YARD SIGN

Category: Governance and Policy-Making

Drafting and enacting ordinances and resolutions. Representing residents’ voices in local governance. Addressing complaints, suggestions, and policy concerns raised by the public.

Fixing Greensboro’s Infrastructure: Why Smart Planning Matters

What is takes to get a pothole Fixed in Greensboro NC

Greensboro’s infrastructure is falling behind, and it shows in our streets, parks, and public services. Too often, tax dollars are spent without addressing the real needs of our neighborhoods. My plan is simple: fix the basics first, bring transparency through a full audit, and put residents back at the center of decision-making. From repairing roads and restoring streetlights to planning smarter transit options, I will focus on practical solutions that improve daily life for families across District 4. Greensboro deserves infrastructure that works—and leadership that delivers it.

A Safer Greensboro Starts with Strong Leadership

Greensboro is a city of energy, diversity, and promise—but for far too many residents, safety has become a growing concern. With a total crime rate hovering near 47 crimes per 1,000 residents, Greensboro’s crime level is significantly above the national average and among the highest in the state

Greensboro’s crime rate is nearly double the national average—families face a 1 in 120 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 26 chance of property crime. Nicky Smith knows we can do better. As a proven business and community leader, he will back our police with the resources they need, strengthen neighborhood partnerships, and bring data-driven solutions that deliver real results. His goal is simple: safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, and a Greensboro where every family feels secure.

Protecting Greensboro: Leadership That Puts Families First

Nicky Smith shares his vision for a safer, stronger Greensboro in District 4.

As Greensboro grapples with a staggering rise in crime, our City Council’s failure to address public safety is more evident than ever. With 26 homicides reported this year and a police department operating 90 officers short, the urgency for real leadership is clear. Our brave officers are leaving for better opportunities, leaving our community vulnerable. It’s time for a change—time to create an environment that attracts and retains the best law enforcement talent. Join me in demanding accountability and action for a safer Greensboro. The time for excuses has passed; the time for real leadership is now.

Greensboro’s Public Safety Crisis: Time for Real Leadership

Nicky Smith shares his vision for a safer, stronger Greensboro in District 4.

As Greensboro grapples with a staggering rise in crime, our City Council’s failure to address public safety is more evident than ever. With 26 homicides reported this year and a police department operating 90 officers short, the urgency for real leadership is clear. Our brave officers are leaving for better opportunities, leaving our community vulnerable. It’s time for a change—time to create an environment that attracts and retains the best law enforcement talent. Join me in demanding accountability and action for a safer Greensboro. The time for excuses has passed; the time for real leadership is now.

Breaking the Housing Bottleneck: A Vision for Greensboro’s Future

Row of modern suburban homes with the words “HOUSING SHORTAGE CRISIS” overlaid in bold white text, highlighting the lack of available housing in growing communities.

Greensboro stands at a critical crossroads. With 65,000 to 70,000 new jobs coming to our city, we have an unprecedented opportunity for growth and prosperity. Yet we face a fundamental challenge that threatens to derail this economic boom: our inability to build housing fast enough to accommodate the workers who will fill these positions.
The numbers tell a sobering story: a single-family housing community in Guilford County takes two full years just to get approved—two years before a single shovel hits the ground. Meanwhile, starter homes now cost $400,000, and excessive regulations are adding an estimated $25,000 to each new home. We’re not just failing to build the 10,000 new homes our community desperately needs; we’re pricing out the very families we claim to want to help.
The solution isn’t a mystery—it’s sitting right in front of us, buried under layers of bureaucratic red tape. While other cities embrace 45-day permitting timelines and innovative solutions like third-party inspections, Greensboro’s Planning and Zoning committee and city staff have become the primary bottleneck preventing our growth. With my business experience in streamlining operations and eliminating inefficiencies, I know exactly how to fix this broken system and unlock Greensboro’s housing potential.

Faith. Family. Capitalism. These Are Our Shared Values—And Mine Too.

Nicky Smith is a seasoned business leader with over 45 years of experience, a dedicated community advocate, and a candidate for Greensboro City Council. Passionate about fostering economic growth, supporting families, and creating a safer, thriving community, Nicky brings a proven track record of leadership and a vision for Greensboro’s future.

