About Aurora Downtown Project About Aurora Downtown Project

Aurora Downtown Project is a community driven, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve, promote, revitalize, and enhance our downtown district through the Main Street Approach™. Through partnerships, innovation, and community engagement, we are dedicated to drive economic growth, celebrate our unique history, and improve the overall quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and plays in downtown.

As a Missouri Main Street Affiliate program, Aurora Downtown Project, Inc is a recognized, leading program among the state network of more than 50 districts and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-
based economic development.

Board of Directors

Our Board is a dedicated group of community leaders working together to revitalize Downtown and drive positive change. Their expertise and passion help guide our mission forward. 

Board President: Paul Haine

“Having been brought up in the UK, I love to visit downtown Aurora because of the old brick built buildings, which make me think of home. I enjoy being part of this community, getting to know the people and learning about their stories. I believe that a strong local economy is an important aspect of a healthy community.”

Board Treasurer: Ashley Kennedy 

“Born and raised in Aurora, our Downtown holds so many special memories for me. I'm truly excited and honored to play even a small role in revitalizing and rejuvenating the heart of our community-creating a place where others can gather, connect, and make lasting memories of their own.”

Board Secretary: Diane Warth

Board Member: Caleb Carpenter 

Board Member: Lisa Boyer

“I like to feel like I can make a difference. I remember when downtown was a flourishing area with places to shop with my mom and I hope we can have that again. A place to not just shop and eat but meet with friends and enjoy the companionship and the day.”

Board Member: Robert Bliss

“I want to work on making the Downtown more attractive and welcoming to new businesses that want to be a part of our comeback. It is exciting to see the growth of our Downtown and I am proud to be a part of it.”

Board Member: Peggy Crownover

“As a business owner, I believe in investing in the places that invest in us. My involvement with ADP allows me to support revitalization efforts, strengthen our local economy, and help create a welcoming, vibrant space where businesses and families can thrive.”

Board Member: John Nevin

"The downtown square and classic courthouse are what brought my family to Aurora. With nearby historic homes, a library, a museum, a giant park, and affordable living, we have tremendous upside. That foundation is already attracting growth, investment, and new businesses, but we're just getting started. As a downtown property owner with children growing up here, I have a direct stake, and I'm here to help."

City Liaison: Carrie Howlett 

“My lifelong roots in Aurora drive me to be very passionate about this community and the continued betterment of it. I am committed to working collaboratively with our elected officials, dedicated city staff, community partners, and most importantly, the residents of this city to ensure we continue to make Aurora the best place to live, work and play.”

Committees

Economic Vitality

Chair: Paul Haine

Members: Shannon Walker (Aurora Chamber of Commerce) Jack Muench (First Independent Bank) Logan Coones (Freedom Bank) Peggy Crownover (Ava Belle's) and Mark Dillman.

Design

Chair: Ashley Kennedy

Members: Lisa Boyer, Caleb Carpenter (Crescent Moon Curiosities), Diane Warth (The Nail Gallery), Charlene Watts (Watts Chiropractic) and Robert Bliss.

 Organization

Chair: Megan Neyer 

Members: Carrie Howlett (City of Aurora), Ashley Kennedy, John Nevin, Taylon Sumners and Melody McKinley (Brush Hour Art Studio). 

Promotion

Chair: Diane Warth

Members: Hannah Rader 

Past President: Hannah Rader

“Downtown is where I've built my business and raised my family, and it's a place that means a lot to me. Being involved with this nonprofit allows me to invest in the future of our downtown. I'm proud to be part of a community that continues to grow and support one another.”

Hannah Rader was one of the founding members of Aurora Downtown Project. As the owner of The Garden Exchange, she started organizing community events and was the driving force behind the first Community Christmas event. After a visit to Lebanon Missouri, she was inspired to bring a Main Street Program to her hometown and approached Carrie Howlett at The City of Aurora about forming a partnership to start the organization.  

Over the years, she has been a successful teambuilder both with The Garden Exchange and with The Aurora Downtown Project. In June 2026, she sold the business to her manager, Kristy Owens, and resigned as a board member of Aurora Downtown Project.