Public Meetings - Winston Salem, North Carolina

The Winston-Salem City Council met on November 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included consent agenda approvals, public hearings on demolitions, discussions on several community development initiatives, and votes on funding for driver's license restoration, winter shelter operations, youth recreation, and a neighborhood beautification grant. The council also went into closed session to conduct the city attorney's annual performance evaluation. Consent Calendar - The council approved the balance of the consent agenda unanimously, with two items removed for individual discussion. - C-4 (Winter Shelter Funding): Councilmember Scippio requested separate discussion. The council approved an additional $50,000 for winter shelter operations (November 15, 2026 to March 1, 2027). Sharika Floyd of Neighborhood Services presented the item. - C-11 (Temporary Staffing Services): Mayor Pro Tem Adams requested discussion on the $3.5 million contract extension with The Resource Company. She noted the contract began in 2023 and encouraged exploring partnerships with community workforce development programs to provide youth employment opportunities. The council voted unanimously to approve. - The consent agenda also included items related to the Byrne JAG Program, land development on Rhyne Avenue and Sides Road, a conservation easement swap, the Bus Pass Match Program, solid waste collection amendments, Newell-Massey Greenway repairs, additional sole source vendors, a property sale, a budget amendment, and approval of the previous meeting's summary minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - City of Winston-Salem University Graduates: The council honored 17 graduates of the program. Graduate spokesman Rick Yuhan thanked the council and city staff for the program, noting it gave him a deeper appreciation for the inner workings of city government and the dedication of city employees. Discussion Items City Manager Update & Transportation Farebox Changes - City Manager Pate announced the start of the loose leaf collection program and upcoming public meetings on transportation and land use planning. - Transportation Director Jeff Fansler reported that bus fareboxes are at the end of their useful life. The city will transition to a cashless fare collection system on buses starting in January 2027, utilizing the UMO app or reloadable cards, though cash will still be accepted at the downtown transportation center. Councilmember Andree-Bowen raised concerns about providing physical cards to riders and ensuring accessibility for those without smartphones. Ram's Pointe (G-4) - Proposal: An extension and homebuyer conversion for MTB3 Properties, LLC to develop 11 townhomes at 310 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The project is backed by a $400,000 city loan. The General Government Committee forwarded it without a recommendation. - Discussion: Councilmembers Scippio, Hall, and Burke spoke in favor, highlighting the project's potential to restore owner-occupied housing and investment in historic East Winston. Mayor Pro Tem Adams supported the project but strongly criticized the lack of formal tracking for stalled city-funded projects, stating this was her "last time voting like this" without a project queue report. Staff confirmed the Affordable Housing Coalition approved the new plan. - Outcome: The council voted unanimously to approve the resolution. DRIVE License Restoration Program (G-5) - Proposal: Approving a fourth one-time appropriation of $105,000 to extend the program through June 2027. The Finance Committee recommended approval (3-1). - Discussion: Councilmember Clark questioned the lack of data on how many participants actually regained their driver's licenses versus simply having court cases resolved. Chief Assistant DA Elizabeth Dresel explained their office resolved 975 court cases for 153 unique participants in 2025 but cannot track DMV license reissuance. Councilmember Andree-Bowen noted some program participants reside outside city limits. Mayor Pro Tem Adams stated she could not support the item without outcome data showing the restoration rate. - Outcome: The motion was approved 7-1, with Mayor Pro Tem Adams voting no. SBE Advisory Committee Update (G-6) - Proposal: Amending the city code to change the MWBE Advisory Committee to the Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Advisory Committee to comply with the 2026 state Appropriations Act. - Outcome: The motion was approved 6-2, with Councilmembers Burke and Andree-Bowen voting no. Love Your Block Grant (G-7) - Proposal: Accepting a $270,000 Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation grant for the 2026-2028 cycle to fund beautification projects in the Reynoldstown neighborhood. - Discussion: Councilmember Burke raised several concerns about the selection process, questioning why the city added criteria beyond Bloomberg's (such as historic designation and exclusion from current revitalization areas) and requested a complete scoring rubric for all neighborhoods considered. City Manager Pate stated the process was successful and trusted to staff. Councilmember Andree-Bowen requested a future update to see how the program could be expanded. Staff clarified the grant application was specifically for Reynoldstown and cannot be altered. - Outcome: The council voted unanimously to accept the grant. Extended Youth Recreation Hours (G-8) - Proposal: A $70,000 pilot program to extend hours and programming at Carl Russell, DB Sims, MLK, and Rupert Bell community centers for teens on Fridays and Saturdays. - Discussion: Councilmember Hall confirmed the $70,000 covered staff, supplies, and utilities. Councilmember Joyner pressed for specific marketing and programming details given the November 9 start date. Councilmember Scippio raised safety concerns about lighting, particularly at Rupert Bell. Director Royston confirmed they are working with police and vegetation management on security. - Outcome: The council voted unanimously to approve the extended hours. Key Outcomes - Votes: G-5 (DRIVE Program) approved 7-1. G-6 (SBE Committee) approved 6-2. All other votes (Consent Agenda, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-7, G-8, G-9, G-10) were unanimous. - Directives & Next Steps: City Manager was asked to provide the council with a list of stalled city-funded development projects. The Youth Recreation pilot program is set to launch November 9, 2026. Staff will work on improving data collection and accessible transitions for the farebox changes and the DRIVE program.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 101 North Main Street. Mayor Allen Joines presided; all eight council members were present. