Expanding De Soto 2025-2026

PRESENTED BY THE DE SOTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

2025–2026 Chamber Member Directory

A Growing Community, A Shared Vision:

Montessori School Opens ALSO IN THIS ISSUE New Chamber Leadership Long-Term Plan for School District Business Boom Redefines Downtown ISSUE 7

VOLUME 7

2025–2026

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2025–2026

Expanding De Soto is a collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Council, the City of De Soto, and Unified School District 232.

Editor Designer/Art Director Advertising Copy Editor Photographers

Writers

Jean Teller Alex Tatro Angie Taylor Leslie Clugston Andres Kevin Anderson Molly Kuplen Sarah Reeves Casey Rooman Smith USD 232 Corrin Guemmer Jackie Hostetler Jean Teller Kari William

desotoks.org desotoksedc.org 2025 Board Chair Chief Executive Officer President

Sherelle Witt Laura Blatter Tim Holverson

sunflowerpub.com Publisher Bill Uhler Director Bob Cucciniello

my friends, my community, Welcome to this year’s edition of Expanding De Soto—a collaboration between the City of De Soto, USD 232, and the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council.

Each year, this magazine captures where we are, where we’re headed, and how we’re getting there—together.

I’m reminded of how quickly things are moving in De Soto—and, as mayor, how proud I am of the way we’re growing.

It’s not just that we have one of the biggest economic development projects in the country happening in our backyard; it’s that we’ve managed to hold on to who we are while it’s all unfolding. We still greet our neighbors by name, and our schools remain the heart of the community. That small-town spirit—the one that makes people want to stay and raise their families here—is still at the center of everything we do.

With the Panasonic EV Battery Plant nearing completion and thousands of acres at the Sunflower site ready for new opportunities, De Soto is stepping onto a much bigger stage.

While the scale of growth is significant, so is our commitment to managing it with purpose.

We’re not just adding businesses and rooftops—we’re shaping a future that reflects our values.

We’ve made solid progress this year—progress that you can see taking shape all across the city. New companies are moving in, and established businesses are expanding. Major infrastructure work is underway—ranging from the expansion of our water and sewer systems to road improvements and the construction of a new 20,000-square-foot fire station, set to open later this year. These projects represent significant investments, and they’ll benefit our community for decades to come.

We’ve also witnessed the financial benefits of our growth beginning to take shape. As new developments expand our tax base, we’ve been able to reduce the city’s portion of property taxes—while still investing in initiatives that improve daily life. Sales tax revenue is up, and we’re directing that momentum into parks, public safety, recreation, and community spaces.

In these pages, you’ll discover the story of a city that’s growing with intention—guided by collaboration, fueled by partnerships, and deeply rooted in community. Thanks for being part of it.

All material and photographs copyright Sunflower Publishing, 2025.

For editorial queries: Jean Teller (785)832-7231

Rick Walker, Mayor

PRESENTED BY THE DE SOTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

jteller@sunflowerpub.com 2025–2026 Chamber Member Directory

For advertising queries: Angie Taylor (​​785)832-7236 ataylor@sunflowerpub.com

A Growing Community, A Shared Vision:

Montessori School Opens ALSO IN THIS ISSUE New Chamber Leadership Long-Term Plan for School District Business Boom Redefines Downtown ISSUE 7

VOLUME 7

2025–2026

on the cover.

Joe Bisogno ( from left), Christina Rose, and Andy Jacober at the Happy Campers Montessori School in De Soto.

Photo by Kevin Anderson

w h a t ’s i n s i d e d e pa r t m e n t s

feature

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DE SOTO CHAMBER’S NEW LEADERSHIP

New Chamber CEO and EDC president want to build relationships and foster growth.

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GROWTH IN DE SOTO

City approaches the future with intention and a sense of community.

DE SOTO’S BUSINESS BOOM REDEFINES MAIN STREET Big developments are driving small business growth in this fast-changing Kansas town.

in every issue

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CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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CHAMBER STAFF

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DE SOTO MAP

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EDC ADVISORY COMMITTEE

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ECONOMIC PROFILE

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EVENT PHOTOS

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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP LISTING

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CHAMBER MEMBER INDEX

LIGHTING THE WAY TO THE FUTURE

USD 232’s superintendent and executive leadership devised TORCH as a five-year strategic plan.

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2025–2026

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CHAMBER

De Soto Chamber’s New Leadership New Chamber CEO and EDC president want to build relationships and foster growth.

DE SOTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ARTICLE BY Kari Williams PHOTOS BY Molly Kuplen

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32905 W. 84TH ST., P.O. BOX 70 DE SOTO, KS 66018 913-583-1585 | WWW.DESOTOKS.ORG

Representing the De Soto Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Council are (from left) Karen Rodgers, administrative assistant; Shelby Lathrom, bookkeeping consultant; Tim Holverson, EDC president, and Laura Blatter, Chamber CEO.

2025–2026

CHAMBER

E

ven before Tim Holverson was the president of economic development in De Soto, he saw the city’s “tremendous potential.”

“We have a seat at the table now,” says Holverson, who joined the staff last July, after spending 13 years with the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce. “Certainly, you get a project like Panasonic, and that raises eyebrows.”

In 2022, Panasonic broke ground at Astra Enterprise Park on its 300-acre lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility—the largest economic development project in the state’s history. Panasonic anticipates beginning production later this year and bringing 4,000 manufacturing jobs to the city.

De Soto, according to Holverson, is now “on the radar for every major project in the country.” With a population of roughly 6,300, De Soto’s top three industries are agriculture, construction and manufacturing.

“It’s a unique situation that a community our size has an opportunity to be somewhat selective regarding how we want to grow the community for the next generation,” says Holverson, who’s been in the chamber and economic development industry for nearly three decades.

The chamber’s chief executive officer, Laura Blatter, who joined the staff in October, is among those who can help build that community. Her career path has focused on building relationships, fostering community engagement and helping organizations grow, whether through corporate partnerships or economic initiatives—essentially, connecting people and strengthening communities.

“When the opportunity came about for this chamber job, it made sense,” Blatter says. “De Soto is a growing community, and I believe that my experiences align well with what’s needed to support this community, help businesses thrive and foster meaningful connections throughout the community.”

The excitement of the growth opportunity, and “the power of connections” drew Blatter to the position.

“I’ve seen firsthand how chamber relationships can be transformational—not just for business growth, but for long-term professional development and success,” she says. “Our role at the De Soto Chamber is to help foster those connections, advocate for your businesses and be a valuable resource for helping you thrive.”

Since joining the Chamber, she says they’ve released the 2025 events calendar and created more opportunities for businesses to network and collaborate. Business owners have the opportunity to connect with each other and Chamber leaders through luncheons, coffees and after-hours events.

“I think that it’s well received,” Blatter says. “We’re hitting our attendance targets and meeting goals we set.

I’ve only been here six months, and I’ve had my hands in a lot of different areas. So, while we haven’t perfected it yet,

2025–2026

Economic Impact of Panasonic Facility $2.5 billion annual economic impact $450 million annual labor income Source: www.desotoks.us/394/ Panasonic-Electric-Vehicle-Battery-Facil

Save the Date Upcoming Chamber Events Chamber Luncheons Second Wednesday of the month (excludes July and December) Chamber After Hours First Wednesday of February, May, August and November Chamber Coffees First Wednesday of March, June, September and December EDC Solution Series Breakfast Third Thursday of February, May, August and November EDC After Hours Third Wednesday of January, April, July and October

For a full list of upcoming chamber events, visit www.desotoks.org/ community-information/communityevents-calendar.

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CHAMBER

we’re making great progress. And we’re hoping to see even more friendly faces from each of our businesses at future events—the more people who get involved, the stronger our community becomes.”

The chamber is starting an ambassador program, which Blatter says will bring in members and businesses to be “champions” of the Chamber. Volunteers in the program will help businesses “feel at home,” celebrate milestones and ensure they’re getting the most out of the Chamber’s resources.

From the economic development side, they’ve created additional committees to support marketing, legislation, transportation and workforce development.

Growth in De Soto Holverson says De Soto is one of the few spots in the region with two of the most important elements for development— large tracts of land and energy.

“As result of the Panasonic project, we’ve had to upgrade our water treatment facility and wastewater treatment facilities and that brings additional capacity for more economic development opportunities and investment. We’re seeing interest in several areas of advanced manufacturing and potentially some exciting technologies (including renewable energy). As a community, we’ve always valued advanced manufacturing dating back to Sunflower. That

has continued with our great corporate citizens such as Engineered Air, Merck, Huhtamaki, Rehrig-Pacific, and Custom Foods,” he says. But yes, recent investment and attention that have come to De Soto, Holverson says, have positioned the city to benefit from broader growth. Burnt End BBQ opened in 2024, along with Domino’s, earlier this year. Those, in turn, sparked additional commercial development. Free State Dental and Urgent Care Primary Care of Kansas have also opened locations in town.

Just this spring Geiger Ready Mix announced it will build a $36 million permanent batch plant to serve the construction needs of De Soto and the region.

Alcove Development is currently building The Residences at Lexington, a nearly 400-unit apartment complex.

Holverson says developers of other apartment and singlefamily projects are also considering De Soto. “(That includes) some mixed-use projects that could bring in additional commercial opportunities. Hotel groups are starting to talk to us as well,” he says.

The Chamber’s mission, says Blatter, is its commitment to “visibility, promoting growth and staying true to the values that make this community strong.”

“We’re incredibly focused on creating opportunities for all of you to connect with each other and with the Chamber in meaningful ways,” she says.

Left: The Women in Business group met recently; right: Laura Blatter, at right, consults with Shelby Lathrom, left, and Karen Rodgers, center.

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De Soto’s Business Boom Redefines Main Street Big developments are driving small business growth in this fast-changing Kansas town.

DE SOTO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL 32905 W. 84TH ST., P.O. BOX 70

ARTICLE BY Jackie Hostetler

DE SOTO, KS 66018

PHOTOS BY Kevin Anderson

WWW.DESOTOKSEDC.ORG

CHAMBERMEMBERSHIP@DESOTOKS.ORG THOLVERSON@DESOTOKS.ORG

Christina Rose, center, is the director the Happy Campers Montessori School. Lending assistance and expertise were Andy Jacober (left), financial adviser with Edward Jones, and Joe Bisogno with Goodcents and owner of The Common Business Park where the school is located.

