Hiawassee Downtown Development Authority to Hold Meeting, Welcome New Board Members

HIAWASSEE, Ga. — The Hiawassee Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will convene its next meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in the Upstairs Training Room at 50 River Street. The agenda includes swearing in new board members, reviewing financial updates, and discussing key community initiatives.

The meeting will begin with the swearing-in of three new board members: Kristi Bryant, Shawn Farmer, and Doug Schober. The DDA will also welcome additional board member candidates and consider appointing Tonya Schober as treasurer. Other officer positions, including co-chair and secretary, will be discussed.

Lily, the DDA director, will provide a financial update and report on several initiatives, including the hiring of a program coordinator, operations updates for the PBC, and a recap of the recent Georgia Downtowns Conference. Caitlin will present an update on the Night Market, a local event aimed at boosting community engagement.

The agenda also covers new business, such as setting regular meeting dates and times, scheduling a DDA retreat, and planning for DDA basic training. The board will explore participation in the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative (GEPC), a program focused on fostering vibrant community spaces. Old business includes updates on Hikeawassee 2026 and the Firefly Project succession plan.

An executive session will follow before the meeting adjourns. The DDA encourages public attendance to stay informed about ongoing efforts to enhance Hiawassee’s downtown area.

For more information, contact the Hiawassee Downtown Development Authority at 50 River Street.