I am a resident of Rockwell, just outside the city limits, and I own property in the city limits. The past several years, I have attended about 75% of all Rockwell board meetings.

I have witnessed many decisions made by the board. Chris Stiller is currently a Rockwell alderman. He has lived his entire life in the Rockwell area. He has donated to the Rockwell park. He has contributed much to the town and deserves to be mayor.

During the last two annual budget meetings, Stiller proposed that all elected board members forfeit their salaries for one year to show town residents they were totally committed to minimize Rockwell taxes. Of course, no other board member would second the motion. So, no vote was taken on his proposal.

On another occasion, the town had proposed buying a new truck using Powell Bill money. After investigating the proposal, Stiller discovered that using Powell Bill money was illegal, possibly causing the town an embarrassing lawsuit.

These are just a few examples of his leadership ability. During his tenure on the board, Stiller has attended three leadership sessions sponsored by the UNC School of Government, five other classes sponsored by the UNC School of Government, three town hall classes sponsored by the N.C. League of Municipalities and two city vision classes sponsored by the N.C. League of Municipalities.

In short, Stiller has attended more training to improve his job performance than other Rockwell elected officials combined.

Stiller has also served eight times as judge of senior projects at East Rowan High School.

There are good leaders in Rockwell, but Stiller excels in his dedication to the citizens. I urge all Rockwell residents to attend the monthly town board meetings to be informed of decisions made by elected officials.

— Grady Pickler

Rockwell