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2025–2026

EDC

“Businesses are drawn to De Soto because of what is here and the promise of what is coming.”

— Tim Holverson, president

D

e Soto is in the middle of a major transformation. With the arrival of Panasonic Energy Co. and the $895 million retention and expansion project at Merck Animal Health, the community is experiencing a wave of momentum.

New businesses are opening, longtime establishments are growing, and innovative partnerships between the private and public sectors are taking root.

But this isn’t just a story of spreadsheets and statistics. It’s about real improvements in residents’ quality of life—from more dining options to improved access to childcare and housing. At the center of this transformation is the De Soto Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council, working to ensure that businesses of all sizes benefit from the town’s rapid evolution.

Big Opportunities The arrival of Panasonic Energy Co. has had a huge effect on De Soto’s local economy. Already rich with international influence, De Soto has become even more attractive. This project brings both short- and long-term jobs, establishing a foundation for progress that spreads throughout the community.

“Businesses are drawn to De Soto because of what is here and the promise of what is coming,” says Tim Holverson, president of the De Soto Economic Development Council.

The impact is clearly evident in the local dining scene.

One new eatery, Burnt End BBQ Bar & Grill, part of the PB&J Restaurant Group, has experienced remarkable success since opening, feeding a growing number of workers and residents.

“They’ve done their homework and chose De Soto because they recognized the potential here,” says Holverson.

It’s not just new restaurants getting a boost. Favorites like JT’s Grill are also seeing an uptick in business, thanks to the steady stream of construction crews, staff, and new community members drawn to De Soto by major developments.

Beyond food, De Soto is welcoming a variety of new businesses, including healthcare and service providers. It’s easier than ever for residents to meet their needs right in town.

Top: The new Pansonic Battery Plant; above: The Residences at Lexington is under construction and will offer more than 380 apartments when finished.

2025–2026

The Happy Campers Story Perhaps no story better captures De Soto’s spirit of collaboration than the establishment of Happy Campers Montessori School in June 2024. After losing its only freestanding childcare facility, the community rallied to fill this critical need.

“Happy Campers was the recipient of the 2024 Business of the Year award, and its story highlights a collaboration with the Women’s Business Center and The Commons Business Park.

Additionally, Joe Bisogno, founder of the national sandwich chain Goodcents and business park owner, was instrumental in helping to establish the school,” says Laura Blatter, CEO of the De Soto Chamber of Commerce. With no childcare options left—and an expanding workforce, thanks to Panasonic and other employers— this collaboration couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Chamber of Commerce played an important role as well.

“When it comes to opening a childcare center, there is so much

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EDC

Business is Booming!

From national restaurant chains to

specialized healthcare providers, these new establishments are transforming the local

business landscape and improving quality of life for De Soto residents.

Body Co. Med Spa & Wellness Burnt End BBQ Bar & Grill Domino’s Pizza Force of Nature Brewing Free State Dental Geiger Ready-Mix Happy Campers De Soto Montessori School Jimmy John’s Laura’s Attic Panasonic Energy Residences at Lexington Skylight Pilates Southwind Marketing Group LLC Stone Pillar Vineyard and Winery T&T Nails LLC Ugomow LLC Woodland Chiropractic and Wellness LLC

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that happens behind the scenes,” says Christina Rose, director of Happy Campers. “We worked closely with the Chamber to make the opening happen.”

The Montessori school offers a unique educational approach, complete with a garden where children will grow their own vegetables, and hands-on experiences with animals, including bunnies and chicks. This addition to the community not only provides essential childcare services but also creates an educational environment that attracts young families to the area.

“We’ve been working closely with Panasonic, Huhtamaki, and a few of the other large corporations in town to understand how we might best suit the needs of their families,” Rose says.

The Chamber has played a vital role in the school’s integration into the business community as well. “The Chamber has been instrumental in our success,” Rose says.

“They’ve helped us to get the word out about our business.

We’ve also made a lot of business-to-business connections, namely veterinary connections, which have been helpful.”

Building for the Future Forward-thinking infrastructure upgrades make much of De Soto’s momentum possible. Substantial infrastructure investments drive De Soto’s economic momentum and pave the way for continued development. These improvements not only support current growth but are also intentionally designed to support expansion for decades to come.

“The state of Kansas has improved roads and access points to support the growing workforce in our area,” Holverson says.

The power grid has undergone an even more dramatic transformation to increase reliability and to meet the demands of modern manufacturing and technology companies.

“Evergy has done extensive work on the electric front, expanding one substation and building what is now probably the largest substation in the United States, called the Atlantic Substation,” Holverson says. “There’s excess capacity here. In fact, this will be one of their primary growth spots for the region in the coming years.”

This progressive approach to infrastructure, combined with the ample availability of land, gives De Soto a competitive edge in attracting businesses. Few communities in the Midwest can offer both the physical space and utility capacity that modern industries require, positioning De Soto as an appealing location for companies seeking to expand or relocate.

“We are one of the few spots in the country, certainly in the region, where there are large tracts of land available as well as power,” Holverson says. “We have one of the most attractive spots for economic development.”

2025–2026

Housing Growth Fuels Business Growth As businesses arrive, so too do new housing developments to accommodate the growing workforce and their families.

“We’re starting to see the housing piece pick up a little more, which is pretty exciting,” Holverson says. “The Residences at Lexington are building 382 apartment units, which is substantial for a community our size.”

The apartments will begin leasing by the summer, providing much-needed housing options for the growing workforce. This is just one of several significant housing developments underway in De Soto.

With a housing vacancy rate of just 1.6%, new developments are essential for De Soto’s continued growth. Limestone, a GRATA Development Community at K-10 and Kill Creek, is another promising project.

This mixed-use development has been approved and is expected to break ground later this year, adding both residential and commercial spaces to the community.

Flint Meadows represents another significant housing expansion. It is a multiphase single-family housing development that could add up to 228 new homes in the coming years.

Blatter emphasizes how these housing developments directly contribute to small business success.

“The housing market is also going to drive growth for our small businesses. More customers in the restaurants. More customers in retail establishments throughout our community,” she says.

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A Bright Future for Business The mutually beneficial relationship between large developments and small businesses is fostering a positive growth pattern in De Soto. Major employers like Custom Foods, Engineered Air, Goodcents, Huhtamaki, Merck, Panasonic, Rehrig-Pacific, and USD 232 provide an economic foundation that supports diverse small businesses, which in turn enhances the quality of life and makes the community more attractive to both residents and companies considering relocation.

“As we grow the economy here, the quality of life improves,” Holverson says. “As that growth continues, there are more and more services and opportunities provided to residents.”

With a solid foundation of major developments, a collaborative community spirit, and strategic infrastructure investments, De Soto is well-positioned for continued growth that benefits businesses of all sizes. This economic transformation is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, the local workforce, and residents alike.

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SCHOOLS

Lighting the Way to the Future USD 232’s superintendent and executive leadership devised TORCH as a five-year strategic plan.

ARTICLE BY Jean Teller The TORCH strategic plan for USD 232.

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PHOTOS COURTESY USD 232

2025–2026

SCHOOLS

T

he logo for De Soto USD 232 is a stylized torch and flame, which aligns perfectly with the district’s new five-year strategic plan titled TORCH, “lighting the way for continuous improvement to be better tomorrow than we are today.” Designated for 2024 to 2029, TORCH stands for: T: Teaching and Learning O: Operations and Planning R: Recruitment and Retention C: Curriculum and Results H: Healthy and Thriving The plan was designed using insight gained during Dr. Cory Gibson’s six-month, new-superintendent listening tour in 2023. In March 2024, Gibson submitted his outline for a new strategic plan, which the board unanimously approved in August.

“The future goals of the school district were created and modified based on a patron survey, feedback provided by a task force composed of members of the district leadership team; feedback from district, school, and teacher leaders; and a consensus reached by the executive leadership cabinet,” says Alvie Cater, deputy chief of staff and communications. Those goals became TORCH, he says.

The strategic plan’s guiding principles begin with a mission statement: “To prepare all students for their future through excellent, innovative learning opportunities with caring, dedicated and passionate staff in a safe and secure environment,” according to the USD 232 website (www. usd232.org). The other guiding principles are: * Empty Chair Philosophy: “With every decision we make, we must remember our students. By placing an empty chair in our meetings, it reminds us to mentally put any student we know in that chair and to consider that student as we make decisions.” * Portrait of a Graduate: “The USD 232 Portrait of a Graduate serves as a guiding framework for educators to design curriculum, assessment methods, and extracurricular activities that contribute to the holistic development of students.” * Efficient Use of Resources: “The district staff and Board of Education take seriously the responsibility of using tax dollars efficiently and in a way that best benefits the classroom learning experience.”

USD 232 35200 W. 91ST ST. DE SOTO, KS 66018 913-667-6200 INFORMATION@USD232.ORG WWW.USD232.ORG

2025–2026

Top: Welding students at CTEC work on the base for the De Soto collaborative sculpture project; above: The collaborative City of Shawnee sculpture project was put into place in 2022

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SCHOOLS

An Exciting Future Cater says there is a definite excitement surrounding De Soto’s growth and economic development. “With that excitement comes the work of the school district to monitor that growth and strategically plan for new families and new students,” he says.

The district also plans to facilitate new opportunities for students to engage with businesses as they prepare for life after high school. “Whether that means new facilities or new programs, the focus will always remain on our mission to prepare all students for their future,” Cater says.

The district’s enrollment analysis shows an expected increase over the next five years, though Cater says growth will be slower than many expect.

With a steady decline in Kansas’ birth rate, the number of kindergarteners has decreased over the past three years, and Cater says that trend is expected to continue.

An expected influx of families relocating to the district means that by the 2029–2030 school year, the district is forecasting an increase of 122 students. Cater says that number may change as housing becomes more available and affordable.

