Downtown Development Authority
Downtown Development Authority
The City of Clarkston Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a public body created to support the economic vitality and long term success of Downtown Clarkston. Working in coordination with City leadership, local businesses, property owners, and community partners, the DDA helps advance initiatives that strengthen the downtown economy, encourage responsible reinvestment, and enhance the overall experience of living, working, and doing business in Clarkston.
Our Mission & Vision
Clarkston: Where Global Cultures Build Local Success
Mission Statement
To build a vibrant, inclusive city where diverse businesses thrive through inclusive development, cultural celebration, and sustainable investment.
Vision Statement
The Clarkston DDA is dedicated to building a vibrant, connected downtown by celebrating the city’s cultural fabric through dynamic experiences, enhanced public spaces, and promoting partnerships, civic engagement, and regional collaboration.
Purpose of the DDA
The Downtown Development Authority supports strategies and initiatives that strengthen Clarkston's downtown economy, encourage investment, and create opportunities for local businesses and the community.
The DDA's areas of focus include:
- Encouraging business growth, retention, and attraction.
- Supporting redevelopment and reinvestment within the downtown district.
- Advancing placemaking initiatives and public space improvements.
- Promoting walkability, connectivity, and downtown accessibility.
- Fostering partnerships with business owners, property owners, City leadership, and community stakeholders.
Downtown Development Authority Strategic Plan
The Clarkston Downtown Development Authority, in partnership with the Georgia Institute of Technology's Center for Economic Development Research (CEDR), developed a Downtown Development Authority Strategic Plan to guide future economic development and revitalization efforts.
The adopted plan establishes a strategic framework for advancing downtown priorities, strengthening the local business environment, encouraging investment, and supporting a vibrant and inclusive downtown district.
The plan will serve as a guiding resource for the DDA as it evaluates projects, explores partnerships, and identifies opportunities to advance downtown revitalization.
View the Adopted Downtown Development Authority Strategic Plan
Downtown Development Authority District Boundaries
The Downtown Development Authority serves a designated geographic area within the City of Clarkston. The DDA district boundary map identifies the properties and areas included within the Authority's designated district and provides a reference for residents, property owners, businesses, and prospective investors interested in downtown development opportunities.
View the Official DDA District Boundary Map
DDA Board of Directors
The Downtown Development Authority is governed by a Board of Directors who help guide strategic priorities, provide leadership, and support initiatives intended to strengthen Downtown Clarkston. Board members bring diverse perspectives and experiences that contribute to the Authority's economic development and revitalization efforts.
2026-2027 Board of Directors:
| Board Member | Position |
|---|---|
| Rezwan Shareef | Chair |
| Adria Marshall | Vice Chair |
| Michele Maserjian | Secretary/Treasurer |
| Akber Lassi | Director |
| Sydney Jakes | Director |
| Dean Moore, Council member | Director |
| Ganaro Makor | Director |
Serving on the Downtown Development Authority
From time to time, seats on the Downtown Development Authority become available. Serving on the DDA is an opportunity to contribute to downtown planning efforts, support local businesses, and help guide initiatives that align with the City’s long-term economic development goals. There are currently no open positions on the Downtown Development Authority.
Individuals interested in serving may apply by completing the Downtown Development Authority Application. Applications should be submitted to JBouie@cityofclarkston.com and KJackson@cityofclarkston.com
Meetings and Public Engagement
The Downtown Development Authority meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday at 10:00 AM at Clarkston City Hall located at 736 Park North Boulevard Suite 120 Clarkston, GA, 30021.
DDA meetings are open to the public, and residents, business and property owners are encouraged attend to learn more about ongoing projects, provide input, and stay informed about downtown initiatives.
DDA Documents & Financial Information
The Downtown Development Authority is committed to transparency and providing public access to information related to its planning efforts, initiatives, and financial activities.
Documents available through this section may include:
- Downtown Development Authority Strategic Plan: The adopted plan outlining the Authority's long-term priorities and recommendations.
- Annual Operating Budget: The Authority's adopted operating budget, outlining anticipated revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year.
[Links to documents will become available once approved for publication]
Business Resources
The Clarkston Downtown Development Authority recognizes the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs, existing businesses, and prospective investors.
While the DDA does not currently administer a dedicated business assistance program, several local, regional, state, and federal organizations offer valuable resources to help businesses start, operate, expand, and succeed.
Starting or Operating a Business in Clarkston
City of Clarkston – Business Licensing & Registration
Businesses operating within the City of Clarkston are required to obtain an Occupational Tax Certificate and comply with applicable City zoning and business requirements.
Visit the City of Clarkston's City Clerk webpage for information about business license information, applications, renewals, and applicable requirements.
Local & Regional Business Assistance
Decide DeKalb Development Authority
Decide DeKalb provides business development resources, technical assistance opportunities, financing program information, and support for businesses seeking to establish or expand operations throughout DeKalb County.
Explore Decide DeKalb Business Resources
University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) – DeKalb
The UGA Small Business Development Center provides business consulting, educational programs, and resources to help entrepreneurs and existing businesses improve operations, develop strategies, and pursue growth opportunities.
Explore UGA SBDC DeKalb Resources
State & Federal Business Assistance
Georgia Department of Economic Development
The Georgia Department of Economic Development supports business growth, investment, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunities throughout the state.
Visit the Georgia Department of Economic Development
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The U.S. Small Business Administration offers information on financing programs, business planning, entrepreneurship, government contracting, and local assistance for small business owners.
Please note: The resources listed above are provided for informational purposes. Programs, eligibility requirements, and available services are administered by the respective organizations.
Contact Us
For additional information about the Clarkston Downtown Development Authority, its initiatives, meetings, and opportunities for involvement, please contact:
City of Clarkston – Planning & Economic Development Department
Jacob Bouie
Economic Development Coordinator
JBouie@cityofclarkston.com
Keedra Jackson
Planning & Economic Development Director
KJackson@cityofclarkston.com
