MEET THE 2025
NID BOARD CANDIDATES

Maria Beltran
Maria Beltran is a dedicated community leader with over 33 years of volunteer experience in Lindsay Heights. She firmly believes that "I Love My Community and Everyone Matters," and is committed to fostering positive change for all residents. As the seed of Walnut Way, Maria has dedicated herself to connecting community members with essential resources. She currently serves as a Bilingual Community Health Worker Liaison for Community Water Services and a Bilingual North Avenue Community Ambassador with St. Ann’s, ensuring vital health information reaches everyone. Her work with Lideres Por La Salud at Sixteenth Street Community Health Centers further demonstrates her commitment to health and wellness initiatives throughout the city. On the Family Advisory Board at MSM, Maria focuses on promoting brain development for parents and children from infancy to 8 years old. She has also served as President of the UCC Head Start Board, showcasing her effective leadership in early childhood education. As Chairperson of the NID12 Housing Committee, she works to improve housing access and security, drawing on her training with Stephen Adams for NID#12 Board. Maria brings extensive experience, a strong commitment to community well-being, and a collaborative spirit to the board, with a focus on creating positive change for the greater good of Lindsay Heights.

Robert Brown
Robert Brown is dedicated to serving the Lindsay Heights community and is eager to continue his impactful work on the board of the Johnson Park Neighborhood Association. With a strong commitment to advocating for residents, Robert aims to ensure that their concerns are not only heard but actively addressed. As an experienced educator, Robert understands the importance of fostering a supportive and engaged community. His background in board governance and business administration equips him with the skills necessary to make informed decisions and drive initiatives forward. Robert's active involvement in community clean-up activities and various local events highlights his passion for enhancing the neighborhood and strengthening community ties. With a vision for a more vibrant and responsive Johnson Park, Robert Brown is prepared to bring his experience and dedication to the board, ensuring that every resident's voice is valued and represented.

Marie Gordon
Marie Gordon is dedicated to enhancing the lives and environment of the Lindsay Heights community. A long-standing resident, she has been an active member of the board for three years, most recently serving as Treasurer. In her tenure, she was the first Chairwoman of NID12, where she played a pivotal role in securing a grant that benefited the neighborhood—an achievement stemming from her heartfelt storytelling and connection to the community. As a business owner of a neighborhood gas station and a community leader with BID 28, Marie brings valuable experience and a deep understanding of local needs to the board. She is running to continue her commitment to positive change, aiming to leverage her skills and insights to foster growth and development in Lindsay Heights. With her passion for community improvement and hands-on experience, Marie seeks to create an inclusive environment where residents can thrive.

Anita Winston
Anita Winston is a committed homeowner and resident of Lindsay Heights, passionate about preserving its rich history and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. She aims to support seniors and facilitate home repairs to help her neighbors thrive. With experience as a former employee of BLOC (Black Leaders Organizing for Communities), Anita developed skills in facilitating small groups, canvassing for candidates, and conducting research for public office. Since the board's inception in 2023, she has played an active role in developing policies, bylaws, and partnership agreements, ensuring that all community voices are represented. Anita Winston is dedicated to bringing her experience and vision to the board, working to create a vibrant, inclusive community while maintaining the unique character of Lindsay Heights.

James Green
James Green has been a dedicated resident and homeowner in Lindsay Heights since 1984. With nearly 40 years in public service, he is deeply concerned about resident displacement and the lack of housing resources for critical repairs, especially for low-income and elderly homeowners. Over the past three years, James has actively engaged in resident-led initiatives in Lindsay Heights, serving as Chair of the LH NID #12 Housing Committee in 2023 and as the current Board Chair after being elected in 2024. His extensive experience on various committees has given him the expertise to provide essential housing and employment resources to low-income residents in the 53306, 53205, and 53204 areas. As James runs for re-election in 2025, he is committed to advocating for equitable housing solutions and ensuring all residents in Lindsay Heights have access to the resources they need. With his proven leadership and dedication, James Green aims to continue bringing positive change to our community.

Shamikka Smith
Shamikka Smith is a dedicated advocate for the Lindsay Heights community, focused on helping our neighborhood embrace its true identity. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education and trauma-informed care, she is passionate about uplifting local voices and building resilience among residents. In addition to her roles on the Housing Committee, Finance Committee, and Health and Public Safety Committee, Shamikka has led community initiatives such as the Growing Youth Program, Healing Garden Program, and the Life After Trauma event, showcasing her commitment to holistic support. Shamikka's expertise in peer support, nonprofit collaboration, and leadership training equips her to contribute meaningfully to the board's mission of neighborhood improvement. She believes in fostering sustainable partnerships to ensure resources reach those in need and that every resident feels valued. As a board candidate, Shamikka envisions a united, empowered community where individuals thrive together. Let's work towards a brighter future for Lindsay Heights and surrounding neighborhoods.
NID DOCUMENTS

1
NID 12 Bylaws
Here you will find Neighborhood Improvement District 12's Bylaws Document! This comprehensive guide outlines essential regulations and guidelines designed to enhance the beauty, safety, and functionality of our community.
2
Operating Plan
Here you will find the Neighborhood Improvement District 12's Operating Plan! This strategic document lays out our vision for enhancing community living through actionable initiatives and collaborative efforts.
3
Handbook
Here you will find the Neighborhood Improvement District 12's Handbook! This user-friendly resource serves as a comprehensive guide for residents looking to participate in enhancing our community.