Late last year the Beaumont Business Association (BBA) welcomed Drew Watkins as its new treasurer, bringing financial expertise and a strong community-centered perspective to the board. Drew focuses on charitable planning as a financial advisor with Edward Jones and enjoys coaching his son’s soccer team in his off time.
Drew joined the BBA board late last year when Edward Jones rejoined the association; he’s personally been active on Fremont Street since 2006.
Drew said his decision to step into the role was motivated by service and connection. “I wanted to help the community and my neighbors with a real sense of people supporting small businesses,” he said.
As treasurer, Drew is focused on stewardship and long-term improvement. “I want to leave the treasury better than I found it,” he said, “ultimately by avoiding pitfalls and being smart with our money.” He added that the BBA has “a highly ethical board that really wishes to use funds in the most advantageous way for the community.”
Drew is particularly excited to support financial planning for upcoming initiatives, including the joint proposal by the BBA and BWNA for a temporary public plaza on Fremont Street. (See related article on page 5.) The project, which the BBA board voted to apply for at its last meeting of 2025, is waiting for approval for a grant application through the Portland Bureau of Transportation.
“The plaza,” said Mary Myers, BBA board president, “reflects the BBA’s continued efforts to strengthen the neighborhood through thoughtful investment and community-focused events.”
She added, “We’re super excited to have Drew on board to help out with it.”