The Build Up Downtown Inc. board of directors announced July 24 the hiring of Linzee Ott as the organization’s CEO.
Ott will lead the organization in its mission to advocate for and facilitate smart development, preservation and public spaces in Downtown, the nonprofit said in a news release.
“Linzee Ott has the experience, vision, and passion for Downtown we have sought for some time to lead this organization,” Alex Sifakis, Build Up Downtown board chair, said in the release. “We look forward to working together to elevate Downtown and turn potential into true vibrancy.”
The organization was led by Executive Director Allan DeVault and Director of Development Laura Edgecombe, who both left in late 2023.
“Waterfront activation, smart growth, historic preservation, and great public spaces have always been important to me,” Ott said in the release. “I feel strongly about my hometown, its Downtown, and our captivating river. I’m grateful for this unique opportunity to dedicate myself to our urban core and make it an even more active, vibrant, and welcoming focal point.”
Ott has public service and nonprofit experience with a background in legislative affairs, as well as policy and community work focusing on crime prevention, community partnerships and violence reduction.
Since 2017, Ott was director of community impact in the State Attorney’s Office for the 4th Judicial Circuit where she worked to coordinate the efforts of the state attorney within the community.
She is the incoming chair of the city Downtown Development Review Board; has volunteered on the board of directors of the San Marco Preservation Society since 2017; and was previously appointed to Theatre Jacksonville’s board of directors as an ex-officio member.
Build Up Downtown Inc. is a privately funded nonprofit that is a resource for the Downtown Investment Authority and Downtown Vision Inc., reinforcing Downtown as Jacksonville’s center for business, history, culture, education and entertainment.
For more information, visit buildupdowntown.org.