Stay In The Know!

Team Meeting Dates • Project Updates • Team Members & More

The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. is made up of 9 volunteer teams and a Board of Directors that make the revitalization and promotion of Downtown Excelsior Springs possible. If you’re ever wondering about what they are up to or are currently working on, check in here for the latest updates. If you are interested in joining one of our teams, please join us at their next scheduled meeting.

Promotion • Organization • Economic Vitality • Design • Marketing• BBQ & Fly-In • Home Brew • Christmas • Opal Wapoo

Next Meeting Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 • 8:00 AM • Hall of Waters Conference Room
Active Board Members: Nate Williams, Jeanine Stubbs, Jill Rickart, Allen Amos, Keith Hudson, Brenda Kilgore, Jason Van Till, City Liaison Reggie St. John & Lyndsey Baxter

February Agenda Items

President’s Report | Approval of Minutes | Treasurer’s Report | Opal Wapoo / Urban Trail Company Profit Sharing Agreement | DEP Infrastructure & Systems Modernization | Wayfinding Fee Proposal | Annual Report Review | CDBG Update | Website Development Consideration

January Agenda Items

President’s Report | Approval of Minutes | Treasurer’s Report | Facade Grant Application Review | CDBG Progress Update | Experience Excelsior Trip Planner | Annual Report Discussion | End of Year CID Sales Tax | National Main Street Assessment | MMSC Quarterly Workshop Training | DEP Planning & Visioning Session | Opal Wapoo / UTC Profit Sharing Agreement

Next Meeting Date: March 5, 2026 • 6:00 PM • Ventana Gourmet Grill
Active Team Members: Carol Baxter, Jade Williams, Denise Riley, Morgan Newkirk, Keith Hudson, Cheyenne Tavares, Amber Schmidt, Jason Van Till

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • The Chocolate Tour saw extremely strong ticket demand and quickly became one of the season’s most popular events. To improve post-event logistics, winners will now have one week to pick up prizes before a new winner is drawn for any unclaimed items.
  • The committee is shifting from weekly concerts to a Second Friday / Second Weekend format during the summer months to focus on higher-quality entertainment and stronger attendance. Target months include June through September.
    • The team is exploring booking well-known regional bands to draw visitors downtown, while also reviewing sound equipment needs to ensure outdoor performances meet quality expectations.
  • Tickets sales launched on groundhog day for Sippin’ Into Springtime
  • Committee is focused on creating a full weekend experience, not just a tasting event for Mimosas with Mom.
    • Downtown businesses will be invited to host special experiences such as brunches, classes, dinners, or workshops. DEP will promote these experiences while businesses manage their own reservations and pricing.
    • Committee members will reach out to local restaurants, bakeries, and hospitality venues to explore brunches, bouquet workshops, and other mom-focused experiences tied to the event.
  • Wine Festival Winery and Vendor registration is now live. The committee is reviewing ticket pricing strategies and early-bird sales to encourage advance purchases and help manage attendance.
  • The team reaffirmed the importance of responsible alcohol service at festivals and reviewed vendor participation guidelines to protect guest safety.
  • DEP will work to secure multiple food trucks and snack vendors for large events while also coordinating with downtown restaurants to prepare for increased traffic.
  • Early brainstorming began for “Taste of Excelsior” experiences during the World Cup period, showcasing curated food and drink itineraries featuring downtown businesses.
  • Planning discussions have begun for a special 20th anniversary celebration, highlighting the story and transformation of Downtown Excelsior Springs.
    
• January 2026
  • Members are actively contacting Chocolate Tour businesses to track chocolate offerings and giveaway donations
  • Exploring photography and short form video options to capture features and attendee experience at the Chocolate Tour
  • Moving Lyrics on the Lawn to a monthly format scheduled in accordance with Second Friday/Second Weekends.
    • Goal is to create stronger downtown energy and encourage dining and shopping alongside live music
  • Committee reviewed feedback and plans to continue using glassware for tasting events
  • Planning underway for a new Mother’s Day weekend tasting event focused on a weekend experience
    • Ideas include VIP experiences, floral components, brunch pairings, and creative mimosa offerings
  • Wine Festival planning is underway and early outreach planned for food vendors
    • Save the Date announcement targeted for first week of February
  • Brainstorming a full year of blog topics, including local stories, quirky history and human interest features
    • Exploring guest contributions to expand content capacity