No matter where you’re from or how you vote, I believe we all want the same things: the freedom to practice our faith, the right to raise our families our way, and the opportunity to build something meaningful through hard work. Those aren’t partisan ideas—they’re human values. And they’re the ones I’ve lived by my whole life.

As your candidate for Greensboro City Council, I’m not here to play political games. I’m here to stand up for the principles that unite us—faith, family, and the entrepreneurial spirit that built this city. Let’s get back to common sense and move forward together.

Greensboro’s PTI Airport Soars Toward the Future: A New Era of Aerospace Manufacturing

JetZero adds easyJet as hydrogen blended wing body aircraft design partner

Greensboro’s Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) is rapidly emerging as a national leader in aerospace manufacturing, attracting innovative companies like JetZero, which could bring 10,000 new jobs to the region. With a strong foundation in aviation education and a skilled workforce, Greensboro is poised to become America’s next aerospace powerhouse. This transformation is not just about jobs; it’s about creating a legacy of innovation and sustainability. Join us as we explore how Greensboro is taking flight into a new era of economic growth and opportunity, and discover how you can be part of this exciting journey!

Greensboro’s Digital Future: How Data Centers Can Supercharge Our Local Economy

Enovum is ready to deploy your infrastructure within our data centers. Our experts can perform remote hands services that includes tasks such as securing cabling, checking port numbers, observing or reporting indicators on equipment, observation of the environment, and server reboots. Be it a single cabinet, a cage or a full private room we can assist you from A to Z.

The arrival of Enovum Data Centers in Madison, NC signals more than just a new occupant for the former Unifi site—it marks the beginning of a new era of economic opportunity for the Triad. With a $53 million investment and plans to power its operations with 100% renewable energy, Enovum is poised to bring high-paying tech jobs, advanced infrastructure, and sustainable innovation to the region. For Greensboro and surrounding communities, this is a chance to position ourselves at the forefront of the digital economy—where growth, green values, and cutting-edge technology intersect.

When the County Raises Taxes, the City Pays the Price

Upon hearing the new 47 percent average property value increase this week, Alston was less committal. He said that the numbers could change between now and the end of the year; he pointed out that other commissioners may not go along with him; and he said the board will have to see where the county stands financially next year when the board puts a budget together.

Guilford County’s looming property tax spike is set to impact every resident in Greensboro, whether you own a home or rent. With property values rising, many families could face tax increases of up to 47%. This isn’t just a county issue; it’s a city crisis that threatens our community’s stability. As your next City Councilmember, I will advocate for a revenue-neutral tax rate to protect our families from being squeezed further. Join me in demanding smarter budgeting and accountability from our local leaders. Together, we can ensure Greensboro remains a place where everyone can thrive.

Greensboro City Council Is Tone Deaf — It’s Time for the People to Speak Out November

New Irving Park Supporters

On April 15, 2025, Greensboro’s City Council delivered a slap in the face to over 2,000 residents of New Irving Park, siding with a developer against the very people they were elected to represent. Councilmember Zack Matheny passionately presented compelling arguments against the rezoning, yet his colleagues ignored the facts. Mayor Nancy Vaughan scolded concerned citizens instead of uniting them. As the council’s actions revealed a troubling disregard for public input, the community is left wondering: will November 2025 bring the change Greensboro desperately needs? It’s time to take back our city and elect leaders who truly listen.

Greensboro council approves New Irving Park townhome rezoning after residents voice concerns

Councilman Zack Matheny opposed the rezoning for a townhome project at the corner of Pisgah Church Road and Willoughby Boulevard on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Matheny is a resident of the New Irving Park neighborhood where the development will occur.

The Greensboro City Council recently approved a contentious rezoning that will allow up to eight new townhomes in the New Irving Park area, despite strong opposition from local residents. Concerns about neighborhood character, traffic safety, and drainage issues were voiced during the public hearing. Developer B.J. Johnson made concessions, reducing the number of units and limiting access points, but many council members, including resident Councilman Zack Matheny, argued the project would disrupt the community’s harmony. As the council voted 6-2 in favor, the debate over balancing housing needs with neighborhood integrity continues.

