio have been recognized. This year there were seventeen entries for the award and four communities were recognized. In addition to Howland, Wood County, Waynesville and Westchester received the Red Carnation designation. Howland's entry was put together by a committee comprised of representatives from business, industry and the community. The ten minute video and written documentation were produced by Vic Rubenstein and Associates. The material produced for the award entry will be used as a marketing tool for economic development and for use as an informational vehicle. The Township is proud to be the recipient of this award, and it is further recognition that Howland has much to offer in the areas of economic/community development, educational opportunities, health and medical resources, and recreation. Signs identifying Howland Township as a "Red Carnation Community" will be posted throughout the Township.

Founded in 1980, the Ohio Development Association is a professional association for economic development practitioners and others committed to the economic growth of Ohio's communities.