Kevin Neal sworn in as Marshall County’s Judge Executive

Kevin Neal was surrounded by friends and family as he was sworn in by District Judge Jack Telle as Marshall County's Judge Executive.
Kevin Neal was surrounded by friends and family as he was sworn in by District Judge Jack Telle as Marshall County’s Judge Executive.

BENTON – Surrounded by family and friends, Kevin Neal became the first Republican in nearly a century to take the office of Marshall County Judge Executive, sworn in Wednesday by District Judge Jack Telle.

Neal defeated Melanie Chambers in Tuesday’s election by a vote of 6,914 to 4,383. Chambers has been a part of Marshall County government for over 30 years and plans to retire.

“Thank you for allowing me the privilege to be the next Judge Executive of Marshall County”, Neal said to a full room gathered for the swearing-in ceremony.

kevin neal 1Neal thanked Chambers for running a respectful campaign and for her 32 years dedicated to Marshall County government. He thanked Chyrill Miller for “courageously taking the reigns of Judge Executive under very difficult, personal and professional circumstances.”

Neal spoke to the 41 years given to public service by the late Mike Miller, saying he was fortunate to spend some time with him before he passed and felt one thing they shared was seeing this county move forward.

Addressing just a few issues, Neal said bringing potable water to the county residents is a priority and plans to be a part of seeing that it remains a priority with steps already taken in that direction.

Neal also addressed the water treatment plant in Draffenville saying, “we have to find a permanent solution, I’m going to be a part of that and make sure we do the right thing for the community.”

He also said he wants to see a riverport and industrial park become a reality.

“It’s these types of infrastructure projects that are necessary to attract outside businesses and corporations to our county.”

Neal stated he would like to see a greater tax break to our existing businesses and corporations in the county. An area he plans to address locally as well as with state representatives.

“It’s all about working together for a greater good and I’m prepared to work with anyone who shares that mindset”, Neal said.