Joe Fouche for Oakwood Mayor Campaign Gaining Momentum, Key Endorsements

Joe Fouche appears to be breaking away from the pack in January's special election for Mayor of Oakwood.

OAKWOOD VILLAGE, Ohio — The mayoral campaign of Joe Fouche is showing signs of growing momentum as it continues to emphasize his professional background and a detailed vision for the future of Oakwood Village.

Oakwood residents were shocked at the passing of longtime mayor Gary Gottschalk this past September. The January 6th special election will mark the first time in more than thirty years that Oakwood Village residents will choose a new mayor at the ballot box.

Fouche’s campaign has focused on highlighting what it describes as a record of leadership across multiple areas of public service. He has worked in law enforcement and security since 1998 and previously served as a police chief, overseeing a department with more than 100 employees. His experience also includes work in education as a licensed Ohio school business manager, where he administered operations involving more than 200 employees. In addition, Fouche has held roles with the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority and has served as a senior center director, gaining experience in grant writing and community programming.

Alongside his professional background, the campaign is presenting a platform centered on specific plans and projects for Oakwood Village. A key priority is infrastructure, with proposals that include roadway and bridge widening and the addition of pedestrian walkways along major roads. The platform also calls for redevelopment of existing business park areas and explores the concept of a new combined municipal, police, and recreation facility to better serve residents.

Another central element of Fouche’s platform involves ward-specific legislation aimed at addressing building code and infrastructure issues that affect homeowners. He has proposed measures to assist residents with gravel driveways and related concerns by exempting them from having to pay for certain required repairs. His campaign argues that current enforcement practices have been applied unevenly and that a more consistent and resident-focused approach is needed.

Campaign officials say they are encouraged by the response so far. Fouche has received what the campaign describes as overwhelming endorsements, and canvassing efforts have shown support across all five wards of Oakwood Village and among residents of diverse racial backgrounds. Volunteers report that voters are familiar with both the candidate and his priorities.

The campaign has also attracted support from members of the local business community and recently received backing from Gary Gottschalk Jr., the son of the recently deceased and highly respected Oakwood Village mayor.

As the race continues, the campaign is planning several community events aimed at increasing engagement. A free community fish fry and meet-and-greet is scheduled for Saturday, December 27, from noon to 2 p.m. at Senior Centers of Ohio. A free live jazz event is planned for January 3, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., also at Senior Centers of Ohio.

With an emphasis on experience, detailed planning, and community outreach, Fouche’s campaign is positioning itself as a growing presence in the Oakwood Village mayoral race.

The day of the special election is Tuesday, January 6th, and early voting has already begun.