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Dallas Downtown Association outlines growth, new manager and expanded events in annual report
Summary
The Dallas Downtown Association told the City Council it has hired a part-time manager, secured downtown office space, increased volunteer hours to more than 1,500 in 2024 and expanded events and committees, supported by a city contract and grants.
Jason Saunders, president of the Dallas Downtown Association, presented the group’s annual report to the City Council, describing organizational changes, expanded programming and volunteer growth.
Saunders said the DDA moved from relying on 16 hours of city staffing to hiring a 20-hour-per-week manager and obtaining a downtown office near the corner by Taters. The organization reported more than 1,500 volunteer hours in 2024 from more than 75 volunteers, restoration of all four subcommittees, and a year of increased events including community movie nights, downtown cleanups, a downtown scarecrow contest, trick-or-treat on Main Street and a farmers market. The DDA also plans a larger Sounds of Summer series in coordination with the city and new promotions such as Dallas Days and Small Business Saturday events.
Saunders outlined funding sources for DDA operations: supporter funds (sustainer program), city contract support, event sponsorships and grants. Expenses listed included the 20-hour staff position, office space, operations, event costs, professional development and marketing. Saunders asked councilors to attend the DDA calendar of events and noted an annual awards program in May.
