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2014 Bonds

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1. How were the projects selected?

The City Council held a series of meetings earlier this year to review the city's unfunded capital needs, consider what projects would be appropriate for a bond referendum and determine what the city could afford to address and the potential impact on tax rates. City staff took their guidance and developed a proposed list of projects, which the council then refined into the list that will go before the voters.

2. Why pay for these projects with bonds?

General obligation bonds are the least expensive way to finance these projects, thanks to the city's high credit rating. Because our credit rating is high and the bonds are guaranteed by the city's taxing authority, the city will pay less interest on the bonds than if it used some other form of financing.

3. What effect will this have on my taxes?

If the bonds are approved, they will be issued in stages over approximately six years. If voters were to approve all $139.2 million in projects, the city Finance Department estimates that the city property tax rate could increase up to $0.025, starting in July 2015. Based on this, the owner of a house valued at $200,000 would pay $50 more in property taxes starting in August 2015. This works out to about $4.17 per month.

4. Why can’t we pay as we go?

The city has used pay-as-you-go financing for its capital needs since the last bond referendum in 2000. This has not been sufficient to meet our needs, resulting in the current backlog of $709.2 million in unfunded capital needs. Borrowing $139.2 million will allow the city to address the most pressing of these needs and pay the money back over time, much as people do when they borrow money to buy a house or a vehicle.

5. Why do we have to vote on these bonds?

When a city issues general obligation bonds, it pledges its "full faith and credit" to repay the bonds. To assure that the city will meet this commitment, voters are required to vote in a referendum that would authorize a tax levy, if needed, to repay the bonds.

6. Why don’t the proposed bonds include any money for schools?

Public schools in Forsyth County are financed by Forsyth County. As such, school projects are the responsibility of the Forsyth County Commissioners.

7. Why are we having another referendum so soon after our vote on library bonds in 2010?

Public libraries, like schools, are operated by Forsyth County. The 2010 referendum on library bonds was held by the Forsyth County Commissioners.

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African American Heritage Initiative

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1. I’m ready to help! What can I do?

Join one of our collection teams! Team members reach out to folks they know and guide them through the process of submitting photos, stories, documents and interviews to the initiative’s online archive. The AAHI committee is organizing nine collection teams. Each team is led by a member of the AAHI committee and will be responsible for capturing the history in a particular area. Go to the list of collection teams and their leaders.

2. If I join a collection team, how much do I have to do?

You can do as much or as little as your schedule or level of interest allows. We are grateful for any and all efforts to help us accomplish our mission of preserving the African American experience in Winston-Salem.

3. Can I be on more than one collection team at a time?

Yes!

4. What are you collecting?

We are looking for anything that helps tells the everyday history of Winston-Salem’s African American community during the years of segregation:

Photos:
Not just of civil-rights-related events, but of church picnics, family reunions, neighborhoods, sporting events, etc.

Documents:
Programs for school graduations, debutant balls, class reunions, concerts;  documents of historical interest or signed by significant people; etc.

Stories (Either written or recorded):
Anecdotes and memories of life in Winston-Salem. We’re interested not only in memories of events of community-wide interest (for example, the visit here by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) but also, stories that provide a window into everyday life for the Winston-Salem’s African American population during segregation and the years of desegregation (for example, recollection of a family trip or of going to a movie theater).

5. What other resources can I consult to help me?

Oral History Resources page of the Southern Oral History Program

Resources page of the American Association for State and Local History

6. Why won’t my file upload on the submission portal?

The chief reasons that a file does not upload on the submission portal are that it is either too big, or it is not a format that the portal accepts.

7. What is the largest file size?

Make sure you file is no larger than 250 MB. That is the maximum size limit for uploads.

8. What format can the files be in?

Make sure you file is in one of these formats:  jpg, pdf, mp3, mp4, doc, docx, xls, xlsx, mov.

9. My oral history file is larger than 250 MB. What do I do?

You have two options: 

1. Send the file using a file transfer service
2. Put it on a thumb drive and deliver it to us.

10. How can I send the city the file?

Securely Send, at Securelysend.com is free and easy to use. Simply input an email, upload your file, and click "Send It". Securely Send lets you send files up to 2 gigabytes.

If you use this option, be sure to also upload a submission form(AAHI Form Link). Fill it out, save to your computer and upload with the video file.

You can also send large files through Hightail or Drop box if you have a paid account with them. The free versions are not practical because they restrict the size of the files you can send.

11. Can I drop it on of on a thumb drive?

YES!

All thumb drives must be accompanied by a submission form(AAHI Form Link). Fill out the form, print it and put it and the thumb drive in an envelope with “AAHI” printed on it and drop it off:

• At either of the city’s drive-through payment windows at the Stuart Municipal Building(Facility Info Link) or the Black Phillips Smith Government Center(Facility Info Link).
• In the payments drop box where you pay your water bill in person inside the Stuart Building.
• In the night depository on the Church Street side of the Stuart Building.

12. I can’t join a collection team but I have a good story that should be preserved. What should I do?

Send us an email at AAHI@cityofws.org. Someone will get in touch with you and arrange to get your story.

13. How can I get my items scanned?

All branch libraries have copy machines that work like a scanner to scan documents into PDF files. It is self-services, free of charge. Ask the staff to help you if you need any help.

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City Link

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1. What day is trash collection?

Due to the size of the City of Winston-Salem, there is no one set day for trash collection for the whole city. Instead, each homeowner is provided with a trash collection day when they register for service. If a citizen is unsure what their day may be, City Link will research the information in the Sanitation notebooks to determine the correct day. Learn more about routes and schedules on the Sanitation Department's Collections page.

2. Is there a separate City pick-up for recyclable items?

Yes. City recycling is outsourced to Waste Management who is responsible for recycling pick-up. Your recycling should be at the curb no later than 6 a.m. on the day of scheduled pick-up. If you need to determine your pick-up date, you should contact the Recycling Hotline at 336-723-2784. Look up all your collection days with Recycle Today.

3. Where is the nearest recycling drop-off center?

The City of Winston-Salem has three separate recycling centers in addition to home pick-up services. Centers are open Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Locations are listed.

Hanes Mill Road Landfill

325 Hanes Mill Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Phone: 336-661-4900

Hours

Monday through Friday
7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday
8 a.m. to Noon

Directions

Take 52 N to Hanes Mill Road Exit, turn right and go across the bridge. The Landfill is located on the right.

Forsyth County Center Number 1

445 Lindsay Street
Kernersville, NC 27284
(Near the Public Works Department)

Phone: 336-723-2784

Forsyth County Center Number 2

6328 Yadkinville Road
Pfafftown, NC 27040
(Beside Vienna Volunteer Department)

Phone: 336-723-2784

4. Where is the landfill, and when is it open?

Landfill Locations and Operating Hours Landfill Information

5. Does the City provide bulky item collection?

Bulky item collection begins in March and continues through August. Learn more on the Sanitation Department's Bulky Items page.

6. What is the holiday schedule observed by the City?

City holidays are listed on the Human Resources Holiday Schedule page.

7. What are the office hours for the City departments?

While there is some flexibility around departments opening and closing times, the departments are ordinarily open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Remember, for all non-emergency situations, please call 311 (from within our city limits, otherwise dial 336-727-8000) or email City Link 311.

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City Link - Top 10 Questions / Issues

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1. My trash was not collected. What do I do?

If your trash was not collected, contact City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000. A missed collection will be reported to a route supervisor for investigation whenever trash was inadvertently missed by our trucks. The issue will be investigated within 48 hours.

2. Who do I contact to report a burned out street light?

Please visit the Duke Energy website or call Duke Energy at 800-769-3766. Duke Energy will be dispatched to repair the street light within 3 to 5 days.

3. How can I dispose of large items, such as furniture?

The City of Winston-Salem offers bulky item pickup once a year from March through August. Information is located in the Sanitation Department section. Residents can also dispose of items at the Hanes Mill Road landfill. City residents are entitled to two free trips with a landfill permit. If the item is gently used, consider donating to a charitable organization.

4. What is the schedule for brush collection?

January 1 through October 31, brush collection usually takes between 7 to 10 working days. November 1 through January 1, small branches, sticks, and shrubbery clippings placed in yard carts with a valid collection sticker will be collected weekly on your regular yard cart collection day. During leaf season, collection takes between 3 and 4 weeks. Collection is limited because the leaf collectors are also the brush collectors. No excess brush loads will be collected during leaf season.

5. I want to pay my water bill via telephone (or I have a question about my account). Who do I contact?

Residents may call City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000. Water bills can also be paid online using our Water / Stormwater Bill Pay website.

6. Where can I find information regarding a change to the trash/yard waste cart/curbside recycling collection schedules as a result of a City-observed holiday?

The holiday schedule is posted on the Sanitation Department page. The alternate schedules will also be posted on WSTV 13, the Winston-Salem Journal, and local news stations prior to the holiday. Residents may also contact City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000.

7. Where can I obtain a copy of a birth or death certificate?

For birth or death certificates, contact:
Forsyth County Register of Deeds
201 N Chestnut Street
2nd Floor
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Phone: 336-703-2700

8. My neighbor has junk vehicles, a broken appliance, and trash in his yard, and grass several inches in height. Who do I notify?

To report code violations, contact City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000 with the address. A request for a code enforcement inspection will be generated.

9. How do I obtain a City-issued 96 gallon roll-out trash cart for wheeling to the curb and a recycling bin? Also, what items are acceptable for recycling?

To request trash or recycling carts, contact City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000. The first trash cart is free; an annual fee of $40 will be billed to the address for a second cart. The trash cart can be delivered at no charge or can be picked up. Each household may have up to two 18-gallon recycling bins. A recycle guide may be accessed on the Recycle Today website or by request.

Residents may call the recycling customer service hotline at 336-723-2784 for additional information.

10. Who do I notify regarding a malfunctioning traffic signal?

To report a malfunctioning traffic signal, contact City Link at 311 or 336-727-8000. The City’s Department of Transportation traffic signal technicians will be dispatched to repair the traffic signal.

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Code Enforcement - Other Nuisances

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1. Motor Vehicle Storage Yard

Two or more untagged vehicles in a yard is considered a “storage yard”. A legally established “USE” for motor vehicle repair and maintenance facility or paint and body shop have approval through the Planning Board and City Council. Motor Vehicle Storage Yards are located in Business and Industrial Zoning Districts. If you live on a residentially zoned lot and have two or more untagged vehicles, you can be cited by Code Enforcement.  

2. Graffiti

Private property owners are notified to remove graffiti. Railroads, NCDOT, and other agencies request that they are notified about graffiti on their property. If you see graffiti on any housing, please contact Citylink311 & report it to Police & Code Enforcement. If you see graffiti in parks, contact Recreation & Parks. 

3. Unsanitary Conditions

Unsanitary conditions of animals may draw vermin, rats and other infestations. Keep your property safe from unsanitary conditions. Code Enforcement can be contacted if you suspect there are unsanitary conditions near you.

4. Suspecting Mold, Mildew & Damp Conditions

If you suspect you have mold, contact your landlord. If you continue to have damp conditions, it could come from a plumbing issue or leak, please contact our office. Code Enforcement can cite conditions that cause excessive moisture or dampness stemming from leaks or plumbing issues.

5. No Parking on Lawn

This ordinance prohibits parking vehicles on front yards, 60% of your neighbors must agree and sign a petition along with other requirements approved by City Council. See Code Enforcement Administration if your neighborhood is interested in the details.  

6. Rooming & Boarding Properties

 Make sure that your property is adequately zoned for this USE & follow all minimum housing safety rules to avoid receiving housing violations.

7. Loose Chickens

Owners that allow their chickens to run loose & impose animal waste on the properties of others are subject to fines. Please have your chickens housed in your yard safely & discard their waste appropriately.

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Code Enforcement - Violations

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1. Minimum Housing Issues

Tenants and landlords both have rights. If Code Enforcement receives calls about unrepair of minimum housing violations, the landlord has a right to a hearing and time to make the repair. Safe places to live are the goals for minimum housing. If you are living in unsafe conditions, please call 336-727-8000 & ask to make an appointment with a Code Officer for an inspection. You will need to wear a mask and remain 6 feet from the officer during the appointment. 

2. Illegal Dumping

Protect your property. Illegal dumping is most prevalent where there is low visibility, dead ends, wooded areas and vacant lots.  As a property owner, you are still responsible for those who illegally dump on your land. If you see those who do it, take photos of them doing it, take their license plate and report them to the Police or Code Enforcement. Illegal dumping is a crime.

3. High Grass or Weeds

Failure to cut weeds or high grass over 8 inches can result into fines over $380.00. Uncut shrubs can also be cited and owners can receive a fine.

4. Trash

Trash and yard waste can receive fines. Contact the Code Office and ask for our latest door hanger so you can know how to prevent being fined. Environmental abatements and hoarding have led to large problems here in the City of Winston-Salem. It can devalue neighboring properties and draw rats and vermin and create unsafe areas where people can get hurt. Please report these areas to Code Enforcement CityLink 336-727-8000.

5. Vacant / Abandoned Properties

Code Enforcement sends certified and regular mail notification to owners of abandoned properties. If you receive a letter from Community Development regarding this issue, please contact our office immediately.

6. Junk Vehicles

If Code Enforcement tags a car for a violation; the days indicated on the tag are the number of days of compliance. After that date, the car will be towed.

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Community Development - Housing Study & Affordable Housing Coalition

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1. Why did the City of Winston-Salem conduct this housing study?

The purpose of the study was to learn what kind and how much housing is needed in our community.

2. How was the study conducted?

A consulting firm, Enterprise Community Partners, conducted the study in cooperation with the city's Community Development Department and other city officials and departments. The study included an assessment of existing housing conditions, population characteristics, and present and future market demands. The study also identified potential housing gaps, as well as possible financing opportunities to address the needs.

3. Is this study about a shortage of workforce housing?

Workforce housing means housing targeted to households with incomes between 50% and 120% of the area median income, which means incomes ranging from about $28,000 per year to about $71,000 per year.

However, the housing study covered housing needs of households in all income ranges, not just those considered to be workforce housing.

4. Are there other groups of people that may have specific housing challenges that were addressed by the housing study?

Yes. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities are examples of people who may have unique housing needs addressed in the study. Also, persons who currently are low income renters or who are homeless may also have needs that are addressed by the study.

5. Most housing is built by the private sector. How can the city do anything about the kind of housing that's built?

The study shines light on areas of potential investment by the private sector, and identifies areas where the city can be involved through public investment or other strategies to facilitate housing development and improvement.

6. How will the city use the information from the study?

The report from the study will be available to all interested parties. In addition, the city will use the information from the study to develop Annual Action Plans from the 2019 to 2023 Consolidated Housing and Community Development Plan (Con Plan). The Con Plan will serve as the strategic foundation for federal funding of housing initiatives for the next five years.

7. Who can I contact for additional information from the study?

Persons seeking information about the study may contact:
Ms. Mellin L. Parker, Planning Senior Project Supervisor
Community Development Department
City of Winston-Salem
Phone: 336-734-1310
Email Ms. Mellin L. Parker (please put "Housing Study" in subject line)

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COVID-19 Recovery Grants

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1. What constitutes a QCT?

Qualified Census Tract is a federal designation for census tracts in which at least half of the households have income below 60 percent of the area median income or have a poverty rate of 25 percent or more.

2. Why are grants only being offered in these areas of the city?

For this initial phase of pandemic assistance, the City Council primarily is concerned with assisting small businesses and small non-profits in danger of ceasing operations. It is deliberately giving first priority to low-income areas of the city to ensure an equitable distribution of funds. Additionally, state law restricts the amount of funds and areas in which the city can provide grants to small businesses.

3. I dipped into my savings to pay my mortgage/rent/utilities. Can I get reimbursed?

No. Grants are for past-due amounts only.

4. My businesses is struggling but I’ve kept up with my mortgage/rent/utilities. Can I get help with other expenses?

No, these recovery grants are only for arrears in mortgages, rent or utilities. Businesses with other losses related to the pandemic may qualify for assistance through the N.C. Business Recovery Grant program.

5. My small business is not in a QCT but many of my customers live in QCTs. Am I eligible for a grant?

No. Small businesses must be physically located in a QCT to be eligible.

6. We’re a small non-profit. What documents do we need to submit to show that we serve clients in a QCT?

Documentation can vary but could include a client list with addressing and/or income information. Client names and physical addresses should be redacted (use only street name and/or zip code).

7. What are social service non-profits?

Social service non-profits are those which assist residents with issues related to their quality of life. Examples include housing, food security, crisis management, mental health, family services and similar issues. 

8. I’m a small business. How do I determine how many full-time equivalent (FTE) employees I have?

Add up the total number of hours worked by all your employees (including yourself, if you work for the business) in a typical week and divide this number by 40 to get your number of FTEs. Example: Your business has 12 employees (including yourself) who work a total of 316 hours in a typical week. You have 7.9 FTEs (316/40 = 7.9).

9. How do I document the number of FTEs in my small businesses?

Report your FTEs through self-attestation.

10. Why are grants restricted to assisting with arrears in mortgages, rent or utilities?

Grants have been provided for these purposes to give priority assistance to non-profits and businesses that may be in danger of ceasing operations without access to funding to ensure facilities and basic utilities are available. Additionally, state law restricts the amount of funds and areas in which the city can legally provide grants.  

11. Can I apply if received other state or federal pandemic assistance?

Yes. Any eligible small business or non-profit can receive a grant provided it has past-due balances on mortgage, rent or utility bills.

