Board of Directors Voting - North Park Main Street

2024 Board of Directors Election

Below is the list of candidates running for a position on the North Park Main Street Board of Directors. Business Improvement District (BID) and Special Enhancement District (SED) members are eligible to cast a vote in support of candidates. Eligible Voters can vote for multiple candidates in one ballot. Ballots are accepted online and in person (at NPMS office during business hours).

Who Can Vote

Holders of a valid and fully paid San Diego Business Tax Certificate on the last day of February for North Park Business Improvement District….OR
Listed on the North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) Assessment Roll for the current Fiscal Year (July 1st, 2023 to June 30th, 2024)

When Can You Vote

Voting will open on March 14th and continue until 3 pm on March 28th

Where Can You Vote

Online (Scroll to the bottom of this page)
In Person – During NPMS office hours (between 10 am & 4 pm)
NPMS Election Mixer – Pinky’s Cafe on 3/28 starting at 2pm

Click the ‘+’ to see their candidate profiles.

David Martin - San Diego Magazine - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I care deeply about my community and have the ability to promote the great things it does.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business/property owner community more effectively?
Work with keeping businesses in business and keeping the community safe and clean.
What is your vision for North Park?
Less empty storefronts, increased community activations in events through out town
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
Marketing, events planning, media relations
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
Exciting dining scene
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
rents for businesses and residents are way too high, remove the bike lanes and put them on less congested streets

Guthrie Cook - Cetera Investors - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I want to do more for my community. I really enjoy working together with other people in ways in which real impact is seen and measured.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectively?
I believe that having a sense of community amongst the businesses in our neighborhood ultimately leads to stronger businesses across the board. When a business is struggling for one reason or another, they have others in their corner. To take this even further, NPMS has a great relationship with city hall which I believe helps on so many levels. Whether it’s simply getting their ear or gathering financial support, it all helps.
What is your vision for North Park?
I’d love to see as many of the buildings that are currently shuddered filled with businesses which would increase the overall vibrancy of our neighborhood. I want people in other neighborhoods to come down and visit North Park and really have their socks knocked off. I’d like us to figure out how to get more tourism traffic from both La Jolla and the waterfront. By bringing in more tourists, the whole pie will get bigger for our business owners and the neighborhood is bound to improve.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I’m great at networking, communication and organization. I think those skills combined give me a great ability to coordinate effectively with others, communicate expectations, and ultimately execute complex ideas. Furthermore, I’m very empathetic which helps me to understand the perspectives of others. Often times, I’m able to anticipate pushback and determine a solution to answer that push back. That being said, I think I could help out a lot in the event planning department.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I’ve been in North Park for three years only. That being said, I really appreciate that proactive changes are being made in the first place. Something that stands out to me at the moment is that the ribbon cuttings are becoming more and more commonplace. Starting a business is very difficult and can be demoralizing at times. Supporting and promoting small businesses can give the owners a sense that SOMEONE has their back. That can help them grit through tough times that are associated with virtually any start up.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I think just a general better sense of cleanliness. We have a fairly significant homeless situation that surpasses anywhere I have lived throughout the world (except for Hillcrest, haha). I think if we planned more regularly scheduled community cleanups, more and more citizens will see that. When they see that, they may ask questions and get more involved; they may just take note if the effort and decide to find a trash can rather than carelessly dumping additional trash on the street. The more pride we can instill in everyone, the better the aesthetic will become.

Han Tran - Shank & Bone - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I enjoy being an active member of the wonderful north park community, to be involved in events, communications and planning, and to give back to the neighborhood.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
NPMS should be the primary liason between North Parks businesses, residents, and visitors. NPMS also stands to represent North Park to the the rest of our city. It should be a source of information and connection, as well as host and facilitator of community events.
What is your vision for North Park?
I hope to see NP return to its trajectory toward growth and vibrancy that was happening prior to COVID. I hope to see all vacant storefronts alive and operating with diversity of ownership and business types. May we continue to be a thriving collection of creative small businesses run by passionate people from all backgrounds.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I have been a small business owner for over 17 years and come with the experience that entails. I have solid people skills and enjoy collaborating with others to make things happen.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I love that new businesses continue to show up in the neighborhood despite the challenges of opening a business in these times.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I would love to see the empty storefronts become active and thriving businesses. I would like to see fewer unsheltered people, less graffiti, and an Increased sense of safety. I would like more parking options, even though I’m not sure how to fix the parking situation in such a densely packed area.

