Tim Harris Named Chairman of West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority
July 31st, 2025
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 31, 2025) — The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (WPB DDA) Board of Directors has appointed Tim Harris as its new chairman. Harris has been on the organization’s board since 2011 and previously served as vice-chair from 2012-2015. At the July 29 meeting of the WPB DDA, Harris was elected to succeed former chairman Richard V. Reikenis, who will remain as a board member, effective immediately.
Harris, a lifelong resident of West Palm Beach whose family moved from Ohio when he was less than a year old, brings a blend of local insight, deep community commitment, and professional excellence to the leadership of the WPB DDA. Upon moving to Downtown West Palm Beach in 2002, Harris has been actively representing stakeholders engaged in residential interests, business ownership, and district-wide planning to support downtown’s growth. In 2007, Harris became the founding president of the West Palm Beach Downtown Neighborhood Association, an organization that advocates for the safety, well-being, and quality of life of downtown residents. Alongside his involvement with the WPB DDA, Harris has also worked closely over the years with the City of West Palm Beach, including serving on the Attainable Workforce Housing Committee, Downtown Action Committee (Zoning), and Waterfront Design Committee.
“Serving Downtown West Palm Beach is not just a role—it’s personal,” Harris stated upon his appointment. “I’m honored to lead as Chair of the WPB DDA board, collaborating with my fellow directors, the executive team, the City of West Palm Beach, and the broader community to build on our momentum.”
Professionally, Harris is a senior Realtor with Douglas Elliman in Palm Beach with more than 26 years’ experience in luxury real estate and specializing in pre- and new-construction condominiums. He is a member in good standing and has served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of REALTORS®, Florida Realtors Association, and Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches, for which he also served as president. His dual perspective as both resident and Realtor gives him a nuanced view of the district’s needs to foster a downtown that balances economic growth, resident-friendly design, and inclusive programming so all who work, live, and play in Downtown West Palm Beach feel a true sense of belonging.
“The WPB DDA is ideally positioned to collaborate with community and commercial partners to guide strategic capital improvements, promote thoughtful civic enhancements, and curate placemaking events that reflect our distinctive identity,” Harris continued. “Downtown West Palm Beach’s evolution from a quiet waterfront town into a vibrant hub of entertainment and business with an identity and energy all its own has truly been extraordinary. I’m committed to ensuring that Downtown remains a dynamic and welcoming center for residents, businesses, and visitors—today and into the future.”
About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.