Insights from Winston-Salem City Council Meeting
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Virtual Meeting Procedures
- Announcements and Public Hearings
- Annexation Petitions
- Appointments to Boards and Commissions
- Televised Broadcast and Meeting Availability
- Agenda Item Z1: Public Hearing on Voluntary Annexation
- Item Z2: Public Hearing on Voluntary Annexation
- Item Z3: Downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District Advisory Committee Appointment
- Item Z4: Zoning Board of Adjustment Appointments
- Item Z5: Urban Food Policy Council Appointment
- Item Z6: Recreation and Parks Commission Appointment
- Item Z7: Public Assembly Facilities Commission Appointments
- Conclusion
- Voting PSA for Election Day
Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the proceedings of the Winston-Salem City Council meeting held on November 2nd. The meeting was conducted virtually in compliance with the city's policy and procedures for virtual meetings. Due to the safer-at-home order, all council members participated virtually. The meeting agenda included items such as annexation petitions, appointments to boards and commissions, and other important matters. The meeting was broadcasted live and made available for viewing online. Let's dive into the details of each agenda item and the key highlights of the meeting.
Virtual Meeting Procedures
The Winston-Salem City Council meeting on November 2nd was held virtually to ensure the safety of council members and the public. The decision to conduct the meeting virtually was made in accordance with the city's policy and procedures for virtual meetings. Each council member participated remotely, and their votes were recorded through a Roll call. The meeting was managed by the city clerk, who called the roll for each agenda item. The public was given an opportunity to speak during public hearings by joining the meeting virtually. Additionally, written comments were accepted until the following day. The meeting was broadcasted live on TV 13 and made available for replay on subsequent days.
Announcements and Public Hearings
The meeting agenda consisted of two main categories: annexation petitions and appointments to boards and commissions. These items were listed as public hearings, and individuals had the opportunity to speak virtually if they wished to. The city council provided instructions for submitting written comments on the annexation petitions, which could be sent to the city clerk's office via mail or email. Written comments received before the specified deadline would be shared with the mayor, council members, and appropriate parties. If desired, a council member could make a motion to reconsider an item Based on the written comments.
Annexation Petitions
The council considered two annexation petitions during the meeting. These petitions involved voluntary annexation of certain areas into the city. The first petition pertained to approximately 94.99 acres of land located on the east side of Wahlberg Road. The Second petition involved approximately 12.74 acres of land located on the west side of Walmart Road. Both petitions were recommended by the public works committee. No opposition was reported for either petition, and the public hearing for each petition was closed without any speakers. The council members proceeded to discuss and vote on these items.
Appointments to Boards and Commissions
Apart from annexation petitions, the meeting agenda included appointments to various boards and commissions. These appointments were recommended by the mayor and subject to approval by the city council. The downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District Advisory Committee had a recommended appointment of Michael Cashion for the board member category. The term for this appointment would expire in March 2023. The council members moved for the approval of this appointment. The next appointment discussed was for the Zoning Board of Adjustment, with Devin Kilpatrick, Richard Baruchy, and James Bank being recommended. Each appointment had a different term and experience level. The council moved for the approval of these appointments as well. Further appointments were made to the Urban Food Policy Council, Recreation and Parks Commission, and Public Assembly Facilities Commission. Each appointment was thoroughly discussed and approved by the council.
Televised Broadcast and Meeting Availability
The November 2nd City Council meeting was televised live on TV 13 for the public's convenience. The meeting was also made available for replay on the following days at specific times. This allowed interested individuals to catch up on the proceedings at their convenience. To further enhance accessibility, copies of the agenda and videos of previous meetings were made available online on the city's Website. Anyone interested could access these resources and watch previous meetings by selecting the "Watch Online Meetings" option.
Agenda Item Z1: Public Hearing on Voluntary Annexation
The first item on the meeting agenda was Z1, which involved a public hearing on the voluntary annexation of approximately 94.99 acres of land located on the east side of Wahlberg Road. The petitioner, Front Street Wahlberg LLC, had requested this annexation. The item was recommended by the public works committee. During the meeting, the city council conducted the public hearing virtually. However, no individuals signed up to speak for or against the annexation. As a result, the public hearing was closed, and the council members proceeded with their discussion and vote. Councilmember Taylor, representing the Southeast Ward, provided additional information on the significance of this annexation. The council members unanimously approved the annexation, ultimately adding these acres to the city's tax base.
Item Z2: Public Hearing on Voluntary Annexation
The second item on the agenda was Z2, which involved a public hearing on the voluntary annexation of approximately 12.74 acres of land located on the west side of Walmart Road. Similar to the previous item, the petitioner was Front Street Wahlberg LLC, and the public works committee recommended the annexation. Again, no opposition was reported during the public hearing, and no individuals signed up to speak. The council members closed the public hearing and proceeded with their discussion and vote. Councilmember Taylor highlighted that this annexation would add 13 acres to the city's tax base. The council members unanimously approved the annexation, expanding the city's boundaries further.