TORCH Pillars The “Teaching and Learning” section under the TORCH model seeks to provide instruction that ensures student learning. The foundation for this pillar includes professional learning communities working with the district, a balanced assessment method with a data review, an alignment of standards, quality instructors in the district, and professional development for those instructors.

“Operations and Planning” focuses on long-range planning for facilities growth and a long-term capital project plan.

“Recruitment and Retention” refers to competitive compensation for district employees, along with a shared mission of quality and personal professional growth.

“Curriculum and Results” offers a shared vision and commitment among the communities involved.

Structured literacy opportunities, data-driven decisions, and aligned student programs are the tent poles for this pillar of TORCH. Finally, the “Healthy and Thriving” segment seeks to offer high-quality and structured support for students, inclusive environments for everyone, and enhanced programs to support health and wellness among students and staff.

2025–2026

More than 70 people are involved in the five taskforce groups working on these themes of TORCH. They include teachers, administrators, parents, and students. The overarching goal and the guiding principles all resulted from the work conducted by these groups. These same groups will continue to identify goals, action steps, and timelines for the TORCH plan. According to the district’s website, the plan is constructed to allow for changes and improvements over its life.

Real-World Applications The latest opportunity for students to participate in a real-world project comes with the City of De Soto Art Project. City officials worked with Tim Mispagel, administrator and teacher at Cedar Trails Exploration Center, Center for Advanced Professional Students (CTEC CAPS), on a clientdriven project.

The city commissioned a public art display that students from De Soto High School and Mill Valley High School will design and build. It will be a kinetic sculpture to be placed in front of De Soto City Hall.

The theme of the artwork, says Cater, will celebrate the city’s history, sense of community, and outlook for the future.

“This amazing project will give students a chance to connect their creativity and learning,” Cater says, “to a meaningful real-world project that involves science, technology, engineering, math, and manufacturing.”

This will be the second such project for CTEC CAPS students. The first was in 2022 for the city of Shawnee: the sculpture is now on permanent display at the roundabout at Monticello Road and Clear Creek Parkway. Based on a design submitted by Mill Valley High School student Sophia Hsu, a mockup of the sculpture—called Flight of Florescence—was created by De Soto High School student Julie Steeb and presented to Shawnee city officials. The first year, CTEC CAPS students fabricated the sculpture during their year-long senior capstone project. Four students took on the engineering and assembling of the sculpture during the 2023–2024 school year.

Participating were De Soto High’s Connor Jacober and Mill Valley’s Daniel Blaine, Sam Colletti, and Jackson Rose.

USD 232 continues to work with businesses and industries in the area, Cater says, to help provide real-world learning opportunities, such as job shadowing, internships and clientconnected projects.

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CITY

Growth in De Soto City approaches the future with intention and a sense of community.

Construction continues at Astra Enterprise Park.

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2025–2026

CITY

ARTICLE BY Corinn Guemmer PHOTOS BY Sarah Reeves

T

he momentum behind De Soto’s growth is gaining attention across the Kansas City metro area. Long known for its quiet neighborhoods, deep sense of community, and access to urban amenities, De Soto now finds itself at the center of the regional conversation about economic opportunity, strategic planning and how to manage change with intention.

For both businesses and residents, De Soto offers a compelling balance: proximity to the energy of a major metropolitan area combined with the feel of a town where people still wave to their neighbors and stay connected to one another.

“People who live here often could live anywhere, but they choose De Soto,” says Mayor Rick Walker, who met his wife in a De Soto kindergarten classroom. “There’s a reason families stay here generation after generation.”

De Soto’s location—within a 20- to 30-minute drive of Kansas City International Airport, major sports venues, and shopping and entertainment districts—makes it an attractive place to settle down. However, it’s not just about location; the city’s commitment to thoughtful, community-centered development is increasingly drawing attention from both families and businesses.

Support for Business For companies considering expansion or relocation, De Soto offers more than space and incentives. It offers a supportive community and a local government eager to partner for mutual benefit.

“This is where De Soto shines,” says Tim Holverson, president of the Economic Development Council. “We want new businesses to succeed. If they have questions or concerns, we know how to connect them with the right resources. The business culture we have created is one of cooperation.”

To deepen those efforts, the Chamber is launching a Chamber Ambassadors program to identify and integrate new businesses into the local economy. The city is particularly interested in attracting high value–added industries, such as pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing, that align with De Soto’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and workforce development.

Nowhere is De Soto’s growth more visible than in its southwest, where two major developments are taking place: Astra Enterprise Park ( formerly the Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant) and Flint Commerce Center. Both are poised to become regional employment anchors and are laying the groundwork for future growth.

Partnering With Panasonic The Panasonic EV Battery Plant is the headline project fueling this transformation. More than just a major employer, Panasonic has brought infrastructure improvements that benefit the entire city. Through a public-private partnership with De Soto, Panasonic covered $248 million of a $250 million infrastructure bill—paying for everything from a new

2025–2026

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CITY

water tower to sewer line extensions and a water treatment facility. The city’s $2 million contribution had already been budgeted.

Mayor Walker sees this as a pivotal moment.

“With the Panasonic EV Battery Plant nearing completion and thousands of acres at the Sunflower site primed for light industrial development, De Soto is stepping onto a larger stage,” he says. “This is more than just economic growth, it’s a chance to shape our future with intention.”

That intention is visible in the Southwest Growth Area (SGA), a roughly 500-acre area stretching north from K-10 to 103rd Street and west from Sunflower Road to Lexington Avenue.

Since October 2024, city leaders (with input from residents) have worked on a comprehensive plan to guide development in the area. Their goal is simple: growth that strengthens, not overwhelms, the community.

“Growth is inevitable, but how we shape it is up to us,” says Walker. “This plan allows us to guide development with intention rather than being driven by external pressures or short-term demands.”

Land use proposals include a mix of public and semi-public facilities, parks and recreation areas, various levels of residential density, and commercial space. The intent is to offer housing options for all stages of life, from single-family homes to townhomes and senior-friendly living arrangements. Retail, restaurant, medical, and other service providers will round out the mix.

A separate traffic study is also underway, focusing on the area from 91st to 103rd Street and from Edgerton to Sunflower Road.

It will help determine how to maintain smooth traffic flow while improving walkability and pedestrian access.

Top: The new Riverfest Disc Golf Course is in the works; above, Alex and Lindsay Waller of Force of Nature Brewing, a new business using existing space.

20

Meeting the Challenges Growth brings challenges, and De Soto has not ignored them.

Rather, the city has stayed ahead of concerns by proactively surveying residents. Two recent city-wide community surveys helped identify priorities, most notably the community’s desire for expanded parks and recreation opportunities. In response, De Soto is pursuing a new disc golf course and studying possible improvements at Riverfest Park.

The city is also investigating the feasibility of a new community center, which would be possible through increased revenue tied to development like the Panasonic plant. These projects always consider public input and are designed to serve the long-term interests of residents.

“We’ve hosted town halls, conducted surveys, and enhanced our communications efforts to ensure we have two-way communication with residents,” says city administrator Mike Brungardt. “From the beginning, we’ve been committed to making sure residents are at the center of every decision we make.”

While the Panasonic project brings new jobs, it’s not expected to create an overwhelming demand for housing, as many workers

2025–2026

2025–2026

Left: Mayor Rick Walker stands in front of city hall; right, gracing the lawn in front of city hall, the sculpture Seeds of Change was created by artist Chelsy Walker, who wrote in her submission, “The community needs a sculpture that celebrates both endings and beginnings and the comradery we feel as we participate in change together.”

21

Dr. Matt Fehr, DVM/VMD + Owner Dr. Lane Forge, DVM 8761 Lexington Ave, Suite 11 De Soto, KS 66018 913.585.1115

desotovetclinic@gmail.com www.desotovetclinic.com

At De Soto Veterinary Clinic, we strive to provide high quality medicine, compassionate care, and super friendly service. We are a small animal veterinary clinic that cares for your pets as if they are our own. Dr. Matt Fehr also provides chiropractic and acupuncture services for all animals.

CITY

will commute from across the metro area. Still, housing affordability remains a county-wide issue, and De Soto is taking steps to address it.

One key policy change to help combat this issue would be to reduce the minimum lot size for single-family homes from 7,500 to 6,000 square feet. This move is intended to lower land costs and make homeownership more accessible. It’s a small adjustment that could make a big difference for working families.

“The cost of land is a major factor in housing affordability,” Walker says. “Reducing lot sizes is one way we can help lower those costs and create more opportunities.”

Small-Town Feel City leaders are quick to say that growth is not only about numbers but also about how life feels in De Soto. Residents clearly value the town’s tight-knit character. In the 2024 community survey, the small-town feel was cited as one of the top three reasons people choose to live there.

“Growth at this scale doesn’t happen by accident,” Walker says. “And keeping our smalltown identity intact won’t happen by accident either. As new businesses and residents arrive, we’re staying focused on thoughtful planning— adding housing, parks, and infrastructure in ways that preserve the pace and feel of life in De Soto.”

That small-town identity is being celebrated in new ways, too. The city is launching a series of Friday Night Markets in downtown De Soto, consisting of live music, food vendors, handmade goods, and an open consumption area for residents to enjoy a drink from the local brewery. It’s a nod to the city’s past and future by gathering people together while attracting new interest to the area.

So what will De Soto look like in five or 10 years?

The vision isn’t about skyscrapers or population milestones; it’s about preserving the best of De Soto while adapting to the needs of the community.

That future will be shaped in part by how engaged residents remain in the process. Open meetings, planning sessions, and city council forums are all open invitations for the community to stay involved.

“De Soto is changing, yes, but we are guiding that change together,” Brungardt says. “This is our opportunity to build a community that’s still rooted in its values but prepared for what’s next.”

When many towns are trying to catch up to rapid growth, De Soto is planning for it. With strong leadership, engaged residents, and new partnerships, the city is growing with purpose.

