Southtown Council

Provide support, technical assistance and coordination of the Brookside and Troost Avenue areas of Kansas City, MO in developing safe and healthy neighborhoods. Over 500 people / organizations were impacted through services like area awareness officers patrolling the area, maintenance staff removing trash daily, removal of illegal signs and graffiti, and promoting the area. In 2020 there were at least 5 active committees which met virtually during the year to address the items above as well as others. Approximately 30 volunteers were utilized to help welcome new businesses, promote the area, recognize good works and worked to modify, pause or replace annual programs in light of COVID 19. Large in person events like parades, a nationally recognized art fair, ribbon cuttings, networking events, a festival, and similar activities were replaced with smaller, events over longer durations to minimize large crowds will still serving community needs. The Board of Directors met virtually during 2020 to oversee major activities.

Coordination, administration, and technical support to more than 300 area businesses, institutions and community associations to initiate and conduct planning and development in the area. Work was completed through committees, advocacy with local and state government levels, and development of partnerships and collaborations with community stakeholders. Projects included coordinating with area universities, businesses and surrounding neighborhoods on redevelopment projects, area planning, promotion of beautification efforts, completion of a capital infrastructure improvements, mitigating code enforcement and more.

Coordinated and managed virtual networking events, annual board meetings and training and other virtual events. Developed and distributed regular announcements, communicating area news and activities. Coordinated and conducted meetings for five committees addressing area plans, safety, public affairs, communications and community betterment. Maintained additional communications including a webpage, and Facebook, and developed an Instagram following. Managed Community Improvement Districts in 2 commercial areas. Work included implementation of trash and graffiti removal programs, routine patrolling, communications and district program management.