Allen Johnson: Dear Greensboro: If could put you over my knee, I would
Greensboro voters had a chance to shape their city’s future in the October 7 primary, yet fewer than 11% turned out to vote. Despite a strong field of candidates and pressing local issues—from housing and infrastructure to public safety and economic growth—nearly 90% of eligible voters stayed home. The message is clear: local elections matter. With the general election on November 4 and early voting beginning Thursday, Greensboro residents now have a second chance to make their voices heard and influence the direction of their city.
Thank You, Lily Oatis, for a Thoughtful Interview
Nicky Smith, candidate for Greensboro City Council District 4, expresses gratitude to young journalist and podcast producer Lilt Oatis for her fair and thoughtful interview on Not Just Headlines. In his remarks, Smith emphasizes his commitment to bringing experienced leadership, fiscal responsibility, and common-sense solutions to City Hall—urging voters in District 4 to make their voices heard and choose new leadership for Greensboro’s future.
Fixing Greensboro’s Infrastructure: Why Smart Planning Matters
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’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.
Supersonic Flight Boosts Greensboro’s Economy
Greensboro is ready for takeoff. With Boom Supersonic investing in next-generation aircraft manufacturing at PTI and new federal support lifting decades-old restrictions on supersonic flight, our city is positioned to lead the future of aerospace innovation. In this article, Nicky Smith—Greensboro City Council candidate with 45+ years of business leadership—explains how this momentum can drive local job growth, economic expansion, and why strong, experienced leadership is key to making it happen.
How Greensboro Can Tackle Homelessness with the Healthy Opportunities Model
Homelessness in Greensboro is more than a housing issue — it’s a health crisis. In this blog, Nicky Smith explores how the Healthy Opportunities Pilot Program (HOPP) offers a smart, compassionate model to address homelessness by connecting people to housing, food, transportation, and medical respite care. With the right leadership, Greensboro can adopt these proven strategies to create real, lasting change.
Bringing Back the Heart of Greensboro
I still remember being a kid in Winston-Salem when my mother would take me to the department stores downtown – those trips weren’t just errands, they were social events where we’d run into family friends and feel the pulse of a thriving community. That experience drives my vision for Greensboro today. As a business leader running for City Council District 4, I’ve seen what cities like Greenville, South Carolina have accomplished, and I know we can bring that same vibrant energy to downtown Greensboro. With strategic development, community engagement, and proven leadership, we can transform our downtown into the beating heart of our city once again.
Breaking the Housing Crisis: Smart Solutions for Working Families
The Reality on the Ground. Grace Clifford, a local real estate broker, captures the urgency perfectly: homes under $300,000 are disappearing within hours of hitting the market. Families are making offers sight unseen, with inspectors walking through homes because buyers have less than 24 hours to decide. This isn’t a healthy market—it’s a crisis that demands immediate action. As someone who has spent 45 years building businesses and solving complex problems, I understand that effective solutions require leadership that can work with all stakeholders—developers, builders, city planners, and residents—to create real pathways to homeownership.
Greensboro Needs New Leadership — And Here’s Why
Greensboro has been named one of the best places to live in America — but rising property taxes and poor fiscal management are putting that status at risk. In “Fixing Greensboro: Real Leadership, Lower Taxes, Better Results,” City Council candidate Nicky Smith calls for common-sense leadership that prioritizes citizens over politics. With over 45 years of business experience, Smith lays out a plan to lower taxes, control spending, and bring real accountability to City Hall.
Amazon Expands in Greensboro – A Powerful Boost for Local Jobs and Growth
Amazon is making a major investment in Greensboro with plans to build a $24.4 million, 192,000-square-foot delivery station on Ritters Lake Road. This expansion strengthens Greensboro’s position as a key logistics hub in the Triad and promises to bring new jobs and faster deliveries to the region. As a candidate for Greensboro City Council, I see this as a strong sign that our city is ready for smart, strategic growth—and I’m committed to making sure projects like this benefit our entire community.
Too Much, Too Fast — Greensboro Needs Balanced, Not Blanket, Housing Solutions
Greensboro is at a crossroads in its approach to affordable housing. While the recent approval of over $6.5 million for new projects aims to expand access, concerns about equitable development cannot be overlooked. Councilwoman Sharon Hightower highlights the risks of concentrating affordable units in underserved areas without essential services. As we strive for a balanced and intentional growth strategy, it’s crucial to ensure that every neighborhood benefits. Join me, Nicky Smith, in advocating for a Greensboro that prioritizes smart growth and inclusivity, where every resident has a fair shot, regardless of their ZIP code.
Preserving Greensboro’s Voice: Why I Oppose House Bill 765
As a committed advocate for Greensboro, I believe our neighborhoods should be shaped by those who know them best—our local community and leaders. House Bill 765 threatens this principle by centralizing zoning decisions at the state level, stripping Greensboro of critical authority. This bill could compromise neighborhood integrity, lower property values, and overwhelm our infrastructure. Join me in opposing this legislation that undermines our local governance and unique character. Together, we can ensure Greensboro retains the power to protect our neighborhoods and manage our growth responsibly. Your voice matters—let’s make it heard!
Greensboro’s Budget Band-Aid: Why a Temporary Hiring Freeze Isn’t Enough
In a recent article, Greensboro’s City Manager Trey Davis outlined a budget plan aimed at avoiding tax increases amidst a projected $5 million to $7 million shortfall. While a temporary hiring freeze has been implemented, questions arise: Why not extend this freeze until the budget is balanced? With rising costs and potential funding losses, residents deserve transparency and accountability. As Greensboro stands at a financial crossroads, it’s crucial to demand leadership that prioritizes fiscal responsibility. Discover how we can ensure a sustainable future for our city and why your voice matters in the upcoming City Council election.
Reid Phillips: The case for open spaces
Recently, my neighbors and I were labeled as “NIMBYs” for opposing the rezoning of property at the entrance to our community, New Irving Park in Greensboro. While developers argue that in-fill projects enhance the tax base and maximize land use, I urge you to consider the true cost of sacrificing our green spaces. These areas are vital for our well-being, improving air quality and providing a calming environment. As we face the push for more development, it’s crucial to ask: should every patch of land be built upon? Join me in advocating for the preservation of Greensboro’s green spaces.
When the County Raises Taxes, the City Pays the Price
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
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.