Election Day is November 7th, 2023
ISSUES
Transparency, efficiency, and innovation are values that I hold close. I am confident that together, we can bring positive change to North Charleston.
Public Safety
The #1 job of any city is public safety. If elected, my goal over the next four years is for North Charleston to adopt a direction to make the list of America’s Safest Cities. I will work to provide our Police and Fire the equipment and personnel they need. I will vote to OVERfund the police–a response to the “Defund the Police” movement. This funding will ensure that our public safety officials (including School Resources Officers) have the best training possible. That training includes developmental courses in communication and conflict resolution. Our high crime rate is leaving our police department understaffed and overburdened. I will vote to fund technology and analytical tools to begin restoring public trust and transparency.
Traffic/Infrastructure
Charleston/North Charleston, the 72nd largest metropolitan city in the United States, is uniquely busy. Our growing population, active ports, thriving businesses, and a lack of infrastructure have created the perfect traffic storm. The Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT) will alleviate a little of that congestion in the long term. In the short term, I’d like to conduct a study combining the data we currently have (school bus routes, data from the state, and data from Google API) to determine the best path forward. My experience using Google API for Mobile App Development tells me we can evaluate our trouble areas and report that information to the Department of Transportation. I will work with the new Mayor to build a better relationship with the State of South Carolina and the South Carolina Department of Transportation to ensure that we have real solutions coming to North Charleston. I will also build relationships with our state’s leading educators in Public Administration to provide additional insight into this growing problem. By combining our expertise and resources, we can tackle this problem together. I am not promising an overnight solution, but I assure you that we can make progress with your vote and trust. We can make our city’s roads less congested, more efficient, and safer for everyone.
A Family-Friendly City
Great cities are made great by two things: Safe Communities and Great Schools. In addition to joining the list of America’s Safest Cities, I want to join the list of Best Places to Raise a Family and the Most Family-Friendly Cities. North Charleston will be a City of Excellence, which means protecting our kids, guiding them appropriately, and guarding them from being used as a social experiment. I’ll commit to working with community parents, our school board, and the school district leaders to make sure our kids have the very best in a healthy, wholesome, and nurturing community.
Unleashing the Power of the Arts
North Charleston stands to gain significantly from fostering the arts. According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, arts and cultural strategies have the potential to deepen community engagement, improve street safety, provide tourism and new jobs, and even combat social isolation.
With my experience and passion for the arts, I’m bringing a fresh perspective on how the arts can benefit our community. As part of the North Charleston City Council, I plan to advocate for increased funding for local arts programs and initiatives. I believe that by supporting artists and arts organizations, we can enhance the city’s cultural vitality, boost its economy, and improve the quality of life for all residents.
The arts are not a luxury but a necessity for the growth and progress of North Charleston. Together, we have the opportunity to harness the power of the arts to build a brighter, more vibrant future for our city.
Championing Youth Recreation
Youth sports are not just games. They play a critical role in shaping our city’s future leaders by teaching them teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Research indicates that children who participate in sports are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to excel academically .
Moreover, youth sports can contribute significantly to community safety. According to a study by the University of Chicago Crime Lab, youth who participate in sports-based programs have a 44% reduced chance of arrest for a violent crime. By keeping kids engaged in positive activities, we can create safer neighborhoods and reduce crime rates across North Charleston.
For years I have been at the forefront of these efforts, dedicating my time and energy to coaching local youth.
As a City Council member, I plan to expand the reach of youth sports programs, ensuring they are accessible to all children, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds. I will advocate for increased funding and resources for these programs, realizing their potential to transform lives and communities.
Budget & Finance
As your city councilman, I will critically evaluate the current budget to drive maximum value and eliminate waste. I will request an organizational audit to determine what city positions exist and for what purpose. I will work to publish ALL relevant financial information on the city’s website—including Income statements, Balance Sheets, etc. so that all North Charleston citizens can easily understand how their tax dollars are being used. As the State of South Carolina’s wealthiest city, the citizens should be the first to benefit from the city’s prosperity.
Transparency
I will work to publicly release the city council meeting agenda and materials as far in advance as possible. I will push to create a city council voting record web page on the city’s website so anyone can look up any council member’s vote at any time, with links to all relevant information provided for the vote, to provide far greater transparency and voter information.
The people of North Charleston deserve a transparent, accountable government. I’m striving to ensure every citizen’s voice is heard, that the city provides the world-class services it’s supposed to and that the North Charleston City Council treats your money as YOURS!
Community Participation
Citizen participation in local government is alarmingly low. Part of this is because it’s difficult for citizens, with our busy lives, to follow what’s going on–especially with budget and taxes. I want to foster as much citizen engagement in our local government as possible, ensuring everything is out in the open and closed meetings are strictly limited. The City Council’s #1 job is oversight, and when it comes to ensuring taxpayers understand where their money is going, I’ll work to make the process as transparent as possible, so the people can hold their elected representatives fully accountable.
