Public Meetings - Winston Salem, North Carolina

The Public Safety Committee of the Winston-Salem City Council met on February 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM to discuss three agenda items: amendments to police complaint procedures, a contract for towing management and vehicle management solutions, and the Winston-Salem Fire Department 2025 Annual Report. Chair Annette Scippio called the meeting to order, and all four committee members were present. The meeting adjourned at 3:02 PM. Consent Calendar - C-1: Approval of the Public Safety Committee Summary of Minutes – The minutes from the December 8, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously via consent vote. Discussion Items - G-1: Ordinance Amending Police Complaint Filing and Investigation Procedures – Captain Charles Olivo, Winston-Salem Police Department, presented the proposed amendment to Chapter 2, Section 2-108 of the City Code. The amendment expands complaint submission methods (directly to police, city clerk's office, or online), clarifies that investigations are conducted by the WSPD (not solely the Professional Standards Division), and modernizes notification to complainants (written, phone, or electronic). Appeals to the Citizens Police Review Board remain intact. Key statistics: In 2025, there were 6 official citizen complaints and 34 internal complaints. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval, referring the item to the City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-2: Resolution Approving Contract for Towing Management and Vehicle Management Solutions (Autura) – Staff from the WSPD and representatives from VMS Company presented the program. The contract with CFKAA Holdings, LLC d/b/a Autura will implement a digital dispatch system for towing, reducing officer time on scene and improving safety. The new fee structure raises the tow fee from $175 to $279, including a $50 increase for tow companies (first since 2019), a $35 per-dispatch software fee, and a $10 city fee. All 14 current tow companies support the program. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval, referring the item to the City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-3: Winston-Salem Fire Department 2025 Annual Report – Fire Chief Trey Mayor presented the annual report, highlighting: - BEAR Team: Responds to about 6 behavioral health requests per day; would be the fifth busiest engine company if follow-up calls are included. - Fire & Life Safety Branch: Added 3 inspectors, reducing the inspection backlog by 33%; fire investigators now on shift, achieving a closure rate three times the national average and reducing undetermined fires from 43% to 11%. - Apparatus: New ladder trucks in service, hybrid battalion chief vehicles, and a reserve truck acquired from Greensboro. - HOSS Alert: Emergency vehicle warning system; 700 responder-to-responder alerts in 2025. - Call volume: Down 14% from 2024, partly due to reduced medical call responses. - Property loss: 33% reduction; property saved doubled. - Fire fatalities: 2 in 2025 (down from 5 in 2024). - Training: New portable physical ability test course; SCBA equipment flaw discovered and manufacturer is testing a fix. - ISO 1 rating maintained (less than 0.5% of U.S. fire departments). - The report was received as information only; no action taken. Key Outcomes - G-1 (Police Complaint Procedures) – Unanimous recommendation to approve (4-0); referred to City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-2 (Towing Management Contract) – Unanimous recommendation to approve (4-0); referred to City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-3 (Fire Department Annual Report) – Received as information; no vote required.

The General Government Committee of the Winston-Salem City Council met on February 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM, chaired by Mayor Pro Tempore Denise D. Adams. The meeting included action on proposed noise ordinance amendments, code updates for the Urban Food Policy Council, and a Unified Development Ordinance text amendment. Informational briefings were received on the winter storm homeless response and a list of properties proposed for demolition. All four committee members were present and voted unanimously on the action items. The meeting adjourned at 4:52 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (C-1): The committee unanimously approved the meeting summary from December 8, 2025. Discussion Items - G-1: Winter Storm Homeless Response Shereka Floyd, Housing Programs Manager, reported on shelter services provided to the unhoused population during the winter storm from January 23 to February 3, 2026. A total of 422 individuals were sheltered through partnerships with local organizations. Samaritan Ministries served 1,222 meals during this period. The domestic violence shelter operated at 95% capacity. Council members expressed gratitude to staff. - G-2: Properties Proposed for Demolition in 2026 Bryan Chaney, Assistant Director of Neighborhood Services, presented a list of 11 properties to be demolished within the next 60 to 90 days. The properties are located in the Northeast, East, and Southeast wards. Council members questioned the city's efforts to preserve viable housing stock. Mr. Chaney noted that the owners did not undertake required repairs. City Attorney Camille French explained the legal requirements for notifying property owners. Staff committed to providing updated figures on the backlog of dilapidated properties. The city manager emphasized that these are privately owned structures where owners failed to comply. - G-3: Noise Ordinance Amendment (Chapter 46) Assistant City Manager Ben Rowe presented Phase 1 of the noise ordinance amendments. The proposal sets an objective standard of 85 decibels (DBA), measured at the complainant's property line, for large public assembly venues. The ordinance would be enforced by the police department using sound meters. Civil and criminal penalties are proposed. Phase 2 will address noise in commercial and residential areas. Council members discussed enforcement and exemptions, including a specific exemption