12. If I receive a grant, do I have to pay taxes on it?

You should inquire with your tax attorney on this question.

13. If I’m approved, how quickly will I receive assistance?

Grants will be dispersed in early March.

14. Do sole proprietors qualify for grants?

Yes, provided they meet all the other eligibility requirements.

15. Do contractors I use count toward FTEs?

No, provided that they are truly contractor employees per applicable rules and laws.

16. How much money is available for relief grants?

The City Council has allocated $3 million for recovery grants. $1 million is available each for small businesses, for small social service non-profits, and small non-profits in the areas of travel, tourism, hospitality, and the arts.

17. Where is the money for the grants coming from?

The money is part of the $51.7 million the city is receiving in federal pandemic relief through the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund.

18. Will the city be offering other pandemic assistance in the future?

Yes. The City Council is considering a recommendation to make more than $15.5 million available for outcome-based partnerships and programs with specific goals tied to the strategic priorities the mayor and City Council adopted earlier this year. The actual amount could vary as the council votes on specific allocations.

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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion- ERGs

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1. What are Employee Affinity Groups (EAGs)?

Employee Affinity Groups (EAG) are employer-recognized workplace groups voluntarily led by employees. These groups allow employees with commonalities to meet, support each other, and create a sense of belonging among their colleagues.

2. Do other municipalities have an EAG program?

Yes, other cities have created EAGs and have found the establishment of these groups to be very helpful toward employee retention and mentorship. Below, you can find a list of cities that have established EAG programs:

• City of Dallas
• City of Boston
• City of Philadelphia
• City of Milwaukee Policy
• City of Milwaukee
• Town of Chapel Hill 

3. How did the department come up with the particular EAGs to be established?

These groups were created from benchmarking other municipalities and feedback given from the Equity Core Team. However, if there is a group an employee would like to start, they can reach out to Shane Taylor (shanet@cityofws.org) about the process of creating and approving a group sponsored by the City of Winston-Salem Human Relations/DEI Department.

4. Do EAGs violate the City of Winston-Salem Non-Discrimination Policy?

No, each group is designed to support different identities in the City of Winston-Salem. Each group has adopted the City of Winston-Salem non-discrimination-policy and will work with Human Relations/ DEI Department to ensure discrimination does not occur. 

5. Why should I join an EAG?

Individuals who have joined EAGs at other companies have said that “being part of an EAG gave me the ability to share knowledge, raise cultural awareness, and act as a bridge across cultural issues – improving my company’s cultural competence”. Others have appreciated a space to network and build mentorship opportunities with other employees of similar backgrounds. 

6. How do I join or get involved?

• Once you fill out the interest form (find here), your assigned ERG Leader will reach out about the next activities the group will host.

7. What type of activities will the EAG host?

The various types of EAG activities will be decided by the EAG leadership that has been chosen from the pool of members from the Equity Core Team. However, some events that could occur throughout the year are forums, outings at a particular location, socials, workshops, mentorship opportunities, etc.

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Downtown Baseball Stadium

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1. Does this agreement raise city taxes?

No. The city's debt service will be covered by lease payments received from Brookstown Development Partners and stadium revenues.

2. Does it anticipate subsidizing the baseball team with tax revenues?

No.

3. Does it put any public money in the pockets of Mr. Prim or the other private investors in the project?

No.

4. Does it permit those investors to make any profit from the project during any year, unless the city's obligations are paid first?

No.

5. What does the city get in return for its $12.7 million investment?

The city receives an ownership title to the land and the stadium, and a guaranteed place in line for the team and stadium revenues, ahead of any investor payments or profits.

6. What will be used to pay the principal and interest payments on the city loan?

Lease payments from Brookstown Development Partners (BDP) and revenues from the operation of the ballpark, including ticket sales, concessions, advertising, and sponsorships, will be used for payments.

7. What indications do we have that those revenues will be adequate to cover all obligations?

Pre-sales of tickets and sponsorships support the revenue projections. Professional analysis for the banks projects strong revenues from the new stadium. Performance of the Greensboro minor league team in its new stadium already exceeds what Winston-Salem would need.

8. What other security will the city have to protect its interests?

We will continue to have veto power over sale or relocation of the team franchise. Winston-Salem has always been a strong market for minor league baseball so they're going to want to keep a team here, especially with the most modern new stadium in the league. We will also still have the letter of credit, paid for by the developer in advance, to cover shortfalls in the ticket surcharge due to the city.

9. What guarantees will the city have of timely completion of stadium construction, and responsible use of our loaned funds in that completion?

Failure to complete construction on time would accelerate the loan, and the city will have a stronger interest in the assets of the land and stadium. Performance and payment bonds will also be in place to ensure completion of the project. We also will receive biweekly progress and expenditure reports during the construction period, including what's been spent on what, and the updated estimated completion date.

10. What ongoing monitoring will the city have of team finances after completion of the stadium?

We will receive quarterly financial reports from the team owners, to be reviewed by our accountants, summaries of which will be made public.

11. At what point did the city turn over the $12 million to Mr. Prim? Please tell the public what happened and why there was an absence of standard lending practices?

The payments to Sports Menagerie were reimbursements to the developer for expenses actually incurred based on invoices. These payments were made after the developer demonstrated that he had a bank letter of credit for the construction. Payments were made between November 2007 and July 2008. Total expenses during this period were $19,884,100.

The first $12 million was a grant to the project that has performance conditions attached to the project. It was not a loan.

12. Will there be traditional safe-guards for disbursing the money or does BDP simply get a $12.7 million check?

None of the funds will go to Brookstown Development Partners (BDP) or the previous partner. The funds will be disbursed by the bank consortium based upon actual invoices from the contractors and lien holders.

13. Why would foreclosure cost the city more than $12.7 million to complete the stadium?

The city's initial $12 million is behind an $18 million Regions Bank land loan and $10 million is owed to the contractors. A settlement would have to be reached with each of these parties. The city would then have to borrow funds to complete the construction of the stadium at an estimated cost of $13.5 million.

14. Is the stadium being built on land that has not been bought, and who has title to the land?

The land is owned by Brookstown Development Partners (BDP). That land and the land for phase II was all bought by BDP using the original proceeds from the $18 Regions Bank loan.

15. Why would the city "give" $2 million to BDP? Is this legal? I know that it may or may not be a federal grant (still tax dollars)? What happens to the original project?

The $2 million is coming from capital reserves that are set up in the Broad Street improvement project. That project provides for intersection and roadway improvements along Broad Street from Business 40 to 5th Street. We have already received a $2 million federal grant for improvements on roads around the stadium, but Broad Street was left off the bill language, a technical error.

We are seeking a technical amendment to add Broad Street. The local funds provided to the project would be used for transportation, site work and other improvements that are allowed by law. Once the technical amendment is approved, we would replenish the capital project funds and the Broad Street project could be completed.

16. Has construction progressed too far to scale back the "upgrades"?

Yes, the vast majority of the upgrades has already been done. The remaining items like the completion of the play yard are not significant cost components.

17. Is the amount owed for existing work $10 million or $475,000?

The amount owed is $10 million.

18. Why would the city purchase Phase II Land before the stadium proves itself?

The city's investment goes towards paying off the outstanding Phase I debt and towards completion of the stadium. These funds are not be used to purchase land in Phase II.

19. What does Mr. Prim have in the project?

Mr. Prim has to place millions on deposit as collateral for the remaining Regions Bank $10 million land loan and the Bank of America (BOA) $15 million bank loan. He also had to expend millions to buy out his former partner in the ownership of the team.

20. Will the city verify through legal documents that Mr. Filipowski's interests have been satisfied and he is clearly and completely out of the picture?

Yes.

21. What is the impact to city taxpayers when Brookstown Development Partners (BDP) does not make the loan payments?

Bank of America advises that the team's management company, Mandalay is one of the best in the country. When you look at the current attendance of over 400,000 in Greensboro, and the fact that the Dash has sold more sponsorships and pre-season ticket packages than Greensboro did in its first year, it is likely that the team will be able to pay the lease to the city. We have actually reviewed signed sponsorships that total over $2.5 million and a signed multi-million dollar naming rights contract.

We have stressed a very detailed pro forma on the team operations to ensure that there will be funds available to cover our loan. The banks have reviewed all of this information with us. Unfortunately, because of the credit freeze their rules will not allow them to loan more than $15 million directly. If the projections are totally wrong and the team cannot meet the obligations, in the worst case scenario, the city would have to fund the $800,000 annual debt service payment.

22. Please specify who the 'outside consultants' are and how they were funded; o these consultants have any connection to the developers?

All of the costs for outside consultants (attorneys, financial advisors, and auditors) are included in the closing cost for the loan to the developer. The costs will be paid by the developer, just like home closing costs are charged to the buyer by the bank.

We were very careful to select outside consultants that had no ties to the developer or any of his partners. To ensure this, most of the help came from Charlotte or Raleigh firms.

23. When will the funding of this stadium cease?

We have reviewed detailed engineering and construction estimates with an independent consultant hired by the banks and are very confident that the stadium will be completed for the total cost of $40.7 million.

24. Will the city be able to utilize the stadium as a multi-purpose arena and hold concerts or similar events there?

The developer intends to have concerts and other events in the stadium year round.

25. Why is there no legal contract between the city and the developer regarding these loans?

The city already has a legal contract for the $12 million that we invested two years ago. For this new loan, we have an agreed-on term sheet. By law, the city manager cannot sign and execute a written contract for this loan until the City Council has voted to approve the terms and given the city manager the authority to execute such an agreement.

26. When will the stadium be ready?

The goal is to have the stadium completed in the fall of this year.

27. What happens if the franchise relocates the baseball team outside the city or sell the team?

If the developer sells or relocates the team outside of the city, the debt to the city becomes due and payable immediately. A relocation of the team will also cause an event of default under the bank groups' loan. This is a huge financial disincentive for the franchise to relocate the team, without first obtaining the necessary approvals.

28. Why can’t Mr. Prim use funds from the $340 million sale of Blue Rhino to finish the ballpark?

Blue Rhino was sold to Ferrellgas in 2004 for $17 a share. According to filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, at the time of the sale, Mr. Prim owned 1,646,352 shares, 11.5% of the company. Mr. Prim sold these shares to Ferrellgas for $27,900,000.

Mr. Prim has indicated that most of the funds from the proceeds of the sale were invested in Ferrellgas or in his new company Primo Water. An independent auditor has confirmed that all of Mr. Prim's current assets are pledged as collateral in other ventures or for the bank loans associated with the team, stadium, and adjoining property.

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Downtown Baseball Stadium - Public Input Session

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1. What was the original $12 million investment in the project used for?

These funds were used to help offset costs associated with the development of the stadium, including public infrastructure improvements, site preparation, stadium construction and land acquisition.

2. Why were there not more safeguards in the original agreement?

There is a contract with the developer that requires completion of the stadium by March 2010. If the project is not completed the city would have the option of suing the developer, but from a subordinated interest behind the lenders and contractors.

3. Did the city receive any legal advice in drafting/reviewing the original agreement?

No, the original agreement was prepared internally by the former City Attorney.

4. Where did the $12 million in city funds in the original agreement come from? Did it include taxpayer funds?

One million came from previously approved Downtown Development General Obligation Bonds, $5.5 million came from the sale of Ernie Shore Field and $5.5 million was borrowed and is being financed over 20 years.

This borrowing is being covered by the new tax increment generated by the stadium. Of this total amount, the $1 million in General Obligation Bonds is the only portion that is being taxpayer funded.

5. What has the city already agreed to fund in the Phase II mixed use commercial development adjacent to the stadium?

The city's additional financial assistance of up to $8,012,252 would be provided over a period of up to 25 years based on the annual taxes paid to the city in excess of the taxes paid on the $22.6 million base price of the stadium.

In addition, with the construction of Phase II, the city would agree to purchase up to 1,000 parking deck spaces at a total cost not to exceed $16,340,858. The purchase of these spaces is contingent upon the costs being self-funded through the Phase II development.

6. Why expand the scope of stadium in a tightening credit market?

The scope of the project changed before most vertical construction had ever begun.

7. Why didn’t the developer come forward sooner to inform the city of the increases in cost?

Because the developer was trying to work out the details with the bank consortium and for reasons of confidentiality, the developer waited until most of the critical issues were resolved before going public.

8. Why can’t the developer put more of his personal funds into the stadium?

The developer is unable to borrow any additional funds to put into the project.

9. Is Flip going to receive any of the city funds?

No.

10. What are the specifics on the $1.3 million loan from the Millennium Fund?

This loan is for 25 years at 0% interest with all payments deferred. When the stadium is transferred to the city's ownership in 25 years, the loan is completely forgiven.

11. Is the city helping small businesses and/or homeowners that are facing foreclosure in this economy?

The city has a small business loan program to assist small businesses. Funds also will be available by the end of July to assist homeowners who are about to be evicted due to foreclosure.

12. Can the city be more transparent and disclose all documents?

All documents that can be made public have been placed on the city’s web site. View the Downtown Baseball Stadium documents.

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Downtown Two-Way Street Conversion

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1. Why are these streets being converted to two-way traffic?

The use of one-way streets was established in the late 1940s, before Business 40 (now Salem Parkway) was built and vehicles had to go through downtown to get from one side of Winston-Salem to the other. 

That is no longer the case. And the growth of downtown as a destination for visitors and as a place to live has created greater interest in making downtown more accommodating for pedestrians and bicyclists.

A study of downtown streets completed in 2015 recommended converting First, Second, Liberty and Main streets to two-way traffic to slow traffic, make downtown more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly, improve traffic circulation in downtown and enhance the overall downtown business environment. 

Slowing traffic and allowing two-way traffic will allow motorists to see potential attractions or businesses that they might want to patronize. Lower speeds also promote walkability, which is a favorable condition for downtown business.

Two-way streets will also improve traffic circulation. Visitors will be able to get to their destination more directly, resulting in them getting off the road sooner than if they had to circle a block because of the one-way traffic.

2. Why are portions of First Street and Second streets still one-way?

Efforts were made to identify solutions for two-way travel along the entire length of First and Second Streets. However, the short spacing between Cherry and Marshall Streets (and some other adjacent streets) would result in back-ups that could tie up intersections because the short blocks do not allow enough room for "queue stacking," that is, the cars stopped between the streets while waiting for the light to turn green. 

Keeping these blocks one-way allows both lanes to be used by vehicles, just as they currently are.

3. Don't the one-way sections on First and Second streets defeat the purpose of the two-way conversion?

No. The two-way conversion primarily is intended to calm traffic and improved traffic circulation downtown. First Street will remain predominately a westbound route, and Second Street will remain predominantly an eastbound route. However, the two-way conversion will give downtown commuters new options for getting into and out of downtown, which will absorb some of the traffic that currently uses those streets. 

For example, the new traffic pattern will allow southbound drivers on Broad Street to turn right at Second Street to get to Peters Creek Parkway. Currently, they must go to First Street.

4. Why is the block of Second Street between Broad and Spring remaining one-way?

This block remains one-way because there is not enough right-of way for both two-way traffic on that block AND allow two left-turn lanes from the Second Street connector on to northbound Broad Street. Two left turn lanes are necessary because of the volume of traffic that turns at this intersection.

5. How do two-way streets calm traffic?

One-way pairs of multi-lane streets can inadvertently create a "race track" feel, due to wide pavement, straight paths, and well-timed two-phase traffic signals. One-way streets also can hinder the visibility of businesses and access to businesses. 

In contrast, two-way streets tend to reduce vehicle speeds. Two-way roadways also improve access and connectivity, shorten trip lengths, and reduce driver confusion. 

6. What happens to traffic patterns during the transition?

The current traffic patterns will remain in effect during construction. Lane closures may be required from time to time for construction. Once all the elements are in place the roads will be switched to two-way traffic. Typically the switch takes place over a weekend, when traffic volumes are lower.

7. When will this happen?

To minimize the disruption downtown, only one pair of streets will be converted at a time. First and Second streets will be converted first, because they are the most in need of repaving (which is part of the project). Work on them is expected to start this summer and is scheduled to take about a year to complete. 

Once First and Second streets are completed, work will begin on Liberty and Main streets.

8. How long will it take?

Transportation officials estimate that by doing only two streets at a time, it will take about two years to convert all four streets.

9. How much will it cost?

As part of the November 2018 bond referendum, voters approved $6.4 million in bonds to pay for converting the streets. This includes the cost of new traffic signals and mounting poles, building curb-extensions, milling and repaving, painting new lane markings and realigning Old Salem Road.

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Emergency Management

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1. I have some old paint, paint thinner and motor oil to dispose of, where can I take it?

The City/County Utility Commission sponsors a permanent household hazardous waste disposal facility. The 3RC EnviroStation is located across the street from Bowman Gray Stadium at 1401 S Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Winston-Salem.

You may contact the facility direct to find out what other household wastes they will accept and the hours of operation, you may call them at 336-784-4300. Also, some of the major auto parts stores in the county will accept used motor oil for disposal at no cost.

2. I have some building materials containing asbestos, where can I dispose of it?

Contact the Forsyth County Department of Environmental Affairs by calling 336-727-8064 for more information.

3. Sewage is running across my neighbor's backyard and over into my yard, what should I do?

Call the City of Winston-Salem, Utilities Division at 336-650-7650.

4. What protective actions should I take in the event of a tornado?

The majority of injuries and deaths related to tornadoes occur as a result of flying debris, the collapse of buildings, or being caught in an automobile. The best protection during a tornado is in an interior room on the lowest level of a building, such as a basement or storm cellar. Mobile homes and automobiles are particularly vulnerable and should be avoided. If outdoors, a low area (away from trees) such as a drainage ditch or culvert should be sought for protection.

