Karla Foster Leonard
A Responsible Vision for Rowan County
Balanced Growth • Strong Schools • Local Jobs
Rowan County Commission
Early Voting | February 12-28, 2026
2026 Primary Election | Tuesday, March 3, 2026
The Work Before Us
Rowan County is growing faster than at any point in our history. Families and businesses are choosing to build their futures here, and with that growth comes major decisions about infrastructure, schools, housing, and long-term planning.
We need steady, conservative leadership to guide this growth with purpose — protecting what makes Rowan special while preparing wisely for the opportunities ahead. I am ready to bring my experience as a business owner, community leader, and lifelong Rowan County resident to ensure this growth strengthens, rather than strains, our community.
My Priorities
Balanced, Responsible Growth
Ensure development follows our land-use plan, protects our roads, schools, and essential services from strain, and preserves Rowan County’s small-town character while preparing for future growth.
Jobs and Local Business Support
Streamline permitting, support the businesses already here, and attract new industries that create good-paying jobs for local families.
Strong Schools and Workforce Readiness
Partner with K–12 schools and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College to strengthen career and technical programs so students and adults are equipped for today’s workforce and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Get to Know Me
I’m Karla Foster Leonard, a lifelong resident of Rowan County and a proud graduate of North Rowan High School. After earning my degree in Criminal Justice from Appalachian State University, I began my career serving local youth as a Transition Specialist for Rowan County Youth Services. I worked closely with our juvenile courts, Rowan-Salisbury Schools, DSS, and mental health providers to help adjudicated youth return to school and community life with support and stability.
My commitment to public service led me to become a Coalition Director for the North Carolina Republican Party during the 2012 election cycle. I traveled to all 100 counties, building relationships with voters and strengthening outreach statewide.
After the campaign, I earned my real estate license and eventually founded New Pointe Realty, a firm built on integrity, community values, and personalized service. Helping families across Rowan County has deepened my dedication to responsible growth and strong communities.
Over the years, I have served as Chairman of the Rowan County Housing Authority and the East Spencer Housing Authority, a board member of Salisbury Rotary, and President of the Granite Quarry PTA. Today, I serve on the Rowan County Economic Development Council, work as Director of Business Advocacy with the Rowan Chamber of Commerce, and chair the Rowan County Planning Board.
I live in Rockwell with my husband and stepson, and I am committed to ensuring Rowan County remains a place where families and businesses can thrive for generations to come.
Get to Know Me
I’m Karla Foster Leonard, a lifelong resident of Rowan County and a proud graduate of North Rowan High School. After earning my degree in Criminal Justice from Appalachian State University, I began my career serving local youth as a Transition Specialist for Rowan County Youth Services. I worked closely with our juvenile courts, Rowan-Salisbury Schools, DSS, and mental health providers to help adjudicated youth return to school and community life with support and stability.
My commitment to public service led me to become a Coalition Director for the North Carolina Republican Party during the 2012 election cycle. I traveled to all 100 counties, building relationships with voters and strengthening outreach statewide.
After the campaign, I earned my real estate license and eventually founded New Pointe Realty, a firm built on integrity, community values, and personalized service. Helping families across Rowan County has deepened my dedication to responsible growth and strong communities.
Over the years, I have served as Chairman of the Rowan County Housing Authority and the East Spencer Housing Authority, a board member of Salisbury Rotary, and President of the Granite Quarry PTA. Today, I serve on the Rowan County Economic Development Council, work as Director of Business Advocacy with the Rowan Chamber of Commerce, and chair the Rowan County Planning Board.
I live in Rockwell with my husband and stepson, and I am committed to ensuring Rowan County remains a place where families and businesses can thrive for generations to come.
Contact
Have questions or ideas about Rowan County’s future? I’d love to hear from you.
Email: karla@karlaleonard.com
