As Jacksonville\u2019s urban core continues to evolve, so does the leadership guiding its business community. The Downtown Council of the JAX Chamber, one of the most active and engaged councils, enters 2026 under a passionate group of volunteer leaders committed to fostering connection, collaboration, and economic momentum across Downtown Jacksonville.<\/p>\n
LEADERSHIP THAT REFLECTS DOWNTOWN\u2019S ENERGY<\/p>\n
The Downtown Council\u2019s Board of Directors is made up of seasoned professionals and community-minded business leaders representing a diverse range of industries and expertise.<\/p>\n
Together, they play a strategic role in shaping council programming, advocating for downtown initiatives, and creating opportunities for business professionals to connect and thrive.<\/p>\n
Key leadership roles and board members include:<\/p>\n
President \u2014 Angela Campbell, Jacksonville Daily RecordVice President \u2014 Jeffery Blount, Meyer Najem ConstructionTreasurer \u2014 Kenneth McAllister, First Citizens BankPrograms Officer \u2014 Thomas Lee, Lee and Cates GlassImmediate Past President \u2014 Laura Phillips Edgecombe, Downtown Vision Inc.Marketing & Communications Chair \u2014 Liz McDonald, Friends of James Weldon Johnson ParkMembership Chair \u2014 Daniel (DJ) Remark, Bloodscribe CreationsSBLY DTC \u2014 Jason Pratt, Prattify<\/p>\n
Including dedicated board members:
Jim Webb \u2014 Manifest Distilling
Doug Smith \u2014 Cross Regions Group
Will Shepard \u2014 Shepard & Shepard Wealth Management Team of Raymond James
James Lampke \u2014 Robert Half
Molly McDaniel \u2014 Mad Men Marketing
Clive Ricketts \u2014 Brand Love.<\/p>\n
This collective brings real-world business acumen and a shared vision for a vibrant, connected downtown. Their leadership helps ensure the DTC remains a trusted forum for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and progress within Jacksonville\u2019s urban core.<\/p>\n
A PLATFORM FOR CONNECTION AND GROWTH<\/p>\n
The Downtown Council serves as a hub for professionals, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and business owners who want to be engaged in the conversations shaping the future of downtown.<\/p>\n
Through consistent programming and social engagement, the council offers a welcoming environment to build relationships, exchange ideas, and stay informed on issues impacting downtown business and development.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Downtown Council Breakfast: On the first Friday of each month, members gather at Downtown Vision Inc. for a morning of networking, and informative presentations from influential speakers. These sessions provide timely insights on downtown development, economic trends, and civic initiatives while allowing members to grow their professional networks.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Happy Hours and Social Events: On the third Friday of each month, the council hosts a relaxed, come-as-you-are social hour at rotating downtown venues. These casual gatherings create space for authentic connection, collaboration, and conversation among like-minded business leaders who share a passion for Jacksonville\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re new to Jacksonville or a longtime resident, these gatherings make it easy to plug into the downtown business community.<\/p>\n
WHY IT MATTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS<\/p>\n
In today\u2019s competitive business environment, relationships and local insight matter more than ever. Participation in the Downtown Council offers access to decision-makers, thought leaders, and peers who are invested in the success of downtown Jacksonville.<\/p>\n
Members gain visibility, perspective, and the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that shape the city\u2019s economic future.<\/p>\n
The Downtown Council is more than a meeting. It is a community driven by purpose, pride, and progress.<\/p>\n
To learn more about the DTC, register at attend upcoming meetings, and opportunities to get involved, visit dtcjax.com and join a network of professionals dedicated to growing Downtown Jacksonville together.<\/p>\n
#TheCoolestCouncil<\/p>\n
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