Jake Nunes - Modern Times Beer + Coffee - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
As a business operator and property owner in North Park, the success of the businesses as a whole in my favorite neighborhood is important to me. I have been working for craft breweries for 20 years in San Diego. In 2024, I serve as the President of the San Diego Brewers Guild and I already have a direct network to all the breweries in North Park. Their success is also important to me. My combination of experience, passion, and established connections make me a great candidate for the Board of Directors for North Park Main Street.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I would like to see a North Park brewery/beer company committee or network established to support one of the greatest San Diego industries in the city’s best Beer Neighborhood.
What is your vision for North Park?
To be a nationally-known, must-visit destination for food, beverages, shopping, and entertainment. Also, to be San Diego’s best neighborhood to live in!
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I have served as a Board Member and/or Officer in other local industry boards for years. I am very familiar with Robert’s Rules of Order. I have worked in the Food & Beverage industry in San Diego for 30 years, 20 of which for beer companies. Most of my work experience is in a leadership capacity. I am on a first-name basis with many of North Park’s business owners/operators and I know the neighborhood well. There is a lot of crossover with the initiatives of the San Diego Brewers Guild and North Park Main Street giving me additional access to tools and resources that could benefit NPMS.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
The neighborhood feels much cleaner and safer. In my experience, North Park is the most tight-knit community in San Diego for both residents and business operators.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
Filling the vacant store fronts with new businesses.

James Sakrison - Granada House - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
To continue to serve the communty through advocacy for the small business in North Park and promoting local artists and musicians.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
Through driving more traffic to the area with marketing and promortions and continuing the excellent standard of service of maintenance and beautification
What is your vision for North Park?
To be the cultural center of San Diego with great music and public art. To drive more people to the area to expereince the great culture we have here. To grow the music festival and make it more profitable. To bring other events to the area that will raise awareness of the businesses in the area.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I have been on the board for 2 years and have a good understanding of how things operate and can effectively work with the NPMS staff and other board members.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
The North Park Plaza has been a welcome addition to the community and a great home for the Music Fest and other gatherings. The new restuarants and shops that have come in have been great
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
More murals, less homeless people, and a balanced approach of development

