Editor’s Note: As a courtesy to our readers and community, The Walker Leader is providing space for each qualified candidate in the upcoming Jasper municipal election to share information about themselves and their goals for office. These profiles are submitted directly by the candidates and are published as received, with only minor edits for clarity or length when necessary.
The Walker Leader does not endorse any candidate for office. Our goal is to inform, not influence. We encourage all eligible voters to read, research, and participate in the voting process.
Name: Josh Gates
How long you’ve lived in Jasper: My family moved to Jasper in 1999 when I was in high school. After graduation, I joined the military and spent several years serving and working across the country. When it came time to settle down and raise our family, my wife and I chose Jasper. We’ve been proud to call this community home for more than a decade.
Family: I’m married to Dr. Talia Gates, a local physician. We have two sons, Kye and Zane, and we’re active members of Jasper’s First Baptist Church.
Why are you running for Mayor?
I’m running for Mayor because I believe Jasper is at a critical moment. We’ve made tremendous progress, and now we have the opportunity to take our city even further. My goal is to lead Jasper with energy, a commitment to smart growth, and a focus on solutions that benefit everyone — our businesses, families, and future generations.
What key issues will be your top priorities if elected?
- Attracting diverse new industries and job opportunities
- Improving and expanding outdoor recreation and public spaces
- Encouraging collaboration among organizations working toward common goals
- Prioritizing long-term planning and fiscal responsibility
- Supporting quality of life improvements that make Jasper a destination to live, work, and raise a family
What personal or professional experiences have best prepared you for this role?
My time as an Army Ranger and private military contractor gave me experience in leadership and decision-making under pressure. After the military, I co-founded the digital media company Saturday Down South and served as its CEO, where I led day-to-day operations, built a team, and helped grow the company into a nationally recognized brand. I’ve also been involved in investing in several startup businesses. Locally, I’ve served on the Jasper City Council, the Jasper Industrial Development Board, the Walker Area Community Foundation Grant Review Committee, the Synovus Bank Advisory Board, and as President of Jasper Main Street. I understand both public service and private enterprise, and I know how to bring people together to move projects forward.
What’s one thing you love about Jasper?
I love the momentum. There’s a real energy in Jasper right now, and people are proud of where we’re headed. I want to make sure that momentum continues.
What is your favorite Jasper event and why?
The Foothills Festival is hands-down my favorite event in Jasper. It brings nationally recognized artists right to the heart of our downtown, and the fact that it’s completely free makes it accessible to everyone in the community. It’s a celebration of music, energy, and the spirit of Jasper—made possible through strong support from the City and local sponsors. Events like this remind us what’s possible when we work together to invest in experiences that bring people together and make our city shine.
Something others might be surprised to know about you:
In May 2024, I summited Mount Everest, becoming the third Alabamian to do so. It was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. I plan to bring that same level of focus, preparation, and determination to this position.
