I am proud to announce my candidacy for Valdese Town Council, Ward 3, motivated by a deep commitment to our community and a vision for a prosperous future for Valdese. I believe that we can enhance the quality of life for all our residents by providing excellent government services while being fiscally responsible. Together, we can step up for Valdese, focusing on the priorities that matter most to our community.
I will step up for Valdese by:
- Providing Quality Government Services: My goal is to deliver efficient and effective services to our residents at the lowest possible cost. We must ensure that our taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, prioritizing the needs of our community while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
- Constructing and Rehabilitating Essential Facilities: It is crucial that our fire and police departments have the facilities they need to perform their duties effectively. I will advocate for the construction and rehabilitation of buildings that meet the operational needs of our first responders, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
- Pursuing Grant Funding for Infrastructure: Our aging water and sewer systems require immediate attention. I will work with town staff to actively pursue grant funding and other resources to upgrade our infrastructure, ensuring it meets modern standards and supports our community’s growth.
- Developing a Street Paving Prioritization Schedule: To improve our roadways and enhance safety for all residents, I will work with town staff on developing a prioritization schedule for street paving. This strategic approach will ensure that we address the most critical areas first while maintaining a sustainable paving program.
- Recruiting and Retaining Skilled Employees: Our town’s success depends on the quality of our employees. I will work with town staff to focus on recruiting and retaining skilled professionals who are dedicated to serving our community. Providing training and development opportunities will be key to maintaining a motivated and effective workforce.
- Pursuing Economic Development Opportunities: To ensure a vibrant future for Valdese, I will encourage staff to actively seek economic development opportunities that create jobs, support local businesses, and attract new investments. A thriving economy will benefit all residents and strengthen our community.
Valdese is at a pivotal moment, and I am committed to stepping up to ensure our future is bright. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community that serves the needs of all its residents while being mindful of our fiscal responsibilities. -Rexanna
Background
Rexanna Lowman moved to Valdese at the age of four when her father (Ned Pennell) became the head football coach at Valdese High School. Growing up in a family deeply invested in education and community, with a mother who taught at Valdese High, she developed a strong appreciation for the values of service and commitment to local schools.
Rexanna attended Pons Kindergarten and Valdese Elementary School, eventually graduating from East Burke High School. Eager to continue her education, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following graduation, she returned to Burke County to teach middle school social studies at Salem Jr. High, Valdese Jr. High, and later Heritage Middle School.
Committed to lifelong learning, Rexanna pursued advanced degrees, earning a Master of Arts from Western Carolina University and an Educational Specialist degree from Appalachian State University. Additionally, she completed a school administration supervision program at Gardner-Webb University.
Over her distinguished 35-year career in education, she served as principal of both Valdese Elementary School and East Burke High School. Rexanna also held the position of Director of Secondary Education and Career and Technical Education for Burke County Schools before retiring. Currently, she works part-time as a University Supervisor for Appalachian State University, guiding and mentoring future educators.
A devoted community member, Rexanna is actively involved in Valdese First Baptist Church, where she serves on the Deacon Board and volunteers for the clothing closet and as the prayer list coordinator. She is also a proud member of the Valdese Rotary Club and has contributed to various community organizations, including the scholarship committee of the Community Foundation of Burke County, the Western Piedmont Foundation Board, The Valdese Sports Hall of Fame Executive Committee, the Burke County Library Board, the Old Colony Players Board, and the Burke Women’s Fund.
Rexanna is a widow (the late Allen Lowman). Her family consists of son AJ and daughter-in-law, Melody and son Zach..