for motorsports events. The committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval, forwarding the ordinance to the full City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-4: Urban Food Policy Council Code Update Dr. Shaleen Miller, Director of Sustainability and Intergovernmental Relations, presented an ordinance revising the code regarding the Urban Food Policy Council. The update removes references to defunct organizations and updates membership duties. The committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval, forwarding the item to the City Council on March 2, 2026. - G-5: UDO Text Amendment for Retaining Walls Dan Roberts, Project Planner, presented a request for a text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO-CC32) to remove specific height limits for mechanically stabilized slopes and retaining walls. The technical standards would be relocated to the Infrastructure Development Standards. The Planning Board had previously recommended the change unanimously. Discrepancy Note: The written agenda and meeting minutes state the public hearing date for this item is March 23, 2026. However, during the meeting, the City Clerk referenced the public hearing date as March 16, 2026. The committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Unanimously approved. - Noise Ordinance (G-3): Recommended for City Council approval (4-0 vote). Forwarded to the March 2, 2026 meeting. - Urban Food Policy Council (G-4): Recommended for City Council approval (4-0 vote). Forwarded to the March 2, 2026 meeting. - UDO Text Amendment (G-5): Recommended for City Council approval (4-0 vote). Forwarded for a public hearing (written records indicate March 23, 2026; oral transcript stated March 16, 2026). - Informational Items: The committee received the Winter Storm Homeless Response update and the Proposed Demolition List.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Mayor Allen Joines called the meeting to order, and all nine council members were present. The meeting included a City Manager update, recognition of the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Young Dreamers, approval of the consent agenda, two public hearings on zoning petitions, and a public comment period. The meeting adjourned at 7:01 PM. City Manager Update City Manager Patrick Pate provided updates: winter weather preparations (brine trucks, salt deployment), leaf collection schedule, penny shortage procedures, nominations for the Arts Walk of Fame and Sustainability Awards, infrastructure progress (90% of budget spent), and upcoming events (Cookout Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, Bellevue Community Center open house, Peace of the Triad ribbon cutting, Coffee with the City, and a Northeast Suburban Area Plan meeting). Honorariums H-1: Resolution Honoring the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Young Dreamers – The council unanimously (8-0) approved a resolution honoring Victor Aparicio and Corey McCann. The Human Relations Commission presented the awards, and both recipients spoke about their community work. Council Member Scott Andree-Bowen was also recognized for a community leadership award. Consent Calendar C-1: Resolution Correcting the 2017 Closure of Kerensky Street and Pershing Avenue – Approved unanimously (8-0). C-2: Approval of the Summary of Minutes from January 5, 2026 – Approved unanimously (8-0). No items were removed from the consent agenda. Discussion Items Zoning Petition W-3672 (Parks Family Holdings, LLC) – Public hearing to rezone 0.23 acres at southwest West Walnut and South Broad Street from LB to PB-S for three residential townhomes. Jeremiah Smith (838 South Broad Street), a neighboring property owner, expressed concern that the area’s transformation into a commercial restaurant and coffee shop district might conflict with residential development. Luke Dickey (Stimmel Associates), representing the applicant, argued the rezoning would add density in a growing mixed-use area. The Planning Board had unanimously recommended approval. Council Member Vivián Joiner moved to approve, seconded by Annette Scippio; motion carried 8-0. Zoning Petition W-3673 (Southern Properties of the Triad, LLC) – Public hearing to rezone 0.39 acres at northeast Brigham and South Hawthorne Road from GO-S to LO. No speakers. Council Member Scott Andree-Bowen moved to approve, seconded by Annette Scippio; motion carried 8-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Tara Brown (3612 Wickersham Lane): Urged the city to prioritize energy management for facilities, citing potential cost savings of up to $40,000/year and benefits for resilience and sustainability. - Mathew Mayers (2844 Wesleyan Lane): Supported energy efficiency, specifically urging the city to utilize Duke Energy's Smart Saver program for LED lighting upgrades, noting subsidies up to 80%. - Cynthia Hurson (1200 Willie Davis Drive): Spoke on behalf of Christina Handy, who faces eviction from public housing with her four children. She asked the city to use city-owned lots for interim housing and to intervene with housing partners to prevent displacement. - Olivia Doyle (215 North Peace Haven Road): Continued Christina Handy's case, stating legal aid had been contacted but the eviction remains, and requested city intervention with ASPIRE to allow more time for alternative housing. - Christina Handy: Alleged bullying and misconduct by ASPIRE and asked the council to take action to prevent her eviction. She stated she has been working with Urban Strategies but received insufficient support. Mayor Joines directed Assistant City Manager Dr. Right Lanier to follow up with the speakers and to engage with the housing authority. Key Outcomes - All votes (Honorariums, Consent Agenda, G-1, G-2, Adjournment) passed unanimously with 8 ayes (mayor not voting). - Zoning petitions W-3672 and W-3673 approved, allowing new residential and commercial development. - Staff directed to follow up on Christina Handy's eviction case and coordinate with ASPIRE and Legal Aid. - Council recognized the MLK Young Dreamers and council member Andree-Bowen's award. - Meeting adjourned at 7:01 PM.

