NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 3, 2025
Contact:
Josh Gates
Mayor of Jasper, AL
CITY OF JASPER HOLDS INAUGURAL CEREMONY FOR MAYOR JOSH GATES AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
JASPER, AL - Josh Gates was officially sworn in as the 20th Mayor of the City of Jasper during an inaugural and organizational ceremony held Monday, November 3, 2025, at Jasper City Hall.
The ceremony included the swearing-in of the recently elected Jasper City Council members: Jenny Brown Short (District One), Lincoln Moody (District Two), Sam Watts (District Three), Jennifer Williams Smith (District Four), and Willie Moore III (District Five). The Honorable Judge Jim Brakefield administered the oaths of office, following an invocation by Willie Moore IV, the Presentation of Flags and Pledge of Allegiance by the Jasper High School ROTC, and the National Anthem performed by the Jasper High School Phoenix Show Choir.
In his remarks, Mayor Gates spoke about Jasper’s momentum and the opportunities ahead, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and long-term growth for the city. “The work ahead will take planning, innovation, and decisive action,” he stated. “I believe this community is ready to take the next step. Building on the foundation that has already been built, we can create a city that not only meets the needs of today but inspires the next generation to stay, to build, and to raise their families right here in Jasper.”
Mayor Gates also acknowledged outgoing Mayor Gary Cowen, expressing gratitude for his leadership and the steady hand he provided during his tenure. “When our town needed a leader, you stepped up to guide our city with steadiness and heart,” Gates noted. “I feel confident David O’Mary would have been proud, and we as a community are forever grateful.”
Gates described Jasper as a community defined by its people, those who work hard, volunteer their time, and invest in the city’s continued growth. “There’s a resilience here, a sense of pride, and a belief that we can always find a way forward,” he remarked. “That spirit is infectious, and it makes me proud and humbled to lead this city.”
The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer delivered by Dr. John Gates, the mayor’s father, followed by a public reception at City Hall. A former Jasper City Council member representing District Three, Gates brings both private-sector experience and community involvement to the role. Before his election as mayor, he co-founded and served as CEO of the national media company Saturday Down South, which he sold in 2021. He has also been actively involved in local economic development and civic organizations that focus on strengthening Jasper’s future.
Josh and his wife, Dr. Talia Gates, have two sons, Kye and Zane. In his remarks, he thanked Talia for her constant encouragement and support, noting that her influence has been a guiding force throughout his life and career.
For more information about the City of Jasper, visit jaspercity.com.
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Photo credit: Al Blanton
