After serving Midland County for 26 years, Mary Helen Bowers was elected as the county's first Black Tax Assessor-Collector in January. Born and raised in Midland, Bowers has worked her way up through the ranks of county operations, and her career has been rooted in public service and community engagement.
In an interview with Midland Times, Bowers said that she initially wanted to be a teacher and was interested in working with children who faced challenges. Though she did not pursue that path, helping others has remained a central part of her work.
She began her career with the county as a clerk, before advancing to a MV supervisor, then bookkeeper, and later chief deputy. Throughout these roles, Bowers gained experience in tax assessment and collection and eventually led her to her current position.
As the county Tax Assessor-Collector, Bowers oversees several responsibilities. She manages the collection and disbursement of taxes, including State inventory and sales taxes. Her office is in charge of accounting for taxable property and providing budget projections for various agencies, as well as collecting the Hotel Occupancy tax from all hotels and motels, managing escrow accounts for VIT property taxes, and supervising the issuance of liquor, beer, and wine licenses and permits. Bowers and her team work closely with the Midland Central Appraisal District, County Auditor, and the Commissioners Court to assess, calculate, and publish tax rates for the county.
Bowers also prepares and presents monthly reports to the Commissioner’s Court to ensure transparency and accuracy in the county’s financial operations.
A typical day for Bowers includes overseeing her team and engaging with residents. Her day begins with a prayer, which she says sets a positive and collaborative tone for the day, with the rest of her day involving communication, troubleshooting, and addressing the concerns of community members.
Bowers recognizes that some residents may not fully understand the tax rules and procedures, and she makes it a priority to offer support and assistance.
“We know that we are going to have some displeased customers who may not understand the rules, and we want to be there to inspire them and help them feel that if we can get it, they can also get it, and whatever you may not understand, we are here to help you,” she said.
Bowers is committed to ensuring that her team provides first-class service to residents. “I can’t complain—my clerks are very good and efficient, and I always tell them to treat the residents as their own mom or dad,” she said. “And when they do that, they’re going to go over and beyond for them. They always keep that perspective shift in the back of their minds.”
When asked what part of her job is most rewarding, Bowers said it's seeing the positive impact her work has on the community. “Seeing the smiles on the resident’s faces. Listening to them and navigating what service they need and being able to project it, and letting them know that we are here for them,” she said.
Outside of her professional role, Bowers is involved in local organizations including the Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club of Midland and the Midland County Republican Women, contributing to both business development and civic engagement in the community.
Bowers has spent her career in Midland County working to serve the public and ensure that residents receive the support they need. Throughout her time in various roles, Bowers has demonstrated a commitment to public service, and her work continues to make a difference for the community she calls home.
“We are here to serve the community and we will keep doing that—it’s our job!” she said.