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Rich Hutnik  Posted:
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Well, the highest level of chess
represents chess played at an optimal level, right? If it is drawing at
that level,
what impact does it have on the game? 

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Drawing at that level simply demonstrates that both opponents are almost
equally skilled.  
If a win is desired then  it is the scoring that needs to be changed (even
though I disagree on that too) . For example consider giving a draw less
than 1/2 point . or scoring for the different types of draws. 

However, stalemate is one of the greatest 'features' in chess. Feature
well utilized:  even recently in a game between two GMs one player on his
way to a loss played a tricky move which if not replied correctly would
have led to stalemate. 
I like to give the boxing analogy of a knockout to checkmate. Most boxing
matches between equally skilled opponents are actually draws - the scoring
is so subjective you might as well call it that .  Now if you want a
decisive result between two players. How about this: in the event of a
draw - the time control is changed to say something like 5min/12second
increment  and they play until someone wins. Changes to scoring and
tournament rules can be adjusted to produce a winner in all cases  if
desired.

Have you taken a look at Modern Shatranj? I believe it has all the rules
you would like implemented. Perhaps a modified version of that game may be
a good starting point .