Jenna Hanson - Revival Vintage Eyewear - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I absolutely love the North Park community. I believe in its vibrance, uniqueness, and importance to the city of San Diego. There are not many neighborhoods left that have such a collection of one-of-a-kind shops, experiences and unique dining and bar options. It is so vital to a city’s success that neighborhoods like North Park exist. This community makes San Diego stand out amongst other cities in the US. When someone comes to visit San Diego, they want to understand the fabric of the city, and North Park is exactly that. I want to be a part of enhancing NP’s natural vibrance and making it a better and safer place for all who walk the streets. I want people to understand what makes North Park an amazing neighborhood and make it a destination on their itinerary. I believe I have a responsibility to the community in which I reside and own a business to be a part of the decision-making process. It excites me to look into the future with NPMS and see what is on the horizon. I want to be a part of that vision!
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
The BID has enhanced our business from the minute Revival opened its doors. It has brought a sense of safety, community and protection that I was not expecting. For me, NPMS exists to maintain equity and accessibility for all business owners in the area. I say this because the organization is there for any and all businesses whether it be graffiti removal, waste removal, event planning and community gathering. If it did not exist, it would be up to the individual members to create community events and maintain the space. That is costly and time-consuming. Also, each landlord is of varying degrees of helpful in maintaining their properties. The BID acts as a glue to make up for any of these inequalities between landowners and business owners in the community. All businesses and owners should have equal access to maintenance, support, advertising, opportunity and information. Speaking from personal experience, in my own business, I have felt supported, welcomed, and informed since our inception into the community. I want every business owner, new and existing, to feel the same. It is imperative that business owners in the community know the power of NPMS. I would like NPMS to make itself known to every member of the business community. Everyone has a right to be well informed as to what the organization is responsible for and what benefits they have as members of this district.
What is your vision for North Park?
I want to see North Park continue to become one of SD’s best tourist destinations. I feel that our district has so much to offer anyone visiting San Diego from its unique shops, great dining experiences and all round amazing atmosphere. I also want to see more of a collaboration between NPMS and developers. I know that in most cases, there is not much NPMS can do, but at least to hear plans and draft letters in advocacy of our mission and vision for the neighborhood. I also want to see that there is a stronger collaboration between retail businesses. I would like to set up a retail committee that works to hear the unique needs of the retails businesses specifically. I know, for me, that would be a great support in my own business Additionally, I would like to see more pedestrian-friendly areas around the district. In the future, it would be great to see Ray Street as an adorable, walkable pedestrian street with lights and cute shops. I think that would draw so many more people to the street and neighborhood in general. Lastly, I would like to see more diversity and representation in all aspects of the district from business owners to the members of the board. I am only one of 2 women on the current board. I would like to help to try and recruit diverse members of our community.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
It has always been in my nature to bring people together, create community and lead groups of people. In 2017, I created a social club with over 2500 members that hosted hundreds of events throughout its lifetime. I helped create community and relationships for hundreds of women. Additionally, in 2023, I also planned and coordinated the International Women’s Day photo shoot and celebration for all women-led businesses in the district. We had over 45 women participate in a networking event/photo shoot that was sponsored by NPMS and Nomad Donuts. The event that started as a small get-together, turned into something much more unexpected. This was a space where women felt celebrated, important and vital to the community. This was a space where women could be surrounded by their female peers in a showing of solidarity and achievement. Not only was this important to those who came and participated, but also for the women who will eventually see these photos and know that female leaders are not only needed but also imperative to the success of any community, neighborhood, business district or anywhere decisions are being made. It is these types of social and community events that I believe strengthen the neighborhood and make it a desirable place to own a business. I want to continue using my strength as a community builder to help create events and committees for our business owners and members.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I think NPMS has done an amazing job with so many aspects. I love the NPMS app that was rolled out last year to assist in maintenance-related jobs. It is amazing to be able to see data points as to where most events occur and what is actually happening in the neighborhood. I am also so excited that we are getting the shuttle from all parts of the district and city heights. I think it is going to bring so many more people and business into the neighborhood. This is going to be a turning point for the two neighborhoods. I love the events that NPMS hosts; they bring a lot of business and exposure to the neighborhood. I know NPMS is a maintenance district, but the events are so important to the vibrancy and uniqueness of the community. It makes people feel that NPMS is investing in the people of the neighborhood. I look forward to seeing the music fest and the winter wonderland flourish in the next coming years.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
In an ideal world, I would love to see some revitalization of the west side of the district and the corner of University and 30th. Strengthening those areas, strengthens the entire district. I would also love to see more help and support for our homeless residents. We have definitely been affected by the homeless crisis in our own business, so helping these individuals move into temporary and permanent housing would help out tremendously. Having more signage guiding and directing tourists and locals to different, more unknown parts of the district would help tremendously. If there were signage, it would help alleviate the need for so many A-frame signs around the neighborhood.

