Mark Farmer is the City’s new Division Director of Economic Development, bringing an established record of bolstering communities through small business support, smart redevelopment, and effective partnerships to Milton at a pivotal time.

In this role, Farmer will collaborate closely with citizens, business leaders, and other key stakeholders to foster an environment in which commercial enterprises that make sense for Milton can thrive. In addition to helping attract and retain the right mix of businesses, he will work diligently to help and guide local entrepreneurs as well as to create a predictable, clear, sensible path for private investment.

“I am excited to partner with superb small businesses, a strong City team, and supportive, insightful leaders on Council to help make a positive impact,” Farmer said. “Together, we’ll take a holistic, inclusive approach to economic development that’s smart, strategic, and sensitive in embracing Milton’s identity.”

Farmer has been in the economic development field for nearly 20 years, including six years as the Director of Entrepreneurship and Information Services at Partnership Gwinnett. He transitioned from that public-private agency to Gwinnet County’s government in 2017, serving as its Economic Development Manager for five years and, since then, as its Deputy Division Director. 

Among other responsibilities and achievements, Farmer developed and directed a small business education center, conducted targeted outreach to spur redevelopment, and liaised with numerous outside entities along with government officials. 

His work in Milton will be shaped by a keen respect and understanding for what makes this community special and, with that, purposeful efforts to convey that uniqueness citywide through placemaking, marketing, collaboration, and other initiatives. This approach should be particularly valuable in Deerfield, the city’s chief commercial driver and home for many of its citizens. Last year, community members drove the creation of a dynamic, intentional vision for this area as an inviting, vibrant, connected destination for residents and visitors alike. With the Destination Deerfield Urban Design Manual in place, this process of turning this vision into reality has begun with submission of development proposals. To learn more about this initiative, visit www.miltonga.gov/Deerfield. 

“Having someone with Mark’s experience, insight, and energy on Team Milton is a major boost to our small business community and the city at large,” said Mayor Peyton Jamison. “Milton’s future is bright, and leaders like Mark will be instrumental in paving the way.”