About Us

The Downtown Business Association (DBA) has been the voice of Downtown Bakersfield since 1950, working to create a vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous city center. As a member-driven nonprofit organization, we bring together business owners, property owners, community leaders, and residents to champion the growth and success of downtown.

Our mission is simple: to keep Downtown Bakersfield clean, safe, and thriving. We advocate for local businesses, organize signature events that bring people together, and lead initiatives that highlight the culture, history, and potential of our downtown. From ribbon cuttings and mixers to large-scale community events like Taste of Downtown and Cheers for Charity, we provide opportunities for businesses to connect, grow, and shine.

With a commitment to collaboration, we work closely with the City of Bakersfield, community partners, and our members to drive investment, attract visitors, and ensure that Downtown remains the heart of our community.

At the DBA, we believe that when our downtown thrives, our entire city thrives.

Meet the Board

The strength of the Downtown Business Association comes from the dedication of our Board of Directors. These community leaders volunteer their time, expertise, and passion to guide the vision of Downtown Bakersfield. They play a vital role in shaping policy, supporting local businesses, and driving initiatives that keep our downtown clean, safe, and thriving.

Our board members are more than decision-makers — they are champions for progress, advocates for small business, and partners in building a downtown that everyone can be proud of.

Gabe Uolla

Chair,

In Your Wildest Dreams

Roberta Nilsson

Vice Chair, Banc of California

Vanessa Shaw

Executive Director

Cathy Butler

Secretary

Cindy Kujala

Treasurer,

CK Bookkeeping Services and Payroll

Lisa Carbajal

Cen Cal Financial

Donald Fowler

California Water Company

Christian Shannon

KCSOS

Michael Sutherland

Past President, Mill Creek Christian Church

Tania Brandon

Bakersfield City Employee Federal Credit Union

Shannon Lackey

Lackey Consulting

David Brust

Roosters Cantina

Rick Shaw

Skyes The Limit

Bryan Oberg

Iron Lily Venue

Kathleen McNiel

Golden Empire Transit

Phone: 661-325-5892

Address: 1675 Chester Ave Suite 110, Bakersfield, CA 93301