As a candidate for the Greensboro City Council, I know the homelessness issue in our city is deeply personal and requires bold, strategic action. I’ve seen the struggles faced by our unsheltered neighbors, and I’m committed to creating solutions that address root causes and provide long-term stability for everyone in Greensboro.
Earlier this month, the Greensboro City Council amended its ordinances to restrict lying or sitting on sidewalks during most hours of the day. While this decision responded to concerns from business owners over harassment and disturbances, we must ask ourselves if this truly addresses the homelessness crisis or simply displaces it further.
As someone who values equitable solutions, I believe enforcement should prioritize education and connection to resources over punishment. Our initial focus must be on helping affected individuals access the resources they need to improve their situations. Citations alone will not solve homelessness; meaningful outreach and support will.
One of the most promising solutions to homelessness is permanent supportive housing—a model that provides stable housing alongside critical services such as healthcare, substance abuse treatment, and job training. Greensboro’s efforts to create such housing have faced setbacks, but I’m confident we can turn things around with renewed focus and leadership.
Take the Regency Inn project, for example. After years of delays, the city finally purchased the property for redevelopment into supportive housing. However, we must streamline the process and ensure this project moves forward without further obstacles. Similarly, the former Summit Executive Center, purchased to house HIV/AIDS patients, represents another opportunity to address homelessness while supporting vulnerable populations. These projects need clear timelines, accountability, and community engagement to succeed.
The Interactive Resource Center (IRC) has been a vital lifeline for Greensboro’s homeless population, offering showers, laundry, mail services, and more. However, 2024 brought challenges, including safety concerns and operational changes. As a city council member, I will work to strengthen the partnership between Greensboro and the IRC. This means ensuring sustainable funding, supporting the center’s strategic planning process, and addressing safety concerns collaboratively.
The city’s funding agreement with the IRC, currently under negotiation, is critical to its continued operation. I will advocate for the necessary resources to keep the center running effectively while ensuring it adapts to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Homelessness prevention is just as important as addressing homelessness itself. Organizations like Keep Gate City Housed have made significant strides, such as securing $440,000 for the Tenant Education Advocacy Mediation (TEAM) Project, which provides renters with legal representation. Yet, much more needs to be done.
Evictions remain a major driver of homelessness in Greensboro. As part of my platform, I will champion additional funding for tenant protections and push for the establishment of a right to counsel for tenants in eviction cases. Everyone deserves fair representation, and we must level the playing field for renters facing legal battles with landlords.
Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s not just about housing; it’s about addressing mental health, substance abuse, employment, and community integration. By working collaboratively with non-profits, faith-based organizations, and advocacy groups, we can create a comprehensive response to homelessness.
As a city council member, I will bring the same determination and strategic thinking that drove initiatives like the Preserve Friendly Avenue project. Together, we can build a Greensboro where every resident has the opportunity to thrive, and no one is left without a place to call home.
Let’s build the future our city deserves. Greensboro is ready for a new era—let’s get to work.
Donate today, and let’s choose Greensboro’s future. Together, we can ensure that our city thrives for generations to come. Your voice matters—your vote matters—your support matters. Let’s make it count.
– Nicky Smith
Candidate for Greensboro City Council