Next Meeting Date: April 8, 2026 • 9:00 AM • Hall of Waters Conference Room
Active Team Members: Nate Williams, Jeanine Stubbs, Jill Rickart, Allen Amos, Sharon Powell

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• January 2026
  • A joint board and committee session is planned for February/March to establish updated 3-5 year district and organizational goals
  • Completed the organization’s Form 990 for submission to the IRS
  • Finalized the annual assessments for Main Street America and Missouri Main Street Connection
  • Actively working on the 2025 End of Year Report
  • Finalizing organizational action plans for 2026
  • Preparing for Legislative Day at the Missouri Capitol
    • Meetings scheduled with Representative Meirath and Senator Gregory to share local impact and priorities
  • Implementing team based working systems to improve communication, collaboration, and access for volunteer teams

Next Meeting Date: April 9, 2026 •8:00 AM • Other Trails Coffee + Goods
Active Team Members: Molly McGovern, Melinda Mehaffy, Jeff Algie, Kathy Duncan, Brenda Kilgore, Jeanine Stubbs, Reggie St. John

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • The committee focused on identifying priority projects and implementation strategies for the year ahead, with an emphasis on creating clear action steps and measurable outcomes.
  • Downtown vacancy currently sits at approximately 13%.
    • 37% of those spaces are expected to be occupied in 2025 through leases or renovations.
    • 19% are currently under construction.
    • 44% remain available for lease or sale, with some long-term vacancies identified as a challenge for district vitality.
  • The committee began exploring the creation of a Downtown Commercial Vacant Property Registry as a potential tool to encourage reinvestment and reduce long-term inactive properties.
    Members will research examples from other communities to evaluate possible ordinance structures and enforcement approaches.
  • Work is beginning on a full district property and business inventory required for Main Street accreditation.
    The project will document property conditions, ownership, business uses, square footage, improvements, and photographs across the entire district.
  • Planning continues for a three-week educational series designed to help local businesses strengthen marketing and digital strategies.
  • Proposed topics include:
    • Marketing plan development
    • Content creation (photography, reels, and short-form video)
    • Digital platforms and advertising, with AI integrated into each session
  • The committee discussed developing Second Friday and Second Sunday programming during the summer months to increase consistent foot traffic and encourage coordinated business hours.
  • The group reviewed best practices for scheduling social media content through Meta Business Suite, emphasizing batching and planning posts in advance to save time.
  • The team discussed recruiting additional members who are actively engaged in downtown business operations to help drive implementation of economic vitality initiatives.
    
• January 2026
  • Committee is bring back the multi-week seminar series to help businesses use AI as a support tool for social media, content creation, and marketing, while emphasizing security and protection
    • Targeting for April
    • Will be a matching grant opportunity included, plus a bonus pitch party for additional funding
  • Discussed challenges in downtown property transactions and strategies to better market opportunities
  • Annual reporting is underway, showing increased average price per square foot
  • Working toward a comprehensive welcome packet for new businesses, including marketing guidance, maps, event rhythms, visitor data, and historic district information
  • Reevaluating Shop local Late with interest in a more sustainable Second Friday or Second Weekend Model
    • Emphasis on ensuring participating businesses offer true special experiences for visitors
    • Early discussion of a locally focused loyalty program
  • Actively seeking additional business owners and commercial real estate voices to join the committee
  • Launching a Small Business Love Letters program during the first two weeks of February

Next Meeting Date: April 9, 2026 • 9:30 AM • Via Zoom
Active Team Members: Sonya Morgan, Jeanine Stubbs, Brennan Kimball, Courtney Cole

