Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Al Blanton
The City of Jasper officially ushered in new leadership on Monday, November 3, during an inaugural ceremony at Jasper City Hall.
The event featured the swearing-in of Mayor Josh Gates, along with returning City Council members Jenny Brown Short (District One), Jennifer Williams Smith (District Four), and Willie Moore III (District Five), and newly elected City Council members Lincoln Moody (District Two) and Sam Watts (District Three).
The ceremony opened with an invocation by Willie Moore IV, followed by the Presentation of Flags and Pledge of Allegiance led by the Jasper High School ROTC and the National Anthem performed by the Jasper High School Phoenix Show Choir. The Honorable Judge Jim Brakefield administered the oaths of office, describing the act as “a solemn promise, a civic and sacred pledge.” In his remarks, Brakefield encouraged the incoming officials to lead with integrity and humility, noting, “A politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation.”
Outgoing Mayor Gary Cowen, who has served the city in various capacities for 25 years, thanked the citizens of District Three, the city employees, and his colleagues on the council, noting the city’s growth from a $12 million to a nearly $38 million budget during his tenure. “I never planned to be involved in city government,” Cowen said. “But once I was encouraged to step up, I knew the only way to make a difference was to get involved. I know the new administration cares deeply about continuing that work.”
Mayor Gates, who previously served as the District Three council representative, expressed gratitude to Cowen for his leadership and spoke about the city’s momentum and opportunities ahead. “The work ahead will take planning, innovation, and decisive action,” he said. “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.”
Gates described Jasper as a community defined by those who work hard, volunteer, and invest in its 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 makes me proud and humbled to lead this city.”
Following the oath ceremony, each council member offered brief remarks.
The ceremony concluded with a presentation honoring Gary Cowen for his years of service, a moment made more meaningful when Councilwoman Smith noted that Cowen’s father, a former mayor of Marianna, Florida, had received an identical plaque upon his retirement.
The event closed with a prayer from Dr. John Gates, the mayor’s father, followed by a public reception sponsored by several local organizations, including Synovus Bank, Jasper Main Street, Pinnacle Bank, Rotary Club of Jasper, the Bank of Walker County, and Oak Valley Landscaping. WL