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m. Unless otherwise noted, votes were 8-0, with the mayor not voting. Consent Calendar - Approved by a single 8-0 consent vote. No items were pulled for discussion. - C-1: Set a public hearing for November 16, 2026, on the proposed annexation of Long Creek Village, PINs 6809-65-4054.000 and 6809-64-4721.000. - C-2: Appointed Chiquita Evans to the Historic Resources Commission, term expiring November 2027. - C-3: Reappointed Dixon Pitt to the City/County Planning Board, term expiring February 2030. - C-4: Reappointed Denise Hartsfield, Edgar Forrest, and Natasha Smith to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, terms expiring October 2029. - C-5: Approved the summary of minutes from the October 5, 2026, City Council meeting. City Manager Update - City Manager Pate provided an update on city matters; no action was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - The public comment period allowed three minutes per speaker, with a 30-minute total limit. - Doreen Pollack, 1401 Main Street, expressed appreciation for city staff, including landscaping and community improvement efforts, and praised elected and staff support for her neighborhood. - Matthew Mayors, 28444 Weslyan Lane, thanked planning staff for sustainability-related agenda items and suggested the city expand its hybrid vehicle purchasing policy to mid-sized pickups, SUVs, and police patrol vehicles, using savings for future EV charging infrastructure. - Marilyn Lacunza, 4922 W. Market Street, founder of Force of Triad NC, thanked the city for investments in community and youth and for extending hours at RAC centers. She also raised concerns about checkpoints causing fear in immigrant communities, stated her DACA expires on Wednesday, and warned of potential arrests, ICE detention, and family separation. - Kevin Byers spoke in support of the community, described neighborhood walking outreach in Rolling Hills, Salem Gardens, Piedmont Circle, and Boston Thurmond, and called for equitable maintenance and compassion in policies. - K. Phillips, Providence Square Community, asked whether the Bethesda Center is closing due to lack of money or due to church/school expansion displacing homeless people. Mayor Joines responded that the closure is due to the center's financial situation, that the city is working with other agencies, and that a group is meeting to try to keep it operating. Discussion Items - G-1: Jason Thiel, President of Downtown Winston-Salem, presented the Downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Report. - G-2: The council considered the petition to close and abandon a portion of South Spring Street. A public hearing had been opened and closed at the October 5 meeting. Council Member Joiner, representing the South Ward, moved to deny, stating that many neighborhood residents urged denial, traffic has worsened in the established neighborhood, and the closure would create a bottleneck and burden residents with school pickup and drop-off traffic. The Public Works Committee had recommended approval. The motion to deny carried 8-0. - G-3: State Employees Credit Union petitioned to rezone approximately 3.14 acres on Meadowlark Drive, Rosewind Lane, and Beauchamp Road from MU-S to GB-S. Staff said the proposed indoor retail storage use is a low traffic generator and complies with Forward 2045 and the West Suburban Area Plan. The Planning Board recommended approval 5-3 after one opposition speaker raised concerns about scale, massing, and property values. Council Member Clark praised the project design; Council Member Hall asked about opposition letters and was told objections predated developer outreach and only one person spoke in opposition at the Planning Board. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. The council approved the Statement of Consistency and the rezoning 8-0. - G-4: First Baptist Church of Stanleyville petitioned to rezone approximately 2.10 acres between Virginia Lake Road and University Parkway, north of Ziglar Road, from RS9 to IP. The Planning Board recommended approval. No one spoke at the public hearing. The council approved the Statement of Consistency and the rezoning 8-0. - G-5: 2608 Reynolda Road, LLC petitioned to rezone approximately 1.71 acres north of Reynolda Road and Sunnynoll Drive from RS9 to RM18-S for multifamily residential use. The Planning Board recommended approval. No one spoke at the public hearing. The council approved the Statement of Consistency and the rezoning 8-0. - G-6: The council reviewed UDO-CC37, a text amendment to Chapter 5 of the Unified Development Ordinances. Dan Rankin, Design Project Planner, explained the amendment would remove the 20-foot Type 1 bufferyard requirement for planned residential development perimeter lots that do not meet the minimum dimensional requirements of the underlying zoning district, while keeping thoroughfare open space requirements. Staff stated the amendment supports Forward 2045 housing goals and more efficient land use. The General Government Committee had recommended approval. Kate Phillips, 115 Southwest Cates Drive, Greensboro, spoke in support, saying removal could increase housing availability and that a 20-foot buffer along 3,000 feet of property line equals nearly 1.4 acres. The council approved the Statement of Consistency and the amendment 8-0. - G-7: Matthew Burczyk, Housing Project Planner, presented the Northeast Suburban Area Plan, the first area plan supporting Forward 2045. The plan covers about 16,000 residents, 21,000 acres, and 8,000 parcels in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County; about one-third of the area has sewer service and two-thirds does not. It includes land use recommendations, seven mixed-use areas, and seven alternative development options. Staff said four public input meetings were held from February through June, with online surveys and broad outreach. Council Member Scippio asked about sewer expansion and praised the outreach; staff said about 10,000-12,000 acres along the Northern Beltway are identified for possible future sewer expansion and that the city is working with utilities and the county. Council Member Burke expressed strong support. No one spoke at the public hearing. The General Government Committee had recommended approval. The council adopted the plan 8-0. - G-8: Kirby Robinson, General Services Director, presented a resolution authorizing a $129,880 change order to DCH Enterprises, Inc. for painting City Hall common areas before the November 16 centennial celebration. An initial purchase order of $50,000 had been issued; the change order would be funded by the property and facilities operating budget and the City Hall renewal account. Council Member Clark noted the item was expedited because painting was already underway. The resolution was approved 8-0. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda and all general agenda items requiring a vote except G-2 were approved by 8-0 votes. - The South Spring Street closure petition was denied. - A public hearing for the Long Creek Village annexation was scheduled for November 16, 2026. - The Northeast Suburban Area Plan, UDO-CC37, and zoning petitions W-3695, W-3701, and W-3702 were approved. - The $129,880 City Hall painting change order for DCH Enterprises, Inc. was authorized. - The meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

