Medina’s George Sam honored as Main Street Manager of the Year

Heritage Ohio has named George Sam, executive director of Main Street Medina, as its first-ever Main Street Manager of the Year during the organization’s annual conference in Canton in mid-October.

Heritage Ohio annually recognizes Main Street organizations across the state for outstanding projects, places, and people who make lasting impacts through historic preservation and community revitalization.

Sam has led Main Street Medina to new heights through vision, strategy, and dedication to community. Under his leadership, the program expanded preservation efforts, launched a façade grant and loan initiative, and introduced major gateway and district improvements in the South Town district. He also implemented strategic planning, committee realignment, and data-driven tools such as Placer AI to better support local businesses within the Main Street Medina footprint.

“Thanks to George’s guidance, Historic Medina and the South Town District are more vibrant, connected, and welcoming,” said Main Street Medina Vice Chair Amy Busby, “with a renewed sense of pride and belonging within the community.”

Since 2002, Heritage Ohio has served as the state coordinating agency for the Ohio Main Street Program under Main Street America, offering programs that support preservation and revitalization efforts across the state.