5. What type supplies should I keep on hand for emergency situations?

It is recommended that a disaster supplies kit for your home and automobile be maintained at all times, with enough provisions to survive, unassisted, for at least 72 hours.

A typical kit for your home would include non-perishable food including:

• Basic protective clothing and bedding
• Battery powered flashlight and radio with extra batteries
• Disposable plates and eating utensils
• Duct tape
• Extra medication
• Fire extinguisher
• First aid kit
• Plastic sheeting
• Rope and plain chlorine bleach (for water disinfection)
• Sanitation and personal hygiene supplies
• Specialty items for babies and the elderly
• Tool kit
• Water (one gallon per person, per day)

6. How do I find out if my house is located in a flood zone?

Copies of FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available in the reference section of the Forsyth County Public Library on West 5th Street, and at the Office of Emergency Management by calling 336-917-7070. In addition, Internet users can access this information through Forsyth County's Tax Assessor's Geo-Data Explorer website.

7. If public shelters are opened in Forsyth County for sever weather conditions, how do I find out where they are, when to go and what to take with me?

If public shelters are opened, or planned to be opened, the information will be put out by the media with details regarding when to go, where to go, if transportation will be provided to get there, and information on what to bring with you (i.e. sleeping bag, your medications, change of clothes, etc.)

8. If I am deaf or have special medical needs, do I go to a regular public shelter?

Persons with impairments, who are self-sufficient and capable of performing activities of daily living without assistance, would go to a general public shelter.

9. What are the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA) and North Carolina Right to Know reporting requirements for Forsyth County?

The minimum requirements state that having at least 55 gallons or 500 pounds of any hazardous material on site requires reporting. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) fall under the Federal guidelines for Threshold Planning Quantities (TPQ) of the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA).

10. Who is required to report under the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA)?

Federal and State laws require facilities that manufacture, store, or use hazardous materials to report to the SERC, the LEPC, and the local fire department, if 55 gallons or 500 pounds of any hazardous material requiring a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is present on-site. However, if the chemical is considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to be an Extremely Hazardous Substance (EHS), the reportable quantity falls to the Threshold Planning Quantity (TPQ) for each chemical, which may be lower. Also exceeding the TPQ of certain Extremely Hazardous Materials may require further actions of the facility operators.

11. When is the deadline for submitting Tier Two Reports?

Inventory reports for a calendar year are to be submitted not later than March 1st of the following calendar year.

For chemical reporting assistance in Forsyth County, contact the Hazardous Materials Coordinator, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Office of Emergency Management by calling 336-767-6161.

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Emergency Management - Local Emergency Planning Committee

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1. Why is the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) needed?

Chemicals are used by public and private facilities throughout Forsyth County. These chemicals are used to provide essential services like clean water and to manufacture goods at area industries. Chemicals, such as gasoline, are transported daily along the area's highways. Although companies that handle or transport these chemicals in our state have excellent safety records, the need to plan for and be capable of responding to accidental releases of these chemicals is necessary.

Using & Storing Chemicals

Facilities that use or store a hazardous chemical above a threshold quantity must annually submit their chemical inventory information to off-site officials each year. This information is submitted to the fire department having jurisdiction over the facility, the respective county LEPC, and the State Emergency Response Commission..

Tierr II Reports

Forsyth County LEPC recommends local facilities to use E-Plan software to submit their Tier II reports.

In recent years, the LEPC's planning efforts have been refocused to include planning for a variety of disasters that may affect the community. Floods, hazardous material spills, wild fires, natural disasters, and even terrorism all constitute real challenges facing community leaders today. Planners are advocating the development of "All-Hazards" planning, which prepare towns for any disaster, not just those from chemical releases.

2. How was Forsyth County's Local Emergency Planning Committee formed?

Congress passed the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act in 1986 to increase public and private efforts to reduce risks associated with the use and storage of hazardous chemicals. The new law afforded the public access to information on chemicals present in their communities. The law required the formation of Local Emergency Planning Committees to develop plans for emergency response to accidents involving the release of hazardous materials.

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Emergency Management - Spanish

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1. Qué es La Dirección de Emergencia?

La Dirección de Emergencia es una combinación del esfuerzo locál, federál, del gobierno, y del estado para proteger la gente contra los efectos de disastres naturales y ellos hecho por humanos. La oficina de La Dirección de Emergencia locál, trabaja para identificar y analizar los peligros que la ciudad de Winston-Salem posiblemente encontrará y se desrolla planes de contingencia para cada peligro. Los planes son regularmente examinado, refinado y examinado de nuevo, todo hecho con el objectivo de proteger y salvar la vida y la propiedad.

La Oficina de La Dirección de Emergencia usa un modo de planear del nivel que se llama "quarta fase" para la emergencia: Mitigación, Preparación, Reacción y Recobro, que se llama, colectivamente, El Ciclo de Dirección de Emergencia.

2. Como Deshago De Aceite Viejo Del MotóR Y Desperdicio DoméStico Peligroso?

El "3RC EnviroStation" es una facilidad permanente para la disposición de peligroso desperdicio doméstico que está patrocinado por la Comissión Utilitariano de Winston-Salem/El Condado de Forsyth. Éste servicio es gratis para todos residentes calificados de la ciudad de Winston-Salem y del Condado de Forsyth. La disposición de aceite viejo de motór el ilegál en Winston-Salem/El Condado de Forsyth. Ciudadanos están adelantados llevar su aceite viejo del motór y otros peligroso desperdicio domestico al "3RC EnviroStation".

Peligroso desperdicio domestico incluye: brillo para metál, lustre del horno, champú del alfombra, insecticida, cebo de ratón, gasolina, aceite combustible, anticongelente, flúido de freno, batería de coche, cola, estropeados, soluciónes, baterías, materiales fotográficas que no están mezcladas, otros productos ponzoñosos, inflamados, corosivos, pintura y aceite del automovíl.

Guarde artículos de peligroso desperdicio separados, y en sus recipientes origionales cuando sea posible.

Si no puede leer el marbete, o si el materiál está en un envase que no es lo origional, marque el artículo. Nosostros sugerimos que uds. ponen estes artículos en un cartón forrado con un periodico antes de llevarlos al "3RC EnviroStation".

3. Qué es la diferencia entre una Vigila de condiciones atmosféricos y un Aviso de condiciones atmosféricos?

Sabiendo la diferencia entre una Vigila de condiciones atmosféricos y un AVISO de condiciones atmosféricos podría mejorar su opotunidad de sobrevivir. Una Vigila indica que los condiciones atmosféricos están favorables para una tormenta severa, y que ud. debe estar alerta acerca de éstas condiciones, y que ud. necesita restringir o posponer actividades del aire libre. Un Aviso indica que una tormenta severa está occuriendo o que ella está iminente y que ud. tiene que asumir la responsabilidad de acción inmediato, como irse a un lugar segura que ud. ya ha identificado para la protección de un tornado.

4. Qué es un radio del tiempo con alerta de tono?

Permanezca informado acerca de información importante sobre la seguridad del tiempo con un radio del Servicio Nacionál del Tiempo que tiene una alerta de tono. Un radio de tiempo con alerta de tono es un aparato que da avisos o vigilas del Servicio Nacionál del Tiempo, o acerca de emergencias locales. El radio de tiempo podría ser su conección instante a los desarollos receintes en situaciones de tormentas severas o emergencias locales. La facción de alerta de tono permite que ud. está alertada acerca de la posibilidad de vigilas y avisos que posibliente no estaría consciente de, y también sobre emergencias locales que podría afecarle. Recomendamos que un radio con alerta de tono está en cada casa y lugar de trabajo. Puede obtenerlos en la mayoría de tiendas electronicas como Radio Shack, Circut City, Wal-Mart, y otras tiendas. Radios de Tiempo radiodifunde solo en inglés en este momento.

5. Donde puedo obtener información en Español sobre la preparación para un disastre, y otros asuntos de la seguridad?

Puede comunicarse con La Oficina de La Dirección de Emergencia de Winston-Salem/El Condado de Forsyth a: 336-767-6161 para información en Español sobre disastres, o puede utilizar la Cruz Roja. Su website está incluida en la nuestra, en la catagoría de "Other Links." Su dirección es: Red Cross. 

6. Que es el Ciclo De Manejo De Emergencias?

• Mitigación: Actividades que son designados uno u otro para prevenir la occurencia de una emergencia o para empequeñecer los afectos adversos que son potenciales en una emergencia, incluyendo codigos de zona/edificio y la cumplimiento forzazo de regulaciones de tierra.
• Preparación: Actividades, programas y sistemas que existen antes de la occurencia de una emergencia y que se usan para soportar y realezar la reacción a una emergencia o un disastre. Educación publica, planeando, disciplina y ejerciciando son en medio de las actividades manejado por este fase.
• Reacción: Actividades y programas que son designados para dirigirse a los afectos inmediatos de la empieza de una emergencia o de un disastre y ayudas a empequeñecer la perdida de vida humana, daño, y acelerar la recuperación, coordinación, aviso, evacuación, y cuidado masivo son ejemplos de Reacción.
• Recobro: Actividades designadas para reinstituar la vida normál. Acciones de recobro son activados para avaluar daño y reinstituar sistemas vitales de vida; un gran período de recobro puede continuar para años.

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Employee Center - General [Intranet]

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1. How can I get information posted to the Employee Center?

Contact your Department Web Content Editor.

2. Who is your department web editor?

Check out the list of department web editors.

3. What information will I find here?

You will find the following:

• About the Employee Discount program and other employee programs
• All about your benefits
• Forms you need to use in your job
• Manuals for reference
• News about city employees and about what is going on in city government and in our community
• More

What would you like to see here?

4. How can I get information out to other employees?

The Employee Center, can be a vital place of information exchange! Read it often, send in your notices, participate in the events, tell your Department Web Content Editor about news that can be posted on your department pages or in the News or Get Involved or other sections. Talk about it with your co-workers!

5. Why do I have to sign in?

As a security measure, it is required to sign in and be authenticated as a city employee if you are not on the city network. The site will time out your authentication after a few hours, after which time (or the next day) you will sign in again to re-establish your identity as an employee.

This security allows us to make the intranet available to all city employees - even those who do not use computers for their everyday work. Read the Employee Center from home!

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Engineering - Meadowlark Drive Project

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1. Does this plan still include the construction of two additional stop lights between Robinhood Road and Country Club Road?

Yes, it still includes the construction of two additional  stop lights between Robinhood Road and Country Club Road.

2. Does the plan include traffic traveling south on Meadolark toward Country Club Road to make a U-turn to enter the school for drop off?

Yes, the plan includes traffic traveling south on Meadowlark toward Country Club Rod to make a U-turn to enter the school for drop off.

3. Has this information been provided to the effected neighborhoods

Yes, this information was presented during a public meeting held at the Meadowlark Middle School on Monday, August 28, 2017.

4. Is it still being anticipated that these improvements will take two years?

Yes, it is anticipated that these improvements will take two years to complete.

5. Are they still planning to make the 10 foot wide walking/bike path from north to south on the east side of Meadowlark?

Yes they are still planning to make the 10 foot wide walking/bike path from north to south on the east side of Meadowlark.

6. In March 2018 funding was available to complete this project once approved, in talking with city planners in late summer the bids were too high, explain?

Funding, approved by voters in 2014, is available. The bids that the City received in July of 2018 exceeded those funds; therefore additional funds are needed.

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Engineering - Real Estate

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1. How do I contact the North Carolina Real Estate Commission?

The Commission's Headquarters is in Raleigh. They can be reached by phone at 919-875-3700. For additional information, please view the North Carolina Real estate Commission website.

2. How do I find out who owns particular piece of property?

Contact the Forsyth County Tax Office by phone at 336-703-2300. For additional information, please review the Forsyth County Tax Office's website.

3. How do I find out about existing programs which help people who want to be homeowners?

Contact the Community Development office or contact Mary Williams, by phone at 336-734-1284, or email Mary Williams for additional information.

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ERAP FAQ

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1. Who is included in “household income"?

The household income is the combined total income of all adults living in the home, including adult children aged 18 and older.

2. I live by myself. Am I an eligible to apply?

Yes, provided that you are responsible for paying the rent, and utilities where you live and that you meet all the other eligibility criteria.

3. How do I prove that my household has experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19?

Provide documents that show that one or more individuals within the household: 

• Proof of unemployment benefits, 
• Proof of a reduction in income, 
• Proof of increased expenses, 
• Proof of other financial hardship

4. I am a tenant; do I need to get my landlord to participate?

Yes, your landlord will be asked to complete documents during the application process. If you have questions or concerns, please call our customer service line at: 1-855-836-6776.

5. Who receives the payment?

Payments will be made to the landlord/property management company and utility company directly.  

6. Is there a maximum benefit amount?

The amount of assistance will vary from household to household based on its circumstances.

7. How long can I receive assistance?

Currently, the program helps with past due rent and utility bills up to 12 months in arrears and rent going forward up to 6 months, with one application. You may apply in future months, provided that funds are still available and you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

8. I received an ERAP payment when the program provided 15 months of assistance. Now it provides 18 moths of assistance. Can I apply again?

If you still meet the eligibility criteria, you may apply again to receive an additional assistance up to a total of 18 months, including whatever assistance you already received.

9. Once I have submitted my application, how will I know what is happening?

You will be able to log into the application portal and review the status of your application.

10. How do I get help with transportation to the Appointment Lab?

Applicants needing transportation assistance to the Emergency Rental Assistance Lab can call (336) 703-3700 to schedule.

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Field Operations - Snow & Ice Removal

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1. How much snow has to be on the ground before you plow the snow off the roads?

2 inches

2. How does the city decide on which roads get plowed first?

In order: 1. Major roads 2. Secondary roads; 3. Neighborhood roads. See map to see determine what specific roads are categorized as.

3. Why are some main arteries not cleared as quickly as some other roads?

State-maintained roads are cleared by the state, not city crews.

4. Why do some trucks drive with their plows up?

City crews do not plow state-maintained roads and will drive with their plows up along those roads.

5. Sometimes the city does not put brine on streets before a winter storm. Why is that?

When the forecast calls for the storm to start as rain, pre-applied brine would wash off the roads before frozen precipitation comes down. In these cases, it makes more sense to apply salt to the streets once it starts snowing.

6. Why does the city not pre-treat neighborhood streets?

Neighborhoods are not pretreated because it is a resource issue. Salt supplies are reserved to pre-treat major roads, roads leading into critical care facilities (hospitals and dialysis centers, etc.), and secondary roads.

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Field Operations Maplewood Ave

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1. Why didn’t the city wait until the new culvert was on hand before tearing up the road?

The old culvert had rusted in several places and had caved in. The road was getting unstable and was vulnerable to collapsing. The city could not ignore the safety risk to the public.

2. Isn’t there some temporary solution that can be implemented for the time being?

Unfortunately, no. When working in regulated floodplains, only a properly sized and designed culvert will safely handle the flow of water in the event of a heavy rain.

3. Do you have any idea how long will it take before the road is reopened?

Again, unfortunately, no. Until we secure a contractor to complete the job, there is no way to know how long this situation will last.

4. What options have you considered?

The original culvert comprised two metal pipes, each 54 inches (4 1/2 feet) in diameter. Originally, the city hoped to replace them with a single pipe 84 inches (seven feet) in diameter. That would have to be made of corrugated steel and is not available. Next the city looked at again using two 54-inch culverts. Again the shortage of corrugated steel has rendered these unavailable for now. The city also looked at using two 54-inch concrete culverts. They are not being produced, either. The city will also consider using aluminum pipe, but given its experience using aluminum for another project (described below), this would be its last choice. 

5. Why can’t the city use multiple smaller, standard-size pipes in lieu of a one or two custom-made pipes?

The replacement culvert needs to be integrated into retaining walls on the site. This can only be accomplished using the original configuration of two 54-inch pipes, or one 84-inch pipe.

6. Why is the city reluctant to install an aluminum culvert?

The city recently installed an aluminum culvert under Robbins Road after it had been closed for a considerable period of time due to the same shortage that is affecting the Maplewood project. The aluminum culvert proved to be fragile and easily damaged. The city hired an experienced contractor to install the culvert, but even so, the culvert was damaged in the process and had to be re-ordered, leading to a further two-month delay in completing the project.

7. Now that the emergency procurement declaration has been signed, how long will it take to complete the project and reopen the street?

That remains to be seen. The key issue will be how long it takes for the city to find a contractor with the necessary replacement pipes. 

8. Why did the city wait so long to invoke the emergency authorization process?

By law, the city can only use its emergency procurement process under certain conditions, one of them being to protect property. Given the length of time that the road has been excavated and with no end in sight, the threat of erosion is growing and it could make the situation worse. This created the grounds for using the emergency procurement process.

9. If the issue is a shortage of replacement pipe, how does the emergency procurement process help bring the project to a quicker completion?

The emergency procurement declaration allows the city to bypass its normal contracting requirements for soliciting bids. Instead, the city can seek out contractors with access to the necessary pipe and approach them directly. 

10. Is this situation with culverts happening anywhere else?

Yes. Old Salisbury Road – a heavily traveled artery that serves neighborhoods on the south side of town – has been closed since March 2021 due to a failing culvert. That project ais also on an indefinite delay due to the lack of a replacement. However, it currently does not qualify for an emergency procurement declaration. Other streets affected by the same issue include Robbins Road, as discussed above, and Long Drive, which also was closed for a protracted period.