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • The former Website Committee is evolving into a broader Marketing Committee, aligning efforts across the website, Trip Planner, social media, advertising campaigns, and events to drive visitors to VisitExcelsior.com and help travelers plan their trips.
  • The team is reviewing and updating key pages including eateries, shopping, lodging, recreation, parks, and wedding planning. Updates include correcting business listings, removing closed locations, and adding new businesses to keep the site accurate and current.
  • Advertiser information from the 2026 Experience Excelsior Trip Planner is being integrated into the website. A new submission form allowed advertisers to easily provide updated details and images in one place.
  • The committee is preparing an RFP for a professional photography project that will capture high-quality images of local businesses and downtown experiences. These photos will build a shared image library for use across marketing materials, advertising, and the website.
  • Work is underway to implement a system that allows businesses to submit events directly through the website for approval. This will make it easier to keep the community calendar updated while reducing manual data entry.
  • A new “Stay In The Know” section has been added to the homepage to better highlight the work of Downtown Excelsior Partnership while maintaining Visit Excelsior as the primary tourism brand.
  • The committee is developing a year-long marketing plan and content calendar, including paid social media campaigns that help promote Trip Planner advertisers and downtown experiences.
  • Event pages will now remain active year-round with updated photo galleries, thank-you messages, and “save the date” reminders to maintain momentum between annual events.
  • Several event dates and formats are being refined, including adjustments to Spring Open Houses and the Shop Local Late / Second Weekend concept to better align with downtown events and business participation.
  • Committee members are continuing to review site pages for accuracy and updates, helping ensure VisitExcelsior.com remains a reliable and engaging resource for visitors.
    
• January 2026
  • Team reviewed current homepage content and layout to assess performance and user experience
  • Updates underway to ensure all 2026 events are accurately reflected on the website
  • Actively working to update and verify 2026 website advertiser listings so information is current and accurate
  • Completed the 2026 Experience Excelsior Trip Planner and sent it to the printer

Next Meeting Date: March 26, 2026 • 8:00 AM • Payne Jailhouse Bed & Breakfast
Active Team Members: Mark Spohn, TJ Sturm, Shelley Spear, Brian Rice, Trish Guarino, Nate Williams, Denice Belcher

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • The committee reviewed the current inventory of trash cans and proposed replacing older “rock-style” receptacles with updated black iron-style cans that better match the downtown aesthetic. Several new locations and relocations are being evaluated to improve coverage and reduce overflowing cans in high-traffic areas.
  • The team is exploring upcoming grant programs, including the AARP Community Challenge and T-Mobile Hometown Grant, to support placemaking projects such as benches, street trees, and potential gateway features that enhance the downtown experience.
  • The RFP timeline for the planter artwork project has been adjusted slightly, with a target release in early March and review of submissions in April. The goal is to have installations completed ahead of major visitor seasons.
  • Work is underway with Star Signs to develop a coordinated wayfinding signage system. The project will establish fonts, layouts, and design standards that can guide future signage across the district.
  • The committee is reviewing options for improving electrical access for festivals and events. ARPA funding allocated for electrical improvements must be used by the end of the year, and members will continue exploring solutions that support both current events and future programming.
  • The team discussed updating the downtown grant program to increase funding levels and move to a defined annual application window. The goal is to make the program more impactful and encourage higher-quality improvements to storefronts.
  • Members brainstormed small, targeted improvements that could enhance downtown’s appearance, including upgrades near the Hall of Waters, improvements around utility infrastructure, and opportunities to address underutilized spaces.
  • Early discussion began around the possibility of a downtown gateway sign along Thompson Avenue, which could become a signature placemaking feature welcoming visitors into the district.
  • The committee discussed the potential formation of a volunteer group focused on regular litter cleanup and community walking events to help maintain downtown’s appearance and encourage engagement.
  • Planning is underway for seasonal planter changes, banner installation, and other beautification elements as the district transitions into spring.
    
• January 2026
  • Exploring a theme to align with the U.S. 250th Anniversary and World Cup for the downtown planters this year
  • Addressing trash service challenges, specifically for upper story residential, but also blocks that do not have back alley access.
  • CID funds may be used to replace aging, unattractive downtown trash cans with more cohesive designs
  • Grant funded project underway to wrap planters and select electrical boxes with custom artwork
    • Artist RFP targeted for release by early February
  • Committee discussed adding prefabricated sculptural elements as part of long term streetscape enhancements
  • Additional tourism grant funds will support professional design services to ensure long term consistency and MoDOT compliance on new wayfinding signage
  • Exploring discreet solutions to improve power access for festivals and events
  • Will be conducting a spring walkabout to document conditions, take updated photos, and track usage by block and property
  • Restructuring the Facade Grant Program to include higher grant caps and a fixed annual application window
  • There is interest in expanding small seating areas and exploring matching grants for business owned outdoor seating