22

Top: The Kansas Business Recruitment team visits De Soto to explore Flint Commerce Center and Astra Enterprise Park opportunities; above, the Rhythm & Roots Market draws a crowd

DE SOTO CITY HALL 32905 W. 84TH ST. DE SOTO, KS 66018 913-583-1182 WWW.DESOTOKS.US

2025–2026

CITY

2025–2026

De Soto

chamber of commerce board of directors

Chamber Chair

EDC Chair

DUSTIN BAKER

LAURA KLIMA FEHR DE SOTO VETERINARY CLINIC/LAURA’S ATTIC

ALCOVE DEVELOPMENT

Past Chair

Treasurer

HEATHER CALLAWAY

EDWARD JONES

GREAT AMERICAN BANK

WEICHERT, REALTORS WELCH & CO. AND OASIS NUTRITION

ANDREW JACOBER

MIKE BRUNGARDT CITY OF DE SOTO

24

Chair Elect

SHERELLE WITT

BEN BRODERICK

WESTON ELDER ADVENTHEALTH MID-AMERICA

HUHTAMAKI INC.

ALVIE CATER USD 232

2025–2026

KIM INGALLS

ELISA WALDMAN

ROBERTA ROWLAND

SHELLY DORIS MILBURN

SHEAR IMAGES HAIR, SKIN & NAILS STUDIO

WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIP

2025–2026

JOHNSON COUNTY COMUNITY COLLEGE

BRIAN GAY

MERCK ANIMAL HEALTH

SD HOME TEAM @ WEICHERT, REALTORS WELCH & CO.

25

De Soto

chamber of commerce staff

Chief Executive Officer

LAURA BLATTER

President

TIM HOLVERSON

Administrative Assistant

KAREN RODGERS

Bookkeeping Consultant

SHELBY LATHROM

2025–2026

26

GETTING YOU AND YOUR PRECIOUS CARGO WHERE YOU NEED TO GO.

YOUR

DE SOTO

REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST

HAUSEN HOME TEAM

SEE YOUR HOME VALUE NOW!

Jennifer Bodenhausen

Cell: (913) 538-0084 Broker: (816) 232-4111 jbodenhausen@stroudcorp.com

SELLWITHSTROUD.COM

3400 S. Iowa, Lawrence, KS (785) 843-7700

crownautomotive.com

WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER

Grow Your Business. Build Your Network. Strengthen Your Community. Join the De Soto Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Council (EDC) and unlock exclusive opportunities for networking, marketing, and community leadership. Connect with local businesses and leaders, boost your visibility through promotions and sponsorships, and access members-only events and resources.

Make your mark. Get involved. Help shape De Soto’s future. Join today!

The Chamber is committed to providing an environment where businesses can thrive.

Our focus is to promote and support our members while fostering economic growth and development in and around De Soto.

BECOME A CHAMBER AMBASSADOR Build Connections & Grow Your Business • Welcome & Engage • Be a Chamber Champion • Expand Your Network • Grow Your Leadership Skills • Make an Impact

Want to know more? Contact Laura Blatter lblatter@desotoks.org

desotoks.org • 913-583-1585

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De Soto

economic development council advisory committee

30

2025–2026

EDC Chair

DUSTIN BAKER

ALCOVE DEVELOPMENT

Chamber Chair

SHERELLE WITT,

OASIS NUTRITION / DESIGNER MOVES @ WEICHERT, REALTORS WELCH & CO.

Chamber Chair Elect

LAURA KLIMA FEHR

DE SOTO VETERINARY CLINIC/ LAURA’S ATTIC

LIZ ALBERS

JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

DAVE ANDERSON THE ANDERSON GROUP

MIKE BRUNGARDT CITY OF DE SOTO

DAVID CLARK

GREAT AMERICAN BANK

STEPHANIE CONNER

TURNER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

ROB CUNNINGHAM KBS CONSTRUCTORS INC.

ROB DANIELS CITY OF DE SOTO

BRIAN GAY

MERCK ANIMAL HEALTH

DR. CORY GIBSON USD 232

PAUL HANSEN ENGINEERED AIR

ANNIE HIATT

NABHOLZ CONSTRUCTION

MOIRA HOLLAND A.L. HUBER

KEVIN HONOMICHL CITY OF DE SOTO

CORY IMHOFF HDR INC.

MIKE JENSEN OLATHE HEALTH

SCOTT JONES EVERGY

AMY PETERSON HUHTAMAKI INC.

KATIE STUCKY GBA

CHAD D. TENPENNY GEIGER READY MIX

MAYOR RICK WALKER CITY OF DE SOTO

2025–2026

31

Economic Profile DE SOTO, KS

2024 Building Stats Source: City of De Soto

new single family residences permits

new commercial permits

60

6,539 population of De Soto (2024 data)

38.1

median age

USD 232/ De Soto School District

157

nonresidential construction

$59,857,540.39 Households housing occupied

96.52%

housing vacant

1.6%

Median Household Income

$105,500

Students

7,358 13 Schools

Graduation Rate

97.5% Best School Districts in Kansas by Niche

A+

No. 2 in state of Kansas

32

Major Employers De Soto USD 232 Panasonic Energy Huhtamaki Americas, Inc. Engineered Air Merck Animal Health Rehrig Pacific First Student Hillside Village of De Soto Custom Foods

Education 1098 EV Battery mfg.

650+ YTD Paper products mfg.

425 Large HVAC mfg.

303 Pharmaceutical, large animal 220 Plastic containers & pallets mfg. 110 Charter bus 94 Skilled nursing & assisted living 85 Frozen bread mfg.

75

2025–2026

Makers of Premium Pizza, Bread and Cookie Doughs

LUCKY 13 ROCK AND COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION, LLC We supply top-quality, sustainable river gravel, sand, and stone from the Cave Creek tributary to support projects of any size, from landscaping to large-scale construction.

Our Founder’s Pride brand is available at select Kansas City area retailers.

Stephanie Castaneda (Owner/President)

Custom Foods, Inc. | 9101 Commerce Dr. De Soto, KS 88018 | info@customfoodsinc.com | 913.585.1900

(913) 721- 2918 lucky13riverrock@gmail.com 161 Cedar Ridge Road Phillipsburg, Missouri 65722

Our Service’s : Sand Gravel Raw River Rock Raw Pea Size River Rock

Here to help you reach your business

goals.

emprisebank.com 785.838.2001

Member FDIC

community snapshots

34

2025–2026

community snapshots

2025–2026

35

community snapshots

36

2025–2026

community snapshots

Our Sincere Thanks to You! We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our Chamber members, Economic Development investors, and the entire Business Community for your continued support of the De Soto Chamber of Commerce.

Your partnership strengthens our mission and fuels growth throughout our community.

Together, we’re building a stronger De Soto.

2025–2026

37

Let’s thrive together.

LMH Health supports vibrant communities through leading-edge medicine and dedicated physicians and staff. Together, we’re building a strong, healthy future.

See what’s possible at lmh.org/thrive.

A partner for lifelong health

Ready for your next big move? Our experienced financial team can help you find tailored solutions and affordable options for your unique needs today and your vision for tomorrow. Most importantly, we’ll be there, right behind you, every step of the way.

Visit us to meet your personal support team today: 34102 W Commerce Drive, De Soto | 913-583-3004 | GreatSouthernBank.com

Personal & Business Banking

membership listing Advertising/Marketing/Media

Southwind Marketing Group LLC Damien Denmark 903-490-8515 damien@southwindmarketing.com southwindmarketing.com

Strategy LLC

Matt Woods 16500 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 108 Olathe, KS 66062 913-440-0672; 913-353-6909 matt.wooods@strategynewmedia.com strategynewmedia.com

Agritourism & Farming

Bowlin Farms

Steve Bowlin 31915 W. 115th St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-208-1186 steve@bowlinfarms.net bowlinfarms.net

Architecture, Engineering & Survey

BHC

Kevin Honomichl 7101 College Blvd., Suite 400 Overland Park, KS 66210 913-663-1900 kevin.honomichl@ibhc.com ibhc.com

Burns & McDonnell Cliff Cate 9400 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64701 816-823-7128 ckate@burnsmcd.com

Blanchard AE Group

Laura Blanchard 1425 Wakarusa Drive, Suite B Lawrence, KS 66049 785-993-0300 lblanchard@bae.group bae.group

2025–2026

Cook, Flat & Strobel, Engineers, P.A.

Aaron Gaspers 1421 E. 104th St., Suite 100 Kansas City, MO 64131 816-333-4477 agaspers@cfse.com cfse.com

DLR Group

Rachel Treanor 7290 West 133rd St. Overland Park, KS 66213 913-897-7811 rtreanor@dlrgroup.com dlrgroup.com

GBA

Jim Jarrett 9801 Renner Blvd.

Lenexa, KS 66219 913-577-8840 jjarrett@gbateam.com gbateam.com

HDR Inc.

Cory Imhoff, PE, SVP 10450 Holmes Road, Suite 600 Kansas City, MO 64131 816-360-2702 cory.imhoff@hdrinc.com hdrinc.com

Indigo Design Inc.

Doug Pickert 8593 Timber Trails Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1370 doug@indigoparks.com

Kaw Valley Engineering Inc. Michael Osbourn, principal 14700 W. 114th Terrace Lenexa, KS 66215 913-894-5150 mikeo@kveng.com kveng.com

Milburn Civil Engineering

Olsson Inc.