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Finance - Purchasing / Bids

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1. Where can I find information about contract opportunities with the City of Winston-Salem?

Information about contract opportunities with the City of Winston-Salem can be found by reviewing the City's Bid information.

2. What is the difference between a bid and a proposal?

Bids, known as competitively sealed bids or Invitation for Bid (IFB), refer to a contracting method in which sealed bids are publicly solicited, opened, and a contract is awarded based on price to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Proposals refer to a contracting method in which a solicitation is made through a Request for Proposal (RFP), and between receipt of proposals and award, discussions with vendors may take lace, which may result in price changes.

3. Do I have to register with the Purchasing Department in order to bid?

You are not required to register in advance of completing your bid or pre-qualification.

You may, however, register as a vendor with the Purchasing Department on our vendor registration page.

4. Is there a way for the site to notify me when changes are made or new bids are submitted?

You may sign up for email notifications when any new opportunities listed, to receive notifications we recommend signing up with Notify Me.

5. Where can I locate bid documents for purchasing opportunities?

Depending on the opportunity type, the Invitation for Bid or Request for Proposal may be available for download on the Purchasing website. If not, you will find contact information for the buyer assigned to that particular opportunity, who can provide the necessary documents.

6. How many days do I have to return a contract if awarded a project?

The city requests that contractors return signed contracts and other necessary documents no later than 10 days after receipt from the Purchasing Department. As a rule of thumb, however, contractors or vendors should always try to return the documents in as timely a manner as possible. In some cases, time may be of the essence with regard to execution of contracts and purchased orders, in which case there will be a notice to that effect when documents are sent to the vendor for execution.

7. Am I required to attend pre-bid meetings for a project?

This will vary from bid to bid, depending upon the type of project and whether or not the city determines that bidders will need to have information prior to formulating a bid regarding the scope of work or conditions at a job site. Pre-bid requirements will always be included with a bid package if indeed a pre-bid is scheduled to be a part of the process.

8. Where can I find information on upcoming bids for my service or Commodity?

You can view this information on the Bids page.

9. How does a vendor do business with the City?

The first step in becoming a vendor for the city is to complete the Vendor Registration which can be found the Vendor Registration page. Vendors may also contact those employees who job responsibilities include making small purchases of needed commodities and services for individual departments throughout the city.

10. What were the results of a particular bid?

You will be able to find most bid results in the Bids module shortly after the bids for that project are opened. If you do not find the particular information you are seeking, you should contact the buyer assigned to the project.

11. What is the basis for an award on bid opportunities?

Bids are awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. The Purchasing Department, in their sole discretion, may reject all Bids, if deemed in the best interests of the city. The Purchasing Department determines the responsiveness of potential bidders by reviewing the submitted bid documents to ensure compliance with bid requirements.

Additionally, a bidder's responsibility may be determined prior to the bid opening through a pre-qualification process. For opportunities that are issued as a Request for Proposal (RFP), the award may be based upon other criteria and not solely based upon prices. The selection criteria are detailed in the RFP, and may include such things as a respondent's past experience or financial capacity.

12. How do I submit a bid?

Advertised sealed bids must be received and are opened publicly on the date and time of the bid opening as stated in each bid. Bids must be delivered to:
City Hall
Suite 324
101 N Main Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Vendors must submit their bid to the City of Winston-Salem no later than the date that the bid opens. It is the bidder's responsibility to ensure that the bid is submitted in a timely manner and received in the Purchasing Department prior to the bid opening. If the bid is sent by courier or mailed it is recommended that the bid be sent early. It is recommended that the bid arrive at least one business day before the bid opens to ensure timely receipt.

13. Where can I locate bid documents for Purchasing opportunities?

Depending on the opportunity type, the Invitation for Bid or Request for Proposal may be available for download from the Bids module. If not, you will find contact information for the buyer assigned to that particular opportunity, who can provide the necessary documents.

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Fire - July 4th Fireworks Safety

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1. What fireworks are legal in North Carolina?

Fireworks that are legal in North Carolina include poppers, sparklers, fountains and novelty items that don't explode, spin, leave the ground or fly through the air. Examples of legal fireworks: snake and glow worms, smoke devices, noisemakers like snappers and string poppers and wire sparklers. There's a misconception that all fireworks are legal on holidays like New Years, Memorial Day and July 4th. That's not true, the same laws still hold true all year.

2. What fireworks are illegal in North Carolina?

There are certain fireworks that are illegal to possess in this state. That includes: 

• Any Aerial Fireworks
• Bottle Rockets
• Firecrackers
• Fireworks That Spin on the Ground
• Roman Candles

Essentially, any firework that leaves the ground is not legal in North Carolina.

Penalties for Using Fireworks Illegally in North Carolina

Violators of the state's fireworks law face a misdemeanor charge punishable by a fine up to $500 and or imprisonment of up to six months.

3. How old do you have to be to purchase fireworks in North Carolina?

You must be 18 years old to purchase fireworks. (The age of purchase is 16 in South Carolina.)

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Fire - Weaver Fire

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1. If I file my application at the Home and Garden Building, will I receive reimbursement on the spot?

No. Checks will be printed and mailed to your address.

2. When will I received my reimbursement?

This will depend on the volume of applications that have to be processed. Our goal is to have all payments processed within 2 weeks after you turn in your application. 

3. What if I don’t have receipts?

You can fill out a form certifying your expenses, but payment will be limited to no more than $300 if there are no receipts or other documents to prove your expenses.

4. What if I cannot provide proof of household income?

If you are unable to provide proof of your household income you may be eligible for up to $300 in reimbursement per household address.

5. I have a business in the evacuation area. Can I get reimbursement for the lost business?

State law does not allow this program to reimburse for-profit businesses. However, business owners can apply personally for lost wages. 

6. I am self-employed. How do I document my regular income?

Provide what documents you can that indicate your regular daily business income, after deducting expenses. If you do not have any way of documenting your self-employed income, you can sign a form certifying your income, but you will be limited to no more than $300.

7. I have receipts for some expenses but not others. Can I use the form to certify the expenses that I do not have receipts for?

Yes. However, reimbursement for the expenses listed on the form will be limited to no more than $300.

8. Two families are living at my address. Can they each be reimbursed?

No. Only one person can apply per household address.

9. There are four workers living at my address who all lost wages. Can they each apply for reimbursement?

No. One person in the household can apply for all four workers, even if they are not related. Only one application will be accepted per household.

10. What if some folks at my address have receipts and documents of their expenses, and others do not?

Those without receipts and documents can fill out the form certifying their expenses. Remember, no more than $300 will be provided for undocumented expenses, and no more than $1,000 will be provided to any single address.

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Garbage/Recycling Exemption Forms FAQ

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1. I am already exempt from curbside collection. Do I need to reapply?

Residents who are currently exempt from curbside garbage collection will have to reapply if they want to continue to receive backyard garbage collection after July 1. Residents who are exempted from rollout recycling do not have to reapply.

2. Why do I need to reapply for a garbage exemption?

Starting July 1, garbage exemptions will only be good for three years at a time. Reapplying will “start the clock” on their exemption.

3. How will I know when my three years is up?

If your application for a garbage exemption is approved you will be sent a copy that is stamped with the date that your exemption will expire.

4. Why is the city now requiring a medical verification letter?

The medical verification letter is to ensure that the city provides backyard collection only to households that truly need it. The city switched to mandatory curbside collection in 2010 but allowed households to request an exemption if no one in the home was able to take rollout carts to the curb. Eleven years later, all those same addresses were still receiving backyard collection even though different people may now be living at that address, and they do not need backyard collection.

5. I need an exemption from curbside garbage collection. Why do I have to supply my own garbage cans?

The city provides rollout carts to enable households to participate in curbside garbage collection. Households that are exempted from curbside collection have no need for a rollout cart. Carts are redistributed to new households needing service.

6. Do I have to get a medical verification letter for an exemption from rollout recycling?

Yes. The recycling program also requires medical verification letters for curbside exemptions. One copy can be provided for both forms or one copy can be provided for each exemption form.

7. Do I have to reapply for recycling exemption?

Once the resident re-applies for garbage exemption, it will be applied to their recycling exemption as well. 

8. I want to apply online. Where can I get my verification letter scanned?

Your medical provider may be able to send you the verification letter electronically. If not, all branches of the Forsyth County Public Library have scanners for public use that can create an electronic copy of your verification letter. The staff can assist you.

9. Why does the verification letter have to be dated and on letterhead of the medical practice?

Having the letter on medical practice letterhead gives the city some assurance that this is a bona fide letter from a medical provider. The letter must be dated so that the city staff can verify that the information is current.

10. What happens at the end of three years?

If you continue to need an exemption from curbside garbage collection, you will have to reapply and submit a new medical verification letter.

11. Do other cities require periodic recertification?

Yes. Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville and High Point all require periodic recertification and all but Durham require medical verification.

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Gun Buy Back 11-2021

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1. How will I receive payment for my weapons?

All payments will be in cash.

2. Can I turn in my BB gun and still get paid?

No. Pellet guns, BB guns, starter pistols, black-powder guns, replica toy guns will be accepted, but without compensation.

3. What will the process to turn in my weapon look like?

1. Place the unloaded gun inside your trunk, truck bed, or cargo area before leaving your home. 
2. Follow the signs and enter the city leaf lot at 2885 Shorefair Drive, across from Gate 7 of the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds. 
3. When you reach the buyback area, tell the officers what type of gun you have in the trunk. 
4. Stay in your vehicle at all times. Officers will remove the gun. (If you cannot remotely open the trunk or rear hatch from the driver’s seat, you will hand the officer the key.)
5. Accept a receipt for weapons collected.
6. Move to the next stop where a staff member will accept your receipt and pay you cash for the weapons collected.

4. Do I have to identify myself?

No. Turning in your weapon is 100% anonymous.

5. How much money has been allocated for this program?

The city has allocated $50,000 for the buyback program.

6. How is the gun buyback funded?

The program is funded with money provided to the city as part of the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Relief Fund approved by Congress earlier this year. The bill recognizes that one by-product of the pandemic has been an increase in violence and authorizes recipients to spend some of the money on efforts to reduce violence.

7. Do you really expect criminals will come sell their guns?

We hope so! However, we recognize that it may not be realistic to expect active criminals will come sell their guns in a gun buyback, but some families and individuals occasionally decide they no longer want a firearm in their home. This program provides an opportunity to get rid of it in exchange for cash. Guns are big targets for burglars, and if a gun is not adequately secured in the home, it can fall into the wrong hands. Also, this program is a voluntary way for gun owners to exercise their right to sell their guns.

8. What will happen to the guns collected?

All weapons will be destroyed in accordance with state law. Weapons will also be checked to ensure they were not reported stolen. If they were reported stolen, the Police will try to return the weapon to its rightful owner.

9. I want to remove a gun from my home, but don’t want to receive payment for it. May I bring it to the gun buyback?

Yes, you may bring the gun to the buyback and decline payment for it.

10. Is there a limit on the number of guns I can sell?

There are no limits to the number of guns that can be sold per individual as long as buyback money is available. After the buyback program’s budget is spent, guns may still be surrendered without payment.

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Home Lending Application

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1. Who can apply for assistance?

Citizens located in the City of Winston-Salem.

2. How do I apply for assistance?

• Please call 311 to receive more information about the application process
• You will need to upload the following documentation for your application to be considered complete:
• Copy of valid North Carolina Driver’s License or other government issued photo identification
• Documentation of all household income (Two (2) current Payroll Check Stubs, Benefits Statement from Social Security and Pension)
• Tax returns for (2) two consecutive years
• A mortgage statement that includes the address of your mortgage company and payment information
• Proof of Homeowner’s Insurance including insurance company’s address
• Copy of your most recent Duke Power bill and/or Piedmont Natural Gas bill
• Power of Attorney, if applicable
• Divorce Decree, if applicable
• Death Certificate, if applicable

**If you need assistance applying or uploading documents please contact our office at 336-727-8000.

3. What types of assistance is offered under Housing rehabilitation?

• Rehab: Repairs or improves properties to meet the minimum housing code standard. 
• TURN: Repairs or improves properties to meet the minimum housing code standard. * Only available to designated neighborhoods located in the City of Winston-Salem. *To see if your neighborhood is in a designated neighborhood contact us today at 336-727-8000.
• Emergency Repair: Addresses conditions which present an imminent threat to the health and/or safety to the residents occupying the property.
• Physical Accessibility: Addresses properties with architectural barriers that create a physical impediment to the mobility of the handicapped residents.
• Hazard Reduction: Addresses conditions where the presence of Lead Based Paint hazards and asbestos must be decreased or eliminated in order to avoid exposure to the occupants.

4. Is assistance offered year round?

• At this time Emergency Repair and Physical Accessibility are the only programs offered year round.
• Rehab applications are accepted upon advertised dates.

5. Is this a grant?

• Financial assistance is income based. Household income determines if the assistance provided will be “Direct Pay”-requiring a monthly payment or “Forgivable”-no monthly payment is required.
  • Household income is defined as all who occupy a dwelling unit and receive income.
  • Income is defined as:
    • Gross income of all adult household members anticipated to be received from employment (income before any deductions have been taken) in the next 12-month period
    • Net self-employment income
    • Interest, dividends, and other investment income
    • The full amount of periodic payments received from Social Security, annuities, insurance policies, retirement funds, pensions, disability, or death benefits, and other similar types of periodic receipts.
    • Payments in lieu of earnings, such as unemployment, and disability compensation, workers compensation and severance pay.
    • The full amount of periodic public assistance payments, alimony, and other payments or contributions which are received on a recurrent basis and which may reasonably be expected to continue.  

6. If I apply how long does it take until the work is done on my house?

• Applications are subject to approval. If an application is approved the applicant is placed on the winning Contractors job list. The start date of construction is dependent upon the availability of the Contractor.

7. Can I apply more than once?

• An applicant may receive one time assistance for each program.
• Once an applicant has received one time assistance they may not receive assistance again.

8. Does the City place a lien on my property?

• A Deed of Trust is drafted once a closing is held for work to commence. The Deed of Trust places a Lien on the property for the term of the loan.

9. What happens to my loan if I pass away?

• All applicants are encouraged to have a Will and someone in place to assume any remaining debt left on the property.
• If a loan is not assumed upon death of an applicant the loan will go into foreclosure.

10. What happens to my home if I cannot repay my loan?

• If an applicant faces challenges making payments towards their loan they will need to contact our office at 336-727-8000 to speak with a Loan Officer about a possible modification.

11. What if I’m a renter?

• Applicants must own the residence in need of repair. If you are a renter please have the owner contact us at 336-727-8000 to place an application for Rehabilitation.

12. Can I pick my Contractor?

• Contractors conducting work on a home receiving assistance must be an approved Contractor ordained by the Community Development Lending Division.

13. Am I approved once I apply?

• All applications are subject to approval.

14. Is the work under warranty?

• The contractor will guarantee the workmanship in the installation of roofs, central furnace systems, central air systems and gas or electric water heaters for a period of two (2) years from the date of final acceptance of all work. Defects in the roofing materials, furnace appliance, air conditioning appliance and water heater appliance shall be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
• The contractor will guarantee all other work and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of final acceptance of all the work required by the contract.

15. Is there an income limit?

• Clients who exceed 80% of the income limit as shown on the income chart are ineligible for Rehab, Emergency, Physical Accessibility, and Hazard Reduction.

• Clients who exceed 200% of the income limit as shown on the income chart below are ineligible for TURN.
  • TURN is only available to designated neighborhoods in the City of Winston-Salem. *To see if your neighborhood is in a designated area contact us today at 336-727-8000.

16. Do we check for lead?

• All properties built prior to 1978 are required to undergo a Lead Test provided by the Community Development Lending Division as apart of the application process.

17. Do we help with bed bugs?

• All properties will undergo a pest inspection, and pest control as a part of the application process.

18. How do I assume a loan?

• All parties involved must have ownership of the property before an assumption may commence.
• Contact our office for further information 336-727-8000.

19. How do I request a subordination?

• We ask that the Lending Institution submit the following:
  • Good Faith Estimate
  • Appraisal
  • Loan Modification Application
  • A letter from the applicant requesting the subordination on the lending institution letterhead.
  • The most recent mortgage statement
• The items listed above may be mailed to

City of Winston-Salem
Community Development Dept.
Lending Division
100 E. First St., Suite 423
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

20. What will my payment be?

• Monthly payments are dependent upon the cost of repair and third party fees.

21. How long is my payment term?

• Payment terms are as follows:
  • Rehab – 20 year amortization
  • TURN – 20 year amortization * forgiveness after 10 years
  • Emergency repair – 10 year amortization
  • Physical Accessibility – 10 year amortization
  • Hazard Reduction – Forgiven at year 10

22. What is my interest rate?

• Interest rates are income based.

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Human Relations - Evictions

Show All Answers

1. Can my landlord evict someone who is not on my lease?

A landlord can possibly file trespassing allegations against someone after the tenant has been evicted since the tenant is no longer in possession of the unit.

2. Can my landlord lock me out of my home without filing for eviction?

No, the landlord must go through the summary ejectment process through the court in order to evict a tenant. Under new case law (Rucker) the landlord may obtain an accelerated eviction for criminal activities in a household whether the tenant knew of the activities or not.

3. Can my landlord file for eviction for reasons other than late rent?

Yes, a landlord can file for eviction if the terms and conditions of the lease agreement state that tenants can be evicted for particular and specific violations.

