Written by Nicky Smith
December 28, 2024
As Greensboro gears up for next year’s municipal elections, the city finds itself at a critical juncture. With at least four City Council members expected to leave or seek other offices and the mayoral seat opening up, residents can usher in significant changes to Greensboro’s leadership. Amidst this transformation, I, Nicky Smith, bring 45+ years of business leadership in Greensboro and a fresh perspective to the City Council. Regardless of who becomes the next mayor, Greensboro’s success will depend on strong, proven leaders willing to tackle the city’s challenges head-on.
The race for mayor is already shaping up to be a competitive one. Robbie Perkins, who served as mayor from 2011 to 2013, is seeking to return to office. Perkins emphasizes his experience and record of getting things done, with key campaign priorities including support for police and fire departments, tackling homelessness, and expanding attainable housing. These are issues where collaboration between the mayor’s office and the City Council will be essential. As a business leader, I understand the importance of finding practical solutions to complex problems, and I am ready to contribute my expertise to these critical discussions.
Another potential mayoral candidate, Councilwoman Marikay Abuzuaiter, has highlighted public safety and housing as her top priorities. Her commitment to economic development and attainable housing aligns closely with my vision for a more business-friendly Greensboro. Like Perkins, she recognizes the importance of building infrastructure to support growth, an area where my decades of business experience can add valuable insight to the council’s deliberations.
Justin Outling, a former councilman who came within 500 votes of unseating Mayor Vaughan in the last election, has not yet announced his plans but remains a figure to watch. Outling’s focus on forward-thinking policies would also benefit from council members who bring real-world experience to the table.
While the mayoral race garners much attention, the City Council will play a pivotal role in shaping Greensboro’s future. With council members like Goldie Wells and Nancy Hoffmann not seeking reelection and Marikay Abuzuaiter potentially running for mayor, there will be at least four vacancies on the nine-member council. This presents an unprecedented opportunity to bring fresh leadership and new ideas to the governing body.
One of Greensboro’s most pressing challenges is homelessness. Perkins and Abuzuaiter have emphasized the need for solutions, and I fully agree. Addressing homelessness requires a comprehensive strategy that includes not only shelter but also access to mental health services, job training, and affordable housing. My experience as a business leader has taught me the importance of addressing root causes and fostering partnerships, whether with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, or other community stakeholders.
Another priority is making Greensboro more business-friendly. We can boost the local economy and create jobs by streamlining processes, reducing red tape, and creating incentives for new and existing businesses. Perkins’ focus on infrastructure and Abuzuaiter’s commitment to economic development underscores the importance of this issue. As someone who has lived and worked in Greensboro for over four decades, I know what businesses need to succeed here, and I am committed to advocating for policies that drive growth.
This election marks a turning point for Greensboro. Whether the next mayor is Robbie Perkins, Marikay Abuzuaiter, Justin Outling, or another candidate, the City Council will need leaders with the experience, vision, and determination to collaborate effectively and make tough decisions. Greensboro doesn’t just need politicians; it needs proven leaders who understand the value of hard work and common sense. That is what I bring to the table.
Let’s seize this opportunity to move Greensboro forward. Together, we can build a city where businesses flourish, communities thrive, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. It’s time for proven leadership on the City Council—for common sense.
– Nicky Smith
Candidate for Greensboro City Council
Nicky Smith is a candidate for the Greensboro City Council. With over 45 years of experience as a business leader in Greensboro, Nicky is committed to fostering economic growth, addressing homelessness, and creating a brighter future for all residents.
Let’s build the future our city deserves. Greensboro is ready for a new era—let’s get to work.
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