The City Council Committee of the Whole met on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the City Hall, 101 North Main Street, Winston-Salem. All nine council members were present. The meeting covered consent agenda items, finance, public works, general government, and public safety topics, lasting until 3:46 PM. Key actions included approval of license renewals, budget amendments, a Microsoft enterprise agreement, and a greenway wayfinding project, along with informational updates on the annual audit, area planning, homelessness initiatives, and police district four progress. Consent Calendar - C-1: Ordinances renewing Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity for three limousine companies (Black Tie Transportation Inc. – 29 limousines; A&B Investors, LLC – 3 limousines; Allegiance Transportation, LLC – 10 limousines), one trolley pub company (Hook & Ladder Entertainment, LLC – 1 trolley pub), and one taxicab company (Willard Cab Company – 25 taxicabs). Referred to City Council on February 2, 2026. - C-2: Request for a public hearing on the eligibility of the Camel City Coach Company-Atlantic/Southern Greyhound Lines Garage for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Public hearing set for February 2, 2026. - C-3: Request for a public hearing on the eligibility of the Bahnson Company Building for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Public hearing set for February 2, 2026. - C-4: Request for a public hearing regarding the renaming of Bumgardner Street to Barton Mews Lane. Public hearing set for February 2, 2026. - C-5: Resolution correcting the 2017 resolution closing and abandoning Kerensky Street and a portion of Pershing Avenue. - C-6: Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget ordinances amending the Annual Appropriation and Tax Levy Ordinance and the Project Budget Ordinance. - C-7: Approval of the Committee of the Whole summary of minutes from November 10, 2025. All consent items were approved unanimously by an 8-0 voice vote (Council Member Burke was present, though not counted in the recorded vote; motion by Mayor Pro Tempore Adams, second by Council Member Hall). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items Finance Committee 1. Financial Statement Audit, Single Audit, and Annual Comprehensive Financial Report – CFO Kelly Latham introduced the audit; Dan Gogerty of Cherry Beckert presented. The city received an unmodified (clean) opinion. The single audit is delayed due to late federal guidelines (issued day before Thanksgiving) but is expected within a week. No material weaknesses, control deficiencies, or corrected adjustments were identified. Uncorrected adjustments were technical accounting items with no cash impact. The city adopted GASB 101 on compensated absences, adding a $5 million liability (no cash flow effect). No financial performance indicators of concern. The report is pending Local Government Commission approval; posting expected within one to two weeks. Penny Rounding Announcement – CFO Latham informed council that due to the U.S. Treasury ceasing penny production and limited bank supply, the city will begin symmetric rounding (up/down to nearest five-cent increment) at payment locations starting January 13, 2026. This is a temporary measure while rate structures are reviewed. No council action required. 2. Resolution Approving a New Microsoft Enterprise Agreement with SHI International Corporation – $3,965,406 – CIO Tom Kureczka presented a three-year renewal (March 1, 2026 – February 28, 2029). The contract covers city-wide licensing for servers, desktops, cloud services, and includes new tools: 250 M365 Copilot add-ons (AI), enhanced e-discovery, remote device management, and cyber analytics. Annual costs: Year 1 – $1.18M, Year 2 – $1.2M, Year 3 – $1.5M. Savings from retiring existing tools estimated at $50,000–$100,000. Training and AI data security were discussed. Council Member Scippio confirmed the agreement supports police department technology needs. Motion by Mayor Pro Tempore Adams, second by Council Member Scippio; approved 8-0. Public Works Committee 1. Resolution Authorizing Agreement with NCDOT for Greenway Wayfinding Signage Project – Director of Transportation Jeff Fansler presented a $640,000 project (80% federal, 20% local match: $512,000 grant, $128,000 city). Signs include mile markers, directional signs, and monument signs, based on the 2019 Bicycle Master Plan. Installation expected within 12 months (subject to material availability). A criteria system will allow future expansion. Council Member Scippio noted sign color coordination with parks. Council Member Andree-Bowen asked about timeline and future greenway additions. Motion by Mayor Pro Tempore Adams, second by Council Member Andree-Bowen; approved 8-0. General Government Committee 1. Overview of Forward 2045 Area Plan Process – Assistant Planning Director Amy Crum presented the new area plan series covering every parcel in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Key changes: focus solely on land use (not repeating transportation or other plans), shorter documents with more graphics, and new boundaries based on geography (not wards). The first plan (Northeast Suburban) begins January 28, 2026, with three to five public meetings per plan area. Plans will take about six years, with two per year. Council Member Joiner asked about property owner rights – no zoning changes; recommendations only. Council Member Joiner also requested youth engagement. Council Member Scippio emphasized overlaying other plans. This item was for information only. 2. Update on Homelessness Initiatives – Housing Program Manager Shereka Floyd presented the second part of an earlier briefing. Accomplishments: revived Project Homeless Connect, increased city-county partnership (county contributed $181,194 in local funds for shelter operations), winter shelters opened (Annex 2 with 35 beds, plus others). As of January 4, 2026, 75 women and 167 men served. Coordinated entry system revamped with a light-touch assistance program for rapid re-housing. A 24/7 call center contract with NC211 was signed. Needs: staff wages (60% below living wage), interim housing for families and single women, non-congregate shelter options, affordable housing, and housing retention. Future ideas include master leasing, rehabbing city-owned properties (10 units on Burton Street being renovated for permanent supportive housing), tiny houses (e.g., Eden Village model), and a Tampa Hope-style warehouse project. Council Member Adams