Demorest Downtown Development Authority (DDA) hosted Executive Director of the Habersham County Economic Council Tim Lee at Tuesday’s meeting.
In the DDA’s meeting, the board opened the dialogue on the potential expansion of the city. “When you drive your grandchildren around, what do you want to say you’re most proud of?” asked Lee.
Lee added that with the county’s leadership, he wanted to see the cities “work together” to utilize each available space.
Lee advised there are many potential ways in which the city may receive funding for the planning and expansion. Each city could either fund these plans with internal DDA funding, city funds approved by the council, or applicable grants available. Regardless of the initial funding, Lee says expanding businesses within the city would result in increased revenue for both the city and county.
DDA member Nathan Davis added that currently, he didn’t think the city’s college town standing was “being utilized.” He compared the city’s potential to that of Athens, Georgia, which hosts a variety of businesses and communities.
The DDA will further discuss expansion plans at its October meeting.
