The campaigns waged by Democrat Sam Zurzolo and Republican David Kowal in this year's Butler Township commissioners race depicted the kind of clean campaigning and respect that should prevail much more in election bids at all levels of government.

The two candidates, who initially ended up in a tie vote, had nothing but kind words for each other as they waited for the tie to be resolved.

Prior to being declared the winner by one vote, based on the results from a recount, Zurzolo said of his opponent: "I think Dave's a good man and will work for the township. However it comes out, it comes out."

Also prior to the contest being decided, Kowal called it a win for the township, regardless of whether he or Zurzolo ended up as the successful candidate.

"I'm quite satisfied with Sam winning," Kowal said, in the aftermath of the recount. "Sam is a good guy. He's worthy of being a commissioner.

No doubt both candidates had the township's best interests in mind when they chose to seek a commissioners seat. As for Kowal, it is to be hoped that this positive experience during his first attempt at elected office will encourage him to seek public office in the future.

Providing good, productive public service should be a goal of every political candidate. Like Zurzolo, Kowal left no doubt about that being his sincere aim.