“The older guys on council respect anyone who’s willing to sit down and put the hours in,” he says. “You’re never going to agree on every issue, but you might need some support on the next vote, so you can’t let it get personal.”

Although those may sound more like the words of a seasoned politician than an underground publishing punk, Rickett stays true to his roots through his annual punk ball, which mixes formal attire with loud music and good causes.

“I myself am not a punk fan at all,” says the mayor, “but I’ve attended a couple of Chris’s fundraisers to show support. . . . It’s broadened my horizons.”

Rickett’s life—part farce, part political drama—seems made for Stratford. So what’s next? Mayor? In this city, they may have to crown the kid king.