The Public Works Committee met on October 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM with all committee members present. The committee approved the consent agenda and discussed three general agenda items: an ordinance updating solid waste collections, an update on the Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Streetscape project, and the NCDOT Prioritization 8.0 Division Needs Projects update. Staff also reported on WISTA transit ridership gains and previewed upcoming agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approved Items C-1 (Annexation for Long Creek Village), C-2 (Conservation Easement Abandonment/Acceptance), C-3 (Bus Pass Match Distribution Program continuation), and C-4 (Approval of previous meeting minutes) en bloc. After approval, Transportation Director Jeff Fansler provided details on the Bus Pass Match Program (C-3). The program provides a one-to-one match for fixed-route bus passes to qualifying nonprofits serving low-income individuals. Nonprofits must be 501(c)(3), valid in North Carolina, serve within city limits, and document their process for verifying low-income eligibility. Councilmembers asked about transit aid eligibility (separate application process) and the application process for nonprofits. Discussion Items G-1: Ordinance Amending Chapter 26 – Solid Waste Collections - Andrew Martin, Director of Solid Waste Collections, presented amendments to modernize the municipal code. Key changes include renaming the chapter to "Solid Waste Collections," replacing outdated container references with 96-gallon rollout carts, allowing up to three 96-gallon refuge carts per business (previously three 32-gallon), charging $65 annual for each additional cart, and updating code enforcement fees. Leaf collection language now requires leaves to remain loose or be placed in city-issued yard carts; loose leaf collection occurs October through January with a goal of curbside placement, not in streets. Medical exemptions require annual verification. A route optimization project (RouteWare) will debut in spring 2027, aiming to balance routes and allow all three carts (garbage, recycling, yard waste) on the same collection day. New trucks are expected soon; new routes will be communicated via the Winston Collects app (2.5 million hits since 2022). Councilmembers asked about brush pickup (city covers citywide in about 30 days, more frequent for yard carts), code enforcement fees (civil penalty $165, plus labor/equipment fees), and enforcement concerning commercial contractors (city does not collect brush from licensed professionals). The committee voted to approve the ordinance. G-2: Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Streetscape Project Update - Jeff Fansler provided an update on the 1.1-mile federally funded streetscape project from US 52 to Salem Parkway (US 421). The project stems from the Creative Corridors Master Plan and includes decorative lighting (sandbell fixtures on 30-foot poles), landscaping, bus stop enhancements (future artistic shelters through the Public Art Commission), decorative crosswalks, sidewalk improvements to meet ADA standards, and placemaking elements (banners, bike racks). Design is complete; right-of-way acquisition for 40 properties (three-foot offset from back of sidewalk) is underway. Construction is targeted for spring 2027. Councilmember Scipio asked about cost estimates; Fansler noted scope was scaled down and resurfacing will be targeted to stay within budget. She also asked about the difference between right-of-way and easement: right-of-way is a public asset; easements retain private ownership with access rights. The committee received the update. G-3: NCDOT Prioritization 8.0 Division Needs Projects Update - Hunter Stazak, TPO Administrator, explained the prioritization process for the 2028–2037 State Transportation Improvement Program. The Division Needs category has $39 million available (down from an $80 million forecast), serving the Winston-Salem TPO, Northwest Piedmont RPO, High Point MPO, and Cabarrus Rowan MPO. Local input points (50% of final score) are assigned by the TPO and NCDOT Division 9. The highest-scoring project is the Silas Creek Parkway Ramps project (auxiliary lane at Yorkshire and Robin Hood Road). The top non-highway project is the Peters Creek Parkway Sidewalk Part 1 (Brewer Road to South Park Boulevard). Councilmembers designated their points: Mayor Pro Tem Adams to Peters Creek Parkway sidewalk, Councilmember Clark to Silas Creek Parkway sidewalk, and Councilmember Joines to Akron Drive Rail Crossing. Projects requiring a 20% local match include the Peters Creek Parkway sidewalk and the Ransom Road improvements (Bellick Village Drive extension). The draft point assignment was released October 12; a public input meeting is scheduled November 4. Final results expected January 2027. Councilmember Scipio asked how residents influence projects; Stazak said the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan incorporates public comment, and unfunded projects can recompete in future cycles or through regional flexible funding. Staff encouraged council to submit priority projects for Prioritization 9.0. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda (Items C-1 through C-4). - Approved Ordinance Amending Chapter 26 (Solid Waste Collections) (G-1). - Received the MLK Jr. Drive Streetscape Project Update (G-2) with no vote. - Received the Prioritization 8.0 Division Needs Projects Update (G-3); the draft point assignment is open for 30-day public comment. - Staff reported a 13,000 trip increase in WISTA ridership in September 2026 compared to September 2025, with new crosstown routes (WISTA X West and X South) outperforming expectations (over 5,000 trips each in first month). - Upcoming November committee of the whole agenda includes: resolution on cemetery memorial wall, citywide resurfacing update, grant application for WISTA facilities study, capital projects update, Greensboro Road Bridge replacement options, and a utility facilities tour on November 10. - A public meeting for Salem Lake Greenway Low Water Bridge project is scheduled for October 21 at Salem Lake Marina. - The public works committee tour of utility facilities is set for November 10 from 12:30 to 4:00 PM.