About
Joshua Gale
Visionary | Community Leader | Non-profit Leader | Entrepreneur | Family Man | Youth Recreation Coach | Artist/Musician/Songwriter | Graduate of Charleston Southern University | Member of North Palm Church
Joshua Gale is a visionary leader with a diverse background as a non-profit leader, entrepreneur, family man, artist, and youth recreation coach. He is a graduate of Charleston Southern University and an active member of North Palm Church. Since moving to North Charleston in 2007, Gale has immersed himself in the community and is determined to create innovative solutions and partnerships for the city’s betterment. He‘d like to spend the next four years creating solutions and building strategic partnerships for our beloved city. Joshua is married to North Charleston Native Melissa. They have three children.
ENDORSEMENTS
Marcel Foster
North Charleston Educator and District 4 Resident
One of Joshua’s most notable strengths is his unwavering dedication to the next generation. He genuinely believes in their potential and works relentlessly to provide them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. His willingness to go above and beyond for our children and their development is a testament to his character and his vision for our community.
Moreover, Joshua’s compassion and empathy set him apart. He connects with people on a human level, understanding their struggles, validating their experiences, and working collaboratively to address their concerns. This quality positions him uniquely to enact positive change within North Charleston.
Education is the cornerstone of societal progress. It equips our children with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to navigate the world and shape it for the better. Joshua recognizes this profound truth and is committed to ensuring that our education system lives up to its promise.
In endorsing Joshua Gale, I am endorsing a brighter future for North Charleston, a future where every child has access to quality education and recreation. I ask you to join me in supporting Joshua in his mission. Together, let’s work towards an educated, compassionate, and thriving North Charleston.
Jimmy Hong
US Marine Corps Veteran, Business Owner, North Charleston Resident, Husband, Father, Minister
As a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, a proud husband, a father, and a dedicated member of the North Charleston community, I am committed to the well-being and growth of our city. It is from this perspective that I endorse Joshua Gale for North Charleston City Council.
In the Marine Corps, I learned the importance of commitment, perseverance, and discipline. It takes a certain kind of person to put service above self, to persist in the face of adversity, and to carry out every mission to its conclusion. In Joshua Gale, I see these traits. He is the kind of leader who won’t back down from challenges, who will stand up for what he believes is right, and who will always strive to finish what he starts.
Joshua’s commitment to our community goes beyond mere promises. He understands the unique needs and aspirations of our residents. Let us entrust him with our votes, confident in the knowledge that he will work tirelessly for the betterment of North Charleston.
Dr. Ashleigh Zacarias
North Charleston Family Physician
I am Dr. Ashleigh Zacarias, a local Family Physician. My work has given me the privilege of caring for the residents of North Charleston, and it has instilled in me a deep understanding of our community’s needs.
Today, I am writing to express my wholehearted endorsement for Joshua Gale as North Charleston District 4 City Councilman. I have known Joshua for several years now, and I have always been impressed by his dedication to serving others and his commitment to our community. His values and principles align perfectly with the needs of North Charleston.
Joshua is a man of great integrity. He is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and do whatever it takes to make our city a better place to live. His vision for North Charleston is one that resonates deeply with me as a healthcare professional – a healthy, vibrant, and united community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
I urge you to join me in supporting Joshua Gale for North Charleston City Council. Together, we can help him make his vision for our city a reality.
Carlotte Bailey
School Board Trustee - Charleston County School Board, Lifelong North Charleston Resident, Veteran
As a Charleston County School Board member, I understand what it takes to stand up for what is right. I have known Joshua Gale for six years and have seen his dedication to serving his community firsthand.
I am excited to endorse Joshua Gale for North Charleston City Council. As our city faces many challenges, we need strong leadership now more than ever. Joshua has the integrity and courage to put his morals ahead of personal gain and is not hesitant to take a stand against a corrupt and broken system.
Joshua’s commitment to serving others is evident in everything he does. He is passionate about looking out for everyone in our community, regardless of age, color, or socio-economic background. He has dedicated much of his time, talent, and money to serving the North Charleston community without expecting anything in return.
Join me in supporting Joshua Gale for the North Charleston City Council.
Melissa Gale
Wife, Mother, Lifelong District 4 Resident
I’m Melissa Gale, and I have the privilege not only of being Joshua Gale’s wife but also his most ardent supporter in his candidacy for North Charleston City Council.
Joshua, the man you see in public, is the same man I see at home. He is genuine, compassionate, and an advocate for what’s right. The values he upholds in public service are the same ones he lives by every day. He listens with empathy, speaks with sincerity, and acts with integrity.
At home, he is a devoted husband and an exceptional father. I am so thankful for his dedication to our family. Joshua has a remarkable ability to remain calm and focused during challenging times. Through adversity, his leadership qualities shine.
His commitment to our community is unquestionable. He believes in the potential of every resident and every neighborhood. He stands up for what’s right, not because it’s politically expedient, but because he genuinely cares about our community.
With Joshua Gale on the City Council, I am confident that he will bring the same level of dedication, compassion, and integrity that he displays as a husband, father, and friend.