Joseph Balestrieri - The Office Bar - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I am an operating partner at The Office Bar on 30th Street — for nearly 16 years (the property has been a cocktail bar in North Park since 1948). North Park is a vibrant, dynamic, diverse & thriving neighborhood. I have attended committee meetings, contributed to & volunteered for a wide variety of North Park events since 2008. I have had the pleasure of working with & serving the Board of Directors for North Park Main Street for over 10 years, with 4 years on the Executive Committee, inclusive of a term as Board President. I feel I have an understanding for the North Park’s direction & its place amongst other business communities in San Diego. I want to ensure that Main Street communicates that vision in a clear, consistent & transparent manner. I’ve found serving the Main Street Board & North Park to be an enriching & engaging experience..
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
North Park Main Street is uniquely positioned to build relationships between the civic entities (& their respective elected officials), business owners, property owners & the North Park community-at-large. Main Street’s should maintain efforts to keep the district clean (supplementing the City’s maintenance) & safe (sustaining a dialogue with Mid-City PD & law enforcement). My belief is that Main Street’s main focus is business development; bringing positive attention to the business district. Main Street should communicate all happenings in the district with regard to : informing the local businesses & residents about capital improvement projects, making North Park a spirited competitor with other business districts in San Diego, hosting public events, business forums and highlighting new business openings (ribbon cutting ceremonies).
What is your vision for North Park?
My vision for North Park has expanded since opening my business in 2008; the rate of growth has been pretty fascinating. I have been pleasantly surprised by it & feel fortunate to have contributed to its growth. NP has very much become a destination for San Diegans & tourists alike, I think it is crucial to oversee this growth properly through events, community outreach, public relations, etc. For example, I would like to see further business development, real estate development, historic neighborhood walking tours, more street fairs, music festivals & media coverage for all of the above.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I hold a degree in Public Administration (Urban Studies & City Planning) from SDSU. It has provided the foundation for my understanding for responsible growth, coupled with an understanding of municipal government processes & procedures. Entrepreneurial experience in the hospitality business for more than 20 years has also helped me hone a skill set of communications, decision making, diplomacy & leadership. Past contributions to North Park include : event planning for The Toyland Parade, The Taste of North Park, North Park Festival of the Arts & The World Cup viewing parties in 2014 & 2018. Finally, I often feel that when listening to presentations about policy or legislation; even if I have an understanding for the subject at hand, I do my best to imagine that I was in the shoes of someone who has never attended such a meeting or presentation. I like to ask questions. =)
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
As much as it’s a work in progress, I appreciate how much safer North Park has gotten. As well, I like that there are more active storefronts & increased foot traffic. The overall sense of place is more attractive & accessible to tourism than it’s ever been. North Park is truly ‘on the map’, regionally. Arguably, North Park is experiencing its 2nd renaissance since we arrived in 2008. North Park is still climbing & growing & the neighborhood & district are still blank slate in many ways. We survived Covid!!!
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I would like to see more street lights on the surrounding side streets (particularly Kanas Street). I would like to see more responsible real estate development & a realistic look at making the bike lane feasible on a street other than 30th.

Lance Sadler - Diamond Parking - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street because I want to continue to provide my expertise on parking, transportation, and ways to improve the maintenance plan. I want to continue to work on clean and safe ideals to help the community achieve a safer and cleaner environment.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I think that communication and being in the loop of events for things to come in the neighborhood is great. Also providing resources and outreach to those businesses that may need it. I think the support of each business owner will make a difference and be more effective. Helping each other in the best capacity we can to achieve the common goal of keeping our business district informed and on the same page.
What is your vision for North Park?
My vision for North Park is to do what it takes to help preserve the character and historical charm that makes this community special. My vision of North Park is more small businesses, restaurants, and breweries that contribute to the community vibe that is what it is now.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I have special skills in planning and organizing operations. I have a background in sales, property management, customer service, and project planning. I feel I can contribute to organizing and coordinating certain projects as well as sourcing out resources and or vendors.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
The recent changes I have liked are the art painted/sprayed (not graffiti) on some of the sides of the businesses, it compliments the influence of the art and creative culture that North Park has come to be. Moreover, I admire the recent work done on Shank and Bone!
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
If I had the chance to change North Park, I would help find a way to help the displaced community obtain the resources needed so that the neighborhood of North Park is safer and cleaner without the worry of vandalism or after-hours trespassing. lastly, as we roll into the future of public transportation and minimal parking, I think it is important that we help our community voice their concerns regarding new developments that do not offer parking. Residents of North Park already have a hard time finding parking and often have to park blocks away from their residences.

