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Josh Gates sworn in as Jasper City mayor; vows focus on infrastructure and collaboration
Summary
At Jasper City's inauguration, Josh Gates took the oath as mayor and emphasized infrastructure, investment and collaboration. Outgoing mayor Gary Cowan reflected on 25 years of service and the city's fiscal growth; the event included an invocation, recognition of dignitaries, and a reception sponsored by local banks and organizations.
Josh Gates was sworn in as mayor of Jasper City during an inaugural ceremony that included prayers, remarks from the outgoing mayor and recognition of federal and state officials.
"I will faithfully and honestly discharge the duties of the office to the best of my ability, so help me God," Gates repeated as he took the oath administered by the municipal judge. In his first address as mayor, Gates thanked outgoing leaders and the community and said his administration would "take bold steps to strengthen our infrastructure, attract investment, and create opportunities for families and businesses to thrive." He added that the city must "build responsibly and strategically" as it grows.
Outgoing mayor Gary Cowan spoke at length about his 25 years in city government and praised city employees for their response to an emergency involving a vehicle accident near Cooner Dental. Cowan also highlighted fiscal changes during his tenure, saying the city's budget had increased "from a budget of $12,000,000 to almost $38,000,000," and said those reserves position the new administration to pursue projects and respond to future challenges.
The ceremony included an invocation led by Willie Moore and a presentation of the colors. Officials on hand included U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, State Sen. Matt Woods and State Rep. Greg Barnes. The reception that followed was sponsored by Synovus Bank, Jasper Main Street, Pinnacle Bank, Rotary Club of Jasper, Bank of Walker County and Oak Valley Landscaping; the emcee noted no taxpayer funds were used for the reception.
The newly sworn councilmembers (Jenny Short, Lincoln Moody, Sam Watts, Jennifer William Smith and Willie Moore) offered brief remarks pledging to serve their districts. Gates thanked his wife, Talia, and encouraged residents to stay for the reception to continue the celebration.
The council recessed for approximately 40 minutes for the reception and reconvened later to complete organizational business.
