The following is a press release from the Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation:
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation (IFDDC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kerry Hammon as its new Executive Director, effective June 1, 2025. Hammon will succeed Bryan Chaffin, who will depart at the end of May 2025.
“We are incredibly fortunate to welcome Kerry to our team,” states Chip Langerak, IFDDC Board President. “She brings a wealth of expertise, energy, and a profound passion for our organization. Kerry’s talents and experience will be invaluable, and we couldn’t be more excited about the positive impact she will make on our vibrant downtown,” adds Langerak.
Hammon, a lifelong resident of Southeast Idaho, brings a deep understanding of the community to her new role. She holds an Associate of Applied Science degree from the College of Eastern Idaho and a Bachelor of Business and Information Systems Management from the University of Phoenix.
Her early career began as a certified medical assistant before she transitioned to the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce as an events coordinator. In this role, she planned and executed significant community gatherings, including the Independence Day Parade, Taste of Idaho, and the Liberty Festival on the Falls (now known as Riverfest). These experiences ignited her passion for community relations, networking, and communications.
In 2013, Hammon became one of the first full-time public information officers for the City of Idaho Falls, where she was responsible for disseminating information to the public. Over her decade-long career with the city, she served as a spokesperson for the city’s eleven departments. For the latter half of her tenure, Hammon primarily focused her efforts on the Idaho Falls Public Works Department, assisting with public outreach for snow removal, construction, and the new water tower. Hammon was also a member of the Idaho Falls Fire Department’s administrative staff, where she developed a strong interest in emergency management.
Hammon holds numerous certifications in emergency management and communication. Her expertise led to deployments as a Public Information Officer (PIO) on local and national incidents, assisting with emergency communications. She was the first PIO in Idaho to be credentialed by the Center for Public Safety Excellence, a nonprofit dedicated to continuous improvement within high-performing fire departments and emergency service professions.
Hammon joined IFDDC in January 2025 as the part-time operations manager. In addition to her new role, she co-owns Oakenstone Properties with her husband, Jim Hammon. Professionally, she is deeply passionate about effective communication, building strong relationships, volunteering, and fostering a thriving environment for her hometown. Her greatest joy comes from spending quality time with friends and family.
“Having grown up in Southeast Idaho, I truly understand the heart of this community,” says Hammon. “I’m thrilled to bring that perspective, along with my dedication to making and cultivating meaningful connections, to Idaho Falls Downtown Development. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and collaborate with our stakeholders to achieve great things for our vibrant downtown.”