Tony Stanton 7301 W. 133rd St., Suite 200 Overland Park, KS 66213 913-381-1170 olsson.com

Professional Engineering Consultants Alex Darby, P.E. 1100 Main St., Suite 1800 Kansas City, MO 64105 800-754-2691 alex.darby@pec1.com pec1.com

Terracon

Ramona Rieger 15620 W. 113th St. Lenexa, KS 66219 913-485-1154 ramona.rieger@terracon.com terracon.com

Arts/Culture/Entertainment

De Soto Arts Council

Leanna Donald, president 32905 W. 84th St., P.O. Box 50 De Soto, KS 66018 913-349-2250 desotoartsks@gmail.com desotoartsks.org

De Soto Days Festival Inc. Rhonda Patterson P.O. Box 188 De Soto, KS 66018 816-550-1065 desotodaysks@gmail.com desotodays.com

Mill Creek Rifle Club

Dr. Michael Borkon 7215 Gardner Road De Soto, KS 66018 president@millcreekrc.org millcrekrc.org

Justin Milburn 33135 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 585 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-0367 justin@milburnce.com milburnce.com

39

membership listing Automotive

Crown Toyota Volkswagen of Lawrence Lacie Ludolph 3430 Iowa St. Lawrence, KS 66046 785-843-7700 lludolph@crownautomotive.com crownautomotive.com

De Soto Auto Sales

Chris Watkins 33500 Lexington Ave. De Soto, KS 66018 913-220-4189 sales@desotoautosalesks.com desotoautosalesks.com

Branded Items/Apparel

Branding Stop

Carrie Peterson 8330 Nieman Road Overland Park, KS 66214 913-232-8970 carrie@brandingstop.com brandingstop.com

Business/Professional/ Workforce Services

323.TV

Jared Clarke 32525 Lexington Ave. De Soto, KS 66018 913-422-0910 bclarke@323.tv; jclarke@323.tv www.323.tv

Everon

Aaron Harris 15443 W. 100th Terrace Lenexa, KS 66219 913-363-2628 aaronharris@everonsolutions.com everonsolutions.com

Workforce Partnership

Roberta Rowland 8535 Bluejacket St. Lenexa, KS 66214 913-577-5910 robertar@workforcepartnership.com workforcepartnership.com

40

Computer & Technology Support & Services

BITS Midwest Inc.

Steven Massaro 705 High St. Baldwin City KS, 66006 785-424-6747 steve@bitsmw.com

Construction

A.L. Huber Construction Moira Holland 10770 El Monte St. Overland Park, KS 66211 913-568-3289 mholland@alhuber.com alhuber.com

AU Construction LLC

Eric Wagner 3200 Haskell Lane, Suite 140 Lawrence, KS 66046 785-423-0649 eric@au-construction.com au-construction.com

Emery Sapp & Sons Inc. Eric Mann 140 Walnut St., Suite 101 Kansas City, MO 64106 816-221-3500 eric.mann@emerysapp.com emerysapp.com

Freedom Concrete LLC

Mark Rawie 32565 Lexington Ave., Suite C P.O. Box 731 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1150 mark@freedomconcrete1.com

Geiger Ready Mix Co. Inc.

Todd Geiger 4318 Speaker Road Kansas City, KS 66106 913-281-0111 toddgeiger@geigerreadymix.com geigerreadymix.com

JE Dunn Construction Kelly Brucher 1001 Locust St. Kansas City, MO 64106 913-593-6096 kelly.brucher@jedunn.com jedunn.com

KBS Constructors Inc. Rob Cunningham 14955 W. 117th Olathe, KS 66062 913-422-5300 robcunningham@kbsci.com kbsci.com

Kissick Construction Pete Browne 8131 Indiana Ave. Kansas City, MO 64132 816-560-7424 pbrowne@kissickco.com kissickco.com

Lucky 13 Rock and Commercial Construction LLC

Stephanie Castaneda 11240 Hubbard Road Kansas City, KS 66109 913-721-2918 lucky13rockcommercialconst@gmail.com lucky13rock.com

Lumber One

Ben Henk 9800 Sunflower Road De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-9889 bhenk@lumberonekc.com lumberonekc.com

MG Construction LLC Mark and Natalie Gulley P.O. Box 533 De Soto, KS 66018 913-449-5424 mgulleyhome@yahoo.com

Midwest Concrete Materials Inc. Caitlin Deason 3645 E. 23rd St. Lawrence, KS 66046 785-843-1688 caitlin.deason@midwestconcrete materials.com midwestconcretematerials.com

2025–2026

membership listing Nabholz Construction Annie Hiatt 17300 W. 116th St. Lenexa, KS 66219 913-428-6414 annie.hiatt@nabholz.com nabholz.com

Neighbors Construction Company Inc.

Nancy Neighbors 1708 E. 123rd St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-422-5555 nancyn@neighborsconstruction.com neighborsconstruction.com

Real Deal Drainage Solutions Neal Parker 8940 Waverly De Soto, KS 66018 913-208-9423 nparker@realdealds.com realdealds.com

Russell Group Inc.

Susan McNamara 10901 Lowell Ave., Suite 100 Overland Park, KS 66210 913-747-7400 smcnamara@russellco.com russellco.com

Turner Construction Co.

Stephanie Connor 1220 Washington St., Suite 100 Kansas City, MO 64105 816-283-0555 sconnor@tcco.com turnerconstruction.com

Consulting

Columbia Capital Management LLC

Jeff White 6700 Antioch Road, Suite 250 Merriam, KS 66204 913-248-8500 jwhite@columbiacapital.com columbiacapital.com

2025–2026

Insperity

Haley Klemencic 10601 Mission Road, Suite 320 Leawood, KS 66206 913-269-5076 haley.klemencic@insperity.com insperity.com

JobMatch Assessment

Kirk Young 913-322-1538 x 2 kyoung@jobmatchassessment.com jobmatchassessment.com

Menlo Inc.

Brad Sandt 1901 McGee St., Suite 200 Kansas City, MO 64108 816-897-6170 brad.sandt@menloinc.com menloinc.com

The Anderson Group Dave Anderson 9152 Shorewood Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-223-9878 david@calltag.me

The Entrepreneur’s Source Sara Roy 30945 Explorer’s Trail De Soto, KS 66018 913-359-9939 sroy@esourcecoach.com sroy.esourcecoach.com

Yates and Yates Co.

Denise Yates 1475 Walnut St., Suite 18 Kansas City, MO 64106 816-564-8600 denise@yatesandyatesco.com yatesandyatesco.com

Education

First Student Inc.

Mike Vannatta 8020 Monticello Terrace Lenexa, KS 66227 913-422-8501 michael.vannatta@firstgroup.com firststudentinc.com

Happy Campers De Soto Montessori School

Christina Rose 8960 Commerce Drive, Suite 5A De Soto, KS 66018 913-250-8869 christina@happycampersmontessori.com happycampersdesoto.com

Johnson County Community College

Liz Albers 12345 College Blvd.

Overland Park, KS 66210 913-469-8500 ealbers4@jccc.edu jccc.edu

OHEC Olathe Health Education Center Jason Brunkan 21201 W. 152nd St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-469-3800 jbrunkan@jccc.edu

USD 232

Dr. Cory Gibson 35200 W. 91st St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-667-6200 cgibson@usd232.org; information@usd232.org usd232.org

Event Services & Venues

Agenda USA

D’Wayne Leatherland 6310 Lamar Ave., Suite 230 Mission, KS 66202 913-268-4466 dleatherland@agendausa.com agendausa.com

JT’s Grill & Sports Bar

Scott Hill 33255 Lexington Ave., Suite C De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1116 jtsgrilldesoto@gmail.com jtsgrill.com/menu

41

membership listing Laura’s Attic

Laura Klima Fehr 8761 Lexington Ave., Suite 22 De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1115 laura.kfehr@gmail.com

VFW Post 6654 - Linden-Tripkos David Cuba 33725 W. 84th De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1100 vfw6654@gmail.com vfwpost6654.org

Wild Rye KC Ranch Event Venue Kayla Greene 31465 W. 127th St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-707-0005 hello@wildryekc.com wildryekc.com

De Soto Masonic Lodge 40

Family, Community & Civic Organizations

Charles Neeland 33075 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 417 De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1650 cneeland@yahoo.com 40-ks.ourlodgepage.com

Bridge Church

Seth Budimlija 33490 Lexington Ave., Suite D De Soto, KS 66018 816-302-5218 seth@bridgechurchkc.com bridgechurchkc.com

De Soto Baptist Church

De Soto Rotary Club

Paster Matt Burns 8655 Copeland Way, P.O. Box 578 913-585-1026 desotobaptistkschurch@gmail.com desotobaptistchurch.org

Rob Daniels P.O. Box 365 De Soto, KS 66018 913-221-4498 desotoksrotary@gmail.com portal.clubrunner.ca/4383

De Soto United Methodist Church Rev. Young Je Kim or Anne Simpson 8760 Kill Creek Road, P.O. Box 400 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1359 umcoffice@desotoumc.org desotoumc.org

2025–2026

42

Build your career right here at Rehrig Pacific Company To learn more about Rehrig Pacific Company and our career opportunities contact us at rehrigpacific.com • 913-585-1175

Serving the De Soto community since 2008

Stay close to home and allow us to be your hometown PT!

We offer one-on-one physical therapy in private treatment rooms specializing in all sports related injuries, post-surgical procedures, and pain related issues. Dry needling and shock wave treatments are also available at both locations.

TWO LOCATIONS 13420 Briar Dr. Suite C Leawood, KS 66209 913.484.7632

33255 Lexington Ave. Suite A De Soto, KS 66018 913.585.9844

membership listing DYM

Chad Chambers / Donna Wilting 33180 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 545 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3411 info@desotoyouthministries.org

Faith Builders International Inc. Pastors Philip & Michelle Steele 8390 Peoria St., P.O. Box 452 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1670 main@buildfaith.net buildfaith.net

Friends of Johnson County Library Shanta Dickerson 8279 Melrose Drive Lenexa, KS 66214 913-492-4777 sdickerson@friendsofjcl.org friendsofjcl.org

Keepers of the Sandlot Bill Severns 913-544-5878 sandlotkeeper@gmail.com keepersofthesandlot.com

Light of the World Lutheran Church

Pastor John Kastner 33391 Lexington Ave., Suite B De Soto, KS 66018 804-325-5923 john.kastner@bslcks.org lightoftheworldlcms.org

Reach Church

Ryan McDaniel 33085 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 682 De Soto, KS 66018 913-296-2201 rmcdaniel@reachdesoto.com reachdesoto.com

USD 232 Education Foundation Kevin Jeffries 35200 W. 91st St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-667-6200 kjeffries@usd232.org usd232.org/departments/ education-foundation 2025–2026

VFW Post 6654 - Linden-Tripkos David Cuba 33725 W. 84th De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1100 vfw6654@gmail.com vfwpost6654.org

Finance - Accounting & Tax Service

Jennifer R. Chick, CPA, LLC Jennifer Chick 9085 Waverly Road De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3800 jennifer@jrctax.com

Finance - Banking

Capitol Federal Savings Bank

Kelly Watson Muther 700 S. Kansas Ave. Topeka, KS 66603 785-330-1213 kwatsonmuther@capfed.com capfed.com

Central National Bank Brett Wicker 3140 Nieder Road Lawrence, KS 66046 913-856-3205 brettw@centralnational.com centralnational.com

Country Club Bank

Tim Rhodes 21911 W. 66th St. Shawnee, KS 66226 816-751-4232 trhodes@countryclubbank.com countryclubbank.com

Country Club Bank Olathe College

Bethaney Finn 23600 College Blvd.

