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Practical Leadership.
Community Focused Growth.
Positive Results.
Joe Burgett
South Carolina is growing, and the decisions we make today will shape our community for years to come. My priorities focus on managing growth responsibly, supporting local businesses, strengthening coordination with Clemson University, and protecting our quality of life. Together, these goals reflect a practical approach to leadership—one that listens, plans carefully, and delivers positive results for residents.
Plan-Led Growth
Plan-led growth means approving development only where our community’s adopted vision supports it, while protecting neighborhoods and Clemson’s character. It also means putting infrastructure first. Roads, utilities, public safety, and other essential services must be ready before major development moves forward.
My Priorities
Support Clemson Businesses
City Council should support local businesses and look for ways to ease their tax burden. I will seek responsible ways for new growth to help reduce taxes, especially the business license tax. We should also welcome a wider mix of shops, restaurants, and services that give residents more reasons to enjoy Clemson.
Strengthen Coordination with the University
Clemson needs strong coordination between the Town and the University. As a tenured Clemson professor, I understand both the University’s needs and the concerns of residents. With more large events affecting traffic, parking, public safety, and nearby neighborhoods, we need earlier coordination and better communication. I also support expanding on-campus student housing and will push the University to make it a higher priority.
Clemson Character & Quality of Life
Clemson’s character should be reflected in the people who represent it. I believe City Council leadership should be transparent, open, positive, inclusive, and guided by facts. By listening carefully and making thoughtful, data-driven decisions, we can protect Clemson’s quality of life and keep it a place people truly enjoy calling home.
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