Item Z3: Downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District Advisory Committee Appointment
Item Z3 was the mayor's recommendation for an appointment to the Downtown Winston-Salem Business Improvement District (BID) Advisory Committee. Michael Cashion was being appointed as a board member with a term expiring in March 2023. The experience and expertise of Mr. Cashion were considered valuable for the committee. The council members entertained a motion for the approval of this appointment, which was successfully moved and seconded. The appointment was approved unanimously, ensuring the BID Advisory Committee had a dedicated and knowledgeable member to contribute to its objectives.
Item Z4: Zoning Board of Adjustment Appointments
The next item on the agenda was Z4, which involved appointments to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The mayor had recommended the appointments of Devin Kilpatrick, Richard Baruchy, and James Bank to the board. Each appointment had a different term expiring in either September or October 2023. The council members reviewed the qualifications and experience of each appointee, recognizing their suitability for the positions. A motion for approval of these appointments was made and seconded. The council members engaged in a discussion regarding these appointments and the importance of the Zoning Board of Adjustment in maintaining orderly development and adherence to zoning regulations. The motion was carried unanimously, and the appointments were approved.
Item Z5: Urban Food Policy Council Appointment
Moving on, item Z5 involved the mayor's recommendation for an appointment to the Urban Food Policy Council. David J. Harrison was being appointed with a term expiring in September 2023. The council members entertained a motion for the approval of this appointment. Mayor Pro Tem Adams made the motion, which was seconded by Councilmember Larson. The council members discussed the significance of the Urban Food Policy Council and how Mr. Harrison's expertise would contribute to its goals. The motion was approved unanimously, and the appointment was confirmed.
Item Z6: Recreation and Parks Commission Appointment
Item Z6 pertained to the mayor's recommendation for an appointment to the Recreation and Parks Commission. Taylor Ansley was being appointed with a term expiring in 2023. The council members moved for the approval of this appointment, recognizing the importance of the Recreation and Parks Commission in maintaining and improving the city's recreational spaces. The motion was successfully moved and seconded. Councilmember Taylor provided additional Context for this appointment, highlighting the significance of the commission in enhancing the quality of life for residents. The appointment was approved unanimously, ensuring the commission had a dedicated member to contribute to its initiatives.
Item Z7: Public Assembly Facilities Commission Appointments
The final item on the agenda was Z7, which involved appointments to the Public Assembly Facilities Commission. Lisa Stroud and Ray Bowden were being appointed, with their terms expiring in August 2023. The initial motion for the approval of these appointments was made by Councilmember McIntosh, but there was correction made during the discussion. Councilmember McIntosh confirmed that Lisa Stroud had requested her name to be removed from consideration. However, she later expressed her willingness to serve, which delighted the council members. The motion for the approval of these appointments was amended accordingly, with Mayor Pro Tem Adams as the mover and Councilmember McIntosh as the seconder. The appointments were approved unanimously, ensuring the Public Assembly Facilities Commission had dedicated individuals to oversee and manage public assembly venues effectively.
Conclusion
The November 2nd City Council meeting covered a range of important matters, including annexation petitions and appointments to boards and commissions. The virtual meeting format allowed council members to conduct business while complying with safety guidelines. The public had opportunities to participate and provide input during public hearings, ensuring transparency and accountability in the council's decision-making process. Moreover, the televised broadcast and availability of meeting materials online increased accessibility for residents. The council members demonstrated their commitment to the city's growth and development by approving annexations and appointment recommendations. Overall, the meeting was successful in addressing crucial issues and advancing the interests of the Winston-Salem community.
Voting PSA for Election Day
Before adjourning the meeting, Councilmember Bessie took a moment to address the upcoming election day. He reminded everyone of the polling hours and emphasized the importance of checking their precinct of residence to ensure voting in the correct location. For those planning to vote by absentee ballot, Councilmember Bessie recommended delivering it in person to the election board office to ensure Timely arrival. He encouraged everyone to exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process.
Highlights
- The November 2nd City Council meeting was held virtually due to the safer-at-home order.
- The meeting agenda included annexation petitions and appointments to boards and commissions.
- Public hearings were conducted for each annexation petition, but no opposition was expressed.
- The meeting was televised live on TV 13 and made available for replay online.
- The council approved the voluntary annexations, adding new areas to the city's tax base.
- Appointments were made to various boards and commissions, ensuring their effective functioning.
- The council emphasized the importance of public participation and transparency in decision-making.
- Voting PSA for the upcoming election day was provided, urging citizens to exercise their right to vote.
FAQ
Q: How can I watch the November 2nd City Council meeting?
A: The meeting was televised live on TV 13 and is available for replay on specific dates and times. You can also watch previous meetings on the city's website.
Q: Can I submit written comments on the annexation petitions?
A: Yes, written comments were accepted until November 3rd. You could submit them to the city clerk's office via mail or email.
Q: What is the significance of voluntary annexation?
A: Voluntary annexation allows the city to expand its boundaries geographically. It provides an opportunity for areas adjacent to the city to become part of the city's jurisdiction voluntarily.
Q: How were appointments to boards and commissions made?
A: The appointments were recommended by the mayor and subject to approval by the city council. The qualifications and experience of the candidates were considered during the approval process.
Q: Were there any opposing views or discussions during the meeting?
A: For the annexation petitions, no opposition was reported, and no individuals signed up to speak against the petitions. The council members engaged in discussions regarding each appointment, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the candidates' qualifications.