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Human Relations - General

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1. If my home is broken into, who is responsible?

Tenants should contact the police at 336-773-7700 if their home has been broken into.

2. If my car is vandalized or broken into, who is responsible?

Tenants should contact the police at 336-773-7700 if their car has been vandalized or broken into.

3. Who is responsible for abandoned vehicles on the property?

The car's owner is responsible for any abandoned vehicles. If the vehicle was abandoned by a former tenant, the landlord is responsible. Tenants can also contact the City Inspectors regarding abandoned vehicles.

4. Can I store broken down cars on the property?

Tenants should contact City Inspectors regarding the storage of broken down cars.

5. Who is responsible for cutting the grass at my house/apartment?

This is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement. If it is not addressed in the lease agreement, the tenant is responsible for keeping the yard and grass clean and safe.

6. Who do I contact if someone is illegally parked on the property?

Tenants should contact the police and/or landlord if someone is parked illegally on the property.

7. Can I have a satellite dish installed at my home?

This is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement. The lease may prohibit satellite dish installations since it may damage the property.

8. Who do I report to if I feel I am being discriminated against?

Tenants may contact the Human Relations Department if they feel they have experienced discrimination.

9. What agencies are available to help with translations?

For Spanish translations, please contact the Human Relations Department. There are two bilingual staff members who can assist with translations.

10. Can my landlord remove my things from my home?

No, unless there has been a summary ejectment procedure initiated by a court of law.

11. If the property that I am renting is foreclosed, what are my rights?

Under the Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act of 2009, the new owner must honor the full term of the lease if the tenant does not want to move out after the foreclosure. Most tenants with leases are able to keep their leases. If the tenant wants to move, landlords are required to provide month-to-month tenants at least 90 days to relocate. An exception is made for the buyer who intends to live on the property because he/she does not have to honor the lease; however, the buyer/new owner still must provide the tenant with a 90-day notice. Protections under the federal law apply to Section 8 tenants, too. Depending on the situation, tenants may have other legal rights against the landlord.

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Human Relations - Lease Agreements

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1. Can I take another leaseholder's name off of my lease?

This is dependent upon whether the other leaseholder's income was a requirement for obtaining the particular property. Tenants should consult with the landlord regarding the removal of other lessees.

2. Do I have to list all applicants?

Yes, if asked to do so on the lease agreement.

3. How many people can live in my house/apartment?

This is dependent upon the lease agreement and housing code.

4. Can I sublet my apartment?

This is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement.

5. When my lease expires, do I have to renew it?

No, unless the lease agreement states otherwise.

6. Who can request a key (in the case of a lock out) to my home?

Only the tenant can request a key, unless the tenant authorizes others to do so.

7. Can my landlord charge me a pet deposit or pet rent?

Generally, yes, if it is a reasonable fee in accordance with North Carolina law.

8. Should my landlord explain my lease when I move in?

No, the landlord has no obligation to explain the lease. It is the tenant's responsibility to read the lease and ask questions for clarification.

9. Can I change my locks on my doors?

This is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement. If the tenant does change the locks, the landlord should be notified and provided with a copy of the key.

10. Can I make changes in my home (carpet, light fixtures, etc.)?

Generally not; however, see the terms and conditions of the lease agreement. Also, any permanent fixtures become the property of the landlord.

11. Do I have to keep the utilities on in my home at all times?

For subsidized housing, this is a requirement. For non-subsidized housing, this is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement.

12. When my lease ends, can I just move out?

No, tenants must give notice based on the length of the lease. For a week-to-week lease, the tenant must provide a two-day notice; for a month-to-month lease, the tenant must provide a seven-day notice; for a year-to-year lease, the tenant must provide a 30-day notice.

13. What utilities am I responsible for?

This is dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement.

14. What do I do if I do not have a lease agreement?

Without a lease agreement, it is an "at will" agreement. This means that the tenant is afforded minimum protection regarding notice for the lease's duration. Tenants should request a written lease agreement to be signed by both the landlord and tenant(s).

15. Can my landlord change my locks without notifying me?

If the lease is still current, a landlord may not change a lock without notifying the tenant and providing a key to the tenant. Only a sheriff can padlock the doors upon a summary ejectment proceeding and the subsequent 10-day appeal period.

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Human Relations - Legal Filing

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1. If my landlord files legal action against me, do I have to go to court?

If the tenant wishes to argue against the eviction, he or she should appear in court.

2. How much notice does my landlord have to give me to vacate the premises?

For a week-to-week lease, the landlord must provide a two-day notice; for a month-to-month lease, the landlord must provide a seven-day notice; for a year-to-year lease, the landlord must provide a 30-day notice.

3. Can my landlord charge me any other fees involving legal filing (i.e, an administrative fee)?

Administrative fees are dependent upon the terms and conditions of the lease agreement.

4. What happens if I go to court?

The tenant will have an opportunity to present his/her side and/or offer to pay any back rent and court costs before or after the court proceeding.

5. What rights do I have to take legal action against my landlord?

Tenants have the right to take legal action against landlords if they believe their rights have been violated. Also, if tenants have filed complaints and experience retaliation, they can also file a legal action against landlords. Tenants may be able to regain the premises or money damages against the landlord.

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Human Relations - Limited English Proficiency (LEP)

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1. What does LEP mean?

LEP means Limited English Proficiency. This is the terminology used by the federal government to describe individuals who do not speak English as a primary language and have a limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English. Language assistance may be required with respect to a particular type of service, benefit, or encounter.

2. How does LEP apply to city departments?

LEP is imposed on federal agencies and recipients of federal financial assistance, which includes all of city government. Financial assistance includes, but is not limited to: 

• Any other federal agreement, arrangement, or other contract which as one of its purposes the provision of assistance
• The detail of federal personnel
• Grants, loans, or donations of federal property
• The sale, lease, or permission to use federal property at little or no cost

Federal laws, such as Title VI, Section 601 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Executive Order 13166 of 2000, mandate that recipients of federal financial assistance comply.

3. What does the City’s LEP Policy cover?

The City's LEP Policy includes LEP procedures, implementation, and the grievance process for any complaints from residents regarding a lack of Limited English Proficiency access to city services and/or programs.

4. What city departments are affected by the LEP Policy?

All city departments are directly or indirectly affected by the LEP Policy; however, any department that receives federal funding must be in compliance.

5. What types of LEP efforts is city government already undertaking?

To date, City efforts, under the "reasonable steps" standard, have meant providing meaningful access to Spanish-speaking LEP individuals. Such efforts include: 

• Airing a Spanish city services-based television show
• Having multi-lingual translations for the city's website
• Hiring multi-lingual employees
• Offering pay incentives to employees who learn and/or use fluent Spanish during the normal course of their work duties
• Translating documents into Spanish

Other languages are also included under the LEP Policy if a resident is unable to reasonably access City services or benefits.

6. What else should I expect from city government?

Departments must take reasonable steps to ensure meaningful access for serving limited English individuals based on the frequency of contact, nature or importance of the program, activity or service provided, and resources available.

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Human Relations - Maintenance

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1. How long does my landlord have to take care of my maintenance request?

It depends on the circumstances; however, the landlord is afforded a "reasonable time" to make repairs.

2. Who can I contact if my maintenance issues are not addressed?

For housing code issues, call the City or County Housing Inspectors, examples include: 

• Doors
• Heat
• Infestations
• Locks
• Plumbing
• Walls
• Windows
• Etc.

For fire code issues (heat and electrical), call the Fire Department at 336-773-7700. For health code issues (sewage disposal and well water), call the Health Department. For legal advice, call Legal Aid or a private attorney.

3. What is normal wear and tear in my unit?

Deterioration due to normal, non-abusive use is considered normal wear and tear.

4. What repairs am I responsible for in my apartment/house?

Tenants are responsible for maintaining the dwelling and keeping it clean, safe, and habitable.

5. What repairs are my landlords responsible for?

Landlords are responsible for providing basic items that are necessary for safe, clean, and habitable living standards including, but not limited to:

• Doors
• Heating
• Locks
• Plumbing
• Providing an operable smoke detector
• Providing safe stairs, walkways, and common areas etc.
• Roofs
• Sanitary and electrical equipment

6. What is considered emergency maintenance?

Examples of emergency maintenance are needing heat in the middle of winter; needing electrical wiring repaired; needing major leaks repaired, etc.

7. How often should my home be painted?

There is no legally prescribed requirement; however, the landlord is responsible for keeping the premises fit and habitable.

8. When should my carpet be replaced?

The landlord only needs to keep carpeting safe, fit, and habitable once it is beyond normal wear and tear.

9. Should my landlord provide pest control?

Landlords must comply with infestation requirements governed by the housing code.

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Human Relations - Move Out

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1. Do I have to clean the unit before moving out?

Generally, yes, but tenants should review the terms and conditions of their lease agreement.

2. Should I be present when my landlord does the move out inspection?

It is advisable to be present when the landlord does the move out inspection so that any discrepancies can be clarified.

3. How do I dispute charges at move out?

Disputed charges should be communicated to the landlord in writing. Tenants also have the option of going to small claims court.

4. How much can my landlord charge me to remove the items I left in the unit?

Landlords can charge a reasonable amount based on actual costs and labor fees.

5. Does my landlord have to allow me to make payment arrangements to pay my move out balance?

The landlord is under no obligation to allow payment arrangements for move out balances.

6. Will I still be charged if I do not return the keys on the day I am scheduled to move out, although I have removed all of my things?

Yes, because tenants are still "in possession" of the unit as long as they retain the keys.

7. Can I request a copy of the move out reports?

Yes, you may request a copy of the move out reports.

8. Does my landlord have to provide me with a list of move out charges?

Yes, the landlord is required by law to provide the list of move out charges.

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Human Relations - Public Housing

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1. If I receive Section 8, should I contact them when I have a problem in my home?

Tenants should contact the landlord first and allow a reasonable time for the problem to be addressed. If it is not addressed satisfactorily, the tenant should contact the Housing Authority (HAWS) for assistance. If the issue is still not resolved, the tenant should contact the Human Relations Department.

2. What should I do if my home enters abatement?

Tenants should contact their case specialist in abatement situations. During this time, tenants are still responsible for their portion of the rent.

3. Do I have to notify my landlord if my dependent child is working?

Tenants do not have to notify the landlord if a dependent child is working; however, tenants should notify the Housing Authority.

4. Should my landlord be present during annual Housing Authority (HAWS) inspections?

Yes, the landlord should be present, but it is not required.

5. What am I responsible for during annual Housing Authority (HAWS) inspections?

Tenants are responsible for repairs beyond normal wear and tear.

6. What is my landlord responsible for during annual Housing Authority (HAWS) inspections?

Landlords are responsible for any normal wear and tear to the unit.

7. Even if I notify Housing Authority (HAWS) that I intend to move, do I still have to tell my landlord?

By law, yes the tenant is required to notify HAWS. Also, HAWS encourages the tenant to notify the landlord.

8. When I move into my unit, how long do I have to wait before I know how much my portion of the rent will be?

Tenants should contact their HAWS case manager prior to moving into a unit.

9. When my rent amounts change, do I have to notify my landlord?

No, Housing Authority (HAWS) notifies the landlord when rental amounts change.

10. Do I have to pay my landlord if my Housing Authority (HAWS) subsidy is late?

Yes, tenants must continue paying their portion of the rent or they will be assessed a late fee.

11. I live in public housing. Could your department investigate discrimination for me?

Yes. The Human Relations Department has jurisdiction to investigate discrimination complaints if public housing/federally-subsidized units are involved. If you file a complaint with our office, we are required by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) guidelines to investigate.

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Human Relations - Reasonable Accommodations

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1. Does my landlord have to make my unit handicap accessible?

The landlord has to make the unit handicap accessible if the unit was built after March 31, 1991.

2. Is my landlord responsible for providing hearing impaired doorbells?

Landlords are responsible for providing reasonable accommodations for tenants only when the tenant in question makes the request. The landlord does not have to provide the exact accommodation requested, but must provide an accommodation that enables the tenant to have full use and enjoyment of property. The need for a hearing impaired doorbell is a reasonable accommodation, but the tenant must pay for the cost of the doorbell and for restoring the doorbell in its original condition upon moving out. For subsidy housing, the landlord pays all costs (The cost for installing any reasonable accommodation fixtures is incurred by tenants who request and are granted reasonable accommodations. Tenants also incur the cost for restoring the property to its original condition upon moving out).

3. Are landlords allowed to rent handicap accessible units to the non-handicapped?

It is within a landlord's discretion to rent handicap accessible units to the non-handicapped; however, if a disabled person requests a reasonable accommodation, such as a handicap accessible unit, the landlord must accommodate the tenant. If the accommodation is for a handicap accessible unit, the landlord must transfer the non-disabled tenant to a comparable non-handicap accessible unit.

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Human Relations - Rent

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1. Can I withhold rent because I have an unresolved maintenance issue?

No, a tenant may not withhold rent; however, a tenant can seek reimbursement for rent.

2. When do late fees apply?

When the rent is paid after the due date stated in the lease, a landlord may apply late fees.

3. How much of a late fee should I pay?

The amount for the late fee is not to exceed $25 or 5% of the total monthly rent, whichever is greater, for rent that is more than five days late.

4. Should I receive a receipt when I make a payment to my landlord?

Yes, tenants should always request a receipt for any rent (or other fees) paid.

5. Can my rent be based on my income?

Yes, if you are seeking federally assisted (subsidized) housing.

6. Can my landlord call my job to inquire about late rent?

There are legal restrictions regarding such inquiries, particularly if the tenant has not consented.

7. Do I have to give my consent for someone to receive rental information about me?

Tenants are usually required to list previous landlords on rental applications. This information is not considered confidential.

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Human Relations - Security Deposits

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1. Can I use my security deposit as my last month's rent?

Security deposits are not supposed to be used to cover the final month's rent. It is intended for post move out charges only.

2. What determines the amount of the security deposit?

The amount of the security deposit is based on the type of lease the tenant has. For instance, if rent is paid weekly, the deposit can be up to two weeks' rent; if rent is paid monthly, the deposit can be up to one and one-half the month's rent; if rent is paid less frequently than month-to-month, the amount of the security deposit can be up to two months' rent.

3. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit after I move?

By law, the landlord has 30 days from the move out date to return the deposit.

4. Can my landlord collect interest on my deposit?

Yes, since the law does not require the landlord to pay interest to the tenant.

5. Does my landlord have to tell me where my deposit is being held?

Yes, the landlord has to notify the tenant, in writing, of where the deposit is being held. If the bank is outside North Carolina, the landlord must give the name and address of the insurance company for the bond for the deposit.

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Human Resources - 401a Retirement Plan

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1. Is overtime, shift differential, and longevity pay considered as part of the total compensation in which the 2% will be calculated and contributed to an employee’s account?

Yes, overtime, shift differential, and longevity pay is considered as part of an employee’s total compensation.

2. Can I contribute to my 401(a) account?

No, the 401(a) plan is for employer contributions only. You may want to consider opening a ICMA 457 or Prudential 401(k) account.

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Human Resources - 529 College Savings Plan

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1. Who can open an account?

Anyone can save toward someone's college education including:

• Certain organizations
• Friends
• Grandparents
• Other relatives
• Parents

You can open an Account for a person of any age, even a newborn. You can even open an Account for yourself.

2. How much do I have to save?

Save on the schedule that works best for you. Monthly or occasional contributions welcome. Low minimum opening contribution is required.

3. What investment options are available?

Select from a variety of investment options that cover a range of strategies, from conservative to aggressive. Choose a mix to meet your own investment objectives, time remaining until college, and tolerance for risk.

The Internal Revenue Service allows you to change your current investment mix twice each calendar year or if the Beneficiary of your savings Account changes. You may change how your future Contributions will be invested at any time. A review of the Investment Options will help you understand the relative risk normally associated with each investment alternative.

4. What are the tax advantages of this program?

Account earnings grow tax-free. There are no federal taxes and, for North Carolina taxpayers, no state taxes on earnings either. Withdrawals used for Qualified Higher Education Expenses are exempt from both North Carolina and federal income taxes. Residents of states other than North Carolina should check with a tax advisor.

The features of a qualified tuition program are complex and involve significant tax issues. The earnings portion of withdrawals not used for Qualified Higher Education Expenses are subjected to federal income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax, as well as state and local income taxes. The availability of tax benefits may be contingent on meeting other requirements.

5. Where can my beneficiary use the money?

The money can be used in the following ways:

• Use for college expenses at virtually any college anywhere.
• Use for Qualified Higher Education Expenses, which include:
  • Board
  • Books
  • Fees
  • Room
  • Supplies and equipment required for enrollment
  • Tuition

If there are assets left in your Account when the Beneficiary has completed college, you can designate a new related Beneficiary of the Account.

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Human Resources - Annual Enrollment

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1. Am I eligible for the shared leave program?

Employees with 1 or more years of service with the City are eligible for the Shared Leave program. You may enroll during annual enrollment by donating 8 hours of sick or vacation time to the Shared Leave bank, and you will be eligible to apply for a Shared Leave donation in the event of a serious or catastrophic medical condition. Visit the Shared Leave page for more on how to elect or request Shared Leave. 

2. If my spouse becomes covered after we enroll, can we change it then?

Yes! You may enroll or un-enroll in any coverage throughout the year if you have a Qualifying Life Event. See more information on Qualifying Life Events.

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Human Resources - Come Work for the City!