The Finance Committee, chaired by Council Member Robert C. Clark, met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM. The committee considered consent agenda items, temporary staffing services, winter shelter funding, a driver’s license restoration program extension, and an update on the Marshall Street redevelopment. Key votes were taken on three general agenda items. Consent Calendar - C-1: Resolution awarding construction contract for Newell-Massey Greenway Repairs to Simcon Company, LLC for $584,559.55 — approved. - C-2: Resolution approving additional sole source vendors for FY2026-27 — approved. - C-3 and C-4: Resolutions authorizing sale of city-owned property on Lockland Avenue and Woodcliff Drive — pulled from consent and held in committee at staff’s request. - C-5: Authorization for sale of property on Stafford Village Boulevard — approved. - C-6: Fiscal year 2026-2027 budget ordinance amendments — approved. - C-7: Approval of Finance Committee minutes from September 15, 2026 — approved. All consent items were approved by voice vote with no opposition. Discussion Items G-1: Temporary Staffing Services Contract Extension (The Resource Company – $3,500,000) - Staff presented details on usage, turnover rates, and cost comparison with full-time employees, citing savings of approximately $758,000. The contract extension runs through March 2027 while a new RFP is prepared. - Council Member Annette Scippio commented positively on the vendor’s performance at public assembly facilities, especially Bowman Gray Stadium. - The committee voted electronically to approve the resolution. (Motion carried; no dissent recorded.) G-2: Additional Funding for Winter Shelter Operations ($50,000) - Ms. Ford introduced the item, explaining the winter shelter will operate from November 15, 2026, through March 1, 2027, providing 80 beds for men and 30 beds for women in partnership with The Dwelling. State ARPA funding is used. - Council Members Andre Bowen and Scippio expressed strong support, noting recent shelter closures and the importance of housing unhoused individuals. - The committee approved the resolution by electronic vote. (Motion carried; no dissent recorded.) G-3: Forsyth Driver’s License Restoration Program (DRIVE) Agreement Extension - Mr. Tesh presented the item: extending the contract through June 30, 2027, with an additional $105,000. The program has received over $700,000 in city funds since February 2020. No other funding sources were identified. - Council members expressed concern about limited funds, with Chair Clark noting the city faces many competing needs. Councilmember Taylor questioned long-term sustainability. - The resolution was approved 3-1. The item will go to full council on November 2, 2026. G-4: Update on Proposed Modification to Financial Assistance for Redevelopment of 1007 and 1001 Marshall Street - This was an information item, not an action item. Staff and developers (Andrew Brosh and Margaret Northfleet Neff) requested timeline extensions (completion by December 1, 2027, for phase one, and 24 months after for phase two) without additional city funds. - Council Member Mayor Pro Tempore Denise D. Adams opposed, citing delays and pressing city needs (unhoused, SNAP obligations, budget constraints). She stated, “I cannot support this right now… I gotta protect the house.” - Council Member Scippio supported extension, noting the developers are local and have secured financing. Chair Clark and Mayor suggested temporarily pause but indicated willingness to bring a formal action later with a clear deadline. - Staff will bring forward an action item for committee direction. Key Outcomes - G-1: Approved (electronic vote, no dissent). Contract extension for temporary staffing services with The Resource Company until March 2027. - G-2: Approved (electronic vote, no dissent). Additional $50,000 for winter shelter operations. - G-3: Approved 3-1 (motion by Scippio, seconded) to extend Forsyth DRIVE program contract and provide $105,000 through June 2027. - Marshall Street (G-4): No vote taken; staff directed to prepare a formal action item with specific deadlines for the next meeting. - Staff previewed upcoming items: sponsorship policy, facility condition assessment, interior painting of City Hall for 100-year anniversary, purchasing items (fire department air unit, 17 half-ton pickups, salt dome construction), and a new nonprofit funding model.

The Winston-Salem Public Safety Committee met on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM (agenda time) to approve a consent agenda and receive reports on the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART) and the Office of Emergency Management's 2026 activities. The committee unanimously approved the consent agenda and heard both reports without additional formal action. Consent Calendar - C-1 (26-0359): Consideration of an interlocal agreement to accept and share funds with Forsyth County under the 2026 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Award. Approved unanimously. - C-2 (26-0425): Approval of the Public Safety Committee Summary of Minutes from September 14, 2026. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items G-1: NCHART Program and Winston-Salem Fire Department Report - A Winston-Salem Fire Department chief reported on NCHART deployments during Tropical Storm Isaiah. The team originally expected to go to Catawba County, but deployed to the city of Lenore (as stated in the transcript), then relocated to Caldwell County and later Burke County. - Work included boat rescues from flooded homes, repairing a residential bridge so an elderly resident could leave her home, staffing ambulances for Burke EMS, and relocating school buses out of forecasted floodwaters. - The team deploys as a state asset under the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management. During activation, team members move from city payroll to state payroll; the state also pays the city to backfill vacancies and replaces damaged equipment, making the arrangement at zero cost to local municipalities. - Councilmember Scippio praised Winston-Salem's fire and police services and said she looked forward to December 12 recognition of the officers. G-2: Office of Emergency Management 2026 Update - August Vernon presented an update on Office of Emergency Management activities since January 2026. - Preparedness efforts included 8 public education or preparedness presentations, severe weather preparedness week from March 1-7, the statewide tornado drill on March 4, hurricane preparedness week from May 3-9, National Disaster Preparedness Month in September, and upcoming winter weather preparedness activities. - Training and exercises included incident command, active shooter, animal response, and crisis communications training, plus 9 regional multi-agency exercises coordinated or participated in since January, including public health, critical infrastructure, Piedmont cybersecurity, and security threat drills. - Incident response statistics since January 1: 64 total incidents, 22 hazardous material incidents, 2 lithium battery incidents, 3 winter weather events, 2 major utility disruptions, 1 widespread network outage, 12 fire incidents, 1 mass shooting, and 2 mass casualty incidents. - A duty officer is on call 24/7/365. During winter weather, the emergency operations center operated 24/7 for four or five days at the Forsyth County Public Safety Center, 301 North Church Street. During the water main break, the EOC moved to Winston-Salem Fire Department Station 13 for about three days because primary sites lost water. - Major event coordination included the NASCAR race at Winston-Salem State University and the FIFA German soccer team arrival and public event day at Wake Forest University. - The Continuity of Operations (COOP) project includes 63 city and county departments divided into three groups. Group A is already working, Group B has just started, and the project is expected to be completed by April 2027. - Since 2018, before every election, city, county, and state agencies have coordinated on election safety and security, covering almost 160 election-day sites plus early voting. - Vernon pointed to the Ready for Scythe website (as transcribed) for public preparedness information and warned about misinformation regarding disaster preparedness. - Councilmember Hall asked about volunteer use. Vernon said OEM works with the Red Cross, Salvation Army, United Way, and state-recognized volunteer organizations active in disasters; volunteers helped distribute thousands of cases of water during the water main break. - Councilmember Hall also asked how quickly OEM is notified of incidents. Vernon said the 911 center pages the on-call officer, and direct heads-up calls can occur, such as before the Weaver fire. - Councilmember Hall asked about family emergency preparedness and shelter-in-place planning. Vernon said the website has age-appropriate information and that OEM will provide presentations, phone assistance, virtual sessions, or in-person outreach. - Councilmember Andree-Bowen praised the water distribution operations, noting a Second Harvest colleague spoke highly of the effort and that he volunteered at Kernersville Elementary and Walkertown High School. Vernon credited Second Harvest's infrastructure and quick mobilization. Staff Comments - Staff noted that a stand-alone, independent emergency operations center remains a legislative priority, that most major metropolitan areas have one, and that the city and county are continuing to work with regional, state, and federal partners on that effort. - Staff said a link to a preparedness checklist from the Ready for Scythe website would be included in the council's weekly update later that week. - Staff announced that the December public safety agenda will include recognition of Firefighter Martinez on the statewide helicopter rescue team and an annual update from the Civil Service Board. No public safety item is currently scheduled for the November committee of the whole agenda. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The NCHART report and Office of Emergency Management update were received by the committee; no formal action was required on either item. - No additional formal votes were taken, and the meeting was adjourned.