Landa Willmar - Ignite Growth Solutions - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
As a homeowner within the SED district and a new business owner, I want to contribute to a group that is dedicated to the growth of our slice of San Diego heaven. I adore North Park and want to witness it flourish.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I think that North Park Main Street has done an awesome job in becoming a staple in the community, though I must admit that even I attended many of the events and did not comprehend the mission of the organization until I spoke to Mark. I think that educating the community as NPMS continues to strive towards it’s initiatives could propel growth even faster.
What is your vision for North Park?
I think North Park would be a great food and local retail destination for San Diegans and tourists alike. When I tell people that I live in North Park, they are pretty excited and can list a handful of wonderful restaurants or businesses. However, when I invite them to the neighborhood, the mood changes and it’s apparent that the idea of coming to North Park and finding parking, etc is not enticing which is a shame.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
My professional background is in architecture and real estate development, as well as operations within hyper-growth start-ups. I am an effective jill of all trades “do-er” and am an organized and action-oriented team member.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I can only speak to my experience living here for the last 1-2 years, but I really appreciate the announcement and celebration of new business openings as well as the larger community events like taste of north park.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
The roads and cleanliness- which I think is predominantly fueled by a few regular and irregular vagabonds and unhoused folks that have taken refuge in business storefronts.

Lialie Ibrahim - Falafel Heights - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
My interest in serving on the Board stems from a desire to learn and contribute to our community and the customers I serve through Falafel Heights. I have lived in this part of San Diego for 14 years and would love to learn more about how I can continue to make it a desirable place to live and play.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
Since I have a lot to learn if I became a new board member, I would start by listening. Listening to the business owners, the board members who have served before me and the community. I interact a lot with customers at Falafel Heights and it is a great way to get a pulse for the neighborhood. I would start there to serve the community.
What is your vision for North Park?
As a new business owner to the community, I would love to continue to see and increase in visitors and foot traffic. The more money that is infused in our community the more our businesses thrive. As an owner of a business myself, I can contribute back to the neighborhood, employ more folks and shape the neighborhood to continue to be a hot spot in San Diego with my authentic cuisine. I would love for us to continue the great North Park events we have at the mini park, the music festival and Taste of North Park. I would love to continue to add more to offer neighbors and folks from the outlying communities.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
As a former educator, I have not only been the chair of various board groups but have also been a director and liaison for groups like parents and teachers. I am a team player who is always focused on discussions that focus on amicable solutions for everyone.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
Did I mention North Park and it being a hot spot? :-). North Park has become a highly sought after neighborhood to live in. It features some amazing additions to our restaurants, boutiques and bars. It not only has grown to offer an expansive night life but a lot of places to stroll, sip and snack throughout the day.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
It’s hard to answer this one because it is such a great place to live and operate a business in. I would consult the community and board members to address what needs North Park may have. I know we have discussed a lot about safety with the bike lanes, street musicians and homelessness and how that continues to impact our community. I think those could be areas of focus for change.