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1. Competitive Pay and Opportunities for Raises

• When authorized by the City Council, you would be eligible for raises based on your performance.
• The city periodically adjusts your salary to conform with the going rate in the area.

2. Awesome Benefits

Winston-Salem offers one of the most complete benefits packages you will find anywhere, including:

• Subsidized health, dental and prescription drug plans.
• Sick leave.
• Employee assistance program.
• Educational assistance for college, advanced degrees and professional certificates/licenses.
• Bonuses for bilingual employees.
• Annual vacation that increases the longer you work for the city.
• Wellness program.
• Free life insurance equivalent to your annual salary.
• Flex spending accounts to help with child-care and medical bills.
• Paid parental leave.
• Much more, including options for additional life, vision, disability, accident and hospitalization insurance, an optional college-savings plan, optional retirement savings plans to augment our pension system, and more!

3. Opportunities for Flexible Hours and Schedules

• The city is receptive to flex scheduling when feasible for the position.
• Options include non-traditional hours and four-day work weeks.

4. 14 Paid Holidays

City employees enjoy 14 paid holidays every year:

• News Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Good Friday
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving & the day after
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• Day After Christmas
• Floating Holiday

5. Opportunities for Promotion

• The city’s policy is to promote from within when possible.
• You would have the opportunity to move up as your fellow co-workers retire or as you utilize our many job training programs or educational assistance program to gain new qualifications and credentials.

6. Money for Retirement

• You would earn that rarest of all benefits these days - a State sponsored pension that sends retirees a lifetime monthly check. You would also have an option to leave a loved one your monthly pension benefit after you pass away. You would be eligible for full unreduced benefit any age after 30 years of service with the city. (Early retirement options are available at a reduced rate)
• As a benefited employee, at no cost to you, the City would contribute 2% of your salary into a 401a retirement account. You elect how the funds are invested and as long as you are vested, you decide how to receive those earnings in retirement. (Except police officers, who have a separate retirement plan) 
• Your retirement payments are in addition to any Social Security benefit you may be eligible for, giving most of our retirees additional income checks every month.

7. Job Security

• You can rest easy knowing that your job would not be threatened by the city going out of business or relocating.

8. Designated Hard-to-fill Positions Incentives

Designated “hard-to-fill” positions offer $2,500 or $5,000 sign-on incentives.

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Human Resources - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

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1. What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

An EAP is a service provided by the city to help you and your family resolve job-related, personal and family problems.

2. What services are available?

Your EAP can help you and your eligible family members deal with many situations, including the following:

• Balancing Work/Life Needs
• Child and Elder Care Concerns
• Drug and Alcohol Abuse
• Job-Related Problems
• Legal and Financial Referrals (Excluding Employment Law)
• Parenting Problems
• Relationship and Family Problems
• Stress, Depression and Other Emotional Issues

3. Who is eligible for EAP services?

All employees, their spouses, and family members who reside in the employees household, and all other legal dependents who are covered by the employee's health benefit plan.

4. How much does it cost?

Your EAP provides assessments and short-term problem resolution at no cost to you. If the problem cannot be resolved with short-term resolution, and inpatient or outpatient treatment is needed, your healthcare plan may pay all or part of the cost involved. Your EAP will help find the most cost-effective, affordable services for you.

5. Is the program confidential?

Your EAP is a confidential program. Services are provided in a professional and confidential manner at locations away from the workplace. The program is designed so that you and your family members can seek help on your own without your employer knowing about your participation.

No information regarding your participation in the program will be released to anyone without your written consent unless otherwise specified by state and federal law.

6. How do I use the program?

Self-Referral: Most requests for assistance will be initiated by an employee or family member directly by calling the EAP Assistance Phone Line (1-800-950-3434) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Direct Referral: Your supervisor may refer you to the EAP if your job performance or conduct on the job seems to be affected by personal or job-related problems. In the event of a direct referral, information about your appointment will be relayed back to your supervisor only with a release of information from you.

7. How do I make an appointment?

Simply call the toll free number at 1-800-950-3434.

8. What will I be asked in the beginning of the call?

At the beginning of the call, you will likely be asked:

• The Company You Work for - to Determine Eligibility
• The Reason for Your Call - Very Generally (i.e. Stress, Relationship, Parenting, etc.)
• Your Address - to Locate a Counselor near You
• Your Date of Birth
• Your Name
• Your Phone Number - a Contact Number to Verify Appointments

9. Will I be asked anything else?

You may be asked:

• A Risk Assessment about how you are doing at the time of the call.
• Is it OK to leave a message on your phone?

10. Is the information I provide protected?

Yes. REACH is in compliance with all HIPPA regulations. It is only shared with those who will be providing services for you.

11. How will I know when and with whom I’ll receive counseling?

You will be contacted by our Call Center staff regarding the counselor. You will then be asked to contact the counselor to set/confirm the appointment.

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Human Resources - Family Leave & Medical Act (FMLA)

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1. Who is eligible for Family and Medical Leave (FMLA)?

To be eligible for FMLA, an employee must have been employed for at least 12 months and worked for at least 1,250 hours during the preceding 12 months.

2. How much leave is an eligible employee entitled to?

An eligible employee is entitled to twelve workweeks of leave within a 12-month period measured forward from the date when the employee´s first request for FMLA begins. Effective January 1, 2002, a husband and wife both employed by the city are each permitted to take twelve workweeks of FMLA leave.

3. For what reasons are eligible employees entitled to family and medical leave?

Eligible employees are eligible for family and medical leave for the following reasons:

• The birth of a child of the employee and/or the need to care or bond with newborn (limited to 12 months after birth)
• The placement of a child for adoption or foster care (limited to 12 months after placement)
• The employee is needed to take care of a child (son or daughter under the age of 18 or over age 18 if incapable of self care because of mental or physical disability), spouse or parent with a serious health condition
• The employee´s own serious health condition which makes the employee unable to perform his or her job

4. What types of conditions are considered serious health conditions?

A serious health condition is an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves:

• Any period of incapacity or treatment in connection with inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or residential medical care facility
• Any period of incapacity requiring absence from work, school or other regular daily activity of more than 3 calendar days, that also involves continuing treatment by a health care provider
• Continuing care by a health care provider for a chronic or long-term health condition that is incurable or so serious that, if not treated, would likely result in a period of incapacity of more than three calendar days; or for prenatal care

5. Is family or medical leave, under the FMLA, paid or unpaid?

FMLA Leave is not a paid leave. If an employee wishes to be paid while out of work on FMLA, the employee may choose to substitute accrued paid sick leave for unpaid FMLA. Employees may also choose to substitute paid vacation and/or holiday leave for unpaid FMLA, if your supervisor approves the usage of vacation and/or holiday. The leave time will be charged against both paid leave and unpaid FMLA.

Note: Employees will not accrue paid leave during any period of unpaid FMLA leave. When an employee is on an unpaid FMLA Leave, or on a paid FMLA which he/she is receiving less than full compensation from the city, the employee is not rendering service which is creditable in the Retirement System.

6. Can the employee exhaust all sick, vacation and holiday leave prior to starting FMLA Leave?

No. FMLA must start as soon as a qualifying event is identified (serious health condition or birth of a child, etc.). If the employee wishes to be paid, he/she may choose to use accrued leave as well, and both the FMLA and the accrued leave will be charged against the employee´s leave balances.

Note: The decision to use FMLA is not the decision of the employee. Family Medical Leave must begin when the employer becomes aware of a qualifying event.

7. Can Family/Medical Leave be charged even though the employee has not requested it?

Yes. As soon as the employer becomes aware of a qualifying event that will keep the employee out of work, Family/Medical Leave, (K time), should begin.

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Human Resources - Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

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1. Can I use my Flex Spend MasterCard BennyCard at the Dentist?

Yes, you can use your Flex Spend Card at the Dentist. Please save your receipts because Savers may ask to see the detailed receipt because some dental services, like teeth whitening, are not covered FSA expenditures.

2. Can I use my Flex Spend Card to purchase prescriptions through a mail order pharmacy?

Yes, just enter your Flex Spend Card number when asked for payment information.

3. My spouse and/or children are not enrolled on my medical/dental benefits can I still use my FSA for their medical/dental expenditures?

Yes, as long as they are your legal dependents and under the age of 26, you may use your FSA for their eligible medial and dental expenses.

4. Can I use my Flex Spend Card at my daycare provider?

Yes, as long as they accept MasterCard and have a federal tax identification as a day care provider.

5. Can my spouse and I both enroll in the maximum amount of $2,650 for the medical flexible spending account?

Yes, both you and your spouse can enroll at the maximum amount at your respective places of employment allowed by each plan.

6. Can my spouse and I both enroll in the maximum amount of $5,000 for the dependent flexible spending account?

No, Internal Revenue Service rules state that the maximum is $5,000 per household, an employee and spouse would not be allowed to both enroll in the maximum of $5,000. If you are single, the maximum you can contribute to the dependent FSA is $5,000. If you’re married and you and your spouse elect to participate in a dependent care FSA, then your combined dependent care FSA account cannot exceed $5,000.

7. Can I order additional FSA debit cards for my family or am I only allowed one FSA debit card?

You will receive one debit card at no charge to you. Additional debit cards for you (if you lost your card) or your family members can be ordered from savers for a one time only $5 charge. Cards ordered for your dependent will have the dependents name on them.

8. Will my debit card expire?

The debit card are good for 3 years. So keep hold of your cards even if you use up all your money this year. You will use the same card until the card expiration date. You will receive a new card the month before the expiration date, free of charge.

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Human Resources - Life Insurance

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1. Why am I being asked to complete an Evidence of Insurability?

For supplemental life insurance - You will be asked to complete an Evidence of Insurability if you are enrolling for/increasing by more than 1 times your annual salary or if you are enrolling for more than $300,000 in coverage.

2. My spouse and I are both employees of the City, can we both cover a child in dependent life insurance?

No, only one parent may cover a dependent child.

3. My spouse and I are both employees of the City, can we both enroll in supplemental life and spouse dependent life?

No, you cannot receive coverage under the plan as both an employee and a dependent. If an employee and spouse both work for the City, they can each elect supplemental coverage or one can elect supplemental and spouse coverage.

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Human Resources - Mammograms

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1. What are the guidelines to qualify to have a Mammogram?

Any woman ages 35 to 39 can have one screening Mammogram. Any woman ages 40 or older can have one Mammogram every 12 months.

2. Will my Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance pay for my Mammogram?

Yes, please complete the forms (Mobile Patient Information (PDF) and Breast History Form (PDF)). Send all of these completed forms as soon as possible to:
Employee Medical Services
P.O. Box 2511
Winston-Salem, NC 27102

Please bring your insurance card and a photo identification with you to the screening. The Novant Health Breast Center mobile unit will file your insurance for you.

3. How do I schedule my Mammogram?

You can schedule yourself between Tuesday, November 10, 2015 and Wednesday, January 13, 2016. Simply call 336-718-7000. Please state that you are calling for the mammograms being done at the City of Winston-Salem. Don't forget to complete the required paperwork and send it to Employee Medical Services.

4. Can I have a Mammogram if my spouse works at the City of Winston-Salem, but I don’t?

Yes, if your name is listed on their insurance card or if you have your own insurance you can participate here at the City of Winston-Salem. Call 336-748-3866 if you have further questions.

5. Can I have a Mammogram if I don't have any insurance coverage?

If you do not have insurance and qualify according to the stated age limits, please contact Betty Speaks at 336-748-3866 or by email Betty Speaks. You may qualify for a Susan B. Komen scholarship.

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, you can have your doctor make a referral for you to have a mammogram 10 years before your immediate family member was diagnosed.

6. What would disqualify me from getting a Mammogram at the mobile unit?

The following would disqualify you:

• If you do not meet the age requirements.
• If you are pregnant.
• If you have ever been treated for any breast problems.
• If you have already had a Mammogram within the previous 12 months.

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Human Resources - Qualifying Events

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1. What can I submit as proof of the Qualifying Life Event if the change is due to loss/gain of other coverage?

Anything from an employer or insurance agency that states who was/is covered as well as the date of the loss/gain of coverage.

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Human Resources - Retiree Center

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1. My dependents have been on my health insurance in the past. Do I still need to send documentation certifying they are my dependents?

No, if your dependents have been on our insurance previously, you do not have to re-submit proof/certification.

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Human Resources - Short Term Disability

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1. Can I use my short term disability with sick time?

Yes, an employee may utilize short term disability coverage regardless of whether or not they use sick/vacation/holiday time. In other words, short term disability coverage is totally separate and has no bearing on time coded. For example, an employee may go out for a surgery, code sick time and file a claim with the Hartford to receive a short term disability benefit in addition to any coded time.

2. Why am I being asked to complete an evidence of insurability?

For short term disability you will be asked to complete an Evidence of Insurability if you are enrolling for the first time or if you are increasing your coverage amount by more than one level.

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Human Resources - Wellness Premium Discounts

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1. Do I have to engage in case management or condition care management?

If contacted by a case manager and/or condition care coach, you do have to engage/speak with them to continue to be eligible for the wellness discount and the $0 copay on certain maintenance medications.

2. If I already have a plan with my doctor regarding my condition, do I still need to speak with the case manager or condition care coach?

Yes, you do need to speak with the case manager or condition care coach if contacted if you want to be eligible for the wellness discount and $0 copay on certain maintenance medications. However, when you speak with them, you can advise them that you have a plan worked out with your doctor. You can advise them whether you believe you could benefit from additional engagement and/or resources available to you. Case managers and condition care coaches are there to help you and it doesn’t cost you any money to speak with them.

3. Do I have to do what the case manager and/or condition care coach advises?

It is up to you to determine what information is beneficial to you based on your personal situation. Keep in mind the case managers and condition care coaches are there to help you manage your condition and/or situation.

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Information Systems

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1. Where can I find out about jobs with the Information Systems Department?

Please refer to the city’s Job Opportunities page for current listings.

2. Where is the Information Systems Department located?

The Information Systems Department located at:
Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building
100 E First Street
Suite 520
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Call us at 336-727-8000.

3. Do you have an Information Systems Department contact list?

Please refer to our Staff page to find contact information.

4. What are your information resources?

Information Technology Infrastructure Library Best Practices

The Information Technology Infrastructure Library "Best Practices" is used to determine areas for improvement and standardization.

Strategic Plan

View our IT Strategic Plan (PDF)

Project Management Policies

Please refer to our project management policies:

• Project Management Process (PDF)
• Proposal, Review, and Approval Process (PDF)

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Information Systems - Cityworks [Intranet]

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1. Will I receive training for Cityworks?

Documentation is available for Cityworks Desktop and Mobile. Contact a member of the Cityworks User group for a formal classroom training.

2. Will I have to keep Hansen going forward?

No, Cityworks is the new system of record for your Work Management System.

3. Will my Cityworks login be the same as Hansen?

No – for Cityworks Desktop you will need to create a new account. (Please contact a member of the Cityworks User Group) When logging on via Cityworks mobile you can use the same username and password you use now for your computer after you setup in Cityworks.

4. Will I get an iPad?

Whether or not you receive an iPad depends on your job role. Please contact a member of the Cityworks User Group.

5. Can I login to Cityworks from home?

Yes, as long as you have a valid user account.

6. Who should I call for support?

For Cityworks AMS, view a number of Cityworks AMS power users (PDF) in the different departments.

For Cityworks Permits and Licenses and Land (PLL), view a number of City Works PLL power users (DOCX) in different departments.

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Information Systems - Employee FAQ [Intranet]

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1. How do I reset/change my Password?

Password resets for your workstation, email, and AD-integrated applications such as eWorks and ePayStub are performed by the end user and are not performed by the service desk. Using an internet enabled device, navigate to https://passwordreset.cityofws.org/ and follow the instructions to “reset password” to reset the password or “unlock account” if the account is locked. Prior enrollment is required; if you have not yet enrolled and you do not know your password, contact the service desk at 336-748-3499 for assistance to enroll. Do not submit a Fixx ticket (fixx@cityofws.org) other than from your City email account.

2. What is the process to change an employee's name and email address?

City employees should contact the Human Resources department to begin this process. Information Systems will work closely with the individual to make the necessary system changes thereafter.

3. How do i check my email at home or away from the office?

From an internet enabled device, use your internet browser to navigate to www.office.com and click “Sign In”. You will be prompted for your username and password. Enter your entire email address as your username. You will then be redirected to the City’s login site where you will enter your entire email address in the username field. Input your password. You will then be logged in.

4. What is the process to request new computer equipment?

Please contact the service desk at 336-748-3499 or send an email to fixx@cityofws.org. Do not submit a Fixx ticket (fixx@cityofws.org) other than from your City email account. Be prepared to provide a FROP code to charge your department for the cost since orders will not be processed without the FROP code.

5. What is the process to request help from the I.S. Department?

Please contact the service desk at 336-748-3499 or send an email to fixx@cityofws.org. Do not submit a Fixx ticket (fixx@cityofws.org) other than from your City email account.

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Information Systems - My CSR User Group [Intranet]

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1. Does the CSR application need to be installed on my workstation? How do I access it?

No installation is needed to access the CSR application. It is a web application.

2. How do I get a CSR account?

Please open a service desk ticket by emailing the Service Desk or call 748-3499 (748-FIXX). The ticket will be routed to the appropriate person for the creation and configuration of your account.

3. What if I forgot my CSR password?

On the CSR log in page there is a "Forgot Password" link below the Login button. You can click on the link and then enter your CSR user name. A temporary password will then be emailed to you.

View a document (PDF) detailing this process. You can also open a service desk ticket by emailing the Service Desk or by calling 748-3499 (748-FIXX).

