By Deirdre Parker Smith

deirdre.smith@salisburypost.com

SPENCER — Jonathan Williams, the new mayor or Spencer is among several new mayors in Rowan County and one of the Salisbury Post’s “10 to Watch” for 2020.

Williams is married to Meredith Williams, principal of North Rowan High School, and they have three children. This was his first run for office. He is a West Rowan High School and Clemson University graduate, with degrees in civil engineering. He is the South Atlantic Area Water Resources Manager for HDR Engineering Inc. of the Carolinas.

He is looking forward to making Spencer a more vibrant town and working with the board of aldermen and the town staff.

His family lives in Spencer, where his wife grew up.

With his new position, and as a young mayor, just 37, Williams said he is looking forward to the challenges of the job.

Williams said he decided to run for mayor because he believes in “servant leadership.”

“This moment in Spencer’s history, with a collaborative board, experienced town staff, and potential for significant economic growth, provided the perfect opportunity for me to use my gifts and talents to serve our town,” Williams said.

His goals for the community include fostering community unity, revitalization, promoting economic growth and engaging members of the community in board decisions.

“Spencer most certainly has a future, and it is a bright and positive one for our current citizens and for generations to come,” he said. “Through strategic planning, we will quickly establish a clear and achievable vision for our town which reflects the needs of our community and makes it an attractive and desirable place for future residents and businesses.”

Q&A

Who would play you in a movie? Lin Manuel Miranda.

What would you want to have for a last meal? Prime rib.

Who is a person in Rowan County you would call someone to watch in 2020? “Meredith Williams and her staff at North Rowan High School. What they are doing at North High is quietly revolutionizing education and drawing interest from organizations and schools across the nation.”

What would you say is the biggest challenge for Spencer in 2020? “Spencer’s biggest challenge in 2020 is to move forward. To do this, we must make sure ongoing infrastructure projects are completed promptly in 2020. We must work together as a community to create a positive, welcoming and enticing image for our town. We must set a vision for our future and begin actively working towards that vision in 2020. I believe that while this is a monumental challenge, it is achievable, exciting and absolutely necessary for our future.”

What would you say is your biggest hope for 2020? “My biggest hope for 2020 is that the Town of Spencer can rally together in support of the vision to move ‘Spencer Forward.’ as we all roll up our sleeves to work side by side, get engaged in the community, and make our town ‘the place to be in Rowan County.'”

What’s your reaction to being named one of the 10 to Watch in Rowan for 2020? “I am humbled by the recognition and excited that all eyes in Rowan County will be on Spencer in 2020.”