Olathe, KS 66061 913-971-1407 bfinn@countryclubbank.com ccbfinancial.com/countryclubbank/ locations/86/olathe/ks

Emprise Bank

Cindy Yulich 1121 Wakarusa Drive Lawrence, KS 66049 785-838-2001 yulich@emprisebank.com emprisebank.com

Great American Bank

Brenda O’Keefe 33050 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 429 De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1131 bokeefe@greatambank.com greatambank.com

Great Southern Bank

Lauren Darby 34102 W. Commerce Drive, Suite A P.O. Box S De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3004 ldarby@greatsouthernbank.com greatsouthernbank.com

Intrust Bank

Brandon Young 901 Vermont St. Lawrence, KS 66044 785-830-2604 brandon.young@intrustbank.com intrustbank.com

Security Bank of Kansas City Lauren Nemechek 9900 Woodland Road Lenexa, KS 66220 913-281-3165 lnemechek@securitybankkc.com securitybankkc.com

TriCentury Bank

Travis Hicks 33485 Lexington Ave., P.O. Box 329 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3222 thicks@tricentury.com tricentury.bank

43

membership listing Finance - Financial Planning

Edward Jones - Andrew Jacober Andrew Jacober 8960 Commerce Drive, Suite 4A De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-5021 andy.jacober@edwardjones.com edwardjones.com/andy-jacober

Government

City of De Soto

Mike Brungardt 32905 W. 84th St., P.O. Box C De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1182 mbrungardt@desotoks.us desotoks.us

Johnson County Board of County Commissioners April Mobley 111 S. Cherry St., Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061 913-715-0416 april.mobley@jocogov.org jocogov.org/department/ board-county-commissioners

Johnson County Manager’s Office Penny Postoak Ferguson 111 S. Cherry St., Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061 913-715-0430 jcmo-adminstaff@jocogov.org jocogov.org/department/ county-managers-office

Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office Raquel Walters 27747 W. 159th St. New Century, KS 66031 913-715-5504 raquel.walters@jocogov.org jocogov.org/johnson-county-sheriff

Shirley Allenbrand Commissioner District 6

Shirley Allenbrand 111 S. Cherry St., Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061 913-715-0436 shirley@shirleyallenbrand.com shirleyallenbrand.com

44

Healthcare & Wellness

AdventHealth

Weston Elder 9100 W. 74th St. Overland Park, KS 66204 913-676-2000 weston.elder@adventhealth.com adventhealth.com

AdventHealth Primary Care

Sarah Goin Kliewer 8960 Commerce Drive, Suite 4E De Soto, KS 66018 913-789-3961 sarah.goinkliewer@adventhealth.com adventhealth.com/practice/ adventhealth-medical-group/adventhealthmedical-group-primary-care-de-soto

Body Co. Med Spa & Wellness Robyn Crane 32565 Lexington Ave., Suite C De Soto, KS 66018 913-948-1656 info@bodywellnesskc.com bodywellnesskc.com

C.H. Klestinske, DDS

Charles Klestinske 32980 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 418 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3233 chkdds1@gmail.com

Cedar Creek Pharmacy Lori Murdock 34040 W. Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1117 lorimurdock@att.net cedarcreekpharmacy.org

De Soto Chiropractic

Don Reith, PA 33255 Lexington Ave., Suite B De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3700 desotokschiro@gmail.com desotokschiro.com

Free State Dental

Brad Adams, DDS; Nealy Newkirk, DDS; Kailah Willms, DDS 33391 Lexington Ave., Suite C De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-9797 desoto@freestatedental.com freestatedental.com

Hillside Village of De Soto Courtney Taylor 33600 W. 85th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1260 coutaylor@ensignservices.net hillsidevillagedesoto.com

Marquette Physical Therapy, PA Jay Marquette 33255 Lexington Ave., Suite A De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-9844 jay@marquettept.com marquettept.com

OHEC Olathe Health Education Center Jason Brunkan 21201 W. 152nd St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-469-3800 jbrunkan@jccc.edu

Olathe Health

Lacey Kane 20333 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-791-4200 lkane@kumc.edu olathehealth.org

Ridgeview Eye Care

Robert Hileman 18208 W. 119th St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-261-8327 robert@ridgevieweyecare.com ridgevieweyecare.com

Skylight Pilates

Kali Gray 33900 Lexington Ave. De Soto, KS 66018 913-547-9277 hello@skylight-pilates.com skylight-pilates.com

2025–2026

membership listing Woodland Chiropractic and Wellness LLC

Dr. McKenzie Bayless & Dr. Sean Beal 10072 Woodland Road Lenexa, KS 66220 913-839-4150 info@woodlandchirokc.com woodlandchirokc.com

Insurance

American Family Insurance Julie Coover 32565 Lexington Ave., Suite B De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1219 jcoover@amfam.com amfam.com/agents/kansas/ de-soto/julie-coover

American Family Insurance

Bryan Rapp 22107 W. 83rd St. Shawnee, KS 66227 913-441-7800 brapp@amfam.com amfam.com/agents/kansas/shawnee/ bryan-rapp

Employee Benefit Partners Anthony Leardi 5750 W. 95th St., Suite 120 Overland Park, KS 66207 913-948-7502 anthony@ebpop.com ebpmidwest.com

Kansas Preferred Insurance Group

Keith Turnbaugh 34102 W. Commerce Drive, Suite B De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1981 keith@kpigroup.net kpigroup.net

Lawn & Garden

ForeverLawn Kansas City Austin Meyers 33160 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-5340 austin@kc.foreverlawn.com foreverlawnkc.com 2025–2026

Lawrence Landscape

Frank Male 600 Lincoln Lawrence, KS 66044 785-843-4370 frank@lawrencelandscape.com

Mowmentum Lawn & Tree LLC Corey Davis 36390 W. 95th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-710-4234 mowmentumkc@gmail.com

Sod Shop Inc.

Wade Wilbur 1453 N. 1900 Road Lawrence, KS 66044 913-915-3872 wade@sodshops.com sodshops.com

Ugomow LLC

Randy Steil 14213 W. 94th St. Lenexa, KS 66215 913-238-2243 gomowjoco@gmail.com gomowjoco.com

Legal

Gilmore & Bell, P.C.

Kevin Wempe 2405 Grand Blvd., Suite 1100 Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-1000 kwempe@gilmorebell.com gilmorebell.com

Matthew S. Gough, Attorney at Law

Matt Gough 1211 Massachusetts St. Lawrence, KS 66044 785-843-6600 mgough@barberemerson.com

Payne and Jones, Chartered Roger Templin 11000 King St. Overland Park, KS 66225 913-469-4100 rtemplin@paynejones.com

Polsinelli

Robert Johnson 900 W. 48th Place, Suite 900 Kansas City, MO 64112 816-572-4502 rjohnson@polsinelli.com polsinelli.com

Lodging

Super 8 Motel of De Soto

Tony Patel 34085 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3880 super8desoto1@gmail.com wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/ de-soto-kansas/super-8-de-soto/overview

Manufacturing & Logistics

Custom Foods Inc.

Ethan Hart 9101 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1900 ehart@desotoinvestmentsllc.com customfoodsinc.com

Engineered Air

Paul Hansen 32050 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 650 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3181 paul.hansen@engineeredair.com engineeredair.com

Huhtamaki Inc.

Heather Callaway 9201 Packaging Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-8717 heather.callaway@huhtamaki.com huhtamaki.com

Panasonic Energy

Julie Sailors panasonic.com/panasonic-energy

Rehrig Pacific Co.

Chris Gab 8875 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1175 cgab@rehrig.com rehrigpacific.com

45

membership listing Passenger Transportation Services

Agenda USA

D’Wayne Leatherland 6310 Lamar Ave., Suite 230 Mission, KS 66202 913-268-4466 dleatherland@agendausa.com agendausa.com

Personal Care & Services

Bruce Funeral Home

Shirley Bruce Brown-Van Arsdale P.O. Box 192 Gardner, KS 66030 913-585-1346 bfhomeinc1@aol.com brucefuneralhome.com

Designs by LKF Permanent Jewelry Laura Klima Fehr 8761 Lexington Ave., Suite 22 De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1115 laura.kfehr@gmail.com

Shear Images Hair, Skin & Nails Studio

Kim Ingalls 34102 Commerce Drive, Suite C De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-2660 shearimages66018@gmail.com shearimages.glossgenius.com

T&T Nails LLC

Tom Quach 33951 W. 91st Terrace, Suite E De Soto, KS 66018 913-343-8673 tomquach69@gmail.com

Pet & Veterinary

De Soto Feed and Garden

Jennifer Heinen 8155 Hadley Road De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1112 desotofeedandgarden@hotmail.com desotofeed.com

46

De Soto Veterinary Clinic

Grata LLC

Merck Animal Health

Generations Real Estate & Auction

Dr. Matt Fehr, DVM/VDM 8761 Lexington Ave., Suite 11 De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1115 desotovetclinic@gmail.com desotovetclinic.com Brian Gay 35500 W. 91st St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-422-6068 brian.gay@merck.com merck-animal-health-usa.com

Printing & Publishing

Discovering De Soto

Rose M. Burgweger 9160 Cedar Creek Road De Soto KS 66018 913-583-1857 rmbprints@icloud.com issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

Real Estate - Builder, Developer, Subdivision

Alcove Development

Dustin Baker P.O. Box 3789 Lawrence, KS 66046 913-954-0801 dbaker@alcoveproperty.com alcovedevelopment.com

Astra Enterprise Park

John DeHardt 2600 Grand Blvd., Apt. 700 Kansas City, MO 64108 816-842-2690 jdehardt@kessingerhunter.com astraenterprisepark.com

Flint Development

Hunter Harris 3515 W. 75th St., Suite 103 Prairie Village, KS 66208 816-309-3409 flint@flintdevelopment.com flintdevelopment.com

Travis Schram 6300 W. 143rd St., Suite 200 Overland Park, KS 66223 913-732-4778 travis@gratadev.com gratadev.com Lenny Mullin 22105 W. 83rd St. Lenexa, KS 66227 913-915-0468 lenny@genkc.com genkc.com

Sunflower Solar Project LLC / Savion LLC Brianna Baca 816-652-9520 bbaca@savionenergy.com savionenergy.com

Real Estate Multifamily & Rental

B&H Properties

Loya Beery 30497 W. 88th Terrace De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1378 llbeery@hotmail.com

Carriage Houses of Johnson County

Joseph Nuti 29230 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-638-3100 carriagehouses@gmail.com garagecondoskc.com

Clearview Village Inc.

