Lavonia DDA Hosts Training Seminar This Week - 92.1 WLHR

Lavonia DDA Hosts Training Seminar This Week

The City of Lavonia Downtown Development Authority recently hosted DDA 101 and Historic Preservation Commission Training this week at the historic Lavonia Depot, bringing together community leaders from across Northeast Georgia who share a common goal—building stronger, more vibrant downtowns.

Lavonia DDA Director Ashley Umbehant said representatives from the Cities of Canon, Franklin Springs, and Cornelia, along with Downtown Development Authority board members, Historic Preservation Commission members, elected officials, and community leaders gathered for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.

Toccoa Planning & Downtown Development Director Connie Tabor led the training.

During the seminar, Tabor shared practical strategies, real-world experiences, and valuable insights into the important role Downtown Development Authorities play in creating thriving communities.

Participants also heard from Joe Rothwell with the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission Planning Department, who specializes in historic preservation.

Rothwell provided hands-on guidance and highlighted the importance of preserving the unique character and history that make our downtowns special while preparing them for future growth.

“DDA 101 consists of more than classroom training,” Umbehant said. “It’s an opportunity for communities to learn from professionals who have successfully navigated downtown revitalization, ask questions, share ideas, and leave with practical tools they can immediately put into action. Hosting regional training in Lavonia is especially meaningful because it allows the city to showcase everything that makes the community unique. The City of Lavonia is proud to serve as a regional partner by hosting educational opportunities that strengthen not only our own community but neighboring communities as well.”

Umbehant said the Lavonia Downtown Development Authority extends its sincere appreciation to Toccoa DDA Director Connie Tabor, GMRC Representative Joe Rothwell, and everyone who attended for investing their time and passion into making Northeast Georgia’s downtowns stronger for generations to come.