Business owners. Employees. Residents. Visitors. Proponents. Advocates. We’re all of these things—and together, we’re Downtown Shareholders of Kansas City, Kansas. We work tirelessly to advance the revitalization of Downtown KCK through a combination of outreach, programming, services, and advocacy that share two common goals: to bring people to Downtown KCK, and to make the existing community even more diverse, vibrant, and successful.

In other words? We’re writing a new chapter in Downtown KCK’s story, and we’d love for you to be a part of the narrative in #OurKCK.

Meet the Executive Director

Tomi Francis-Ramirez joined Downtown Shareholders of Kansas City, KS, Inc. as the new Executive Director in February 2023, bringing a fresh perspective and a solid commitment to advancing the organization’s mission of revitalizing a safe, welcoming, and historic Downtown KCK. With a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Washburn University, Tomi developed a deep passion for community development and has been dedicated to driving positive change ever since.

As the youngest, first person of color, and first woman to serve as executive director of DTS, Tomi is the go-to person for Downtown business owners and residents. She can assist with various matters, including but not limited to:

• How to get involved Downtown 

• SSMID questions or concerns 

• Assistance hosting a neighborhood meeting 

• Development advice and guidance 

• Historic District information

• Home repair referrals for residents with disabilities and older adults. 

director@downtownkck.org | Office 913-371-0705

Board of Directors

Elected Officers: Officers were voted in on April 30th, 2024.

Mary Ricketts, President

Dr. Fabiola Riobe, Vice President

Erica Andrade, Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair

Liz Freeman, Secretary

Jim Schraeder, Housing & Economic Development Chair

Dr. Greg Mosier, SSMID Chair

Rachel Russell, Nominating Committee Chair

Randy Greeves, Bylaws Committee Chair

Aeriona King, Communications Committee Chair

Beverly Russell

Minah Chapell

Carol Levers

Gabe Munoz

Marty Quinn

Small Business Toolkit

We have updated our Downtown Development Process booklet! You can access electronic copies on our website or pick up physical copies at our booth during the Third Friday Art Walk or at our 726 Armstrong, Suite 201, KCK 66101 office.

July’s Business Spotlight

Connect Café, located at 756 Armstrong Ave, Kansas City, KS, is a social enterprise program of FosterAdopt Connect. It provides foster youth with valuable work experience and skills for future employment. Open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the café supports the community by empowering foster youth. Visit Connect Café for a delicious coffee and to support a meaningful cause. For more information, visit their website

Downtown Shareholders Events

Want to immerse yourself more? Find more events below!

Third Friday Art Walk

The Third Friday Art Walk in Downtown Kansas City, KS, is a vibrant, family-friendly event that celebrates local art, music, and food. Held monthly from May to October, the event transforms 6th Street and Minnesota Avenue into a dynamic space where artists showcase their work and businesses engage with the community. The Art Walk, organized by the Community Housing of Wyandotte County (CHWC) and supported by Downtown Shareholders of Kansas City, KS, encourages creativity and community connection. It features pop-up art exhibits, street galleries, interactive performances, and diverse food options. Downtown Shareholders are crucial in supporting this event, fostering an inclusive and lively downtown environment.

SSMID Ambassador Info

The Unified Government Board of Commissioners required at least 51% property owner support via petition to establish a Self Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID). The initiative received overwhelming approval with a 62% vote, leading to its formation in 2008 for an initial eight-year period. Due to its success in maintaining downtown safety and cleanliness, the program was renewed in 2016 for ten years, with adjusted boundaries. An eleven-member Advisory Board oversees SSMID operations, managed by Downtown Shareholders of Kansas City, Kansas, Inc. (DTS-KCK). Through the SSMID’s clean and safe program, we have dedicated security and cleaning ambassadors.

Security and Cleaning Ambassadors are available Monday through Saturday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. To request assistance, please contact security personnel by phone at (913) 387-6331. For emergencies, dial 911.

SSMID Advisory Board

Dr.Greg Mosier, Chair

Tim Ryan

Robert Hughes

Jason Glasrud

Clayton Hunter

Frank Aguilar

Jerrell Royal

William Hutton

TJ Roberts