Johnson, who filed Monday, said the November election may be the most critical election for the town in years to come.

For the first time in the town’s history, three four-year terms will be filled. Until 1999, all terms were for two years. Starting in 1999, the mayor and two aldermen were elected to four-year terms.

Incumbents John Miller and Harry Rogers had previously filed. Others who have filed include Gilbert Mesimer, Steve Stroud, Roy Patterson and Linda Williams.

Johnson, who has faced questions about his residence and charges of conflict of interest, hopes to defuse those issues.

He reiterated Monday that he lives at 603 Shue Road, not Johnson’s Restaurant, which is outside the town limits.

Johnson said his son is working on a deal to buy the restaurant property from him, which should end the conflict of interest questions.

During discussions of annexation and installation of water lines, Johnson has pushed for the town to include the U.S. 29 corridor north of town, which includes Johnson’s Restaurant.

Although Johnson spearheaded the $3-million replacement of water lines, he said Monday that it was a board effort. “I’m proud to serve with this board. Look at what this board has been able to do in four years.”

He pointed out that most major actions have been by a unanimous vote of the board or a 4-1 vote.

While praising the board, Johnson criticized Mayor Joseph Sloop.

Johnson said Sloop’s predictions of financial woe haven’t come true. Johnson said he was forced to sign the state loan agreements on the water project, when Sloop refused to do so.

Johnson has also led the charge to get major sewer lines replaced, a project which may start later this year. “When I went on the board and found out what kind of shape the sewer lines were in, I couldn’t believe it.”

Johnson also headed the committee to hire the first town manager. Although it took nearly six months, he is delighted with the work of Manager Ron Sutphin.

“The best thing that has ever happened to China Grove is hiring a town manager,” said Johnson, who is completing his second two-year term.

Johnson is a member of the Historical Society of South Rowan and the China Grove Appearance Commission. He serves on the executive board of the Centralina Council of Governments.

Filing for all municipal elections continues through noon Friday at the Rowan County Board of Elections.