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2024 NC Main Street Champion
Jeff Wells began serving as Waxhaw's Planning Director in 2019 and was promoted to Town Manager in 2020. As he assembled a team of leaders, Jeff took a close look at Waxhaw’s Main Street Program, which was managed by the town. Recognizing that downtown was the heart of Waxhaw and a potential driver of economic growth, Jeff also understood that the Main Street organizational structure needed to be revised for long-term success and sustainability.
In collaboration with North Carolina Main Street, Jeff decided to transition to a quasi-public-private partnership model and recruit a dedicated downtown director, confident that this new approach would enhance the program’s impact. While the transition took time to receive approval, Jeff tirelessly advocated for the best interests of downtown, advising both staff and commissioners. In December 2022, Waxhaw celebrated the creation of the non-profit Downtown Waxhaw Association. Jeff serves on the board of the association and has been a steadfast mentor to staff as they navigate this new collaborative model.
The move to a quasi-public-private partnership required collective effort, and Jeff’s leadership and creative problem-solving were instrumental in bringing it all together. The success of the Downtown Waxhaw Association is a direct result of his commitment to the community.
For his dedication and visionary leadership, Waxhaw is proud to honor Jeff Wells as its 2024 North Carolina Main Street Champion.