The General Government Committee met on October 12, 2026, to consider a consent agenda and six general agenda items relating to economic development, housing, grant acceptance, and youth programming. The committee approved several development changes, a state-mandated policy update, a grant, and a new recreation center teen program. A long-standing affordable housing project was sent to full council without a recommendation following a tied committee vote. The meeting opened with the consent agenda and concluded with staff comments previewing upcoming demolitions and legislative discussions. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals were granted for demolition orders at 835 Gray Avenue (East Ward), 2018 Dellabrook Road (Northeast Ward), and 5716 Polaris Road (North Ward). Staff confirmed proper notification and ownership verification for each property. The minutes from the September 14, 2026, meeting were also approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Pastor Paul Ford, speaking on behalf of Restorative Justice, One Love Media, and other community groups, addressed Item G-6 regarding expanded recreation center hours. He advocated for a collaborative approach, urged the city to actively bring youth into the planning process, and suggested extending hours beyond 9:00 PM to midnight on weekends to better match youth preferences. He noted the collaborative proposal his group had submitted and stressed the need to address barriers such as consent forms and transportation. Discussion Items - G-1. Ordinance Amending MWBE to Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Advisory Committee: City Attorney Angela French presented the amendment required by state law (Senate Bill 257/2026 Appropriations Act) to replace the Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Advisory Committee with a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Advisory Committee. Councilmember Adams expressed concern over the impact on minority and women-owned businesses and stressed the importance of transparent communication that the change is a state mandate, not a city decision. - G-2 & G-3. Revised Development Concepts for Rhyne Avenue and Sides Road (Prosperity Alliance): Staff and developer Marcus Cornegay (Prosperity Alliance) presented revised plans in response to community feedback, swapping attached townhomes for detached single-family homes to better match neighborhood character. The developer stated the homes will be priced at 80% of Area Median Income (estimated $240,000–$250,000 range for three-bedroom units) and built by True Homes. - G-4. Extension and Homebuyer Change for MTB3 Properties (Ram’s Pointe, 310 MLK Jr. Drive): The Baker family (MTB3 Properties), local developers since 2019, proposed converting a stalled rental project into 11 for-sale townhomes with two retail bays and requested an extension through December 2029. Councilmember Adams questioned adherence to the city’s established equitable housing pipeline and standard developer process, while Councilmember Hall cited a recommendation from the Affordable Housing Coalition in support. Councilmember Joiner raised concerns about parking adequacy for the retail and residential units. - G-5. Acceptance of the $270,000 Love Your Block Grant: Staff presented the two-year, competitive grant from the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation, which will fund resident-led blight reduction projects. The target neighborhood for year one is Reynoldstown. Multiple council members (Adams, Burton, Hall, Burke) requested the specific data (code violations, vacancy rates) justifying the selection of Reynoldstown over other high-need wards. Staff confirmed the data supported the selection and committed to sharing the numbers with council. - G-6. Extended Operating Hours and Expanded Youth Programming at Recreation Centers: Director Royston outlined a “Teen Zone” pilot program extending Friday evening and Saturday hours at five centers (Carl Russell, Polo Park, WC Sims, MLK Jr., and Rupert Bell) targeting rising 7th through 12th graders. Councilmembers stressed the need for youth-driven programming and community partnerships. Councilmember Scipio cautioned against cutting senior morning programs. The City Manager noted the $70,000 cost covers one-time funds for the fiscal year. Key Outcomes - G-1: Approved by a 3-1 vote (Councilmember Burke opposed). Recommended to full council. - G-2 & G-3: Both resolutions approved. - G-4: Motion to approve the new proposal (Option 1) resulted in a 2-2 tie (Councilmembers Hall and Joiner in favor; Councilmembers Adams and Burke opposed). Sent to full council without a committee recommendation. - G-5: Approved. Staff committed to providing the supporting data to council. - G-6: Approved. Chair Adams confirmed senior morning programs will not be reduced; the expansion is funded by one-time resources. Future funding will require budget prioritization.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall. Mayor Allen Joines presided, with all nine council members present. The meeting included proclamations, consent agenda items, public hearings, and a debate on extending the youth protection ordinance. A closed session followed for the city manager's performance evaluation. Consent Calendar - C-1 (Removal of Park Land Designation, Rhyne Avenue): Approved by consent vote. - C-3 (Long-Term Lease to Colab, Inc. for DIY Skate Park): Approved by consent vote. - C-4 (Jet Vac Sewer Cleaning Truck, $565,000): Approved by consent vote. - C-5 (Tractor-Drawn Aerial Ladder Truck, $2,413,452): Approved by consent vote. - C-6 (Reappointments to Bicycle/Pedestrian/Active Mobility Advisory Committee: Amy Easter, Carol Hoover, John Gunckel): Approved by consent vote. - C-7 (Reappointments to Fair Planning Committee: Justin Armstrong, Tyler Foster, Thomas McKim, Celine Richards, Sydney Richardson, Daina Rumley, Kim Smith, terms expiring December 2028): Approved by consent vote. - C-8 (Approval of City Council Summary of Minutes from September 21, 2026): Approved by consent vote. - C-2 (Resolution to Accept 9.27 Acres for Long Creek Park, Donated by the Conservation Fund): Pulled from consent for discussion. Michael Leonard of the Conservation Fund spoke in support, noting that 70.74 acres had been added to the original park with a total gift value of $514,399. Mayor Pro Tempore Adams moved approval, seconded by Council Member Joiner. