Town Administrator Davis Predicts a Bright Future

Middleburg Town Administrator Danny Davis and The Fox.

By Leslie VanSant

Middleburg is a small town with a big heart, a love of horses, hound and field sports, and a deep sense of history.

Juggling the balance between a place to live, to do business, and to visit is the challenge and opportunity for Town Administrator Danny Davis.

“A key part of the attractiveness and allure of Middleburg is its history and tradition,” said Davis. “So I think it’s about integration of that into our daily work, our long-range planning, and our community engagement.

“At the same time, we must be open to embracing the 21 st Century in terms of technology and opportunity. It’s not a separation of the two, but an integration. This also means listening to the community, hearing what has made the town great, and keeping those ideals a part of our daily business.”

Davis was appointed to the Town Administrator position in November, 2018. He holds a Masters degree in public administration from George Mason University, and his experience in local government and the private sector make him well qualified to guide Middleburg through rapidly changing times.

He grew up in Peachtree City, a suburb of Atlanta, and credits it with shaping his view on community and the importance of place. Founded in 1956, Peachtree City was one of the nation’s first “planned communities” that included diverse residential neighborhoods, business areas, schools, libraries, churches and recreational areas. A key part of the plan was a system of connecting trails between the different parts of the communities that were accessible by foot, by bike or golf cart.

It’s easy to see Davis’ passion for Middleburg, and he’s made getting to know it and the residents a priority. Many days find him “walking through town” to get lunch, talking to shop owners and residents to understand what makes them happy and what gives them pause. He works closely with all aspects of the town government, including Town Council, Mayor Bridge Littleton, the many different committees and commissions as well as the other town staff. “Right now, the town is in a great position,” Davis said. “But there are always inevitable downturns in the larger economy, so we must be forwardthinking and invest in the town’s future.” He continued by outlining how investing in infrastructure, technology, sidewalks, water and sewer, diversification of available housing and retail space can ensure that Middleburg remains not only an attractive place to live, but one with a thriving economy.

Davis also places great importance on public spaces and their role in town life that he links directly to the spirit and health of the community, such as the new fox sculpture in front of the Middleburg Community Center.

“My hope is that in 2100, Middleburg looks the same and feels the same, regardless of how technology or the world around us changes,” he said. “That the strong community spirit we have now remains. The people in town truly care about each other and help their neighbors. I love being a part of that spirit.” Middleburg Town Administrator Danny Davis and The Fox.