Department of Neighborhoods

Press Release / Public Service Annoucement

Linda Flores Olson Named Deputy Assistant Director for the City of Houston’s Department of Neighborhoods

August 4, 2025 -- The City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods is pleased to announce that Linda Flores Olson is the new Deputy Assistant Director of the Department of Neighborhoods (DON). Ms. Olson brings more than 35 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and public service.

In her new position, Ms. Olson will work alongside Director Herbert Sims to guide the department’s communications, grant management, and finance operations. Her work will help strengthen DON’s mission to build strong relationships with residents, promote civic engagement, and ensure all Houstonians have access to the resources they need.

“Linda is an asset and will help ensure that we align with Mayor John Whitmire’s priority of improving the quality of life for Houstonians. She is a well-respected leader who has spent her entire career bringing people together to create opportunities and drive positive change,” said Mr. Sims. “Her deep understanding of Houston’s communities and her talent for connecting with people make her a perfect fit for this role.”

Before joining the City of Houston, Ms. Olson served as Director of the Aldine Education Foundation, where she led fundraising efforts totaling $1.2 million annually and played a key leadership role in the successful passage of a $1.8 billion bond for Aldine ISD. Her previous roles include leadership positions with the Houston Community College Foundation, Houston PBS, and the Greater Houston Partnership, among others.

Throughout her career, Ms. Olson has focused on building strong partnerships, increasing access to education and services, and supporting the next generation of leaders. She is well known for her thoughtful approach and strong relationships across the nonprofit and civic sectors.

“I’m honored to serve the City of Houston in this new role,” said Olson. “Houston is made up of so many vibrant, diverse neighborhoods, and I’m excited to work alongside residents, community leaders, and city staff to make sure every voice is heard and every community is supported.”

A native Houstonian, Ms. Olson has been a trusted advocate for local organizations, students, and families. She brings a practical, people-centered perspective to her work and is known for getting things done with heart and purpose.

If you’re interested in partnering with the City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods to better serve our community, email linda.floresolson@houstontx.gov or call 346-339-2639.

About the Department of Neighborhoods
The Department of Neighborhoods is made up of six divisions dedicated to helping residents engage with local government and get involved at both the neighborhood and citywide levels. We drive positive change by working alongside communities and connecting residents to the programs and services that address their needs.