My name is Latarish Neal, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Kenly Town Councilwoman. I was born and raised in Kenly and have been a lifelong resident of this community. Throughout the years, I have witnessed both the successes and challenges our town has experienced. My deep-rooted connection to Kenly fuels my unwavering commitment to its future.

From an early age, I learned the significance of perseverance, family, and community, values instilled in me by my hardworking parents. My father, a dedicated farmer, exemplified the importance of diligence, while my mother, a true pillar of strength, utilized her culinary talents to nourish not only our family but also our neighbors and friends. Her passion for fostering community connections through food has profoundly shaped my identity and values.

As a daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and, most importantly, a proud mother of two remarkable boys, I share the aspirations of all parents: to ensure a brighter, safer, and more prosperous future for our children. I firmly believe that achieving this vision begins with the establishment of robust youth programs, mentorship initiatives, and accessible community resources—many of which I had the privilege of accessing during my own upbringing. Regrettably, many of these essential resources have diminished over time, leaving our youth at a disadvantage. I am determined to be part of the solution to restore these vital supports.