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Downtown Development Authority

Members
Chairman, Dennis Coxwell
Treasurer, Hope Thigpen
Secretary, Pam Langford
Kathryn Wood
Ralph Sanders
Tammy Carden
Gene Smith

The Downtown Development Authority of Warrenton (DDA) was created in 1981 under the Georgia Downtown Development Authorities Law (O.C.G.A. 36-42) to address the urgent need for revitalization and economic growth in the city’s central business district. The DDA exists to develop and promote, for the public good and general welfare, trade, commerce, industry, and employment opportunities within Warrenton. By doing so, the Authority helps expand the city’s tax base, create new jobs, and strengthen the overall quality of life for residents.

The DDA is empowered by state law to plan, organize, and implement a wide range of projects and programs, including:

• Promoting the redevelopment and revitalization of downtown areas.
  
• Stimulating new businesses and supporting existing ones.
  
• Encouraging private investment in commercial, industrial, and public facilities.
  
• Entering into contracts, acquiring and improving property, and undertaking projects that benefit the community.
  

The Authority is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of community members who live in or pay taxes within the city and who have an economic interest in downtown’s success. Members are appointed by the Mayor and City Council and serve staggered four-year terms. Directors serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in carrying out their duties.​

​Working in partnership with the City of Warrenton, the Chamber of Commerce, Hometown Warrenton, Inc., and other local and regional partners, the DDA seeks to make downtown the economic, cultural, and social hub of the community while preserving its historic character and charm.

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Executive Director

Jeffrey Fowler
​46 South Norwood Street
Warrenton, GA 30828
(706) 465-9604
[email protected]

As Executive Director of the Downtown Development Authority, I am committed to fostering growth, revitalization, and opportunity in the heart of Warrenton. Our mission is to strengthen downtown as the center of community life—supporting local businesses, attracting new investment, and preserving the unique character that makes Warrenton special.
​
— Jeffrey Fowler, Executive Director, Downtown Development Authority

Revitalizing Downtown, Strengthening Community

Main Street Program

A Partnership for Downtown Growth and Community Pride
​The City of Warrenton is proud to be part of the Georgia Classic Main Street Program, a proven approach to strengthening small towns through local business support, historic preservation, and community-driven events.
Our local program is managed by Hometown Warrenton, Inc., a nonprofit organization working alongside the City to keep downtown thriving and welcoming. Together, we are building a strong future while celebrating Warrenton’s history and character.

What is the Main Street Program?
Launched nationally in the 1980s, the Main Street movement helps small towns and cities revitalize their downtowns without losing their unique identity. Georgia’s Main Street network is one of the strongest in the nation, providing training, resources, and accreditation to participating communities.
The Main Street approach focuses on four key points:

• Economic Vitality – Growing and sustaining small businesses, encouraging investment, and planning for long-term economic health.
• Design – Preserving historic buildings, improving public spaces, and making downtown more attractive and accessible.
• Promotion – Hosting events, festivals, and marketing efforts that bring people downtown and build community pride.
• Organization – Building partnerships between city government, nonprofits, businesses, and citizens to make it all happen.

How It Works in Warrenton

• City of Warrenton – Maintains the official Main Street designation and provides support as outlined in the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Classic Main Street Memorandum of Understanding (2025–2026).
• Hometown Warrenton, Inc. Board of Directors – A volunteer-led nonprofit board that sets annual work plans, engages the public, and oversees program direction.
• Downtown Manager – A full-time staff member who manages day-to-day operations, provides business support, tracks data, and keeps the program connected to state and national resources. This Manager is provided in partnership with Warren County.

This partnership ensures Warrenton meets the standards of the Georgia Classic Main Street Program and remains nationally accredited.

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