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). Public Comments & Testimony Item G-6 – Proposal to Extend the Youth Protection Ordinance Mayor Joines allocated 20 minutes for public comment: 10 minutes to proponents and 10 minutes to opponents, with 2 minutes per speaker. Proponents: - Mark Owens, President and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., expressed support on behalf of the business community, stating the ordinance has helped keep young people safe and cited that in 2025 two juveniles were murdered during the curfew period, whereas this summer there were zero deaths. He urged data collection to evaluate effectiveness. - Jason Thiel, President of Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership, voiced support, emphasizing the need for downtown to be safe and welcoming. His time was cut short after using only about 3 minutes. Opponents: - Olivia Doyle (Haidat Winston coalition) argued the ordinance is an experiment on children and families, disproportionately affecting East and North Ward residents who may not be aware of the curfew. She cited national studies showing ineffectiveness and called for youth-centered resources like late-night study cafes. - Marilyn Lacunza (Greensboro, NC) stated the ordinance lacks evidence to justify restricting liberty. She noted only 13 incidents were identified during the curfew period, not enough for a citywide restriction, and that national research shows curfews do not reliably reduce crime and produce racial disparities. - Qumekia Shavers (Winston-Salem) argued that safety cannot be achieved through containment alone; the city must invest in restorative justice, extended recreation center hours, youth jobs, and mental health resources rather than relying solely on policing and citations. - Phoenix Sampson Young (Winston-Salem) stated the curfew disproportionately affects minority communities. She called for safe spaces for youth (movies, fashion events, teen clubs, sports tournaments) and said the city should focus on root causes of youth issues, not punitive measures. - Paul Robert Ford (Winston-Salem) noted he had submitted amendments to make the ordinance less offensive and proposed opening recreation centers late. He called on the business community to partner in solutions, not just enforcement. Discussion Items G-1, G-2, G-3 – Demolition Ordinances (605 Eldora Street; 2802 Trent Street – main structure and accessory building) Mayor Joines opened each public hearing; no one spoke. The council voted unanimously (8-0) to approve all three demolitions. G-4 – Petition to Close and Abandon a Portion of South Spring Street Charles Hendricks (Engineering) presented: the petitioner (Salem Baptist Church) seeks closure for student safety and campus security. Council Member Joiner raised concerns about insufficient neighborhood notice and potential traffic congestion on nearby streets. She offered a substitute motion to continue the item to the October 19, 2026, council meeting to allow more input. Council Member Burke and Council Member Clark seconded; the substitute motion was unanimously approved (8-0). G-5 – Surplus and Sale of Liberty Street Park Shelter Structures Council Member Clark made the motion to approve; Council Member Burke seconded. Council Member Hall noted that the space was previously rented for $45/day but struggled to attract users, though churches used it. She expressed concern that churches should continue to have access. Council Member Joiner worried that disconnecting utilities (unconditioning) would accelerate deterioration and suggested community agencies could use the structures at minimal cost. Council Member Burke, representing the Northeast Ward, supported the motion, stating the structures must be sold to make way for a planned Transformational Center funded in 2022. She emphasized community need for workforce development, classrooms, senior services, and a multi-purpose room. She said if the structures do not sell, they would be moved to Bloom Park. Mayor Joines called the vote: 6 in favor (Andree-Bowen, Burke, Clark, Hall, Taylor, Adams), 2 opposed (Joiner, Scippio). Motion carried. G-6 – Proposal to Extend the Youth Protection Ordinance (First Reading) Chief of Police William Penn briefed the council, reporting that since enactment, seven youth and eight adults have been charged, with 19 warnings issued to youth and 10 to adults. He stated the ordinance created intervention opportunities through the JRISE (Juvenile Response Intervention Support and Engagement) team, and that during the same period the city saw the fewest youth victims of crime in five years, with no youth injured by violent crime or traffic accidents, and no teen takeovers. He requested a one-year extension to collect more data. After public comment, Council Member Scippio moved to approve the extension; Mayor Pro Tempore Adams seconded. The vote initially showed 2 ayes (Clark, Scippio) and 6 nays; Mayor Pro Tempore Adams corrected her vote to nay, making the final tally 2 ayes, 6 nays. The motion failed. Key Outcomes - Demolitions (G-1, G-2, G-3): Approved unanimously (8-0) after public hearings with no speakers. - Street Closure (G-4): Continued to the October 19, 2026 council meeting by unanimous substitute motion. - Liberty Street Park Shelter Structures (G-5): Declared surplus, authorized public auction on November 6, 2026; passed 6-2. - Youth Protection Ordinance Extension (G-6): Failed on a 2-6 vote (Clark and Scippio in favor; Andree-Bowen, Burke, Hall, Joiner, Taylor, Adams opposed). - Closed Session: Council entered closed session (8-0) pursuant to N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(6) for the city manager's annual performance evaluation, §143-318.11(a)(1) for privileged information, and to review prior closed session minutes. - Meeting Adjourned: 8:50 PM.