Next Meeting Date: March 12, 2026 • 6:00 PM • Atlas Saloon Brewery
Active Team Members: Jim McCullough, Keith Hudson, Allen Amos, Terri Reynolds, Dee Delana, Joe Arthur, Sherry Ballinger, Jeff Algie, Charlie McDaniel, Geoff Clark, Kevin Cline, Carol Baxter

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • The BBQ & Fly-In on the River has officially been selected as a Barbecue World Cup Qualifier, bringing increased national attention and new opportunities for competition teams.
  • Due to strong demand, the contest field is expanding to accommodate up to 99 barbecue teams, making this the largest BBQ competition ever hosted in Downtown Excelsior Springs.
    • To support the increased number of teams, the competition layout will extend further through downtown, including portions of Main Street, Penn Street, Thompson Avenue, and nearby parking areas.
    • With additional teams expected this year, the committee is coordinating expanded logistics including trash containers, water access, ice supply, judging areas, volunteer support, and team infrastructure.
    • The larger competition will require additional judges and tables, with plans to utilize rectangular judging tables to maximize space and efficiency.
  • Updated sponsorship materials now highlight the event’s World Cup qualifier status and expanded reach. Committee members will begin contacting past sponsors and new partners to support this year’s event.
  • Organizers are exploring additional activities to make the weekend more welcoming for families, including options such as face painting and other kid-friendly entertainment.
  • Early discussions are underway with partners to potentially host a carnival the same weekend, creating a larger festival atmosphere and additional activities for visitors.
  • Returning highlights include the Home Brew Contest, On the Rocks Whiskey Walk, fireworks show, and flyovers, all helping make the BBQ weekend one of the largest annual events in the community.
  • The People’s Choice BBQ tasting competition will return this year, with organizers working to secure product donations and encourage more teams to participate.
  • With the event continuing to grow, the committee will be actively recruiting additional volunteers to help support operations throughout the weekend.
    
• January 2026
  • BBQ & Fly-In on the River has officially been designated a BBQ World Cup Qualifier
  • Registration has launched with 71 teams already registered
  • Coordinating with the City to expand the festival footprint
  • Planning underway to host the largest BBQ competition in Downtown Excelsior Springs history
  • Working with the school district and the VFW to explore adding a new family friendly component to this year’s event

Next Meeting Date: March 12, 2026 • 5:00 PM • Atlas Saloon Brewery
Active Team Members: Allen Amos, Keith Hudson, Charlie McDaniel, Jeff Algie, Terri Reynolds, Carol Baxter, Justin Ballantyne, Michael Jennings, Brian Van Till, Jim McCarty, Steve Pogue, Chris Mayer

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • Committee members are coordinating visits to homebrew clubs across Missouri and Kansas during March and April to promote brewer participation in this year’s competition. Volunteers are signing up to attend meetings, share event information, and encourage brewers to register.
  • The team is working to recruit approximately 12 experienced judges, ideally from established beer clubs and BJCP-trained backgrounds, to ensure a high-quality judging process while maintaining the festival’s fun and social atmosphere.
  • The event will remain unsanctioned, allowing brewers to participate in the festival experience rather than submitting bottled entries in a traditional competition format. Prizes will continue to follow Missouri alcohol regulations by offering non-cash awards.
  • A sponsorship packet has been created with levels ranging from $100 supporting sponsors to a $1,500 presenting sponsor. Once finalized, the packet will be distributed to potential partners to support event enhancements.
  • Flyers, social graphics, and ticket-promotion cards with QR codes have been developed to promote brewer registration and ticket sales. These materials will be used heavily during upcoming outreach opportunities.
  • The committee selected IPA as the featured “Style of the Year” category for the competition.
  • The team is exploring partnerships with local craft beer influencers and media outlets to expand promotion of the event and reach new audiences in the Kansas City craft beer community.
  • Committee members will promote the event at the Parkville Microbrew Festival on April 25, encouraging both brewer registrations and ticket sales while launching a short-term promotional discount.
  • Volunteers are reviewing operational needs including glassware inventory, ice planning, and day-of event logistics to ensure the festival runs smoothly as attendance continues to grow.
  • Planning is being coordinated with the expanded BBQ & Fly-In on the River competition, which is expected to host nearly 100 barbecue teams this year, bringing increased visibility and visitors to the entire weekend of events.
• January 2026
  • Reviewed and expanded a regional home brew club contact list
  • Outreach assignments underway to increase brewer participation and visibility
  • Judge recruitment planning is underway
  • Initial volunteer pool identified with emphasis on additional help for set up
  • Reviewed the 2026 sponsorship structure
  • Updated action plan and promotional timeline moving earlier than previous years
  • Reviewed voting process for fairness and clarity
  • Exploring expanded awards recognition pending sponsorship support
  • Ticket sales and attendees were identified as a key focus area

