Old Town Cornelius Inc.
About
Who We Are
Old Town Cornelius Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the vitality, identity, and experience of downtown Cornelius.
We work to cultivate a vibrant and connected Old Town by strengthening district energy, encouraging community engagement, and collaborating with local businesses, stakeholders, and civic partners.
We exist to support what makes downtown Cornelius meaningful to those who live, work, and invest here.
Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the vitality, identity, and experience of Old Town Cornelius by fostering connection, supporting local businesses, and cultivating a vibrant and welcoming downtown.
Vision
We envision Old Town Cornelius as a thriving, energetic, and connected downtown where local businesses prosper, public spaces inspire activity, and the community gathers, engages, and feels a genuine sense of belonging.
Our Story
For over a decade, Old Town Cornelius has been shaped by the creativity, commitment, and belief of the people who live, work, and invest here.
As the district has continued to evolve and gain momentum, grassroots efforts have played an important role in bringing renewed life to public spaces through art, events, and shared community experiences — establishing the energy, character, and sense of place that define downtown Cornelius.
Old Town Cornelius Inc. was formed to help build upon and steward that momentum, supporting the vitality and experience of downtown while strengthening the connections that continue to move Old Town forward.
Board & Staff
Board of Directors
David Dunn
Board Chair
David brings deep leadership experience across business, higher education, and community development, providing strategic guidance and long-range perspective in support of Old Town Cornelius Inc.’s mission and growth.
Marla Brown
Vice Chair
Marla contributes insight, community perspective, and a strong commitment to Old Town Cornelius, supporting OTC’s mission through engagement, advocacy, and organizational leadership.
Mike Ratnofsky
Board Member
Mike offers valuable business perspective and entrepreneurial insight, supporting OTC’s efforts to strengthen downtown energy, economic activity, and district character.
Elizabeth Lavan
Board Member
Elizabeth contributes thoughtful perspective and a strong commitment to Old Town Cornelius, supporting OTC’s mission and helping reinforce the relationships that shape the downtown experience.
Staff
Case Warnemunde
Executive Director
As Executive Director of Old Town Cornelius Inc., Case leads the organization’s strategic direction, partnerships, and initiatives focused on strengthening downtown vitality, district identity, and community connection.
Shannon Ball
Community Engagement Manager
Shannon supports the organization’s initiatives, partnerships, and outreach efforts, helping strengthen connections between the downtown district, local businesses, and the broader community.
Governance & Oversight
Old Town Cornelius Inc. operates with a strong commitment to transparency, sound decision-making, and long-term organizational stability. As the organization grows, we work alongside trusted professional advisors to ensure thoughtful governance and sustainable development.
OTC is supported by ongoing legal counsel from The McIntosh Law Firm, providing guidance on organizational structure, governance, and compliance as we continue strengthening our role within the downtown community.