The Faces of KDP

The KDP is a collective of professionals, business owners and community leaders dedicated to revitalizing downtown Kent. Our goal is to preserve its rich history while creating a vibrant and thriving future.  If you are passionate about downtown Kent and would like to connect in a bigger way, we invite you to consider joining one of our Committees or Board. To learn more about opportunities, please contact Executive Director below.

Staff

Gaila Haas
Gaila HaasExecutive Director
Abby Pierson
Abby PiersonEvents & Admin Coordinator

Executive Committee

Daniel Abrego
Daniel AbregoPresident
Toni Troutner
Toni TroutnerSecretary
Doug Scharnhorst
Doug ScharnhorstTreasurer
Erik Olsen
Erik OlsenLegal Council

Board & Committees

The KDP Board and Committees bring together small business owners, property owners, and passionate community members who are dedicated to advancing our mission and strengthening Historic Downtown Kent.

Whether you have a little time or a lot to give, we offer a variety of volunteer opportunities to match your skills, interests, and schedule. There’s a place for everyone to make a difference!  Please contact us at Info@kentdowntown.org or (253) 813-6976 for info on how to get involved.

Board of Directors

  • Daniel Abrego, Board President, WaFd Bank
  • Suzanne Cameron,  Board Past President,  Retired
  • Toni Troutner, Secetary, Kent City Council
  • Doug Scharnhorst, Treasurer, Olsen Law Firm
  • Erik Olsen, Legal Counsel, Hanis, Irvine, Prothero
  • Greg Haffner, Retired, Past Legal Counsel
  • Kevin Grossman, Green River College
  • Elizabeth Scharnhorst, Retired
  • Randall Smith, All Pro Building Maintenance
  • Bill Ellis, City of Kent, Economic & Community Development
  • Joy Cortado, Harborstone Credit Union
  • Kaki Kesterson, Maggie’s On Meeker
  • Diane Whitely, Retired

Design Committee

  • Chair: Greg Haffner

This committee supports a community’s transformation by enhancing the physical and visual assets that set the commercial district apart. Our goal is to create an inviting atmosphere through environmental design, storefront displays, signage, banners, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping and clean up events.

Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 2:00 – 3:00 pm, KDP offices & TEAMS

Promotion Committee

  • Chair:  Abby Pierson (Interim)

This committee markets and promotes downtown Kent.  This team reviews all elements of KDP promotion efforts including events, programs, and image and brand development.  The promotion committee works to attract both visitors and residents by creating a vibrant and thriving downtown hub.

Meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 9:00 – 10:00 am, KDP offices & TEAMS

Ex Officio

  • Kelly Spreitzer, Accesso/ShoWare
  • Katrinka Marie, Great Kent Historical Museum
  • Zenovia Harris, Kent Chamber of Commerce – Ad Hoc

Clean-Up Committee

  • Chair:  Gaila Haas (Interim)
    Manages Adopt-a-Street on Meeker and annual clean up events

  • Hosts quarterly clean up events from 9:00 – 12:00 pm, dates vary (see events page)

Economic Development Committee

  • Chair:  Kerry O’Connor

This group focuses on capital, incentives and other economic and financial tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that drive local economies.

Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 12:00 – 1:00 pm, KDP offices & TEAMS

Safety & Security Committee

  • Chair: Gaila Haas (Interim)

Identifies and works to resolves safety and security issues related to the downtown retail and business core.  This group works closely with Kent Police Dept.

Meets 2nd Wednesday each month 10:00 – 11:00 am, KDP offices & TEAMS