Matt Nault - Renew San Diego Church - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I came on the board of North Park Main Street over a year ago as an interim for a board member who was out of the country for a season. Upon their return, I was officially voted to remain on the board. During this exciting time, we have made many positive strides for businesses and residents: to increase beauty, safety and flourishing for everyone in North Park! We’ve grown through transitioning our excellent Executive Director, optimizing the board, enhancing the artistic beauty of our neighborhood, extending the cleanliness of our streets, holding elected officials accountable to continue maintenance and construction projects, and studying and pressing for increased public safety. Now that I have more than one year experience on the board, I want to continue taking next steps in these avenues! I’ve met so many incredible business owners, elected officials with the ability to get things done, people living on our streets in difficult circumstances, concerned and committed residents… I’ve seen so much beauty and so much need for increased public safety… These are all opportunities and issues North Park Main Street exists to serve! When I wake up in the morning, I think about the good of all my neighbors in North Park. Being on the board gives me an opportunity to use my talents and skills to put those thoughts into action in a meaningful way, on an amazing team of board members and community members.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
In my experience on the board of North Park Main Street, I have experienced us most effectively serving the business and property owner community when we are reaching out, and giving clear opportunities for business/property owners to reach in. We reach out by going from business to business, door to door to make connections and keep clear, communication. We reach out through social media, our update emails and other communications that are targeted to resource and empower local businesses. We give pathways for business and property owners to reach in with clear opportunities (such as accessible, participatory public meetings, town hall meetings, and access to board members and staff) to stay connected to North Park Main Street, and inform us their needs and opportunities, as we resource an advocate on their behalf. We also effectively serve local businesses as we relationally listen to understand their needs, challenges and opportunities and then step up to connect them with resources and next steps to tackle challenges and thrive in North Park. And of course, as NPMS continues to grow its effectiveness in keeping our streets clean and beautiful, this serves all businesses in the neighborhood. I’m excited to help all of these elements increase!
What is your vision for North Park?
I envision a North Park that remains rooted in its history and architectural beauty while growing its incredible spirit of diversity and creativity; art and entertainment. I envision a neighborhood where homelessness decreases because our neighbors living on the streets have access to not only the basics in life; and pathways they can pursue to heal (mental health and addiction treatment), develop (job training and life skills) and grow (housing and job placement). This of course will then affect local businesses and everyone’s general sense of safety on our beloved streets. I envision North Park as a magnetically attractive, humming hub of restaurants, shops, bars and cafes where locals come together to create even more vibrant community connections… as others from all around San Diego and beyond are invited to the connected, joyful, creative energy of the neighborhood.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I exist and thrive in a community of people with different backgrounds and viewpoints. I am comfortable on a team when the stakes are high and the opportunities are immense, even when the challenges are many and the mission gets intense. I’ve served several boards in the past ranging from education to care for marginalized people. I have a history of bringing understanding, compassion and unity to the boards I serve while maintaining unity and a sense of mission that moves us forward. Most of all: I love North Park, I appreciate our mission, and I enjoy this board!
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I like many changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade but if I had to choose one… I love the increased art, murals, and creative expressions on the buildings and utility boxes in our neighborhood!
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I would change the current situation with so many homeless neighbors languishing on our sidewalks as others pass by, unable to help or unaware of ways to get involved to make a difference. Each day, I hope, pray, and work toward making a positive difference in this area that will give hope and new pathways in life to our neighbors who are stuck in poverty, addiction and mental health challenges.

Nate Benedetto - Next Wave Commercial - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I have brokered street retail deals in North Park for almost 20 years. My wife lived in North Park when I met her in 2009 and we bought our first house there in 2012. I lived in North Park from 2010-2017. North Park has been a main geographic focus of my business. I have watched the neighborhood grow over the years and I have participated in the growth by bringing tenants and buyers to the neighborhood. I have been an advocate and a cheerleader for north park for many years and I remain optimistic for the future. I served on the economic development committee of NPMS for many years. I would like to be on the Board in order to give back to the community and also do what I can to help North Park be successful in the years to come.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I think NPMS could more effectively tell the story of North Park as a fertile ground for entrepreneurship and development. Homelessness is also a problem that the city of San Diego cannot be relied upon to fix on their own. If we want a vibrant retail district to attract diners and shoppers from other areas we need to continue to attack this problem from many angles and keep our sidewalks safe and attractive.
What is your vision for North Park?
North Park has more upward potential than any other neighborhood in San Diego. My vision is for the main corridors to be full of very cool restaurants, shops, bars, galleries, salons, etc., with added density of attractive multi-family housing along 30th and University. My vision is a neighborhood that continues to have soul and is known to be a hotbed for creative talent. My vision is for a family friendly neighborhood where people can walk with their strollers and not have to dodge people sleeping on the sidewalk or worry they are going to step in human waste. North Park can be a model urban neighborhood where people can live-work-play without needing to drive anywhere.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I have studied San Diego’s neighborhoods for 20 years and have seen what works well and what does not. I have been attending Little Italy Associations board meetings for 10-15 years and have learned their strategies. I am one of the top experts in town for street retail and restaurant leasing, sales & trends.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I like how our retail corridors are starting to fill in and provide some cohesive walk-ability. I like how the special events like Taste of North Park have gained steam. I like how the caliber of our commercial tenants has increased, but remained mostly local instead of national chains.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I would increase the efforts to combat homelessness in the community. When people sleep on the sidewalk, they also go to the bathroom on the sidewalk. I’m a proponent of spending more public and private money on shelter beds, police presence, maintenance, deterrents, mental health services & relocation ideas.