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Allen Joines and adjourned at 9:27 PM. The agenda included honorariums and recognitions, a consent agenda, six general agenda items (resolutions, text amendments, and five zoning petitions), a public comment period, and a closed session. All council members were present. Many items passed unanimously, with one zoning petition (W-3699) passing 7-1. Consent Calendar - C-1: Resolution reappointing the Civil Service Board Chair (approved unanimously). - C-2: Appointment of Joseph Hamby to the Fair Planning Committee (approved). - C-3: Appointment of Ivis Romero to the Public Art Commission (approved). - C-4: Appointment of Donna Jones to the Public Assembly Facilities Commission (approved). - C-5: Approval of the City Council summary minutes from September 8, 2026 (approved). Public Comments & Testimony - Youth Curfew (16 speakers): The majority of speakers opposed the proposed one-year extension of the youth protection ordinance. Speakers argued that curfews are ineffective, racially biased in enforcement (citing zero charges in police district 3), and that resources should instead go to youth programs, extended recreation center hours, and community engagement. Olivia Doyle, Nikoya Gooden, Qumekia Shavers, Yajaria Cintron, Paul Robert Ford, Linda Winikoff, Oliver Andree-Bowen, Bink Jones, Marilyn Lacunza, Sarah Girard, Kelie Easton, and others expressed opposition. Linwood Davis (President, Winston-Salem Police Foundation) and Calvin McRae spoke in support, citing reduced teen takeovers and a responsible police approach. - Community Impact: Louis Finney (Smart Start) thanked the council for recognizing Smart Start Month and for zoning alignment that supports child care businesses. - Sustainability: Matthew Mayers urged the city to invest in electricity-based infrastructure (EVs, heat pumps) and referenced the city’s greenhouse gas emissions report. - Parking: Mark Peterson (downtown business owner) requested an extension of parking options for employees after a lot was sold back to Reynolds. Discussion Items - City Manager Update (Mr. Pate): Announced upcoming community events, including the City Services Expo (Sept. 24), Long Branch Trail connector public meeting (Sept. 30), a Salem Creek Greenway flooding survey, and “Winston Weaving” public art project. Reported that the Winston-Salem metro was ranked in the top third nationally for affordable housing (median list price $347,000, median household income $66,500). Congratulated Mayor Pro Tempore Adams on her selection for the Elevate North Carolina Higher Education cohort. - H-1 – Resolution Honoring Gaurang Doshi: Recognized Mr. Doshi as a 2025 North Carolina Heritage Award recipient for his work in Indian classical music. Unanimously approved. - H-2 – Proclamation for Smart Start Month: September 2026 declared Smart Start Month. Dr. Luis Finney (Executive Director, Smart Start) accepted. - H-3 – Mayor Joines’ Inaugural Summer Youth Employment and Camp Initiative Report: Judge Denise Hartsfield presented the program, which served 33 participants. Youth employee Fatima Amina Cream Takwa, parent Tina Lewis, and employer Mary Ann Gilliam (Triad Pest Control) spoke positively, noting job skills, internships, and long-term certifications. - G-1 – Resolution Designating John Larson Tranquility Square: Council Members Joiner and Scippio spoke in favor, honoring former Council Member Larson’s service. Unanimously approved. - G-2 – UDO-CC35 Text Amendments (Chapters 3–9): Director Chris Murphy explained a last-minute correction to align LCID language with county procedures. No public speakers. Unanimously approved. - G-3 – Zoning Petition W-3696 (Skinner et al., 7.06 acres, GI/LI to PB-L): No opposition; approved unanimously. - G-4 – Zoning Petition W-3697 (Brookberry Farm LLC, 1.82 acres, MU-S & RS9 to MU-S): No opposition; approved unanimously. - G-5 – Zoning Petition W-3698 (360VisionBuilds LLC, 1.42 acres, RS9 to RM8-S): No opposition; approved unanimously. - G-6 – Zoning Petition W-3699 (A. Ralph Davis Marital Trust et al., 35.27 acres, RS9 to RM12-S): Proponent Luke Dickey (Stimmel Associates) presented plans for 336 two-story townhomes/apartments (9.5 units/acre). Opponent Christopher Smith (representing family on Solomon Drive) raised concerns about traffic, inadequate speed bumps, missing sidewalks along remaining single-family lots, and potential stormwater issues. Dickey and developer Ben Dolton responded that improvements would be made on frontages, speed bumps could be reviewed by DOT, and stormwater systems would be designed to avoid past failures. The motion passed 7-1, with Council Member Hall voting nay. Council Member Scippio noted the area’s rapid development and need for housing. - G-7 – Zoning Petition W-3700 (Randall S. Burnette, 31.81 acres, RS9 to RM8-S): No opposition; Council Member Scippio noted the site’s proximity to Salem Lake and need for housing. Unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - All consent items and general agenda items (G-1 through G-7) were approved with the following votes: - G-6 (W-3699): 7-1 (Council Member Hall opposed). - All others: 8-0 or voice votes unanimous. - The council held two closed sessions: one for the City Manager’s annual performance evaluation (N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(6)) and one for privileged confidential information (N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(1)). Both motions passed unanimously. - No formal action was taken on the youth curfew extension; the public comment period was informational ahead of an October 12 deadline. - Mayor Joines directed city staff to follow up with the Traffic Department on speed cushion modifications for Solomon Drive and to explore missing sidewalk connections as discussed during the W-3699 hearing.

