Build Up Downtown, the nonprofit that advocates for development in Jacksonville’s urban core, announced Nov. 4 that CEO Linzee Ott left the organization and that it will take “a strategic breath” to assess its future.
Build Up Downtown said Ott left the organization Oct. 31, about 16 months after she was appointed to the job in June 2024.
The nonprofit said its board will oversee the organization’s ongoing operations while assessing its future staffing and programming needs.
“It has been an honor to witness Downtown Jacksonville’s growth from a front-row seat with Build Up Downtown. This role serving my hometown has been the perfect intersection of my personal and professional passions in so many ways,” Ott said in a news release.
“I am grateful for the Board’s trust in me, and excited to step into a new role of continued advocacy for Downtown Jacksonville that builds on my work with BUD.”
Founded in 2000, privately funded Build Up Downtown serves as a resource and supporter of the Downtown Investment Authority and Downtown Vision Inc. It is funded through Downtown commercial property owners through a self-assessment.
“Linzee is an authentic, charismatic and inspiring leader. She has been a tremendous champion for Build Up Downtown and our Downtown community,” said Alex Sifakis, chair of the Build Up Downtown board of directors, in the release.
“This transition is a clear indicator of the healthy evolution happening in Downtown Jacksonville. Build Up Downtown’s role is evolving as the ecosystem matures, with many strong partners now actively driving growth. Linzee’s leadership helped secure the progress that made this shift possible,” Sifakis said.
“We’re taking a strategic breath to assess the best way for BUD to support the Downtown Investment Authority’s new CEO, a growing Downtown Vision, Inc., and all the other organizations doing amazing work in Downtown Jacksonville. This is an opportunity to fine-tune our mission and ensure our private funding delivers maximum impact for a more vibrant Downtown.”
Colin Tarbert was named CEO of the DIA in June.
Before joining Build Up Downtown, 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. Ott also is a member of the Downtown Development Review Board.
For more information about Build Up Downtown, visit buildupdowntown.org.