Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Winston-Salem public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
16 issues in public safety
Demolition of Dilapidated Structures at Three Addresses
Three blighted buildings in the East, Northeast, and North wards were ordered demolished after uncontested public hearings.
Winter Shelter Funding
The city added $50,000 to keep winter shelter operations running November 15 through March 1 for residents experiencing homelessness, separate from the newly opened short-term shelter for women.
City Hall Centennial Preparation and Painting Change Order
City Hall is getting a fresh coat of paint and repairs just in time for its 100th anniversary celebration on November 16th.
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
Committee members are planning the second annual Winston-Salem World Day of Remembrance to raise awareness about traffic safety and honor victims of road crashes.
Need for Standalone Emergency Operations Center
City staff reminded council members of the ongoing legislative priority to secure funding for a dedicated, standalone Emergency Operations Center.
Cannabis Decriminalization and Fair Justice Act
City officials discussed public interest in decriminalizing marijuana, clarifying that state law still classifies it as illegal while highlighting that police use discretion to issue citations in nearly all simple possession cases.
Emergency Response to Major Water Main Break
City utilities officials reviewed the response to a major July 29 water main break that affected half the service area, highlighting successful interagency coordination and areas for improving public communication.
Fire Department SUV Response Program & EMS Support
The fire department evaluated a pilot program using light SUV units to respond to routine medical calls and lift assists. This approach kept heavy fire engines available for true emergencies and reduced wear and tear on equipment, though expanding it permanently requires funding.
Code Enforcement Communication Barriers and Neighborhood Blight
Council members voiced severe frustration over new city policies preventing direct contact with code enforcement officers, arguing it hampers efforts to resolve rampant property blight in the Northeast Ward.
Downtown Noise and Cruising Concerns
The city adopted updated noise rules to help control loud disturbances and improve neighborhood quietness.
Lifeguard Heat Safety Regulations
Community members and pool staff called for common-sense regulations and shorter rotations when heat index levels soar, following incidents of heat exhaustion among city lifeguards.
Firefighter Pay Raise
Winston-Salem just gave firefighters a much-needed pay raise with a unanimous city council vote. This is a huge win for keeping our emergency services strong and fully staffed.
Fire Classification Market Study and Pay Plan Implementation
The city is implementing the first phase of a classification and compensation study for the fire department, providing all certified fire personnel at least a 4.32% salary increase and adjusting pay grades.
Police Complaint Procedures Update
The city is updating its code to make it easier for residents to file complaints against police officers online or through the city clerk's office, while maintaining oversight through the Citizen Police Review Board.
Winston-Salem Fire Department 2025 Annual Review
Fire Chief Trey Mayor presented the fire department's annual report, highlighting a 33% reduction in inspection backlogs, decreased civilian fire fatalities, and ongoing behavioral health response integration.
Demolition of Substandard Structure at 622 East 25th Street
The city ordered the demolition of an unsafe, blighted structure where repairs would cost far more than the building's value.