William Cogswell

Mayor William Cogswell, a dedicated lifelong resident of Charleston, assumed office on January 8th, 2024, with an unwavering commitment to prioritizing the needs of the city's residents. Grounded in the principles of Smart Growth, Safe Communities, and Sound Governance, his leadership ethos is geared towards shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for Charleston.

With a rich background in real estate spanning over two decades, Mayor Cogswell has played a pivotal role in revitalizing historic properties, transforming them into thriving urban centers such as the Cigar Factory, GARCo Mill, and the Navy Yard. Drawing upon his extensive experience, he brings a keen understanding of the nuances of development, distinguishing between what constitutes responsible and sustainable progress. His vision is to leverage these lessons to guide Charleston forward into a future marked by responsible growth.

Prior to assuming mayoral duties, Cogswell served in the state legislature, representing District 110 for six years. During this period, his impact was felt across the state, contributing to statewide teacher pay raises and spearheading the largest income tax cut in the history of South Carolina. Notably, he championed a crucial bill that delivered free prescription eyeglasses to thousands of Title One students in the tri-county area, showcasing his dedication to fostering positive change at both the local and state levels.