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Yukon names Damien Denmark as economic development director; Main Street grant and centennial events update
Summary
City manager Jeff Deckard introduced Damien Denmark as Yukon’s new economic development director and said a Main Street director and related grant are moving forward; the EDA welcomed Denmark and noted centennial planning for June 6, 2026.
City manager Jeff Deckard announced at the Jan. 13 Yukon Economic Development Authority meeting that the city has hired Damien Denmark as its economic development director. Deckard said Denmark comes from Olathe, Kansas, and praised his work reviving downtown areas and managing redevelopment plans.
Deckard introduced Denmark to the board and invited questions; Denmark summarized his background in downtown redevelopment, small-business support and infrastructure upgrades. "I was given the opportunity to apply for this role of the city of Yukon...and I'm really excited to be here," Denmark said, noting prior work overseeing a downtown redevelopment budget and retail recruitment.
Deckard also updated the board on the Community Enhancement Department and the Main Street Association. He said a Main Street director position and an associated grant application have been approved and the city expects to hire an executive director shortly. Deckard encouraged Main Street businesses and historic organizations to apply for grant support through the Main Street program and described plans linked to Yukon’s centennial celebration on June 6, 2026.
EDA members welcomed Denmark and offered the board’s assistance. One member told Deckard, "Anything that this board can do to help you, feel free to ask us," and urged Denmark to engage the EDA on development priorities.
The Main Street work will continue through the city’s grant process and coordination with the Main Street board; staff said the veterans museum and other downtown businesses have been informed of grant opportunities. Deckard said staff and Main Street volunteers will continue planning centennial-themed events, including a proposed car-focused celebration tied to Route 66 later in the year.
Next steps: Denmark will begin work as Yukon’s economic development director and coordinate with the EDA and Main Street leadership on downtown projects and grant applications; the city will continue recruitment and outreach for the Main Street executive director role.
