Meet the Team

  • Karen Knox

    Board President

    Karen Knox is a lifelong Plant City native with a deep appreciation for her hometown's charm and sense of community. With over 38 years of experience in customer service, Karen currently serves as a Customer Experience Manager at Primo Waters of North America. Before that, she worked at Progressive for 28 years. Karen finds joy in helping others and building meaningful relationships, emphasizing trust and loyalty. She is honored to serve on the Plant City Main Street Board and is dedicated to giving back to the community that has shaped her.

  • Jenny Rothman

    Immediate Past Board President

    A Plant City resident since childhood, Jenny Rothman is a Realtor with LPT Realty and owner of Grits & Berries. She has served in leadership roles for local organizations, including the Junior Women’s Club and the Sirens of Golden Sabre. Passionate about her community, Jenny focuses on her career and fitness journey while continuing to volunteer and support Plant City’s growth. She is proud to serve on the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Lizzette Sarria

    Board Vice President

    As a seasoned accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner, Lizzette Sarria has been helping businesses grow and succeed since founding her company in 2001. A strong advocate for economic growth and historic preservation, she envisions downtown Plant City as a thriving hub for residents and visitors alike. Lizzette brings her financial expertise and love for the community to her role on the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Kim Taylor

    Board Treasurer

    Kim Taylor is a long-time Plant City resident and successful business owner, running her forklift company for over 21 years. A proud mother of four and grandmother of six, Kim is deeply dedicated to her family and her community. She has a passion for helping others, especially the elderly and those in need, and enjoys participating in recreational activities like four-wheeling and fishing. Kim is honored to serve on the Plant City Main Street Board, where she works to support local growth and connection.

  • Alex Rae Rhoades

    Board Secretary

    Born and raised in Plant City, Alex Rae Rhoades is passionate about preserving the city’s charm and culture. A graduate of the University of Florida and the University of South Florida, she has dedicated her career to education, communication, and marketing. Alex Rae actively supports local nonprofits, including the Tampa Gator Club and the Florida Strawberry Festival. She is excited to contribute to the vibrant downtown culture through her role on the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Kathleen Kilton

    Board Member

    Kathleen Kilton is a dedicated Plant City community member with extensive volunteer experience across organizations like the YMCA, the United Food Bank, and Friends at the Park. She is passionate about supporting Plant City’s growth while preserving its small-town charm. Kathleen’s commitment to creating meaningful events and fostering community connection makes her a valued member of the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Kaleb McDonald

    Board Member

    Kaleb McDonald is a Plant City native and proud business owner of Mac’s Excavating Inc. He cherishes his hometown, where he lives with his wife, Jordan, and their growing family. Kaleb enjoys boating and spending time with his loved ones. Committed to his community, he is excited to give back through his role on the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Devony Wyatt

    Board Member

  • Robert Tuppeny

    Board Member

    Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Robert Tuppeny has called Plant City home for over 21 years. He co-owns The Crafted Butterfly in downtown Plant City with his wife, Diane, and manages visual merchandising for MacDill Air Force Base and other military locations in Florida. With 30 years of experience in visual merchandising, Robert is passionate about community, family, and creativity. He is proud to serve on the Plant City Main Street Board.

  • Jake Buckner

    Board Member

    A Tampa Bay native, Jake Buckner is the Nationwide Product Manager for GT Grandstands and a proud graduate of Leadership Plant City. He has a background in entrepreneurship, having successfully built and sold his own marine detailing business. Jake is passionate about volunteering, fishing, and the outdoors. He is excited to contribute to the growth and vitality of Plant City through his role on the Main Street Board.