The Public Works Committee met at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Chair Council Member Barbara Hanes Burke led the meeting; Vice Chair Scott Andree-Bowen and Council Members Robert Clark and James Taylor Jr. were present. Council Members Scippio and Joiner also attended. The committee unanimously approved the consent agenda and received two information-only presentations: the 2026 Sustainability Update and an Update on Utilities Capital Projects. The meeting adjourned at 3:06 p.m. Consent Calendar - C-1. Approval of the Public Works Committee Summary of Minutes from August 11, 2026: Approved unanimously (4-0) by consent vote, on a motion by Council Member Clark seconded by Council Member Andree-Bowen. Discussion Items 2026 Sustainability Update - Dr. S. Miller, Sustainability Department Director, presented the city’s annual sustainability report. She noted that the greenhouse-gas line within city control has declined, while Duke Energy supply emissions will not drop as dramatically. Emissions are expected to rise next year because the biosolids dryer at the wastewater treatment plant is returning online and uses significant natural gas; continued LED streetlight conversions should eventually bring that share down to approximately 8 percent. - The city launched a GIS sustainability dashboard, publicly accessible through the city/county GIS page and the city website, to continuously track greenhouse gases, fuel consumption, recycling contamination, and links to Keep Winston-Salem Beautiful. - Winston-Salem was awarded the only municipal investment fund ICLE grant in North Carolina from the Clean Energy Fund of the Carolinas, for $250,000, to study energy-efficiency upgrades and fund a solar feasibility study. - Fleet and operations highlights included more than 100 hybrid vehicles, soy-based tires for police and fire after satisfactory pilot testing, four side-loader garbage trucks with improved braking systems that reduce particulate emissions, free bus passes for city employees, and recycling route optimization software cutting about 250 miles of driving per day while saving an estimated 40 to 80 gallons of fuel daily. - Sustainability outreach included Roots Day planting a fruit arbor, 300 native tree giveaways, a stream bank cleanup that removed two truckloads of trash, the cardboard regatta recycling-awareness event, and 1,500 pounds of food raised for pantries in the first half of 2026. Keep Winston-Salem Beautiful increased legacy donations by $6,000 and received more than $15,000 in new donor support. - Council Member Clark asked for more detail on the biosolids facility. Staff explained that the dryer at the Archie Elledge wastewater treatment plant produces fertilizer pellets sold to a farmer, that the facility failed in 2023 and was recently rebuilt and returned to service, and that sludge was landfilled while it was offline. Staff also described efforts to reuse gas and energy at treatment plants. - Council Member Andree-Bowen asked how to receive the food partner newsletter and expressed support from his seat for a potential moratorium on data centers, citing the need to understand water usage and community cost impacts. Update on Utilities Capital Projects - Assistant City Manager Aaron King introduced the update and said future Public Works Committee meetings will cover engineering/DOT/streets/stormwater projects in October and a broader capital projects snapshot in November. He noted work with the GIS team and budget office on a capital projects dashboard. - Derek Stroud, Utilities Capital Project Engineer, presented the utilities capital projects dashboard used with the Utilities Commission. Key projects included: - 30-inch water line extension from Thomas Water Treatment Plant to Lowry Street, with an $8.5 million budget and about $2.976 million spent, awaiting railroad permits; it will replace the 24-inch line that failed. - Nielsen Water Treatment Plant modernization: $122 million budget, $106 million spent, about 87 percent construction complete; expected to finish in late spring or summer 2027. - 15th Street pump station upgrade: nearly complete under a $3.1 million budget. - Archie Elledge lagoons project: cleaning and consolidating lagoons to meet current regulations. - Tanglewood Force Main replacement: $9.81 million budget; bids opened last month and approved by the Utilities Commission the day before the meeting. - Upper Peters Creek outfall phase two: delayed by brownfield and contaminated soils; a state-approved handling plan is in place, and the project is expected to go out to bid before the end of 2026. - Tanglewood Business Park gravity outfall with the county: $3.1 million state grant and $2.5 million current budget; construction began about six weeks earlier. - Wahlberg Road lift station design-build with the county: about 30 percent design, located on Union Cross Road; design completion expected in spring/summer 2027, with grant money deadline in 2029. - Lewisville lift station project with the Town of Lewisville to support the Great Wagon Road project. - Owen Thomas Park outfall: design just started with Black & Veatch; about eight to nine months of design work remain. - Foxcroft and Diggs neighborhood sewer rehab as part of the Collection System Improvement Program: contract just started. - Water distribution system improvements at nine sites: pre-construction conference held the day before the meeting, with Baker Underground starting work. - Northwest Boulevard water line replacement: replacing a 1929 water line and evaluating sewer and storm needs; coordinated with the future streetscape project. - Council Member Scippio asked whether the 15th Street pump station work could have affected Liberty Street water pressure. Mr. Stroud said it was unlikely because that station is fed from a different part of the distribution system; he agreed to follow up on the station’s service area. Mr. King added that staff had found and reopened valves between the 9th Street water tower and Brown School Lofts to address pressure problems. - Council Member Scippio asked how capital projects outside the city are funded. Mr. Stroud explained that Utilities is an enterprise fund, so projects are funded by water and sewer rates, not property taxes; county and town partners contribute funding for their projects. - Council Member Andree-Bowen praised the dashboard’s level of detail and said it met the council’s information needs. Mr. King said the city could adapt the existing utility dashboard rather than building a new one. Council Member Scippio requested visible street labels and improved zoom capability on the public maps. Staff Comments & Upcoming Events - Staff announced a public meeting on the Long Branch Trail Phase 3 feasibility study on Wednesday, September 30, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Samaritans Ministry, with alignment options for the trail from 25th Street North. - Staff announced a public meeting on the Salem Creek Low Water Bridge and greenway improvement on Wednesday, October 21, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Salem Lake Marina. - Staff reminded the committee of the City-County Utility Commission’s 50th anniversary event on September 16 at Tanglewood Clubhouse, with meet-and-greet at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon. - Council Member Clark suggested reopening a bus tour of utility facilities for newer council members, similar to a prior tour of Idols Dam, Nielsen Water Treatment Plant, and the Archie Elledge lagoons. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously; no action was taken on the two general agenda items, which were presented for information only. - Staff will consider using the existing utilities capital projects dashboard as the basis for the broader capital projects dashboard and will add street labels and zoom functionality to public maps. - The committee indicated continued interest in utility facility tours and in coordinating upcoming capital project dashboards and public outreach.