top of page

ABOUT

us

About DMDC

About DMDC

Downtown Mt. Vernon Development Corporation was formed in 1981 to preserve our historic and cultural heritage and promote economic growth downtown.  It is a non-profit organization under the direction of a diverse partnership of directors.  We work with volunteers from throughout the community, representing both the public and private sectors.  Working together with the City of Mt. Vernon, DMDC takes the lead to restore and revitalize our downtown. Since 2002 the downtown district has experienced private investments of over twenty - three (23) million dollars and an increase in businesses in the heart of the city.

MISSION STATEMENT

To revitalize and maintain Downtown Mt. Vernon as a commercial and cultural center of the local and regional community.

VISION STATEMENT

Downtown Mt. Vernon shall be a vibrant, prosperous and popular business and residential community filled with apartments, condominiums, restaurants, businesses and entertainment facilities such that Downtown Mt. Vernon is known throughout the region as the best downtown in Southern Illinois.

About our Board of Directors

The Board of Directors consists of up to 35 members that include downtown property owners, business owners, and individuals from the community. The Executive Director of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, the Mt. Vernon City Manager, and the Executive Director of the Jefferson County Development Corporation also serve as Ex Officio members without the right to vote. 

DMDC Board Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 12:00 at Kingdom Seed Ministries. 

Exception: No board meeting is held in December. 

Current Board Members:

Monte Jo Clark - President

Ryan Wellmaker - President-Elect

Rex Cusumano - Past President

JoAnn Joy - Treasurer

Melynda Breeze - Secretary

Ed Beck

Mark Hassakis

Robin Hensley

Larry Lyday

Pam Robertson

Russell Brown

Ryan Schmidt

Cyndy Mitchell

Deb Smith

About Our Board

About our Committees

Design

The Design Committee enhances the physical appearance of Downtown by assisting with the renovation of historic buildings and streetscape enhancements, encouraging supportive new construction and long-term planning. 

Promotion

The Promotion Committee promotes the assets of Downtown to attract new customers, investors, businesses and visitors. In addition to planning special events, they assist with publicity and  

coordination of volunteers.

Economic Restructuring

The Economic Restructuring Committee works to strengthen Downtown's economic base by focusing on retaining and recruiting a cross-section of businesses that can create a viable downtown. 

Organization

The Organization Committee coordinates the overall volunteer effort and builds unity among the community who has a role in the downtown revitalization process. 

If you would like more information or would like to serve on one of our committees, contact us today!

About our Committees
bottom of page