In response to the recent rise in violent crime, the City of Winston-Salem is adopting a new program called Cure Violence Global and bringing a mentorship program to recreation centers across the city.
Government
Earlier this month Gov. Roy Cooper appointed attorney Frederick B. Adams II to serve as a district court judge here in Forsyth County. The appointment by Gov. Cooper will fill the vacant seat left by Judge Lisa Menefee, who retired earlier this year.
The Winston-Salem City Council has approved spending $2.95 million in federal pandemic relief for crime prevention, an eviction-assistance program, and a one-time bonus for city employees who performed essential work during the pandemic.
A total of 391,415 registered voters (of nearly 7.2 million) have been removed from North Carolina rolls in this year’s “biennial voter registration list maintenance,” according to Democracy NC. In 2019, more than half a million voters’ names were removed. The process occurs in odd numbered years.
In an attempt to transform the vacant property into a community center, Winston-Salem City Councilmember Barbara Hanes Burke has requested that the local school district gift the former campus of Hanes-Lowrance Middle School on Indiana Avenue to the city.
An advocacy effort led by the Forsyth County Department of Social Services and supported by Age-Friendly Forsyth has resulted in Forsyth County Commissioners formally recognizing June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Forsyth County. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and wearing a purple ribbon or purple clothing throughout the month of June is one way to bring awareness of this serious issue. Last year saw an increase in reported cases of elder abuse that may be related to pandemic issues and social isolation of older adults.
There have been 15 homicides in Winston-Salem this year, compared to nine this time last year. In response to the rise in homicides, shootings, and other violent crimes, the Winston-Salem City Council is calling for the budget to include more funding for crime prevention initiatives and community youth programs.
During a virtual meeting on Thursday, May 27, city officials unveiled the $530.9 million budget to members of the Winston-Salem City Council. As is, the budget includes a sales tax increase, a property tax bill increase, and funds for the creation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office.
Earlier this week city officials continued talks about the implementation of an alternative response model to address 911 calls that involve individuals dealing with mental health issues.
The Winston-Salem City Council has approved a resolution calling for federal and state action to establish a commission to study the issue of reparations for Black citizens and apologizing for the city’s participation in urban renewal programs.
