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NATCHEZ – The Downtown Natchez Alliance executive director has resigned.

The board announced on Friday that Kevin Miers has resigned his position as executive director; Friday was his last day.

“I am really sad to make this announcement,” said Norma West, DNA board president. “Kevin has served faithfully as DNA’s executive director. Kevin’s professionalism and energy has propelled DNA and downtown Natchez to a higher level. The Board of Directors and I are grateful for the time we had to work with Kevin and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Miers had replaced former DNA director Kevin Howley who started the organization in November 2022 and resigned in January 2024.

DNA Vice President T.J. Baggett, now serving a second three-year term on the DNA board, also chairs DNA’s HR committee. “We were blown away when Kevin applied for this position last year. Not only has Kevin been involved in downtown development in Natchez for over 20 years, but also, he was actively involved in the development of Downtown Natchez Alliance and served on the Board of Directors until rotating off in 2023. I couldn’t be more grateful for his many contributions and all of us on the board are equally committed to continuing the programs and internal management processes that Kevin established. Kevin’s leadership was a ‘win’ for DNA and downtown,” Baggett said.

DNA operates in partnership with the City of Natchez and the Mississippi Main Street Association. Board members said an announcement regarding DNA’s search for a new director will be forthcoming.

Mayor Dan Gibson echoed West’s sentiments. “I can say with the greatest of confidence that Kevin was the right person at the right time for DNA and downtown Natchez. He has been a joy to work with, and I have admired his professional leadership and hard work on key projects like our Fall in Love with Natchez campaign and our Balcony, Awning, and Façade program,” said Gibson. “Our downtown is better and stronger because of Kevin. He has beautifully represented our city and our downtown and made us all proud.”

Beth Raney, Director of Business and Finance, at Mississippi Main Street Association, worked extensively with Miers on DNA’s ARPA Balcony and Awning project and other programs. Speaking on behalf of Mississippi Main Street Association, Raney praised Miers’s accomplishments: “Kevin consistently went above and beyond in his role as Executive Director at DNA demonstrating exceptional dedication, initiative, and a strong commitment to excellence. His willingness to take on additional responsibilities, support his colleagues around the state, and find innovative solutions made a significant impact on the team and the organization as a whole. His hard work and positive attitude set a high standard, and we truly appreciate his contributions to DNA, to the City of Natchez, and to Mississippi Main Street Association.”