Mainstreet Mexico has announced that Katie Smith has stepped into the role of executive director, bringing her experience as a small business owner and her passion for community development to the organization.

Smith has deep ties to the Mexico community and a background in agriculture. She is committed to supporting the growth and vitality of the downtown district. In her new role, she will work alongside the Mainstreet Mexico board, volunteers, and local partners to strengthen the organization and continue building momentum for downtown initiatives.

“Mexico has always held a special place in my heart,” Smith said. “This is a community where people truly care about where they live and about one another. I’m excited to work with businesses, volunteers, and community partners to continue creating opportunities for
downtown.”

One of Smith’s early priorities has been helping build a clear structure for Mainstreet Mexico’s work, organizing efforts around the program’s four focus areas: design, promotion, organization, and economic vitality.

This structure allows volunteers and community partners to work together more effectively while supporting projects that strengthen the downtown district.

Mainstreet recently completed the first step of many in the beautification of Mexico’s downtown scene — planting new trees. The next focus, Smith said, will be the Jefferson Street Mini Park. With the local support of the Edmonston Foundation and the Green Foundation, Mainstreet is working on plans for a pavilion that can host community gatherings and concerts as well as a mural at the park.

“We are actively working toward a large grant from T-Mobile,” Smith said. “What they have done is promised to help grow community and rural America. This is an opportunity for us to apply for a grant that would help us put in place everything in front of the pavilion.”

If Mainstreet is awarded the grant, Smith said it will cover the landscaping, shrubs, trees, benches and picnic tables to create an inclusive space. Mainstreet Mexico is part of the Missouri Main Street network, a state-wide program dedicated to strengthening historic commercial districts and supporting locally owned businesses. Smith said she looks forward to continuing to build partnerships that support both downtown businesses and the broader community.

“Downtowns thrive when communities rally around them,” Smith said. “I’m excited to work alongside our board and volunteers to continue building a vibrant and welcoming downtown Mexico.”

For more information about Mainstreet Mexico, visit www.mexicosquare.org.