The food and beverage industry is the backbone of Charleston, contributing greatly to the 58,000 members of the city’s hospitality workforce. It is unacceptable that those who form the backbone of this city still struggle to find housing, parking, and a safe route home at night. Those who serve us — cook, clean, give directions, carry bags, open doors, etc. — make our city the number one destination city in the world. They deserve better. Our people are our greatest asset. As Mayor, Middleton is not going to forget that and will not do anything to put this industry out of business or people out of work. This includes not supporting a tipping minimum wage and being action-oriented to remove barriers and meet the demands of a growing city.

There is no shortage of issues this industry and our city are facing. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities for us to solve problems, improve operations, collaborate, and truly create a city that works for everyone. I look forward to leading that effort as Mayor of Charleston.

As Mayor, I will:

• Establish the Office of Nightlife and Public Safety to improve safety, accountability, and communications

• Create a Mayor’s Food and Beverage Advisory Council

• Develop parking alternatives, so that Food and Beverage employees do not have to pay an exorbitant amount to park near their place of work

• Expand access to affordable housing options, so that those who work in Charleston can also live in Charleston

• Create more local opportunities for residents to enjoy the flavors of Charleston