New Executive Director Maurice A. Davis Aims to Revitalize South of 6 Iowa City Business District

New Leadership for the South of 6 Iowa City Business District

IOWA CITY — Exciting changes are underway as Maurice A. Davis takes the lead as the new executive director of the South of 6 Iowa City Business District. His mission? To revitalize the Pepperwood Plaza area and leverage a recently approved economic development tax to promote local businesses.

Background and Career Journey

Originally from Illinois, Maurice made his way to Iowa in 2013, where he’s worn many hats. He’s worked as a financial adviser, managed his own marketing firm, and even coordinated an entrepreneurship program at the Jane Boyd Community House. With a rich blend of experiences, including hosting a podcast and penning a children’s book on entrepreneurship, he’s well-prepared for this new role. Maurice also has a background in education, having taught at Kirkwood Community College, where he was also a student.

Davis is not just a man of business; he also served in the National Guard in a combat arms position, but a medical discharge shifted his focus. Initially looking for a career in law enforcement largely due to the nearby penitentiaries, Davis ultimately found his path in community development and business revitalization.

A New Direction

Deciding to take on the role at South of 6 came after parting ways with his marketing business partner. “Before, I focused on how to get inside of your business and help you build infrastructure,” Davis noted. “Now, I’m aiming from the outside, working to create an environment that encourages prosperity within the region.”

His predecessor, Angie Jordan, left the position in May for health reasons. Davis had the opportunity to work alongside her, which laid a solid foundation for his own leadership approach.

Understanding the Mission

The South of 6 initiative employs a self-supported municipal improvement district (SSMID). This economic development tool is designed specifically to breathe new life into businesses and support local entrepreneurs. The funds collected through a business levy, which began in 2022, are earmarked for revitalizing the Pepperwood Plaza area, which sits south of Highway 6 between Broadway and Keokuk streets.

Though Davis has only been in the role for a short time, he is eager to align with the mission of South of 6, aiming to attract more visitors while making the district a comfortable place for everyone involved—residents, businesses, and organizations alike.

Strategic Approach Ahead

Davis emphasized the importance of bringing people together: “My strength lies in facilitating connections, resources, and conversations,” he said. He plans to utilize parts of the SSMID budget to progress various projects, ensuring they are both effectively and efficiently managed. “Many think of marketing as ads or pretty pictures, but my experience is rooted in research and strategic development,” he explained. “The big question is, how do we execute something that truly matters in the long run?”

Community Engagement Opportunities

While Davis currently resides in Cedar Rapids, he remains open to relocating to Iowa City if the right opportunity presents itself. Owens his academic credentials, he holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Upper Iowa University and recently earned a master’s in business administration from Capella University.

Known for his active engagement in the community, Davis has been a member of the Cedar Rapids City Council’s ADA commission and has served on boards with the African American Museum of Iowa and the African American Professionals of Cedar Rapids. He believes building strong community ties is fundamental to the success of the South of 6 mission.

To kick-start his outreach efforts, Davis invites community members to meet him at the South District Market located at 947 U.S. Highway 6 in Iowa City on Wednesday from 3-7 p.m. It’s a chance for residents to engage, share ideas, and discuss how they can collaborate to foster growth in the district.