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.
Government
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.
From now until May 5, the Forsyth County government is seeking public input on its disengagement plan from Cardinal Innovations Healthcare.
Winston-Salem native Algenon Cash has launched a new initiative geared toward educating Black communities and families on public policies that promote economic mobility.
City should act now to steer funding toward projects that address climate change and climate justice
City should act now to steer funding toward projects that address climate change and climate justice
For the second time since 2019, state lawmakers are looking to get a bill passed that will add seats to the Winston-Salem City Council.
Although the meeting was three days after New Year’s Day, the first city council meeting did include a few fireworks. In a last ditch effort to halt $1 million in additional funding being allocated to the renovation of Belview Recreation Center, City Councilmember Annette Scippio proposed a substitute motion, sending the project back to the development stage.
