Grayson DDA hires Downtown Development Manager

Gail Lane has been named Downtown Development Manager of Grayson’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and will begin duties on April 1, 2013. 

In this capacity, Ms. Lane will serve as a liaison to downtown merchants and promote/manage Grayson’s new business incubator. There are plans to inventory and market Grayson to underserved businesses as well as promote the benefit of relocation to our City.

As the search concluded with her hiring, Lane said “I have worked side-by-side with many of Grayson’s business owners and administrative leaders. I look forward to sharing my experiences to further the mission of Grayson’s DDA, and positively impact economic development throughout our City.”

Vice Chair Chip Mitchell, who crafted the projects for which Ms. Lane will be tasked, said “Today we are well positioned to attract and retain business as well as quality development or redevelopment projects.”

Lane possesses a myriad of skills critical to achieving these tasks for the DDA and Grayson’s Entrepreneurs. Being a long time resident of the area equips her well for the DDA’s business outreach initiative. With a background in marketing, journalism, and small business ownership, she brings a unique level of familiarity to the position and its goals. 

Chairman Jimmy Norton commented, “Our Board has worked methodically and harmoniously in this process. With the Mrs. Lane in place and the Incubator soon to open, we are ready to sprint ahead. Grayson’s attributes will no longer be a secret.”

About Grayson’s Downtown Development Authority:The mission of the Grayson DDA, established in 2010, is to undertake public improvements that have the greatest impact on strengthening the downtown area, attracting new private investments and fostering economic, cultural and social growth.

(Contributed by Grayson Downtown Development Authority Chairman Jimmy Norton)