Ybor City is one of only two National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida and The Ybor City Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its 92nd anniversary this year, is focused both on preserving and developing the historic district. Founded in 1886 by Vicente Martinez-Ybor when he moved his cigar factory from Key West to Tampa, Ybor City holds a unique place in Florida’s social and economic history as our state’s “first industrial town.” Primarily a regional entertainment center during the past decade, Ybor City’s central location, great transportation and critical mass of “creative industries” is making it the ‘Greenwich Village’ of Tampa. Historic buildings have been turned into stylish offices, in-town residences and boutique hotels without sacrificing their historic character. In addition to being a top tourist destination, Ybor City is a great place to meet, learn, greet and do business.
Lee Bell
President and CEO
Lee Bell joined the Ybor Chamber as President and CEO in 2019. Lee has worked as a leading executive in the not-for-profit world for over seven years in local and statewide organizations. Prior to his not-for-profit roles, Lee founded and operated a multi-million-dollar staffing, recruiting, and human resource business until he sold it. For over twenty years Lee held various leadership posts within Ashland Chemical, a $2.7 billion division of Ashland, Inc.. Lee is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree majoring in accounting.