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One of the four candidates for the two positions on the Oakboro Town Council in the November election said common sense is what informs her decisions.

Incumbent Latoya Jackson is running against fellow incumbent Chris Huneycutt and newcomers Lanny Hathcock and Jesse Lewis.

Jackson was born in Oakboro, went to its elementary school and graduated from West Stanly High School. She went on to Johnson C. Smith for four years, then earned a master’s degree in business administration from Strayer University.

Having been appointed to the council in 2019, Jackson said she was nervous at first about being on the council but added she “was thankful for people in my community,” especially former board members, who gave her the motivation and taught her “to do more, to try harder, to give back.”

Jackson said she is running to make a difference in the lives of the people with whom she grew up, including to “improve the efficiency” and ensure the “best quality service” for residents and visitors alike.

Upholding the core values of the community she calls home is important, she noted.

“Whether we are growing or not the most important thing we can do is make it a warm environment for our family…a safe community,” Jackson said. “(The board) needs to look at how to grow with things that are consistent with the town that we want, not just today but long-term for families.”

Jackson said the council needs to be thoughtful of what is important to the community, not just for economic health but the quality of life for those calling Oakboro home. She said issues that keep the community well-preserved are important to her.

“Growth is great when we are living within our means…to grow the town, have people come and be inviting,” Jackson said.

Her mission on the board, she added, is to represent the public’s interest and “promote quick and courteous response to any resident in the town on any problem,” adding she is listening to people.

Jackson said what is important to her as a young African-American female with roots in the community is to listen carefully, pay attention and use common sense when making a decision.

In making those decisions, Jackson said she would “focus on the community and what makes Oakboro a great place for all our families.”

“Not just for one, but for all our families,” she said.