Next Meeting Date: March 26, 2026 • 7:00 PM • Warbird Whiskey
Active Team Members: Amber Schmidt, Amanda Romazon, Val Linnenburger, Robin Wilkins, Melissa Bartlett, Vern Hendricks, Alyssa Darby

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• January 2026
  • Reviewed the end of season financials
  • Developing clearer public messaging about donation based, volunteer run, and supported by sponsorships
  • Identified several aging displays for repair, retirement or replacement
  • Exploring new custom display options for high visibility areas
  • Planning to expand lighting in 2026 in the Lane of Lights
  • Moving into task based sign ups for 2026.
  • Implementing a lottery system for Lane of Lights hosting nights in 2026
  • Bidding out electrical work for the season
  • Working to extend power in the Lane
  • Exploring a formal agreement with the West Side CID to clearly define responsibilities and costs

Next Meeting Date: March 26, 2026 • 6:00 PM • Other Trails
Active Team Members: Phillip Scherer, Stacey Scherer, Craig Pettus, Bea Pettus, Ben Bolin, Dan Tato, Morgan Newkirk, Cheyenne Tavares

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Key Projects/Events/Initiatives

Latest Team Highlights

• February 2026
  • Committee members have begun reaching out to regional and national cycling brands for sponsorship support. While responses have been limited so far, several companies have expressed interest in partnerships or product support.
  • The team is exploring branding updates that better reflect the event’s multi-discipline format, which now includes both cycling and trail running experiences.
  • Planning continues for the new trail run component, which will feature approximately 5K and 10K distances on the Dry Fork Trail system. The goal is to create a challenging but welcoming trail race that complements the gravel cycling event.
  • Organizers are evaluating start times and lighting considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for runners while accounting for fall daylight hours and trail conditions.
  • The committee is working to finalize a centralized downtown packet pickup location so both runners and cyclists have a streamlined check-in experience prior to the event.
  • To minimize congestion downtown and keep storefront parking available for customers, participants will be encouraged to park in designated lots such as the Ameren property near the trail system.
  • The group is developing ideas to encourage participants to visit downtown businesses, including a post-race “happy hour” style promotion with participating restaurants and bars.
  • Planning is underway to enhance the finish line atmosphere with music, refreshments, and opportunities for spectators and participants to gather and celebrate.
  • The committee is working with BikeReg to finalize registration categories and pricing structures for cycling, running, and combined event participation.
    
• January 2026
  • 75 Rider Registrations Received To Date
  • Establishing a marketing focus to create social media consistency and explore sponsor supported giveaway for rider registered by deadlines
  • Reviewed list of potential sponsors for 2026
  • Finish line experience planning is underway to turn the finish line into a celebration. Ideas include beer garden, DJ, food options, sandwich board signage, finish line discounts, with improving route mapping.
  • The single track development will be included in the 2026 route.
  • Working to secure timers.
  • Developing a lead out strategy.
  • Increasing marketing efforts around the kid’s race.
  • Adding a Friday night 5K & 10K to 2026

Main Street In Missouri:

As a Missouri Main Street Accredited program, the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. is a recognized, leading program among the state network of more than 45 districts and communities who share both a commitment to creating high quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.
For more information about Missouri Main Street Connection or other Missouri Main Street programs, please visit their website.

National Main Street Center

DEP follows the Main Street Four-Point Approach, which focuses revitalization efforts in four areas: Design, Economic Vitality, Organization and Promotions. It is a comprehensive and balanced approach with an underlying goal of promoting and strengthening the downtown core and preserving its historic character. Support from local government, partner organizations, downtown property and business owners, and residents has helped this community-based initiative work in Downtown Excelsior Springs for more than 15 years. For more information about the Main Street Four-Point Approach, please click here.
As a Main Street America Accredited Program, the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. is a recognized leading program among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America Accredited Programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standard of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center.