requested city contribution figures; City Manager Lanier noted total homeless spending $3.7 million (including Continuum of Care, ESG, CDBG). Council discussed public restrooms, point-in-time count methodology (HUD requires sundown, but council encouraged alternative daytime counts for advocacy). Item was for information only. Public Safety Committee 1. Winston-Salem Police Department District Four One-Year Progress Update – Captain Jason Gates reported on the new downtown district launched September 2024. Key metrics (compared to pre-implementation period): response times for priority 2 and 3 calls decreased by over one minute; case closure rates improved: cleared by arrest up 11.8%, closed cleared up 27%, inactive cases down 8.5%. Total calls remained consistent. Community engagement includes monthly meetings, bike patrol, and a retired sergeant serving as downtown liaison. Staffing increased from 20 to 24 officers. Boundary adjustment in September 2025 brought West End into District 4. Bicycle officer training (LEBA) certified 28 officers citywide. Upcoming coffee with a cop on February 19, 2026. Council Member Scippio requested displaying similar data for other districts to show no negative impact. Item was for information only. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (8-0), referred to City Council February 2, 2026. - Microsoft Enterprise Agreement: Resolution approved (8-0), referred to City Council. - Greenway Wayfinding Signage: Resolution approved (8-0), referred to City Council. - Budget Amendments (C-6): Approved via consent, referred to City Council. - Street Closure Correction (C-5): Approved via consent, referred to City Council. - Historic Nominations and Street Renaming (C-2, C-3, C-4): Public hearings scheduled for February 2, 2026. - Penny Rounding: City staff will implement symmetric rounding starting January 13, 2026; no council action needed. - Strategic Planning Session: Mayor announced a two-day session beginning Wednesday, January 14 (not Thursday as initially stated), to discuss housing initiatives, potential bond issue, and other topics. - Adjournment: Motion carried (8-0) at 3:46 PM.

The Winston-Salem City Council met on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM, with Mayor Allen Joines presiding. The meeting included a consent agenda, several pulled items, a public hearing, and a closed session. The council approved most consent agenda items, modified the Affordable Housing Development Program, adopted Civil Service Board rules with amendments, ordered a demolition, and continued consideration of state legislative priorities. The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM. Consent Calendar - C-2: Resolution authorizing sole source contract for bomb robot refurbishment with Peraton-Remotec for $215,000 – approved. - C-3: Resolution approving the 2026 Federal Action Plan for the city – approved. - C-6: Resolution accepting the Underrepresented Communities Grant for East Winston Urban Renewal Documentation and Mars Hill Baptist Church National Register Update – approved. - C-7: Request for a public hearing on February 2, 2026, regarding closure of an unopened portion of Fenimore Street – approved. - C-8: Resolution adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for continuing transportation planning for the Winston-Salem Area Transportation Planning Organization – approved. - C-9: Ordinance amending Section 42-175 of the city code regarding civil penalties for parking violations and establishing a civil penalty for oversized vehicle parking – approved. - C-10: Ordinance amending Chapter 38 to establish a City Parks Code of Conduct (Second Reading) – approved. - C-11: Resolution accepting the Certified Local Government Grant for the Distiller’s House Roof Restoration at Historic Bethabara Park – approved. - C-12: Resolution awarding a construction contract for Fairlawn Drive Sidewalks Project to Atlantic Contracting Company, Inc. for $1,237,733.00, and ordinance amending the project budget – approved. - C-13: Approval of City Council Summary of Minutes from December 1, 2025 – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up or spoke during the public hearing for the demolition item (G-1). Discussion Items - C-1 – Vehicle Management Solutions Program (VMS): Council Member Scippio moved to keep this item in the Public Safety Committee until February 9, 2026, for further discussion on alternative solutions and cost implications. The motion carried unanimously. - C-4 – Civil Service Board Appeal Hearing Rules: City Attorney Camille French provided an overview of proposed rules, including definitions, attendance policy (65% for regularly scheduled meetings), handling of new evidence, witness testimony, and board member impartiality. Council Member Hall asked about the $50,000 budget allocated for the board. The council approved the rules with two amendments: adding the word "current" for the employee handbook in sections B6 and D4, and removing the sentence regarding the city council appointed chairman from the attendance policy. The vote was 7-1, with Council Member Andree-Bowen voting nay. - C-5 – Affordable Housing Development Program and Guidelines: Housing Development Director Michael Blair highlighted changes, including enhanced community outreach requirements where applicants must show evidence of contacting the neighborhood association and working with neighborhood services. The council approved unanimously. - G-1 – Demolition of Structure at 622 East 25th Street: A public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Brian Chane of the Planning Department stated the estimated repair cost is $37,752, while the fair market value is $200. The council approved the demolition ordinance unanimously. - G-2 – Legislative Priorities for 2026 Session: Staff requested this item be pulled for additional work; it was continued to the February 16, 2026, City Council meeting. Key Outcomes - C-1 Remanded: The Vehicle Management Solutions Program was sent back to the Public Safety Committee for further study. - C-4 Adopted: Civil Service Board Appeal Hearing Rules approved with amendments (7-1 vote). - C-5 Adopted: Affordable Housing Development Program modifications approved unanimously. - G-1 Approved: Demolition of the structure at 622 East 25th Street ordered unanimously. - G-2 Continued: State legislative priorities will be considered on February 16, 2026. - Closed Session: The council entered closed session under N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(1) and (a)(5) and later adjourned.

