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
Kingfisher Abernethy
Kingfisher AbernethyEvents & Admin Coordinator

Executive Committee

Toni Troutner
Toni TroutnerPresident
Doug Scharnhorst
Doug ScharnhorstTreasurer
VACANT
VACANTSecretary
Erik Olsen
Erik OlsenLegal Council

Board & Committees

The KDP Board and Committees are comprised of small business and property owners and individuals who are committed to moving our mission forward.

We have a variety of opportunities to suit all skill levels and busy schedules.  For more information,  please contact us at Info@kentdowntown.org or (253) 813-6976.

Board of Directors

  • Toni Troutner, President, City Council
  • Doug Scharnhorst, Treasurer, Olsen Law Firm
  • Erik Olsen, Legal Counsel, Hanis, Irvine, Prothero
  • Greg Haffner, Retired
  • Suzanne Cameron, Around the Clock Property Management, Inc.
  • Kevin Grossman, Green River College
  • Elizabeth Scharnhorst, Retired
  • Randall Smith, All Pro Building Maintenance
  • Michelle Wilmot, City of Kent, Economic & Community Development
  • Dillon Stearns, Davis Door Services
  • Souleymane Tiendrebeogo, MeshHouse Creative Space
  • Joy Cortado, Harborstone Credit Union
  • Kaki Kesterson, Maggie’s On Meeker
  • Judy Woods, Retired
  • 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:  Gaila Haas (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
  • Zenovia Harris, Kent Chamber of Commerce – Ad Hoc
  • VJ Kopacki, Great Kent Historical Museum

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’Conner

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