Working in Martin City since: 2017
MCCID Board member since: 2025
Under Danny Lake’s leadership, Mac N Seitz has grown to well over 400 members who flock to the massive training facility for competitive advantages ranging from state-of-the-art equipment and tons of workout space, to elite coaching and deeply committed player support. When you consider every member’s family and friends also, it’s no surprise that Mac N Seitz easily draws more than 200 people to Martin City on an average day.
With over seven years of experience at a thriving neighborhood business, Lake brings valuable insight and leadership to the Martin City Community Improvement District (MCCID). As our newest Board member, he’s ready to help shape the District’s future and build on its rich history.
We caught up with Danny for his initial thoughts on joining the Board.
Mac N Seitz serves families all over Greater Kansas City. Photos courtesy Mac N Seitz
What do you love about Martin City?
“I love the community-minded culture. When I walk into businesses, everyone seems to know each other. I recognize so many faces, and they recognize me. There’s a sense of mutual support. Even though it’s part of Kansas City, Missouri, Martin City has a small-town feel. People here are friendly, eager to learn from one another, and always willing to help. That’s what I appreciate the most.”
What makes Martin City different?
“I’ve experienced other communities that seemed much more siloed, with everyone keeping to themselves. But in Martin City, there’s a real sense of connection. You get a strong feeling of community.
For example, people on my staff at Mac N Seitz routinely visit local favorites like Jess and Jim’s Steakhouse, Martin City Brewing Company, Margarita’s, and Jack Stack Barbecue. And it’s reciprocal—people from local businesses support us, whether their kids play for Mac N Seitz or they just know us through mutual connections.
I always reach out locally for services like electrical or plumbing. As a small business owner, I want to support others in our neighborhood, and they feel the same way. That shared commitment makes our business community special.”
Why join the Board?
“I’ve been talking to the District Manager about this for a couple of years, and I’m excited to now be on the MCCID Board. The opportunity to give back motivates me because that’s what I enjoy doing. I look forward to contributing ideas, helping with planning, and spreading the word about Martin City and how the CID supports local businesses. My experience on a nonprofit board previously is a plus, and I’m eager to do what I can for the District.”
How do you feel about our District’s potential?
“Some initiatives already underway, like adding new signage at key entry points and increasing community events, are great ideas. The St. Patrick’s Parade is a perfect example of how we can bring people together.
I’m also encouraged by development ideas I’m hearing through the grapevine. I think mixed use construction projects could do very well here because we’re a diverse community with places to live, work, and play. New developments that build on our neighborhood’s character, especially involving retail and restaurants, seem to have the right idea about how to make Martin City better and stronger.
There’s the niche aspect of our neighborhood too. Martin City Brewing Company is an example of a strong anchor tenant. You might visit their other locations, but you know the brand started here and you’ve probably been here, and like it here. Having more anchor tenants could bring more visitors to the community and enhance its appeal.
I think Martin City is now part of the conversation when people talk about Kansas City neighborhoods like Waldo or Brookside. As long as new developments stay true to Martin City’s brand—rather than imitating others—we can achieve something truly unique.”
Welcome aboard, Danny! Thanks for joining the MCCID board and going above and beyond to make a difference in the community we share.