McKenna Mikesell

property owner of downtown buildings: (formerly known as) 900 wall, lulus, 1030 Bond, 901 Bond, 856 Bond, 25 Minnesota, 920 Bond

Currently a DBBA Board Member: YES

Have you ever been on the DBBA Board? YES

Do you currently sit on any other boards? NO

ABOUT

As the former DBBA President I am passionate about continuing to contribute as a member of the Downtown Association board. I am so proud of what we have accomplished during my two years as a board member and I look forward to making our beautification goals for Downtown a reality.

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST ASSETS?

Historic charm, community, small business mix

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST OPPORTUNITIES?

Finding more sponsorships and grants for meaningful beautification projects, utilizing community groups outside of the DBBA to collaborate on future events and gain a volunteer base

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST CHALLENGES?

Cyclical tourism (slow seasons), absent building owners who don't maintain their property to the standard of Downtown, limited budget and influence to make needed improvements to infrastructure needs for the growing city of Bend

WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE ON THE DBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS?

I feel proud of how far the DBBA has come during my two years as a board member. I want to be a board member to continue the path of fiscal responsibility we have achieved and to make meaningful investments into downtown. I want to see new planters, better crosswalks and to continue to improve downtown events. I loved the Christmas lights we put up this year and I want to be involved in creating more charm in Downtown. I also enjoy being an advocate for Downtown and making sure we have a voice when it comes to citywide decisions that effect Downtown. I love the community in Downtown Bend and want to continue to help Downtown businesses thrive. I think my voice is important on the board because as a building owner and property manager I have the best interests of both retail and office tenant at heart and want to make sure everyone gets the best out of their downtown experience.