Alderman Marshall Howden announces he will not seek reelection, will focus on family business and preserving Branson’s music heritage

City of Branson Alderman Marshall Howden announced this week that he will not seek reelection when his current term concludes in April 2026.

Howden shared that his decision comes after thoughtful reflection and prayer, emphasizing that while his time in elected office is coming to a close, his commitment to the Branson community remains as strong as ever.

Howden

“Serving the people of Branson has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Howden said. “I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together, from strengthening our partnership with the Chamber of Commerce to keeping Branson’s heart for live music front and center. That mission is not ending; it is simply growing in a new direction.”

Howden and his wife are preparing to take ownership of the A&W Restaurant in Branson, continuing their family’s hospitality legacy. He plans to use the business as a community partner that helps fund local heritage projects through the Song of Hope Historical Society, the nonprofit he founded to preserve and celebrate Branson’s entertainment history.

“I want A&W to be more than a restaurant,” Howden said. “It will be a local gathering place that also gives back by helping sponsor monuments, exhibits and concerts that honor the entertainers and families who built Branson’s reputation as the live music capital of the world.”

Since first being elected in 2022, Howden has served two terms representing Ward I, as well as Mayor’s Ambassador to the Shows. During his tenure, he has been a leading advocate for Branson’s entertainment community, collaborating with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce on initiatives such as the Where My Heart Sings campaign and the upcoming Branson Songwriter’s Festival to occur in the spring of 2027.

Although he will be stepping away from elected office at the end of his term, Howden emphasized that his Song of Hope mission will continue through his museum, historical society and partnerships with the Chamber and local performers.