David Rhodes 36000 W. 103rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1451 davidr@wheatlandinvestmentsgrp.com wheatlandinvestmentsgroup.com/ projects-1/clearview-village

2025–2026

membership listing HIKE Properties, c/o Lawrence Property Mgmt Travis Hicks 4205 W. 6th St., Suite B Lawrence, KS 66049 785-331-7821 lthicks@me.com hikepropertiesllc.com

KTEN Place

Sabrina Fleming 9100 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-2111 info@ktenplace.com ktenplace.com

Residences at Lexington

Naomi Bandy 34040 W. 90th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-733-4440 naomi@yatesandyatesco.com resatlex.com

Real Estate Property Management

Cornerstone Property Management

GW Weld 707 Main St. Eudora, KS 66025 785-542-0101 gw@homewithcornerstone.com homewithcornerstone.com

Real Estate - Realtor

Designer Moves @ Weichert, Realtors Welch & Co. Sherelle Witt 7035 College Blvd.

Overland Park, KS 66211 913-961-6498 info@designermoveskc.com liveindesotoks.com

Heck

Brian Pine 3200 Haskell Lane, Suite 130 Lawrence, KS 66046 785-917-5700 brian@heck.realestate heck.realestate 2025–2026

KW Legacy Partners Inc. Kris Johnson 7070 Renner Road, Suite 100 Shawnee, KS 66217 913-825-3116 krisjohnson@kw.com krisjohnson.kw.com

REAL Broker LLC

Jennifer Bodenhausen 601 N. Mur-Len, Suite 2 Olathe, KS 66062 913-538-0084 jbodenhausen@stroudcorp.com sellwithstroud.com

SD Home Team @ Weichert, Realtors Welch & Co.

Shelly Doris Milburn 33135 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 585 De Soto, KS 66018 913-802-5126 shelly@sdinkc.com shelly-milburn.weichertkchomes.com

Recreation

GreatLife Golf & Fitness

Denny Hougham 7909 Wyandotte St. / 32905 W. 84th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-999-1236 desoto@greatlifegolf.com greatlife-burningtree.com

Johnson County LibraryDe Soto Branch

Christian Madrigal 33145 W. 83rd St., P.O. Box 396 De Soto, KS 66018 913-826-4600 madrigalc@jocolibrary.org jocolibrary.org/locations/desoto

Oak Country Golf Course Tom Anderson 8800 Scott Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3503 ocountryclub@kc.rr.com oakcountrygolfcourse.com

Restaurant, Food & Beverages

Burnt End BBQ Bar and Grill 34071 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-884-1999 burntenddesoto@eatpbj.com burntendbbq.com

Cause Coffee

Tara Stucky 33180 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-709-8235 causecoffeekc@gmail.com causecoffeekc.com

Chick-fil-A Lenexa

Josh Munyan 15919 W. 87th St. Lenexa, KS 66219 913-905-9870 josh.munyan@cfalenexashawnee.com chick-fil-a.com/locations/ks/lenexa

Domino’s Pizza

Jake Minor 33951 W. 91st St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-5250 jake@gmpizza.net dominos.com

Force of Nature Brewing

Lindsay Waller 33015 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-5022 lindsay@forceofnaturebrewing.com forceofnaturebrewing.com

Jimmy John’s

Jonathan Clark 33951 W. 91st Terrace, Suite F De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-9671 tlc4486@gmail.com

JT’s Grill & Sports Bar

Scott Hill 33255 Lexington Ave., Suite C De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1116 jtsgrilldesoto@gmail.com jtsgrill.com/menu

47

membership listing McDonald’s of De Soto Michael Dobski 34225 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-1166 mtdobski@gmail.com mcdonalds.com

Mr. Goodcents Franchise Systems Inc.

Melinda Kinders 8997 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS66018 913-585-9090 mkinders@goodcentssubs.com goodcentssubs.com

Oasis Nutrition

Sherelle and Mitch Witt 33490 Lexington Ave., Suite A De Soto, KS 66018 913-289-3536 sherellegaut12@gmail.com

Stone Pillar Vineyard and Winery George Hoff 29080 W. 95th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-839-2185 stonepillarvineyard@gmail.com stonepillarvineyard.com

Two Guys & A Grill

Troy Tedder 109 N. Chester St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-393-4745 twoguysandagrill@aol.com twoguysandagrill.com

Retail & Shopping

De Soto Feed and Garden

Jennifer Heinen 8155 Hadley Road De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1112 desotofeedandgarden@hotmail.com desotofeed.com

GG’s Alpaca Farm LLC

Dr. Glynis L. Castaneda, DO, MS & Giancarlo L. Castaneda 11240 Hubbard Road Kansas City, KS 66109 913-721-2918 info@ggsfleece.com ggsfleece.com

2025–2026

48

(877) 492-2555

membership listing Harps

Connie Philippeit 34040 Commerce Drive De Soto, KS 66018 913-585-9876 str249@harpsfood.com harpsfood.com

Mary Kay Cosmetics - Jill Davis Jill Davis 36390 W. 95th St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-710-4228 jilldavishome@yahoo.com marykay.com/jilldavis

Steve’s Meat Market Pam Prudden 32685 Lexington Ave. De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-1390 pamprudden@aol.com stevesmeat.com

Up In Arms Kansas

Ryq Farnow 33321 Lexington Ave. De Soto, KS 66018 913-608-3288 ryq@upinarmskansas.com upinarmskansas.com

Sales & Service Companies

AB Creative

Tanner McNamara 33160 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3332 tanner@abcreative.net abcreative.net

Abel Boards LLC

Curtis Arnold 8795 Corliss Road De Soto, KS 66018 913-522-7121 curtis@abelboards.com abelboards.com

2025–2026

Cool Heat KC

Jan Rinker 501 E. Front St. Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-444-2871 jan@coolheatkc.com coolheatkc.com

ForeverLawn Kansas City Austin Meyers 33160 W. 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 913-586-5340 austin@kc.foreverlawn.com foreverlawnkc.com

Harding Heating & Air Conditioning

Jess Harding 19831 W. 97th St. Lenexa, KS 66220 913-207-2772 hardinghvac@hotmail.com

Honey Creek Disposal Service, LLC Randy Weldon 26195 Linwood Road Lawrence, KS 66044 913-369-8999 randy@honeycreekdisposal.com honeycreekdisposal.com

Kaw Sand Co. Inc. Dave Penny P.O. Box 9 Lawrence, KS 66044 913-583-3335

Martin Marietta Materials

Adam Jenkins P.O. Box 715 De Soto, KS 66018 913-583-3311 adam.jenkins@martinmarietta.com martinmarietta.com

Utilities & Telecommunications

ATMOS Energy Corp.

Aaron Bishop 25090 W. 110th Terrace Olathe, KS 66061 913-254-6321 aaron.bishop@atmosenergy.com atmosenergy.com

Clearwave Fiber

153 W. Warren St. Gardner, KS 66030 877-293-2973 rozanne.witherow@clearwavefiber.com clearwavefiber.com

Everfast Fiber Networks

Billy Wilson 9669 Lackman Road Lenexa, KS 66219 913-600-7464 william.wilson@everfastfiber.com everfastfiber.com

Evergy

Scott Jones 16215 W. 108th St. Lenexa, KS 66219 816-652-1042 scott.r.jones@evergy.com evergy.com

KFN

Evan Bourn 10875 Benson Drive, Suite 130 Overland Park, KS 66210 913-754-6510 ebourn@ksfiber.net ksfiber.net

Water District 7, JohnsonCounty, Kansas Allan Soetaert 534 W. Main St., P.O. Box 7 Gardner, KS 66030 913-856-7375 asoetaert@water7.com water7.com

49

PRESENTED BY THE DE SOTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & DE SOTO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Selah Secret Supper

Hush-hush menu for special parties

Destination: Downtown

Cancer Center Leader

Chamber Celebrates 50 Years

Facelift for business district

Gardner native top doc at national medical facility

Issue includes member directory and more

Chamber Sharpens Focus EDC Drives Smart Growth

spring/summer 2025

USD 232: Connecting Students To Real World Opportunity Huhtamaki: A Partner In Progress

LEADERS FOR

Huhtamaki, USD 232

The Eudora Chamber Directory • Calendar of Events • Essential Numbers and Contact Info • City Map

2025

GET AN A+ IN COLLABORATION

2024–2025 Chamber Member Directory

2025

ISSUE 6

VOLUME 6

2024–2025

An Anchor For All

The new nonprofit Anchored Collective serves as a resource hub for the Eudora community

Jami bond (913) 392-5551

Join The Parade

T H E C PA P I C N I C C E L E B R AT E S I T S 1 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY I N 2 0 2 5 , WI T H T H E C H I L D R E N ’ S PA R A D E A S PA R T O F T H E C E L E B R AT I O N .

Also in this issue Cardinal U Program Prepares Students for College City Developers Plan Two New Housing Developments Discover Early Gas & Oil Wells in Eudora Talk Business & Eudora with Jamie Knabe and Karen Price

Read more about locations, events, resources, traditions, and celebrations in Baldwin City, Eudora, Lawrence, and Lecompton.

