Ottumwa, IA – Main Street Ottumwa is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kris Patrick as its new Executive Director. A seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in downtown revitalization and economic development, Patrick brings a proven track record of innovation, collaboration, and results to the role.
Patrick’s career spans more than ten years in implementing the Main Street Approach© to breathe new life into historic downtowns. From overseeing multimillion-dollar property rehabilitation projects to fostering thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems, she has made significant
contributions to community development throughout Iowa.
Notable achievements during her tenure include managing two CDBG Downtown Revitalization façade projects, spearheading the $5.2 million rehabilitation of 79 properties, and recruiting over 30 new businesses to downtown Fort Dodge. She also developed IGNITE, an entrepreneurial mentorship program that garnered national recognition through a Main Street America US Bank
Grant.
In addition to her professional achievements, Patrick has held numerous leadership roles, including serving on boards such as the Lucas County Preservation Alliance, MIDAS RLF Committee, and Rotary Club, where she is a past president. Her extensive experience in
strategic planning, grant writing, branding, and stakeholder engagement makes her an ideal leader for Main Street Ottumwa.
“I am honored to join Main Street Ottumwa and excited to work alongside community leaders and stakeholders to continue revitalizing and celebrating our historic downtown. Fred Zesiger was instrumental in developing the downtown district to what it is today. I have big shoes to fill but I look forward to having the opportunity to continue to develop the district,” said Patrick. “Downtown Ottumwa has incredible potential, and I look forward to fostering the partnerships and programs that will bring our vision to life.”
Patrick holds advanced certifications in Historic Real Estate Development Finance and Economic Vitality from the Main Street America Institute. Her expertise in downtown revitalization strategies and community-focused initiatives will drive Main Street Ottumwa toward continued growth and success.
Main Street Ottumwa’s Board of Directors expressed their enthusiasm about Patrick’s appointment. “Kris’s leadership, passion, and deep understanding of what makes downtowns thrive will be instrumental in shaping a vibrant future for Ottumwa,” said Holly Berg.
Patrick is replacing long-time past director, Fred Zesiger, who stepped down from the position in December. Zesiger was in the role for the past 10 years.
The community is welcome to meet Kris at Main Street Ottumwa’s next Business Brew taking place on January 16 th from 5-7pm at Garrison Rock Social and Eatery.
About Main Street Ottumwa:
The Main Street Ottumwa program fosters a vibrant, dynamic, and healthy downtown through community engagement and collaborative partnerships. If you have questions about downtown Ottumwa or want to get involved, reach out to Kris at director@mainstreetottumwa.com.
