Alby Eller, a former town code enforcement officer, and others are circulating the petition which calls for the immediate resignation of Aldermen Vernon Johnson and John Miller and Mayor Pro Tem Don Webb.

A portion of the petition reads: “It is obvious that Alderman Vernon Johnson has seized control of the board with his fellow mates John Miller and Don Webb. The Mayor no longer has control of the board.”

Eller said about 30 copies of the petition are circulating. Some businessmen have copies in their stores and are helping, he said.

He admitted that legally there is no way to remove the aldermen. “Maybe we can use it as a crowbar to break them loose or embarrass them until they resign,” said Eller. “Instead of trying to act responsibly, they are acting like a bunch of idiots.”

Johnson said today he hasn’t seen the petition but knows something has been circulating.

“A lot of people don’t like change,” said Johnson. He said his efforts to improve the town through sewer and water projects and annexation have irritated the “Old Guard.”

“I’ve done the best I can,” he said.

Eller said his copy is already filled with signatures. Only two people refused to sign.

“If those people really knew what the people of China Grove think of them, they’d quit and leave town,” said Eller.

Eller said the three aldermen are saddling the town with debt for generations to come.

“Somebody has got to step up and put a stop to this. I don’t want my grandkids taxed to death,” said Eller.