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
Erica Carew
Erica CarewProgram Coordinator

Executive Committee

Samantha Smith
Samantha SmithPast President
Jeff Middleton
Jeff MiddletonPresident
Doug Scharnhorst
Doug ScharnhorstTreasurer
Greg Haffner
Greg HaffnerLegal Council
Currently vacant
Currently vacantSecretary

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

  • Jeff Middleton, President, Property Manager
  • Samantha Smith, Past President, Hanis, Irvine & Prothero PLLc
  • Doug Scharnhorst, Olsen Law Firm
  • Greg Haffner, Legal Council, Curran Law Firm
  • Suzanne Cameron, Around the Clock, Inc.
  • Kevin Grossman, Green River College
  • Elizabeth Scharnhorst, retired
  • Randall Smith, All Pro Building Maintenance
  • Garry Stewart, The Doorman Services
  • Michelle Wilmot, City of Kent, Economic & Community Development
  • Toni Troutner, Kent City Council, Kent Lutheran Church
  • Dillon Stearns, Davis Door Services
  • Jamie Lee, All Aglow Spa
  • Linda Golley, Consultant
  • Miny Tafesse, Abyssinia Hair & Beauty Salon
  • Judy Woods, retired
  • Diane Whitely, retired

Design Committee

  • Chair: Suzanne Cameron

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

Promotion Committee

  • Chair: Linda Golley

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 2nd Thursday each month, 9:00 – 10:00 am, KDP offices & ZOOM

Ex Officio

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

Clean-Up Committee

  • Chair: Garry Stewart
    Manages Adopt-a-Street on Meeker and annual clean up eventsHosts quarterly clean up events from 9:00 – 12:00 pm, dates vary (see events page)

Economic Development Committee

  • Chair:  Kevin Grossman

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 3rd Tuesday each month, 7:45 – 9:00 am, ZOOM

Safety & Security Committee

  • Chair: Garry Stewart

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 & ZOOM