Proposed rezoning prompts opposition from New Irving Park residents

Tim Souhan and his dog Bailey walk home from the lot on Willoughby Drive that could be rezoned from single family to multiple family in Greensboro on April 8. Souhan and other residents of the New Irving Park community oppose the rezoning because they have concerns about safety and the appropriateness of townhomes in the single-family home community. WOODY MARSHALL, NEWS & RECORD

Residents of Greensboro’s New Irving Park are rallying against a proposed rezoning that could transform a quiet corner into a bustling townhome development. Developer B.J. Johnson aims to increase density from three single-family homes to eight townhomes on less than an acre, raising concerns about safety, traffic, and neighborhood character. Local residents, including Councilman Zack Matheny, argue that this project could set a troubling precedent for future developments. As the city pushes for rapid housing growth, the community is determined to protect their neighborhood’s integrity. Will they succeed in their fight against this controversial plan?

FEMA Turned Its Back on Western North Carolina—And It’s Time We Say “Enough”

Tropical Storm Helene, which struck Western North Carolina in late September 2024, caused unprecedented devastation across the region. The storm resulted in over 100 fatalities statewide, with Buncombe County alone reporting 43 deaths and more than 200 people still missing. Entire communities, such as Montreat and Swannanoa, were nearly obliterated, with homes destroyed and infrastructure severely damaged. In Avery County, the flooding was the worst in recorded history, isolating communities and leaving nearly all residents without electricity.

When disaster strikes, the government’s first duty is to protect its citizens. Unfortunately, FEMA has failed that test in Western North Carolina. Following the devastation of Tropical Storm Helene, entire communities have been left in ruin, and the federal government has turned its back on those in need. With lives lost, homes destroyed, and businesses shuttered, the denial of extended aid is a slap in the face to struggling North Carolinians. It’s time we say “enough” and demand action. Join me in standing up for our mountain neighbors and ensuring that no one is abandoned in their time of need.

Standing with Summerfield: Why Greensboro’s Neighbors Deserve Our Concern and Respect

A sign on Summerfield Road designates the southern boundary of the Summerfield Historic District, seen on April 9, 2025. The district, which encompasses 33 contributing buildings, was placed on the National Historic Register in 2005.

A proposed bill in the North Carolina General Assembly threatens the very existence of Summerfield, a town built on local pride and community values. If passed, House Bill 801 could strip towns of their charters for “insufficient services,” erasing their identities. This isn’t just a policy debate; it’s a direct attack on communities that choose a simpler, more deliberate way of life. As a candidate for Greensboro City Council, I stand with Summerfield. Their fight is our fight. Join me in advocating for local autonomy and the right to shape our own futures. Let’s protect our communities together.

Greensboro Needs Proven Leaders—Not Just Participants

Building a Stronger, Safer, and More Prosperous Greensboro

When it comes to guiding Greensboro through real challenges—public safety, economic development, and rebuilding trust in local government—we cannot afford to take chances on unproven leadership. We need veteran leaders with real-world experience who can deliver practical, results-driven solutions. Nicky Smith stands out as a successful business owner and entrepreneur who knows how to turn ideas into action. His track record is built on outcomes, not titles. If we’re serious about making Greensboro safer and more prosperous, we must elect someone ready to tackle challenging issues from day one. Let’s build the future our city deserves together!

The Choice is Clear: It’s Time for Fresh Leadership on Greensboro’s City Council

Perkins vs. Abuzuaiter: a Mayor’s race that will shape our city’s future.

The mayor’s race in Greensboro is heating up, and it’s clear this election season will bring significant changes to our city’s leadership. With candidates like Mayor Pro Tem Marikay Abuzuaiter and former Mayor Robbie Perkins in the running, voters face a pivotal choice. This is not a moment for more of the same; it’s time for bold new thinking and fresh leadership. I bring over 45 years of real-world experience, a problem-solving mindset, and a commitment to making Greensboro safer and more prosperous. Let’s build a future that truly works for everyone—together. Your voice matters—let’s make it count!