The Public Works Committee met on December 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM. The committee approved the consent agenda, received an update on NCDOT projects, recommended approval of a transportation planning MOU, and recommended approval of a parking ordinance amendment establishing a civil penalty for oversized vehicles. The meeting adjourned at 2:47 PM. Consent Calendar - C-1: Petition to Close an Unopened Portion of Fenimore Street (Southwest Ward) – The committee recommended approval and referred the matter to the City Council on February 2, 2026. Approved unanimously (4-0). - C-2: Approval of Public Works Committee Summary of Minutes (October 14, 2025) – Approved unanimously by consent. Discussion Items - G-1: Update on NCDOT Projects in Forsyth County – John Ryan, Division 9 Engineer, presented current and upcoming projects, including the Northern Beltway (eastern section expected late 2026), US 158 widening (completion March 2029), a new interchange on I-421 in Kernersville (letting November 2025, completion January 2031), and $8 million annually for resurfacing. He also outlined upcoming bridge replacements on University Parkway, Germanton Road, 16th Street, 3rd/4th/5th Street, Old Greensboro Road, Silas Creek Parkway, and Kinneman Road. The committee received the update as information only; no vote was taken. - G-2: Resolution Adopting the Memorandum of Understanding for the Winston-Salem Area Transportation Planning Organization (WSATPO) – Jeff Fansler, Director of Transportation, presented the revised MOU. Changes include rebranding from “Urban Area MPO” to “Transportation Planning Organization” and updated voting weights based on 2020 census (Winston-Salem’s weight: 45 out of 100). No structural changes. The committee voted unanimously (4-0) to recommend approval, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. - G-3: Ordinance Amending Section 42-175 – Civil Penalties for Parking Violations and Oversized Vehicle Parking – Reid Hutchins, Transportation Operations Manager, presented the amendment establishing a $50 civil penalty for oversized vehicles parked on streets (vehicles over 80 inches wide or 30 feet long). Existing ordinance already prohibits such parking but lacked an enforceable penalty. Enforcement will be by Winston-Salem Police and parking enforcement staff; warnings will be issued initially. The $50 amount was chosen to align with state statute limits; towing capacity is limited. The committee voted unanimously (4-0) to recommend approval, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. Staff Comments - Year-End Highlights – Assistant City Manager Aaron King summarized departmental accomplishments, including completion of the Northern Beltway eastern section, Metal Art Drive, three sidewalk projects, Liberty Main two-way conversion, Twin City Trail eastern section, Long Branch Trail design, Innovation Quarter stormwater pond (spring 2026), and emergency repairs on Old Salisbury and Buffaver Roads. Street resurfacing: 30 miles completed, $6 million change order approved for spring 2026 work. WSTA: 30 of 85 buses funded for replacement in 18 months, including low-no grants and TPO dollars. Policy changes for fare cap and UMO platform go live in February 2026. Foreshadowed 2026 priorities: capital project backlog, landfill expansion discussions, continued resurfacing, and big decisions on WSTA at January retreat. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously (4-0). - G-2 (WSATPO MOU) recommended to Council (4-0) for January 5, 2026. - G-3 (Oversized Vehicle Parking Penalty) recommended to Council (4-0) for January 5, 2026. - All votes were unanimous with Council Members Burke, Andree-Bowen, Taylor, and Clark present and voting aye.

