Tonight’s Greensboro City Council meeting isn’t just another routine gathering—it’s an opportunity for citizens to witness democracy in action and to take an active role in shaping the future of our city. The council will consider who will fill the at-large seat left vacant by the passing of the iconic Yvonne Johnson. This decision is about more than filling a seat; it’s about determining the leadership and vision guiding Greensboro forward.
Your presence tonight matters. Attending this meeting shows that you are invested in our city’s future, in its growth, and in making Greensboro a safer and better place to work, live, and raise a family. Decisions made by the City Council affect every aspect of our daily lives—from public safety to infrastructure, from zoning to economic development. These conversations will shape Greensboro for generations to come, and this is your chance to see firsthand how those decisions are made.
With 44 applicants vying for this critical position, it’s clear there is strong interest in serving our community. But interest alone isn’t enough. Greensboro needs leaders with vision, experience, and a commitment to making decisions prioritizing safety, economic growth, and the well-being of all residents. Tonight’s meeting will be a telling moment, giving insight into the applicants and how our current City Council approaches this critical decision.
Among the applicants is Vernon Johnson, the son of Yvonne Johnson. While we honor and respect the legacy of Yvonne Johnson, Vernon Johnson should make his case for the job based on qualifications, not entitlement or birthright. So should his sister. This seat must go to the most qualified individual to address Greensboro’s challenges and lead us toward a brighter future—not someone selected because of family connections. The City Council must remain focused on fairness and merit to ensure we move forward with strong, capable leadership.
As a candidate, I bring a fresh approach to forward-thinking leadership. Greensboro needs new leaders prepared to break away from the status quo and bring bold, innovative ideas to the table. Our city cannot afford to maintain the same approaches to governance—we need leaders who embody common-sense, business-savvy decision-making, and who have the experience to solve complex issues effectively. With over 45 years of business ownership and leadership, I have a proven track record of navigating challenges, building successful teams, and delivering results.
This is a pivotal moment for Greensboro. We need leadership prioritizing fiscal responsibility, public safety, and economic growth. It’s time to move beyond politics and elect leaders with real-world experience and a clear vision for our city’s future.
This appointment carries significant weight—not only because the chosen individual will serve the remainder of the term but because they may gain a distinct advantage in future elections due to increased visibility and name recognition. The selection process must be fair, transparent, and based on qualifications. Greensboro needs a leader who can bring fresh ideas and bold solutions to the table, someone who is prepared to tackle challenges head-on and prioritize the people’s best interests.
Attending tonight’s meeting demonstrates that you care about the future of our city. It shows that you value transparency, good governance, and strong leadership. It’s a chance to engage in the issues that matter most—crime prevention, infrastructure improvements, affordable housing, and creating a thriving environment for businesses and families alike.
Local government is where real change happens. It’s where policies directly impact our neighborhoods, schools, and quality of life. This meeting will not be missed if you want to see Greensboro thrive and ensure our city is led by individuals who put the community first.
Make a statement by being there tonight. Show that you are invested in the future leadership of Greensboro. Together, we can ensure our city grows responsibly, remains safe, and becomes an even better place to call home.
Join us at tonight’s City Council meeting. Let’s build the future of Greensboro—together.
– Nicky Smith
(336) 338-4860
nicky@nickyforgreensboro.com
