I’m Jason Chance, a software developer and civic leader based in Griffin, Georgia. My work sits at the intersection of downtown revitalization, economic development, local government technology, DDA and Main Street leadership, and practical redevelopment strategy.
I build custom software, help lead economic development efforts in Griffin, and write about how better public decision-making, stronger downtown execution, and practical technology can improve local communities.
What I Work On
- Local Government Technology: Software, systems, procurement discipline, and practical technical strategy for public-sector organizations.
- Downtown Revitalization: Walkability, public realm improvements, merchant health, and the long-term productivity of historic downtowns.
- Economic Development: Transparent public investment, incentive alignment, and local growth strategies that create durable value.
- DDA and Main Street Leadership: Governance, board decision-making, redevelopment priorities, and implementation discipline.
- Redevelopment Strategy: Adaptive reuse, public-private partnerships, funding structures, and project execution in legacy commercial districts.
Public Service & Background
My career has always centered on public service and practical problem-solving:
- US Army Veteran: Served as an Intelligence Analyst, applying rigorous data analysis to complex environments.
- First Responder: Worked as a certified firefighter and EMT-Intermediate, providing direct emergency care.
- Small Business Owner: Run an application development firm, using technical and analytical skills to solve operational problems for businesses.
Civic Leadership
- Vice-Chair, City of Griffin Downtown Development Authority
- Chairperson, Griffin Main Street Board
- Director, Griffin-Spalding Business Tourism Association
- Level II Certified Downtown Professional, Georgia Downtown Association
What Drives My Work
In real estate appraisal and economic development, Highest and Best Use refers to the legal, physically possible, and financially feasible use of a property that yields its maximum potential value. It asks a simple question: What is the absolute best purpose this asset can serve?
I hold the personal belief that the highest and best use for the short time I have on this earth is to make the world a little better for the community around me, and that principle guides both my civic work and my writing.
Downtown revitalization should never be an exclusive club or a tool for good old boy networks. I advocate for progressive economic development, historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and disciplined redevelopment strategy that build an inclusive, active commercial core. Reinvesting in historic structures, opening doors for new entrepreneurs, improving local government execution, and creating walkable public spaces strengthens downtown Griffin for every resident, business owner, and visitor.