The Finance Committee of the City of Winston-Salem met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 4:56 PM. Chair Robert C. Clark presided with all four members present (Council Member Clark, Mayor Pro Tempore Denise D. Adams via Zoom, Council Member Annette Scippio, and Council Member James Taylor Jr.). The committee approved the consent agenda unanimously, recommended approval of a federal grant for historic documentation in East Winston, received an update on the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) renewal process, and discussed the proposed Axon police technology contract and a firefighter compensation classification study—both items not on the formal agenda but raised by the chair due to their significant financial impact. Consent Calendar - C-1: Resolution authorizing a sole source contract for bomb robot refurbishment (Peraton-Remotec, $215,000). Unanimously recommended for approval to City Council. - C-2: Resolution accepting the Certified Local Government Grant for the Distiller’s House Roof Restoration at Historic Bethabara Park. Unanimously recommended for approval. - C-3: Consideration of items related to the Fairlawn Drive Sidewalks Project: resolution awarding construction contract to Atlantic Contracting Company, Inc. ($1,237,733) and ordinance amending the FY2025-2026 budget. Unanimously recommended for approval. - C-4: Approval of the Finance Committee Summary of Minutes from October 14, 2025. Approved by consent vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items G-1: Resolution Accepting Underrepresented Communities Grant for East Winston Urban Renewal Documentation and Mars Hill Baptist Church National Register Update - Kelly Bennett (Principal Planner) and Michelle McCullough (Historic Resources Officer) presented the grant, totaling $75,000 from the National Park Service with a 2.8-year timeline. The grant’s match is provided through staff time. McCullough explained that the project will survey approximately 629 properties within the East Winston General Neighborhood Renewal Plan area (1950s-1970s) and update the National Register nomination for Mars Hill Baptist Church (originally listed in 1999) to reflect its African American congregation history. Council Member Scippio expressed strong support, noting the importance of documenting African American history in the city, especially as living witnesses age. She offered to connect staff with surviving residents. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council. G-2: Update on Downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District (BID) - Ben Rowe (Assistant City Manager) presented a status update on the BID, formally known as a Municipal Service District. The district’s additional property tax rate is 9 cents per $100 valuation (unchanged since creation in 2013), projected to generate approximately $765,000 in FY2025-2026. The current contract with the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership expires June 30, 2026. Rowe outlined the scope of enhanced services (cleaner environment, marketing, development, physical appearance) and the planned renewal timeline: public input begins December 10–early next week; a public hearing is scheduled for January 6, 2026; the RFP will be advertised January 12; proposals will be reviewed in February; and a recommendation will go to the General Government Committee in March, with council approval anticipated by July 1, 2026. No action was taken; the update was for information only. Axon Police Technology Contract (Informational Discussion) - City Manager Pate briefed the committee on a proposed 10-year, $4.3 million per year contract with Axon for police technology (body-worn cameras, in-vehicle cameras, drones, tasers, records management, real-time crime center integration, etc.). The city currently spends about $1.7 million annually on these services. Pate explained that the state requires evidence retrieval through Axon products, and a combined contract offers a discount of about $26 million off the “rack rate.” The city would need to sign a non-binding letter of intent with a non-appropriation clause to lock in prices before January 2026; the council retains budget authority. Chair Clark expressed frustration at the 150%+ cost increase, calling it “criminal” and questioning the lack of competition. Council Member Scippio asked if the contract includes a cost-decrease clause (it does not; it is flat for 10 years). Pate noted staff will explore a la carte alternatives and compare pricing with other cities. No formal action was taken; the item will be further considered during the FY2026-2027 budget process. Firefighter Compensation Classification Study (Informational Discussion) - City Manager Pate outlined the results of a market study (conducted by PTRC) for sworn firefighter positions. The study found that current pay ranges are 8–10% below market due to a hybrid pay structure. Proposed changes include eliminating subclassifications (e.g., associates/bachelor’s degrees) and setting a single pay range per title, with a minimum of $51,000 for Firefighter I (currently $46,978). The maximum is slightly above market at $79,905 versus $74,440. Implementation would require council to adopt new ranges and appropriate additional funds from fund balance. Pate noted that a full cost analysis is pending, including a benefits comparison and compression adjustments. Council Member Scippio urged a thorough, individual-based review to ensure fairness. The study also sets a precedent for other city positions (2,500 permanent employees). No action was taken; staff will return with specific funding requests. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (C-1 through C-4): Approved unanimously (4-0) and recommended to City Council for January 5, 2026. - G-1 (Underrepresented Communities Grant): Motion by Council Member Scippio, seconded by Council Member Taylor; recommended for approval to City Council (unanimous). - G-2 (BID Update): Received as information; next steps will proceed per the outlined timeline. - Axon Contract: No decision made. The city will proceed with signing a non-binding letter of intent with a non-appropriation clause to preserve pricing; final contract approval and funding will be part of the FY2026-2027 budget deliberation. - Fire Classification Study: No vote. Staff will bring forward a formal proposal for new pay ranges and implementation costs (estimated to be substantial) for committee and council consideration in January–February 2026, with a goal to implement before the next firefighter academy class (March–April 2026). The meeting adjourned at 4:56 PM.