4. Can I access CSR from home?

You can access the CSR web page only if you have virtual private network access on your computer at home. If you do not have virtual private network access, you cannot access the CSR web page if you are not on the City's network.

5. Can I use any web browser to access the CSR web page?

CSR is only certified to be used with Internet Explorer. It will run on other browsers such as Firefox and Chrome, but will lose some functionality.

6. Who's in the CSR User Group?

View the full roster (PDF) of the CSR User Group.

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Information Systems - My FMS Connects User Group [Intranet]

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1. Can I get access to FMS?

First, talk to your supervisor or Department Head to determine if FMS would be beneficial for you and your department. If so, follow these instructions (PDF) on how to access FMS.

2. In the login screen, what goes in the "FMS Host" and "Host Port" fields?

Type "mhfms" for the "FMS Host" field and "30769" for the "Host Port" field. For more information, see Login Instructions (PDF).

3. In the login screen, what goes in the "O/S Account" and "O/S Password" fields?

In the "O/S" Account" field type "cityofws\"  then add your network login. In the "O.S Password" field type your network password. For more information see the Login Instructions (PDF).

4. What do I do if I cannot log into FMS?

Make sure that you have followed all of the login instructions. If you still cannot log in, contact the Service Desk at 748-3499, ext. 3499 or email the Service Desk.

5. Who should I call for support for FMS?

First check this website for any news of current issues, How To's, and FAQs to see if there is already a fix or solution. FMS Power users are also helpful. You can view the list in the Group Liaisons document (PDF).

6. How do I request training?

Training is available through the User Group website and through the City's online training - Moodle. If additional training is needed, please email Pam Wilson.

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Information Systems - Service Catalog [Intranet]

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1. My department is interested in a new technology; how do I request assistance with evaluating it?

Implementing a new technology may require approval and fiscal budget considerations, but Information Systems can help you begin the process. Start by requesting "Advisory Services" through the Service Desk.

Email the Service Desk or call them at 336-748-3499.

2. I am interested in getting a smartphone to help with my job responsibilities; what do I do?

Mobile devices may require certain levels of approval. Start by asking your department head to request mobile services through the Service Desk.

3. What do all these acronyms and technical terms mean?

Learn about the definitions of terms by viewing the Glossary page.

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Information Systems - WiFi on 4th

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1. What is WiFi on 4th?

Fourth Street Wireless Internet access is a free service provided by the City of Winston-Salem. Citizens in restaurants and businesses along Fourth Street can access the Internet through high-speed connections and enjoy browsing the Web, checking and sending e-mail, or chatting through instant messaging services.

2. How can I use this service?

The service is accessible along Fourth Street by anyone with wireless computing equipment. All you need is a functioning device that contains a properly configured wireless network adapter.

3. What equipment do I need?

You can use any device that supports wireless connectivity and is capable of Internet functions. Typical devices include a laptop computer, smartphone, or tablet. A wireless network card is required.

4. What is an Access Point?

An access point lets wireless devices use the resources of a wired local area network (LAN).

5. Where are the wireless access points?

Wireless access points are conveniently placed along Fourth Street and broadcast signals as far East as Main Street and as far West as Spruce Street. You could possibly pick up the signal farther than these streets, but the signal is strongest between these points.

Dead Zones

Keep in mind that the signal from the access points travels in a straight line and you could possibly encounter "dead" areas in places where the street slopes sharply up or down relative to the transmitter.

Factors Affecting Your Signal

The specific range within which wireless access is available can be influenced by several things. A lot of metal, leaded glass, and reinforced concrete may reduce signal strength.

6. What kind of wireless network adapter should I get?

Many brands of wireless network adapters are available. Though we do not specify a brand, the adapter you choose must be 802.11b compliant. That is to say it must support the 802.11b wireless network standard. Check packaging carefully if you are buying a new device. Otherwise, check the documentation that came with your current device to be sure it complies.

7. What is the IEEE 802.11 standard?

The IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) standard is a protocol established by the Wireless LAN Standards Committee that enables different brands of wireless LAN hardware to communicate on the same network.

8. What should I know about the internet security?

As with any Internet access you should take appropriate security precautions. This is not a secure connection.

9. Who do I contact if I have trouble?

The City of Winston-Salem provides free wireless access to the Internet along Fourth Street. However, the city does not provide direct support to users of this service. Our configuration document or a knowledgeable friend or network administrator from your company may help if you have problems connecting.

10. How long can I stay connected to the WiFi?

You can stay connected as long as you want. There is no time limit on your connection

11. How do I configure my equipment?

There are several things you'll need to check, and a few settings you'll need to change.

If Your Adapter Is Operational

The following instructions assume your wireless adapter is properly installed and operational

1. Wireless Network Adapter Settings
   1. Set the adapter to Infrastructure mode; Ad hoc mode will not work.
   2. Set the adapter SSID to "cityofws" (without the quotes). The SSID is case sensitive.
   3. Turn off WEP Encryption if it is enabled.
2. Network Settings
   1. Your network adapter's TCP/IP properties must be set to automatically obtain an IP address.
   2. The TCP/IP properties must also be set to automatically detect the DNS server.
3. Reboot
   1. Once you've set up your adapter and connection settings above, reboot your computer. You should then be able to access the Internet through the Fourth Street access points.

If Your Adapter Is Not Operational

If your adapter is not installed correctly, please consult the manufacturer's documentation provided with your adapter to properly set up your equipment.

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Minority & Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Program

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1. What is the M/WBE Program?

The purpose of the M/WBE Program is to:

1. Formally communicate the City’s policy regarding non-discrimination in its procurement practices.
2. Provide to the fullest extent possible, consistent with sound management practices, and state and federal laws, opportunities for participation by firms owned and controlled by minorities and women.

2. What are the M/WBE Program benefits?

M/WBE provides:

• Assistance in completing the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certification process required by the State of North Carolina
• Assistance in increasing the City of Winston-Salem’s knowledge of your firm’s product or service and your desire to do business with the city
• Assistance with the resolution of problems and complaints regarding non-compliance with the M/WBE Program
• Electronic notification of bid opportunities and request for proposal (RFP)
• Sessions that are beneficial to minority and woman-owned businesses, including:
• In addition, the program provides workshops and seminars for minority- and women-owned businesses. You do not have to be a certified minority company to do business with the City of Winston-Salem but the certification will improve your chances to participate on city contracts.

3. What type of firm qualifies as a M/WBE?

Per NC General Statue 143-128.2,

(1) The term "minority business" means a business:

a. In which at least fifty-one percent (51%) is owned by one or more
minority persons or socially and economically disadvantaged
individuals, or in the case of a corporation, in which at least fifty-one
percent (51%) of the stock is owned by one or more minority persons
or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals; and

b. Of which the management and daily business operations are
controlled by one or more of the minority persons or socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals who own it.

(2) The term "minority person" means a person who is a citizen or lawful
permanent resident of the United States and who is:

a. Black, that is, a person having origins in any of the black racial
groups in Africa;

b. Hispanic, that is, a person of Spanish or Portuguese culture with
origins in Mexico, South or Central America, or the Caribbean
Islands, regardless of race;

c. Asian American, that is, a person having origins in any of the
original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia and Asia, the Indian
subcontinent, or the Pacific Islands;

d. American Indian, that is, a person having origins in any of the
original Indian peoples of North America; or
G.S. 143-128.2 Page 4

e. Female

4. What business resources are available for M/WBE firms?

There are several resources available. Please visit our community resources page here.

For questions regarding your small business or one you wish to start, email Steven Harrison, Small Business Liaison, or call him at 336-747-7474.

If you need financial assistance to start or expand your business, consider applying for the Small Business Loan Program.

5. How are M/WBEs notified of procurement opportunities with the City of Winston-Salem?

There are several ways to be notified including:

• Weekly notification of upcoming opportunities (construction, goods and services, professional services, department needs, etc.) are emailed to businesses who sign up on the City of Winston-Salem Vendor Listing and elect the option to be notified.
• The Purchasing Department posts all bid opportunities on their page

6. What can M/WBEs do to increase their participation in the bidding process?

These simple steps can increase your opportunities with the City of Winston-Salem.

• Become Historically Underutilized Business (HUB)  certified. Contact the M/WBE staff for assistance.
• Attend pre-bid conferences and bid opening meetings
• Attend seminars, workshops, and outreach sessions sponsored by the City of Winston-Salem
• Establish and maintain contacts and relationships with general contractors for potential business
• Respond promptly to solicitation requests
• Update your company profile on the vendor listing as necessary.

7. How can I locate M/WBE vendors?

The City of Winston Salem maintains an extensive Vendor Listing of M/WBE and non-M/WBE firms that have requested to be a registered vendor. You can also search for certified M/WBE firms through the State of North Carolina Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB).

8. Am I required to attend pre-bid meetings for a project?

The M/WBE program strongly recommends that you attend all pre-bid meetings as a general contractor, subcontractor, or supplier, even if the pre-bid is non-mandatory.

9. What are the different types of solicitations?

Bids, known as competitively sealed bids or Invitation for Bid (IFB), refers to a contracting method in which sealed bids are publicly solicited, opened, and a contract is awarded based on price to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder. Proposals refer to a contracting method in which a solicitation is made through a Request for Proposal (RFP), and between receipt of proposals and award.

10. Where can I locate bid documents for purchasing opportunities?

This information may be available for download on the purchasing page Please contact our office with any additional questions you may have.

11. Where can I find the results of a particular bid?

For all questions related to the results bids, current historical, and service contacts are on the bids page.

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Minority & Women Business Enterprise - Section 3

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1. What is Section 3?

This program refers to Section 3 of the of the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Act of 1968. The purpose of Section 3 is to ensure that employment and other economic opportunities generated by certain HUD financial assistance shall, to the greatest extent feasible, be directed towards low and very low-income persons.

• Construction projects that are financed in whole or in part by federal HUD funds are subject to Section 3 subcontracting requirements.
• Provides local eligible residents and businesses an opportunity to participate in government-funded housing construction projects.

2. Who are Section 3 residents?

Residents of public housing or low-income persons who live in the greater metropolitan area in which a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Act-assisted project is located.

3. What is a Section 3 business?

A business that meets one of the following criteria:

• Employs Section 3 residents in full-time positions (30% or more of employees)
• Is owned by Section 3 residents
• Subcontracts with businesses (at least 25%) which provide economic development opportunities to low-income persons

4. Who will award the economic opportunities?

Recipients of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) financial assistance and their contractors and subcontractors are required to provide economic opportunities to the greatest extent feasible, consistent with existing Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.

5. How does a contractor locate Section 3 businesses or residents to work for them?

It is the responsibility of the contractor on the project to locate Section 3 eligible participants. A contractor can do so by:

1. Utilizing the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Section 3 Business Registry
2. By recruiting in the neighborhood and/or public housing developments to inform residents about available training and job opportunities
3. By posting signs, distributing flyers, placing ads, contacting residents, community development, and employment organizations to find workers
4. Contacting the Housing Authority of Winston Salem (HAWS) to access their Section 3 Contractor list. These contractors and/or individuals regularly work on HAWS projects 
   1. Please call the Section 3 Compliance Manager at 336-917-6089.
5. Contact the City of Winston Salem M/WBE Coordinator at 336-734-1262.

6. What are some examples of Section 3 opportunities?

Administrative / Management

• Accounting
• Bookkeeping
• Payroll
• Purchasing
• Research
• Word processing

Services

• Appliance repair
• Carpet installation
• Catering
• Janitorial
• Landscaping
• Manufacturing
• Printing
• Transportation

Construction

• Architecture
• Bricklaying
• Carpentry
• Cement/masonry
• Demolition
• Electrical
• Fencing
• Heating/air
• Ironworks
• Painting
• Plastering
• Surveying
• Tile setting

7. How do I comply with Section 3 goals?

Compliance with Section 3 goals may be accomplished by new employment opportunities (full-time, part-time, or seasonal), training opportunities, or by contracting opportunities for Section 3 businesses and individuals. Please contact us for more information at 336-734-1262.

8. How does Section 3 differ from the Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise program?

Section 3 is both race and gender neutral. The preferences provided under this regulation are based on income-level and location only. Section 3 regulations were designed to encourage recipients of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding to direct new employment, training, and contracting opportunities to particular residents and businesses, regardless of race and/or gender.

9. Who receives priority under Section 3?

Those who receive priority under Section 3 are:

• For contracting: Businesses that meet the definition of a Section 3 Business Concern.
• For training and employment: Persons in public and assisted housing, persons in the area where the HUD financial assistance is spent, participants in Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Youthbuild programs.

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New City Security Measures FAQs (Employee)

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1. Why are city employees required to go through screening?

The only way to ensure the safety of everyone in these buildings is to require that everyone pass through security.

2. Will employees whose workplace is in these buildings have to go through security every day?

Yes.

3. How long will the screening take?

The screening process is intended to be a brief stop.

4. Will I be allowed to exit those doors that are no longer available as entrances?

Yes. To comply with fire safety requirements, all doors will remain operational as exits.

5. If I have to go back to my vehicle because I forgot something that I need, do I have to go through screening again?

Yes.

6. How will security personnel know that I am allowed to bring in tools?

Department heads will provide security personnel with the names of employees who are scheduled to work in the buildings and the tools they need to bring with them. 

7. My normal shift requires that I enter before regular work hours. Will I be able to get in?

Department heads will provide the names of employees to Property & Facilities Management who require access outside regular work hours (such as inspectors) and their badges will be set up to provide them access through the appropriate employee entrance.

8. Once in a while my job requires that I have access to City Hall or the Bryce A. Stuart Building on weekends or outside normal working hours. Will I be able to get in?

Employees who currently have after-hours access to City Hall will continue to have the same access as before. After-hours access to the Bryce A. Stuart Building will be authorized by department heads and coordinated with Property & Facilities Management. 

9. Why can’t I leave a prohibited item, such as a small pocket knife, at the security station and pick it back up when I leave?

The screening stations are not equipped to store items, plus, the screening process would get bogged down if security personnel had to implement a method of tracking which items should be returned to specific visitors as they leave.

10. What happens if I refuse to participate in the screenings?

City employees will be denied entrance and subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. 

11. Are there plans to implement security screenings at other city buildings?

For now, the policy applies only to City Hall and the Bryce A. Stuart Building. Additional facilities may be added at the city manager’s discretion.

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Old Salisbury Rd.

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1. Why has the roadbed become unstable?

Over time, a pipe that carries a stream under the road fill has become clogged with sediment and debris. As a result, water pools against the fill during storms. Over time, the fill has become so saturated with water that it cannot bear any weight, much like a watery mud that squishes out when you press against it.

2. Why wasn’t a bigger pipe installed when the road was built?

When the road was built, the stretch of Peters Creek Parkway immediately to the east was undeveloped and the surrounding land could absorb rain. Commercial development over the years created a large among of paved surfaces, which in turn results in far more water running off into the stream compared with when the land was undeveloped. 

3. Why is it going to take so long before the repairs can be put out to bid?

A great deal of preliminary work must be completed before the city can seek bids to repair the road. This includes designing the erosion control and drainage systems, relocating water and sewer lines as needed, acquiring any necessary right of way, preparing construction drawings and acquiring any necessary state and local permits.

4. Is there any temporary way of making the road passable until the repairs start?

Unfortunately, no. The unstable soil could escape any temporary shoring that might be attempted.

5. How is the city providing emergency services south of the closure?

The Police and Fire departments and Forsyth County Emergency Medical Service all have been notified of the closure and are using alternate routes. Occasionally, a public safety driver may forget and be forced to turn around at the road closure, but this is an exception to the rule.

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Performance & Accountability - Resident Survey

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1. Why is the City surveying City residents?

The City wants to know how City residents feel about the quality of services they receive from City government and what areas need improvement.

2. What is in the survey?

The survey includes general questions about perceptions of Winston-Salem as a place to live and work, and in-depth questions about satisfaction with various City services, ranging from how well the City communicates with the public to opinions about:

• Fire
• Police
• Public transportation
• Recreation
• Sanitation
• Streets
• Other City functions

3. What is the last time the City conducted a survey?

The city surveyed its residents in 2018 and 2019. Collecting repeated surveys provides timely feedback to management and elected officials and helps then detect trends.

4. What will the City do with the results?

The results will be presented to the City Council, so that council members can take this information into account as they set City priorities. Council members and City staff also will use the results to identify areas for improvement and direct City resources, as needed, to assist in making improvements. Because this year’s survey is very similar to the 2018 and 2019 surveys, the City will be able to compare results year-over-year. Additionally, the information will allow the City Council and City staff to compare our performance with other cities in North Carolina and throughout the southeast region.

5. How many surveys were distributed?

Approximately 10,000 surveys were mailed to randomly selected City residents.

6. How did the City determine who received a survey in the mail?

The City retained an outside firm, ETC Institute, to put together the sample size and come up with a random mailing list that would be representative of the City population by geographic area and other demographic factors.

7. How will the City ensure that the results reflect the views of all City residents?

The survey firm will track the responses and then weigh the results to ensure that the survey is representative of the overall City population. If necessary, the firm will conduct follow-up surveys in the event that some demographic groups are too underrepresented to provide a valid sample.

8. If the City wants the survey results to reflect the City population, why is it allowing voluntary participation?

The City wants to be as inclusive as possible in soliciting input from City residents, which is why is it allowing voluntary participation through the https://20winstonsalem.etcmain2.com/index.php/845412/newtest/Y/lang/en/845412X4285X44561/welcome/845412X4285X44573/CU/.