CONTACT US TODAY

and our creative team will provide you the experience and resources to produce your job quickly and effectively.

(785) 832-7264 | SUNFLOWERPUB.COM

index # 323.TV 40

A A.L. Huber Construction 40 AB Creative 49 Abel Boards LLC 49 AdventHealth 44 AdventHealth Primary Care 44 Agenda USA 41, 46 Alcove Development 46 American Family Insurance, Coover 45 American Family Insurance, Rapp 45 Astra Enterprise Park 46 ATMOS Energy Corp.

49 AU Construction LLC 40

B B&H Properties 46 BHC 39 BITS Midwest Inc 40 Blanchard AE Group 39 Body Co. Med Spa & Wellness 44 Bowlin Farms 39 Branding Stop 40 Bridge Church 42 Bruce Funeral Home 46 Burns & McDonnell 39 Burnt End BBQ Bar and Grill 47

C C.H. Klestinske, DDS 44 Capitol Federal Savings Bank 43 Carriage Houses of Johnson County 46 Cause Coffee 47 Cedar Creek Pharmacy 44 Central National Bank 43 Chick-fil-A Lenexa 47 City of De Soto 44 Clearview Village Inc. 46 Clearwave Fiber 49 Columbia Capital Management LLC 41 Cook, Flat & Strobel, Engineers, P.A. 39 Cool Heat KC 49 Cornerstone Property Management 47 Country Club Bank 43 Country Club Bank - Olathe College 43

2025–2026

Crown Toyota Volkswagen of Lawrence Custom Foods Inc.

40 45

D De Soto Arts Council 39 De Soto Auto Sales 40 De Soto Baptist Church 42 De Soto Chiropractic 44 De Soto Days Festival Inc. 39 De Soto Feed and Garden 46, 48 De Soto Masonic Lodge 40 42 De Soto Rotary Club 42 De Soto United Methodist Church 42 De Soto Veterinary Clinic 46 Designer Moves @ Weichert, Realtors Welch & Co. 47 Designs by LKF Permanent Jewelry 46 Discovering De Soto 46 DLR Group 39 Domino’s Pizza 47 DYM 43

E Edward Jones - Andrew Jacober 44 Emery Sapp & Sons Inc. 40 Employee Benefit Partners 45 Emprise Bank 43 Engineered Air 45 Everfast Fiber Networks 49 Evergy 49 Everon 40

F Faith Builders International Inc. 43 First Student Inc. 41 Flint Development 46 Force of Nature Brewing 47 ForeverLawn Kansas City 45, 49 Free State Dental 44 Freedom Concrete LLC 40 Friends of Johnson County Library 43

G Geiger Ready Mix Co. Inc. Generations Real Estate & Auction George Butler Associates Inc. (GBA) GG’s Alpaca Farm LLC

40 46 39 48

51

index Gilmore & Bell, P.C. 45 Grata LLC 46 Great American Bank 43 Great Southern Bank 43 GreatLife Golf & Fitness 47

H Happy Campers De Soto Montessori School 41 Harding Heating & Air Conditioning 49 Harps 49 HDR Inc. 39 Heck 47 HIKE Properties, c/o Lawrence Property Mgmt 47 Hillside Village of De Soto 44 Honey Creek Disposal LLC 49 Huhtamaki, Inc. 45

I Indigo Design Inc. 39 Insperity 41 Intrust Bank 43

J JE Dunn Construction 40 Jennifer R. Chick, CPA, LLC 43 Jimmy John’s 47 JobMatch Assessment 41 Johnson County Board of County Commissioners 44 Johnson County Community College 41 Johnson County Library-De Soto Branch 47 Johnson County Manager’s Office 44 Johnson County Sheriff’s Office 44 JT’s Grill & Sports Bar 41, 47

K Kansas Preferred Insurance Group 45 Kaw Sand Co. Inc. 49 Kaw Valley Engineering Inc. 39 KBS Constructors Inc. 40 Keepers of the Sandlot 43 KFN 49 Kissick Construction 40 KTEN Place 47 KW Legacy Partners Inc. 47

52

L Laura’s Attic 42 Lawrence Landscape 45 Light of the World Lutheran Church 43 Lucky 13 Rock and Commercial Construction LLC 40 Lumber One 40

M Marquette Physical Therapy, PA 44 Martin Marietta Materials 49 Mary Kay Cosmetics - Jill Davis 49 Matthew S. Gough, Attorney at Law 45 McDonald’s of De Soto 48 Menlo Inc. 41 Merck Animal Health 46 MG Construction LLC 40 Midwest Concrete Materials Inc. 40 Milburn Civil Engineering 39 Mill Creek Rifle Club 39 Mowmentum Lawn & Tree LLC 45 Mr. Goodcents Franchise Systems LLC 48

N Nabholz Construction 41 Neighbors Construction Company Inc. 41

O Oak Country Golf Course 47 Oasis Nutrition 48 OHEC Olathe Health Education Center 41, 44 Olathe Health 44 Olsson Inc. 39

P Panasonic Energy 45 Payne and Jones, Chartered 45 Polsinelli 45 Professional Engineering Consultants 39

R Reach Church 43 REAL Broker LLC 47 Real Deal Drainage Solutions 41

2025–2026

index Rehrig Pacific Co. Residences at Lexington Ridgeview Eye Care Russell Group Inc.

45 47 44 41

S

The Entrepreneur’s Source 41 TriCentury Bank 43 Turner Construction Co. 41 Two Guys & A Grill 48

U

SD Home Team @ Weichert, Realtors Welch & Co. 47 Security Bank of Kansas City 43 Shear Images Hair, Skin & Nails Studio 46 Shirley Allenbrand Commissioner District 6 44 Skylight Pilates 44 Sod Shop Inc. 45 Southwind Marketing Group LLC 39 Steve’s Meat Market 49 Stone Pillar Vineyard and Winery 48 Strategy LLC 39 Sunflower Solar Project LLC / Savion LLC 46 Super 8 Motel of De Soto 45

T T&T Nails LLC 46 Terracon 39 The Anderson Group 41

Ugomow LLC 45 Up In Arms Kansas 49 USD 232 41 USD 232 Education Foundation 43

V VFW Post 6654 - Linden-Tripkos

42, 43

W Water District 7, Johnson County, Kansas 49 Wild Rye KC Ranch Event Venue 42 Woodland Chiropractic and Wellness LLC 45 Workforce Partnership 40

Y Yates and Yates Co.

41

a word from our memebers “As we celebrate five years in business, we’re so grateful for the Chamber’s support since day one. From sharing our updates to connecting us with fellow business owners, their support & efforts have been a game-changer for us.”

– Dr. Matt Fehr, De Soto Veterinary Clinic

“As the sole owner and instructor, being part of the De Soto Chamber has helped me feel supported while also planning for the future of my business.

The connections I’ve made through the Chamber have led to valuable business development resources, new clients, and meaningful relationships within the local community.”

– Kali Gray, Skylight Pilates

“As a member of the De Soto Economic Development Council, I see firsthand how our work supports local businesses by focusing on workforce development, improving transportation, and creating the right conditions for growth.

Together with the Chamber and City, we’re building a community where businesses can succeed and residents can enjoy a thriving, connected economy.”

– Paul Hansen, Engineered Air

2025–2026

“Our ribbon cutting with the Chamber was incredible. It made our grand opening feel official, and the exposure helped get our name out in the community fast.”

– Chris Pope, Domino’s Pizza

“Being part of the De Soto Chamber has helped us give back to the community.

Whether it’s sponsoring an event or volunteering, we’re excited to see the growth of the new events and programs.”

– Julie Coover, American Family Insurance “The monthly luncheons are more than just a meal — they’re an opportunity to learn, build relationships, and stay connected to what’s happening in our community. Every event I attend brings new value.”

– Kirk Young, JobMatch Assessment

53

Now hiring for all positions.

Starting pay is $20.00 per hour for all manufacturing positions.

We are one of North America’s largest manufacturers of: Heating | Air Conditioning | Ventilation Refrigeration | Energy Recovery | Heat Transfer Products

32020 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS 66018-0650 ryan.carson@engineeredair.com (phone) 913.583.3181 | (fax) 913.583.1406

Assisted Living • Short-term Rehabilitation • Long-term Care

We provide you the support you need to help restore your health and wellbeing.

Assisted Living apartments offer a home-like floor plan including a private bath, walk-in closets, and kitchenette.

The Common areas include a library, activity room, beauty salon, dining room, and a living room with a cozy fireplace.

Our large outdoor living space includes a grill, comfortable furniture, and a beautiful custom-made gazebo.

33600 W. 85th St. De Soto, KS 66018 • 913-333-2030 • contact-HillsideVillage@ensignservices.net

residential | rural | com m er ical | recycling

Responsible waste management with

HOMETOWN SERVICE (913) 369-8999 | www.honeycreekdisposal.com

Proud to support our De Soto community Protecting food, people and planet means more at our company. We strive each day to support the community where we work.

Want to join our team?

Visit us.huhtamaki.com/careers

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We tailor coverage to your unique needs and offer discounts that could save you money.

Julie Coover, Agent De Soto, KS Agent Julie Coover, (913) 583-1219 De Soto, KS jcoover@amfam.com (913) 583-1219 juliecoover.com jcoover@amfam.com

Bryan Rapp, Agent Shawnee, KS Agent Bryan Rapp, (913) 441-7800 Shawnee, KS brapp@amfam.com (913) 441-7800 bryanrappagency.com brapp@amfam.com

juliecoover.com

bryanrappagency.com

*Customers who bundle home, auto and life policies may save up to 25% on their home and auto policies together (as of December 2023). Discounts may vary by state, property, policy form and company underwriting the auto and/or home policy. Discounts may not apply to all coverages on an auto or home policy. Discounts do not apply to life insurance policies.

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2023 21714 – Rev. 4/24 – 24660060 *Customers who bundle home, auto and life policies may save up to 25% on their home and auto policies together (as of December 2023). Discounts may vary by state, property, policy form and company underwriting the auto and/or home policy. Discounts may not apply to all coverages on an auto or home policy. Discounts do not apply to life insurance policies.