Del Velasquez Steps Down from Downtown San Angelo, Inc.

SAN ANGELO, TX — As of January 1, Del Velasquez will step down as the director of Downtown San Angelo, Inc., a non-profit organization responsible for managing the city’s Main Street Program. Unlike many cities where such programs are government-run, San Angelo chose a different path, entrusting this role to a private entity. While Downtown San Angelo, Inc. (DTSA) receives city subsidies, it also benefits from a membership program funded by annual dues from local businesses.

Velasquez played a pivotal role in the success of this unique model. His diverse background includes being a lobbyist for Big Telecom and a former aide to President George H.W. Bush. Velasquez returned to San Angelo in the mid-2000s, initially in semi-retirement to care for his parents, but soon took the helm of the nascent DTSA. His departure marks the end of a significant era for downtown San Angelo.

Michelle Babiash, founder and owner of the Old Central Firehouse B&B and Brews, expressed her gratitude: “I just want to say how much I appreciate you. And how much all of downtown owes you. When my husband and I had a crazy idea a few years ago, you were there to support us and back us.” The establishment has become a notable success in the downtown area.

The Babiashes faced challenges, particularly with their venture into short-term rentals, which was complicated by local regulations. Velasquez was instrumental in helping them navigate these obstacles, securing the necessary financing for their business. His support has been crucial for many other businesses and startups contributing to the revitalization of downtown San Angelo.

Monica Ramos, previously hired by Velasquez as the manager of Downtown San Angelo, Inc., will succeed him as director. She highlighted Velasquez's significant achievements, including his successful lobbying to remove parking meters downtown and his role in establishing now-traditional events like the annual Brews, Ewes, and Barbecue, and the July 3 fireworks show, a collaboration between San Angelo LIVE! and DTSA. Perhaps most notably, Velasquez was instrumental in implementing the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, benefiting a large area of downtown San Angelo.

Velasquez, who served two terms as DTSA’s director with a stint as a marketing director for a local paper in between, was celebrated by over 100 attendees at his retirement party at Miss Hattie's Restaurant on Tuesday night, Dec. 5. Despite stepping down, he hinted at continued public service, with rumors circulating about a potential mayoral run in 2025. This possibility suggests that Del Velasquez's impact on San Angelo is far from over.