I endorse my husband, Joshua Gale, for North Charleston City Council. I believe in him, just as I believe in the bright future he envisions for our beloved city.
Patrick Goodwyn
Senior Assistant Public Defender 9th Judicial Circuit, North Charleston Resident
I am writing to you today with great pride and enthusiasm to endorse Joshua Gale for the upcoming North Charleston City Council election. As a Senior Assistant Public Defender for the 9th Judicial Circuit and former Assistant Solicitor in the 9th Judicial Circuit, I have had the privilege of working with many public servants. Joshua embodies the characteristics that make an exceptional leader. Joshua Gale’s love for his family and commitment to North Charleston drove him to advocate for key issues such as improved public safety, youth sports program expansion and to foster unity for North Charleston.
His dedication and hard work are real, and his heart for serving others is undeniable. He understands that leadership is not about power, but devotion to the betterment of the community. His leadership skills fit perfectly to unite our citizens around common goals and shared values. His integrity, dedication, grounding in his family, and vision for our city are what we need to bring North Charleston to a better future.
Joshua Gale is prepared to lead and deeply committed to the people he seeks to serve. I urge the residents of District 4 to vote for Joshua Gale for North Charleston City Council. He is the leader North Charleston needs to guide our city into the future.
Kasi Groff
Coosaw Creek Resident, Veteran
I have had the privilege of knowing Joshua Gale for many years, and during this time have been able to witness him serve his local community with honor and with joy. As a prior service member, I can tell you with great confidence that these are some of the best leadership qualities to have to help bring change. He is passionate about making North Charleston safer, and I know he will be the man to do it!
Jordan Pace
State House Representative - SC House 117
I’ve known Josh for more than 15 years. In all that time, I have consistently seen Josh be the embodiment of the word dedication. He doesn’t halfway do anything. I can’t think of anyone better to serve the people of North Charleston than him.
Josh’s love for his family and community is evident to anyone who’s spent time with him. With Josh Gale on city council, North Charleston can become one of the best places to live in South Carolina!
Jeremy Loomis
Retired Master Sergeant , USAF, North Charleston Resident
Hello, my name is Jeremy Loomis, a wounded warrior, Husband, and Father, and in these challenging times, our community deserves a leader who embodies unwavering moral and ethical values. Josh Gale is that leader in my eyes. His dedication to the principles of integrity, honesty, and accountability is a beacon of hope in this world.
Josh’s creative mindset is a testament to his ability to think outside the box. He approaches problems with innovative solutions, ensuring our community stays ahead of the curve. His fresh ideas will breathe new life into our region, fostering growth and prosperity.
His heart is as massive as his commitment to service. He tirelessly dedicates himself to the betterment of our community, church, and homes, putting in the hard work needed to effect positive change. He understands that true leadership means serving others first. At the heart of it all, Josh Gale is a true leader among leaders. He inspires others through his actions, motivates them through his dedication, and guides them through his vision for the future. Our community and yours deserve a leader of this caliber.
Katie Arrington
Former CISO at DoD / CMMC / SCRM, Politician
Josh stands for more public safety, transparency in government, full audits, and he wants to reduce spending.
We NEED Josh in office!
Mason Crews
Business Owner, Artist, Chef, Coosaw Creek/District 4 Resident
My experiences have taught me the importance of informed decision-making and the potential impact it can have on a business and, in this case, a city. It is with this perspective and understanding that I endorse Joshua Gale for North Charleston City Council, District 4.
What sets Joshua apart is his ability to see potential in anyone or anything. He recognizes that it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. His willingness to collaborate with local organizations reflects his understanding that it takes a village to raise a city.
On November 7th, cast your vote for Joshua Gale!
Dean Infinger, Melanie Infinger
Nursenav, Business Owners Infinger Furniture, Co-Owner
A trusted leader, problem solver, and uniter describes Josh Gale, our friend and business associate running for North Charleston City Council District 4.
As business owners in the technology field, we recognize strong leadership. We have personally hired Josh as a business and marketing consultant at various times. Josh is an innovative, entrepreneurial thought leader with an uncanny ability to communicate vision and mission and turn it into a marketing plan. We need the visionary leadership Josh Gale will bring to the City Council in North Charleson.
As residents of North Charleston, we believe there has never been a more critical time to have leadership on our city council that will listen, unify, and advocate for its citizens. Over the ten years we have known Josh, we have observed his ability to represent and unify people from diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. As a problem solver and one who stands for justice, Josh is a person who will passionately represent all the people in North Charleston.
We confidently endorse Josh Gale for North Charleston City Council District 4!
Abdiel Iriarte
Composer, Conductor, Musician, Songwriter, District 4 Resident
As a composer, conductor, musician, and songwriter, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals of extraordinary talent and vision. Joshua Gale is one of those individuals. I am writing to express my endorsement of Joshua for North Charleston City Council.
Joshua’s values are rooted in community service and generosity. He believes that every resident of North Charleston, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves a voice. Join me in supporting Joshua Gale for City Council.
Get In Touch
• joshua@gale4.com
• (843) 534-7544
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