The Downtown Development Authority recently met to discuss future plans for the revitalization of downtown Blairsville, changes in by-laws, the upcoming town meeting scheduled for June 17, 2008, board member term lengths, and the possibility of having a DDA float in the Christmas Parade. They also heard from Promotions Committee Co-Chairs Teresa and Buddy Moore.

Teresa and Buddy gave an overview of the recent Downtown Spring Arts and Crafts Festival. They gave credit to Promotions Committee volunteers and Blairsville Mayor Conley for their dedication and hard work during the event. Teresa said, “The volunteers make everything possible and Mayor Conley is more than a figurehead. He gets out there and really works.” She went on to recap the event. “Venders felt welcomed and many expressed their gratitude for such amenities as the hospitality tent and availability of booth sitters. Our committee really comes together and gets things done.”

Project Manager Janet Hartman reported on several things. She talked about the success of the Design Committees clean-up and planting day. Over 500 plants went into the ground and benches were stained and sealed. Design Committee Chairperson Carolyn Glenn is looking into watering issues and proposes the purchase of a rain barrel for use at the J. Lance planter. Upcoming Design Committee projects include Fall and Christmas decorating.

Organization Committee Chairman Mayor Conley reported on plans to attend the Georgia Municipal Association Convention during the third week in June. The convention will offer various training courses including Economic Development, Human Resource Management, Municipal Financing, Municipal Law, Ethics, Planning, and Zoning. Conley is also considering a collaborative meeting with the DDA, the Blairsville-Union Chamber of Commerce, and the Union County Historical Society to discuss various issues including the Hotel/Motel tax base.