Patrick Garbani - Home & Hound - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I’d like to continue assisting the North Park business community.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
By providing support, guidance, maintenance, events and other services to their community.
What is your vision for North Park?
Continued growth and development of the area, filling all the vacant buildings with new businesses without changing the overall community.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I’ve been on the NPMS board for a few years, served by as the treasurer and vice president. I earned my bachelor in business majoring in finance and my masters in accounting. I hold an active CPA license. In addition, I both live and own a business in our community so it’s success is essential to me.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
Seeing our business and residents working together to build a stronger community.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
I would love to see all the vacant building filled with successful local businesses.

Stefan Katsampes - US Bank - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
Existing board member applying for a new 2-year term.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
By continuing focus on maintenance and events.
What is your vision for North Park?
To be the top destination for food and entertainment in San Diego. Focusing on accessibility, safety, and cleanliness.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
Representation for one of the larger properties and financial institutions in North Park, along with experience and active involvement.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
The reduced crime makes it more desirable for individuals to visit and businesses to operate.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
Parking is an ongoing challenge.

William Lopez - Alternative Strategies - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I currently serve as the President of Board of Directors for North Park. I am interested in continuing to support the organization in the same way i have for the past 3 years.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I am proud of the work we are currently doing and hope to be a part of carrying out our plans for 2024 and beyond.
What is your vision for North Park?
My vision for North Park is to see every retail space occupied, along with it being a destination for locals and tourists. My vision is to see North Park continue to be recognized as a destination of local businesses supporting one another and giving back to the community.
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
I currently serve as the President for the Board of Directors. My expertise and special skills include public relations, marketing, business management, current board experience. I also managed North Park Main Street when the executive director position was vacant.
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
leadership, vision, business growth, community.
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
homeless issues would be more heavily managed.

Willow Parker - George's Camera - [email protected]

Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street?
I would love to serve on the board to provide a unique and new perspective. I’m quite passionate about my role in the local photography community and our business, so I’d love to bring that same energy to all of North Park! I think I’d be especially helpful with creating new and exciting events to bring to our neighborhood, as well as my many years of management expertise would help this board run more efficiently and effectively while being mindful of expenditures.
How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley?
I was thrilled to see how quick of a response and an action plan was created when I brought up an issue to Mark and Will last year. They were able to quickly assist our store and their willingness to resolve our issue with such care has left a lasting impact on me. I’d love to be able to continue to help local business in North Park thrive much like they helped us, and I think the first step in the right direction would be to bring more awareness to this program. There are plenty of local property owners who do not know about the resources you offer, or how much they could benefit by being apart of the board!
What is your vision for North Park?
I’d love to see North Park clean, vibrant and engaging!
What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively?
As the photo lab manager at George’s Camera, I can lend my printing and photography expertise to marketing and social media. However for as much as my passion is creativity, I also have a great expertise in conflict resolution and business negotiation. I truly enjoy working together with a team to create new strategies, solve issues and execute successful events!
What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade?
I love that North Park has become very walkable and modern, while retaining its unique charm and history. There’s been some great local business additions over the past decade that are not only so fun to work with but who also make it more enjoying to spend my days off here!
What would change about North Park if you had the chance?
It’s been interesting to watch the community change and our customer’s perspectives’ shift in regards to all of the advancements North Park has undergone. I’ve encountered plenty of negative reactions especially to the removal of the parking along 30th street, however I’ve found that all it takes is some gentle education and listening to their complaints to shift it back to a positive note. I’d love to influence community members perspectives and open their world to the endless possibilities that North Park has to offer.

Questions? Contact NPMS at [email protected]

The voting window for the NPMS Board of Directors has closed.