Rexanna Lowman — Valdese ward 3 council member

Full name

Rexanna Pennell Lowman

Age

65

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Education, UNC — Chapel Hill; Master of Arts, Western Carolina University; Education Specialist Degree, Appalachian State University

Current employer and job title

Current part-time university supervisor of student teachers at Appalachian State University; Retired, Burke County Schools, director of Secondary Education and Career and Technical Education

How long have you lived in the town/district/area you want to serve?

61 years – lived in Valdese.

Do you own your home?

Yes. I own my home.

How long have you lived at your current address?

30 years at my current address.

Why are you seeking election?

I am seeking reelection to the Valdese Town Council because this wonderful town has given me so much, from a strong education to a deep sense of community. Growing up here, I experienced firsthand how our residents come together to support one another, fostering an environment of collaboration and kindness. It is my desire to give back and contribute to the continued growth and well-being of Valdese. I am passionate about community service and actively volunteer with various civic organizations and non-profits that uplift our town. Serving on the Town Council is a natural extension of my commitment to the community, allowing me to advocate for the needs and desires of our residents. I believe that by working together, we can enhance the quality of life in Valdese and create a brighter future for all its citizens.

If elected, what will be the primary focus of your first six months in office?

If elected to the Valdese Town Council, my primary focus during the first six months will be to address the key issues identified in the Valdese 2024 strategic plan, which was developed with citizen surveys and public input meetings. The top priority will be the development of a cost-effective design for a new facility that meets the needs of our police and fire departments. This project is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.

I will work closely with local stakeholders, including law enforcement, fire services, and residents, to finalize the design that balances functionality and budgetary constraints. Additionally, I will promote transparency in the decision-making process during the council meetings, keeping the community informed and engaged. By focusing on these priorities, I aim to enhance public safety and strengthen community trust in our local government. Together, we can build a Valdese that is not only safe, but also responsive to the needs of its citizens.

If elected, what is the legacy you hope to achieve during your tenure in office?

During my tenure, I aspire to leave our town in a better place than I found it. My primary legacy will be the restoration of civility at our town meetings, fostering an environment where respectful dialogue is the norm, even amidst differing opinions. I firmly believe that while we may not always agree, we can engage in constructive conversations that honor each viewpoint.

I also aim to demonstrate a commitment to making decisions that prioritize the town’s best interests, even if it means standing alone or voting against the majority. By doing so, I hope to encourage others on the council to prioritize integrity and the common good over political advantage.

Ultimately, my goal is to promote a collaborative and respectful approach among council members, allowing us to work as a united team for the benefit of our residents. Through this legacy, I hope to inspire future leaders to continue the work of fostering a positive and respectful environment for all community members.

What are the three most pressing issues facing your community and how do you plan to address them?

In our community, the three most pressing issues are the need for a new public safety building, aging water and sewer infrastructure, and paving streets.

1. Public Safety Facility — The structural issues of the public safety building have led the town to temporarily relocate the fire and police departments. As the council plans for a new facility, I will advocate for a comprehensive assessment of costs and explore efficient funding models to ensure the new facilities meet our safety needs while being responsible with taxpayer funds.

2. Aging water and sewer infrastructure/water rates — Our aging water and sewer infrastructure requires urgent attention. I plan to ask the council to actively pursue grant funding to upgrade these systems, ensuring we maintain low water rates and provide clean, reliable water to Valdese citizens while working with local and state officials to prioritize these upgrades.

3. Paving streets — I’ll encourage council to collaborate with the North Carolina Department of Transportation or neighboring municipalities to leverage shared resources and negotiate paving contracts, ensuring we can restore our roads without burdening our budget.

Any additional comments?

I am the best candidate for Valdese Town Council, Ward 3, bringing a fresh energy, experience, and a strong work ethic to this vital role. My commitment is to be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. I will work to keep taxes low by focusing on cost-effective solutions, efficient funding models, and making the most of existing resources.

I will prioritize collaboration with local stakeholders to finalize a design for a public safety facility that meets the essential requirements of our police and fire departments, all while adhering to budget constraints.

My vision for Valdese is to enhance the lives of our residents, making our town an even better place to live, work, and raise families. I believe by engaging with the community, we can create solutions that reflect the values and needs of our citizens. Together, we can build a vibrant, safe, and prosperous Valdese. With your support, I am eager to bring my dedication and innovative approach to the town council, ensuring that our community continues to thrive. Let’s work together to make Valdese the best it can be!