The Public Safety Committee of the City of Winston-Salem met on December 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the City Hall, 101 North Main Street, to discuss and act on several items, including a vehicle management program, a major technology contract renewal, and a bloodhound acquisition. The meeting was chaired by Council Member Annette Scippio and attended by Council Members Regina Hall, Vivián V. Joiner, and Scott Andree-Bowen. The meeting adjourned at 3:39 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (C-1): The committee unanimously approved the summary minutes from the October 13, 2025, Public Safety Committee meeting. (Motion by Hall, second by Andree-Bowen, 4-0). Discussion Items G-1: Resolution Approving the Vehicle Management Solutions Program (VMS) Captain Amy Gauldin of the WSPD and Alan Braisher, Vice President of VMS, presented a program to digitize and expedite the dispatch of tow trucks for police-related incidents (collisions or safety hazards). Key features include a citizen website to locate towed vehicles, real-time tracking, and reduced radio traffic for dispatchers. The program is funded by a $43.75 administrative fee per tow (paid by the citizen or insurance company) and a $50 increase in the existing tow fee (to $268.75 normal hours, $293 after hours). There is no cost to the city; the city continues to receive $10 per tow from tow companies. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval, with the resolution referred to the full City Council on January 5, 2026. (Motion by Hall, second by Joiner, 4-0). G-2: Update on the Winston-Salem Police Department's Axon Technology Contract Renewal Assistant Chiefs Jose E. Gomez and Christopher Diamont presented a proposal to consolidate three existing Axon contracts into a single 10-year agreement with an annual cost of $4.3 million (up from the current $1.7 million). The package includes new body-worn cameras, Taser 10, drones, ALPR, evidence.com storage, AI-assisted report writing (Draft One), translation services (over 150 languages), and a new records management system to replace a 27-year-old system. The 10-year price is locked in with a $26 million discount through bundling, and includes hardware refreshes every two years. The city manager, Pat Pate, clarified that the request is for a letter of intent with a non-appropriation clause, meaning the final decision will be made during the FY 2026-27 budget process. Council members expressed concerns about the 10-year commitment and cost, but the committee agreed to move forward with the intent to sign, allowing the rate to be locked in. No formal vote was taken; consensus was reached to proceed. G-3: Winston-Salem Police Department Bloodhound Acquisition Captain Chris Phillips introduced Bocephus, a bloodhound acquired for $10,000 through a partnership with the Winston-Salem Police Foundation, the AKC Reunite program, and the Forsyth Kennel Club. Bocephus is trained for scent discrimination to track high-risk missing persons, including children and vulnerable adults. The dog is on call 24/7 and has already assisted neighboring counties. The city incurs no direct cost for the dog; food is donated. The bloodhound is expected to serve about six years. Committee members welcomed Bocephus and thanked the Police Foundation. Holiday Safety Presentations - Police Department (Captain George Jenkins): Provided tips on home security (lock doors, use timers), shopping safety, avoiding package theft, and recognizing scams. - Fire Department (Chief Trey Mayo): Advised on Christmas tree freshness (cut and place in water immediately), space heater safety (3 feet clearance, tip-over shutoff), cooking fire prevention (stand by your pan), and lithium-ion battery hazards (use recommended chargers, don't charge in egress paths, dispose properly). Key Outcomes - VMS Program: Committee recommended approval; referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. - Axon Contract: Committee agreed to proceed with a letter of intent with a non-appropriation clause, locking in the proposed 10-year pricing for budget consideration. - Bloodhound: Information only; no action required. - Holiday Safety: Information shared with the public.

The General Government Committee of the Winston-Salem City Council met on December 8, 2025 at 4:00 PM. The committee approved the consent agenda and discussed seven general agenda items including an update on fire classification market study, approval of federal and state legislative action plans, adoption of Civil Service Board appeal hearing rules, proposed amendments to planned residential development standards, zoning regulations for needle exchanges, and modifications to the affordable housing development program. All votes were unanimous (4-0) with Mayor Pro Tempore Adams, Council Member Joiner, Council Member Burke, and Council Member Hall present. The meeting adjourned at 5:33 PM. Consent Calendar - C-1: Demolition of Structure at 622 East 25th Street (Northeast Ward) – Request for a public hearing on an ordinance ordering demolition. Committee recommended approval and referred to the City Council on January 5, 2026. - C-2: Approval of General Government Committee Summary of Minutes (October 13, 2025) – Approved by consent vote. Discussion Items G-1: Update on Fire Classification Market Study - Presenters: Assistant City Manager Sharon Wojda, Matt Reese (Piedmont Triad Regional Council), and Human Resources Director Dr. Keena Cofield Jones. - Summary: The study compares current fire department pay plan to 19 other North Carolina localities. Current ranges lag the market by 7–11% depending on rank. The recommendation is to move to a standard 55% spread between minimum and maximum pay and simplify the pay structure by removing embedded degree tracks (no degree, associate's, bachelor's) in favor of a hiring matrix that recognizes education at point of hire. Battalion chief would require a grade increase due to an 11% market gap. - Council Positions: Council Member Burke expressed concern about prioritizing firefighters over other city employees (e.g., utilities, sanitation) and emphasized the need for clear communication with all employees to avoid perception of favoritism. Council Member Hall asked about compression between ranks; staff noted additional recommendations will come. Council Member Joiner clarified that education-based pay adjustments would occur at promotion. Council Member Clark requested printed copies of the presentation. - Outcome: Information only; no vote. Staff will continue analysis and return with implementation strategies and benefit survey results. G-2: Resolution Approving the 2026 Federal Action Plan - Presenter: Dr. Shalene Miller (Intergovernmental Relations) and Kyle Leppard (federal lobbyist). - Summary: The action plan articulates the city's federal policy priorities, focusing on preserving funding for CDBG, HOME, and Continuum of Care programs, and responding to potential federal funding shifts. Council Member Adams asked about federal changes to Continuum of Care grants, specifically caps on permanent housing spending and potential funding gaps. Kyle Leppard confirmed these risks. - Council Positions: Council Member Clark asked about transportation funding assumptions under a continuing resolution. Leppard noted that FY24 appropriations levels are expected to continue. - Motion: Council Member Hall moved to recommend approval, seconded by Council Member Joiner. Vote: 4-0, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. G-3: Resolution Adopting 2026 State Legislative Priorities - Presenter: Dr. Shalene Miller. - Summary: The state legislative agenda includes a new format with a general agenda for rapid response and continued advocacy on specific bills from the prior session (e.g., opposing unfunded mandates, protecting local authority). - Motion: Council Member Hall moved to recommend approval, seconded by Council Member Joiner. Vote: 4-0, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. G-4: Resolution Adopting Civil Service Board Appeal Hearing Rules - Presenter: Attorney French. - Summary: Attorney French presented the final version of the Civil Service Board (CSB) appeal hearing rules, highlighting legal revisions made to ensure compliance with state statute. The recommended version is Exhibit B (dated 12/4/25, legal revisions, council version), which incorporates all prior edits including a clarification that absences spanning multiple-day meetings are counted only once for attendance purposes. - Council Positions: Mayor Joines expressed support, noting the document is workable and compliant. Council Member Clark supported the revised version. Council Member Hall thanked the city attorney’s office and the CSB for their efforts. - Motion: Council Member Hall moved to approve Exhibit B (CSB draft rules with legal revisions, council version), seconded by Council Member Joiner. Vote: 4-0, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. G-5: Proposed Amendments to Planned Residential Development (PRD) Bufferyard and Thoroughfare Open Space Standards - Presenter: Chris Murphy, Director of Planning and Development Services. - Summary: Staff sought guidance on whether to examine modifying buffer yard and thoroughfare open space standards for PRDs. A request from TREBIC (real estate industry) prompted the discussion. Current residential-to-residential buffer requirements may not be a wise use of land given housing needs. Thoroughfare open space is considered more critical for aesthetic reasons. - Council Positions: Mayor Pro Tempore Adams supported moving forward, emphasizing collaboration with developers and need for housing. Council Member Joiner agreed, wanting to minimize buffers overall especially residential-to-residential or commercial-to-commercial, but not eliminate all. - Outcome: Committee directed staff to work on a text amendment and bring options back later in spring/summer 2026. G-6: Information on Zoning Regulations for Needle Exchanges - Presenter: Aaron King, Assistant City Manager. - Summary: The Twin City Harm Reduction Collective operates a needle exchange as an accessory use at Green Street United Methodist Church (West Salem). Concerns from neighbors have increased as the program grew from serving 150–250 to 2,000–3,000 annually. Current zoning does not specifically address needle exchanges; staff classified it as an accessory church use. Council can amend the UDO to change approval authority, allowed districts, or add conditions. - Council Positions: Council Member Joiner (representing the area) stated the program has outgrown its location and asked colleagues to allow staff to explore alternative regulations, possibly locating it at a county health facility. Council Member Scippio noted it is run by an outside agency, not the church, and suggested it may be better categorized as a public health use requiring different zoning. Council Member Clark recommended coordinating with Forsyth County since they fund the program. Council Member Hall supported staff moving forward. - Outcome: Committee directed staff to research and bring back draft text amendment options. G-7: Resolution Authorizing Modification of Affordable Housing Development Program and Guidelines - Presenter: Michael Blair, Housing Development Director. - Summary: Proposed changes include: increase per-unit investment from $35,000 to $40,000 (new rental) and up to $100,000 for city-associated units (no cap in Charlotte, Greensboro caps rehab at $20,000); incorporate the Housing Justice Act; adjust scoring system for site amenities to a 0.5-mile radius (15-minute city concept); encourage smaller mixed-income rental developments; conduct pre-review of applications; make affordable housing coalition meetings more public; and provide quarterly status updates on funded projects using a template. - Council Positions: Mayor Pro Tempore Adams requested more details on remaining state ARPA funds and website clarity. Council Member Clark asked for an ongoing evergreen project status log (e.g., red-yellow-green). Council Member Hall emphasized keeping neighborhood association contact lists updated. Council Member Scippio requested a total ARPA-funded project completion status report. Council Member Joiner asked for clearer scoring criteria in applications to avoid subjectivity. - Motion: Council Member Joiner moved to recommend approval, seconded by Council Member Hall. Vote: 4-0, referred to City Council on January 5, 2026. Key Outcomes - Votes (all 4-0): Recommended approval of the 2026 Federal Action Plan (G-2), 2026 State Legislative Priorities (G-3), Civil Service Board Appeal Hearing Rules (G-4, specific exhibit B council version), and Affordable Housing Development Program modifications (G-7). All referred to the full City Council on January 5, 2026. - Directives: Staff was directed to proceed with examining PRD bufferyard/thoroughfare open space amendments (G-5) and to research zoning regulation changes for needle exchanges (G-6). - Staff Actions: HR will continue fire classification study analysis with benefit survey results and bring back implementation recommendations. Housing staff will improve website clarity, develop project status tracking, and implement pre-application reviews.