9. Is the survey for voluntary participants the same as the surveys that were mailed?

Yes, the survey for voluntary participants is the same as the mailed surveys.

10. Why do I have to provide such information as gender, race, income bracket, age, etc. on the survey?

For the surveys that are mailed, this information will enable the survey firm to make sure the results are representative of the City as a whole. For online surveys completed by voluntary participants, it will help the City better understand the results and identify trends. In either case, information on specific individuals is not made available to the City. The vendor uses it to identify trends but does not provide the City the information about individual respondents.

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Planning & Development Services - Downtown Streetscape Plan

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1. What is a streetscape?

A streetscape is defined as the visual elements of a street – the road itself, trees and other plantings, lighting, benches, bike racks, signage, public art pieces, crosswalks, etc. – that when combined give the street a character and feel. While building facades impact the overall appearance of the streetscape, they are not part of the streetscape itself.

2. Why is the streetscape important?

When combined in an intentional manner, the elements of streetscape can create an atmosphere that is inviting, safe, dynamic, and desirable to residents and visitors alike. Having a proper streetscape aids in creating a vibrant environment that encourages activity along the street, establishes a distinct brand for an area, and fosters economic development.

3. How is the streetscape different than the street?

A street is the transportation corridor used to move traffic through an area whether by car, bus, or bike. A streetscape is the combined elements that create the experience felt once an individual gets out of a car or off the bus and walks to a destination. These elements can provide visual and aesthetic appeal as well as a sense of safety and comfort.

4. How is this plan different from other plans completed for Downtown?

The City has undertaken numerous planning efforts within the Downtown that focused either on a particular area or a particular aspect of the streetscape. These plans range from landscaping plans along specific corridors and neighborhood design studies to transportation plans for the Downtown. However, a comprehensive planning effort that looked at the Downtown in its entirety has not been undertaken. This plan will fill this void by developing a vision and design standards for the entirety of Downtown.

5. How will this plan impact the Business 40 Improvements Project?

This master plan and the Business 40 improvements are two separate projects. That said, the recommendations of the Downtown Streetscape Master Plan will complement the Business 40 improvements. The changes to the Downtown interchanges and bridges create a unique opportunity to enhance the current streetscape, particularly with the proposed two-way street conversions and new Strollway bridge.

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Planning & Development Services - General Historic Resources

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1. How can I date my house and its architectural features?

Determining a date of construction for an old house usually requires both documentary and architectural research. Documentary research that you can do yourself includes reviewing deed and probate information, tax records, and local histories. The North Carolina Collection of the Forsyth County Public Library may have other pertinent information. as well as historic photographs. Documentary research can be quite conclusive, but in some cases physical investigation will be necessary to supplement and/or corroborate the documentary evidence. Investigation of the architectural fabric may require a more trained eye and some technical assistance from a preservation professional.

2. How do I find reliable contractors to work on my historic property?

Both Old House Journal and Traditional Building magazines list contractors and/or companies that provide services for historic homeowners. Other resources to check include trade shows and neighborhood associations. Checking with your neighbors or with someone that has recently done work on their property is also a good source. Remember to always get three bids and reliable references from each bidder.

3. How can I protect my house?

One of the strongest tools for preserving historic buildings and areas is local historic designation. Properties listed as local historic landmarks or located in local historic districts are subject to review before alterations or demolition can take place.

Another powerful preservation tool is the preservation easement. By donating an easement, you give the easement holder the right to prevent all present and future owners from making changes to a historic property that would destroy its historic character, while still retaining other rights of ownership. The value of the easement can then be used as a charitable deduction.

4. What style is my house?

There are many good architectural style guides available for the public to review at your local public library. Specifically, the Old House Journal magazine is helpful as is the book, "A Field Guide to American Houses," by Virginia and Lee McAlester.

5. What color is appropriate for my house?

To determine the correct colors for your house, first identify its architectural style and period of construction. The book "Century of Color" by Roger Moss and Old House Journal are both excellent resources for information on historically appropriate paint colors.

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Planning & Development Services - Historic Resources Commission

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1. What is the Forsyth County Historic Resources Commission?

The Historic Resources Commission is Forsyth County’s public agency that is responsible for the County’s landmarks and buildings in the County’s local historic districts. The Commission is involved in all public matters involving historic resources and historic preservation.

The Commission consists of 12 Commissioners and has a 2-member staff, provided by the City-County Planning Division.

2. When was the Historic Resources Commission created?

The Historic Resources Commission was created in 2001, and was a result of the merger of the Forsyth County Joint Historic Properties Commission and the Winston-Salem Historic District Commission.

The Forsyth County Joint Historic Properties Commission was originally formed in 1976 as the community’s first County-wide preservation commission.

The Winston-Salem Historic District Commission was the first historic preservation commission established in North Carolina in 1948. It was responsible for the oversight of the Old Salem Historic District and other historic areas, including Bethabara. Old Salem is North Carolina’s first local historic district and the forerunner of today’s State enabling legislation for historic districts and landmarks.

3. Who are the Historic Resources Commissioners?

According to the ordinance, the 12 Commissioners must include 6 at-large members and one from each of the following categories:

• Archaeologist, landscape architect/designer, planner, surveyor, or arborist
• Architect licensed in the state of North Carolina
• Architectural historian or historic preservationist
• Historic (H) District property owner
• Historic Overlay (HO) District property owner
• Local Historic Landmark (LHL) property owner

The governing boards of Forsyth County, Winston-Salem, Clemmons, and Kernersville appoint the Commission members, and the Commission elects the Chairman and Vice-Chairman.

4. What are the Historic Resources Commissioners' duties?

The Commissioners meet once a month for public meetings on Certificate of Appropriateness applications, public hearings on local historic landmark designations and to address Commission policies, and review various items regarding historic preservation in the community.

5. Who are the Historic Resources Commission’s staff?

The Commission staff are supplied by the Planning Division and have educational and professional degrees/experience in historic preservation.

6. What does the Historic Resources Commission’s staff do?

Commission staff have many functions:

• Administer grants
• Carry out research
• Coordinate activities with the State Historic Preservation Office
• Make presentations to the Commission
• Prepare detailed reports on Certificate of Appropriateness applications
• Prepare educational programs
• Prepare environmental review reports
• Prepare reports on the significance of proposed landmark properties
• Work with applicants who propose alterations in historic districts/landmarks

7. Where and when is the place and time of the Historic Resources Commission’s meetings?

The Historic Resources Commission meets the first Wednesday of every month at 4 p.m. Meetings are held at:
Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building
Public Meeting Room, 5th Floor
100 E First Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

8. What is a Certified Local Government?

A local government can participate in this program when the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) certifies that the local government has established its own historic preservation commission and a program meeting Federal and State standards. Certified Local Governments (CLGs) are eligible to apply for grants from the SHPO.

At least 10% of the annual Historic Preservation Fund grant to states under the National Historic Preservation Act must be distributed among CLGs. Grants can be used for activities promoting historic preservation, such as architectural surveys, National Register nominations, and design review standards.

Forsyth County, Winston-Salem, Kernersville, and Clemmons are all CLGs.

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Planning & Development Services - Local Historic Districts

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1. What is the difference between a Local Historic District and a National Register Historic District?

Local historic districts are completely different from National Register historic districts. The main difference is that a local historic district is a type of zoning district that has regulations regarding exterior changes to properties. In a National Register district, a private property owner using private funds can make changes to property without any review process. However, it should be noted that some areas are both a local historic district and a National Register district. In that instance, the regulations set out in the zoning ordinance for local historic districts must be followed.

2. What exactly is a local historic district?

A local historic district is an area designated by the governing board because it contains important architectural and historic resources. These districts are designated as part of the zoning ordinance in order to safeguard a valuable part of the community’s cultural heritage. In Forsyth County, there are two types of local historic districts:

• Historic (H) Districts, i.e. Old Salem and Bethabara
• Historic Overlay (HO) Districts, i.e. West End

3. What are the major provisions of a local historic district ordinance?

Exterior work that would change the appearance of buildings, sites and landscape features, new construction, demolition, and relocation within a district must be approved by the Historic Resources Commission. The proposed work must be found to be consistent with design review standards that are adopted for each district to preserve the unique character of the district. Before exterior alterations can be made to properties in these types of districts, a property owner has to apply for and obtain a permit, called a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), from the Historic Resources Commission.

4. What are design review standards?

Design review standards are, essentially, descriptions of the appropriate treatment for changes to property within a local historic district. They are used as reference by the Historic Resources Commission when considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA).

5. How do I know if I need a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)?

If you live in West End, Old Salem, or Bethabara, you should call the Historic Resources Commission staff before you begin any work. Historic Resources Commission staff can advise you if your proposed work needs a Certificate of Appropriateness and provide information on how to obtain one.

6. How is a local historic district designated?

Local historic districts are designated by the appropriate governing board in Forsyth County, depending on where the area is located. This is done through the rezoning process, after public review and comment. All affected property owners have the opportunity to make their feelings known well before a vote is taken. Additionally, the State Historic Preservation Office is required to comment on all local historic district designation proposals prior to the governing board vote, to ensure that the proposed district meets the criteria outlined in State law.

7. What does it mean to own property in a local historic district?

Property owners in local historic districts need to contact the Historic Resources Commission staff before beginning any exterior changes to existing structures, or prior to beginning any project involving new construction or demolition. The Commission and its staff will review the project. If it meets the terms of the ordinance and district’s standards, a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) will be issued. A building permit cannot be issued in an historic district without a COA.

8. What is required in a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) application to the Commission?

The application requirements will vary, depending on the nature and complexity of the proposed project. Historic Resources Commission staff are available to help with the application process.

9. Is there a way to deal with minor projects?

Historic Resources Commission staff can approve certain projects so that unnecessary delays can be avoided for smaller scale work. Administrative approvals are available for specific types of work, if the staff determines that the proposal follows the district’s standards.

10. What about routine maintenance?

Repair and replacement projects are not reviewed by the Commission, as long as no material or design changes are made.

11. How long does it take to have projects reviewed and approved?

Minor work approvals usually only take a few days. Projects that require full Historic Resources Commission review can take up to 30 days, since the Commission meets monthly. Sometimes a project can be continued for an extra month if additional information is needed or if a project is extremely complex. In all cases, the Commission must act on an application within 180 days after its filing.

12. What happens if I begin work without a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)?

All property owners in local historic districts need to consult with Historic Resources Commission staff before beginning any exterior project, and receive any necessary approvals prior to commencing work. When Commission staff learn of a project that is underway without approval, the violation is reported to the Inspections Division. The local ordinance provides enforcement procedures, which are used as needed.

13. Does the Historic Resources Commission require you to restore your property?

No. The Historical Resources Commission only gets involved when you decide to begin work on your property. The Commission will not require you to initiate a project.

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Planning & Development Services - Local Historic Landmarks

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1. What is a local historic landmark?

A local historic landmark is an individual property, which may be a building, structure, site, area, sign or other object, that has been designated as historic by the appropriate governing board because the property has a special character, historic or aesthetic interest, or value. Landmark designation signifies recognition that the property is important to the heritage and character of the community and that its protection enriches all the community’s residents. Generally, a property must be 50 years old to qualify for local historic landmark designation, although there are exceptions for properties with special significance.

2. How does a property obtain local historic landmark status?

An owner who is interested in pursuing local landmark designation should contact Historic Resources Commission staff. There is a detailed application to complete and a $50 application fee. Once an application is complete, it is sent to the State Historic Preservation Office for comment. It then goes before the Commission for review at a public hearing, at which time the Commission makes a recommendation to the appropriate governing board. Finally, the governing board designates the landmark by adopting a designation ordinance for the property, or denies designation. The final decision on designation rests with the governing board.

3. Would my property qualify for local historic landmark status?

Unfortunately, not all properties over 50 years old are eligible for local landmark designation. The property must have some type of special significance and retain a strong degree of original integrity. The property should meet the Historic Resources Commission criteria:

• Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history
• Associated with the lives of persons significant in our past
• Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction
• Have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history

4. What happens after a property is designated as a local historic landmark?

Two things. First, the property becomes subject to the same review process described under Local Historic Districts. Prior to making changes to any portion of the designated property (including interiors, when designated), the property owner must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the Historic Resources Commission. The Commission has adopted design review standards and minor work provisions for landmark properties.

Second, under State law, the property owner may apply with the Forsyth County Tax Office for a tax deferral of up to 50% of the value of the landmark property. The tax deferral runs in perpetuity, unless the integrity of the property is lost or substantially impaired (other than by fire or natural disaster), or because the designation ordinance has been repealed. Each new property owner of a landmark must reapply for the deferral.

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Planning & Development Services - National Register

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1. What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's official list of historic resources worthy of preservation for their significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, and culture. Established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the purpose of the National Register is to ensure that properties significant in national, state, and local history are considered in planning federal projects, and to encourage historic preservation initiatives by state and local governments as well as the private sector.

2. What is a National Register Historic District?

Districts, or neighborhoods of properties, can be listed in the National Register. The National Register of Historic Places defines a district as a geographically definable area, urban or rural, possessing a significant concentration, linkage or continuity of sites, buildings, structures, or objects united historically or aesthetically by plan or physical development. Creating a National Register district can help communities plan for the preservation of their historic and architectural resources. Because these resources are identified and documented, citizens can become more informed and develop a sense of pride about the history and architecture of their neighborhoods. They can then begin to plan for the preservation of the area using the tools available for National Register properties.

3. Will National Register listing protect a resource from alteration or demolition?

A common misconception is that once a property is listed in the National Register, it cannot be demolished or altered. This is not true. Under the National Register program, a private property owner using private resources can maintain or demolish the property as they wish. Only local ordinances can regulate changes to historic resources.

4. What does the National Register mean for a property owner?

First, National Register listing is an honor and can be used to educate citizens and property owners, and as a tool to foster community pride and provide financial stability.

Second, properties listed in the National Register are considered and protected in the public planning process. All properties and districts listed in or eligible for the National Register are considered in the planning of federal undertakings, such as highway construction and Community Development Block Grants. Federal undertakings also include activities sponsored by state or local governments or private entities if they are licensed or partially funded by the federal government. Federal projects do not include loans made by banks insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or federal farm subsidies.

Third, National Register listing provides financial incentives for the preservation of National Register properties. Specifically, these incentives are in the form of federal and state rehabilitation tax credits. (See question below.) 

5. What are rehabilitation tax credits?

To learn more about rehabilitation tax credits, please use the following resources:

• Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program
• North Carolina Historic Preservation Tax Credits Program

6. What are the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation?

In 1977, the National Park Service developed guidelines to help owners of historic properties determine what building components should be preserved in the rehabilitation process. These standards must be followed when rehabilitation tax credits are used. They can also be useful for property owners and form the basis of our local design standards.

The guidelines focus on three basic provisions: (1) identifying, (2) retaining, and (3) preserving important architectural features. They cover general information regarding building exteriors and interiors, building sites, and historic districts and neighborhoods. Additional information is also given regarding health and safety code requirements, energy retrofitting, and new additions.

To obtain this publication, visit the National Park Service website.

7. What does "Contributing Property" mean?

Contributing properties are located within the boundaries of a National Register district. They "contribute" to the district by their architectural or historical characteristics.

8. What does "Noncontributing Property" mean?

Noncontributing properties do not share the architectural or historical characteristics of a National Register district, despite being located within its boundaries. New construction and older properties that have been altered so much that they are no longer recognizable as historic are categorized as noncontributing properties.

9. Who administers the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register is a list maintained by the National Park Service under the Secretary of the Interior. Nominations to the National Register are submitted by the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). In North Carolina, SHPO staff administer the National Register program.

In North Carolina, a review board, called the National Register Advisory Committee (NRAC) examines potential nominations and makes recommendations to the SHPO regarding the eligibility of properties and the adequacy of nominations. These boards are composed of professional historians, archaeologists, architectural historians, and architects as well as other citizens having a demonstrated interest and expertise in historic preservation. The NRAC meets three times per year (the second Thursday of February, June, and October) to consider the eligibility of properties for nomination to the National Register. Nominations prepared under the supervision of the SHPO staff and approved by the NRAC are forwarded to the Keeper of the National Register in the National Park Service in Washington, D.C. Final authority to list properties in the National Register resides with the National Park Service.

10. How are eligible properties identified?

Properties and districts that may be eligible for the National Register are usually brought to the attention of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) staff and the National Register Advisory Committee (NRAC) the following ways:

• Through a county or community survey of historic properties co-sponsored by the State Historic Preservation Office and a local government or organization
• By interested individuals who provide preliminary information about properties to the SHPO staff
• Through historic property surveys conducted as part of an environmental review process

People seeking National Register listing for properties that have not been recorded in survey projects co-sponsored by the State Historic Preservation Office may submit a Study List application to the SHPO. If adequate information and color slides of the property are included with the application, the NRAC will consider the property at its next meeting. If in the opinion of the NRAC the property appears to be potentially eligible for the National Register, it is placed on the Study List. This action by the NRAC authorizes the SHPO staff to work with the owner to coordinate a formal nomination of the property to the National Register.

The NRAC can best evaluate the eligibility of an individual property within the context of a community-wide or regional inventory of historic or prehistoric properties. This provides a basis for comparing the relative significance of similar types of properties in a community.

11. What is a National Register nomination?

A National Register nomination is a scholarly and authoritative document that thoroughly:

• Describes and evaluates a property's setting and physical characteristics
• Documents its history
• Assesses its significance in terms of its historic context
• Demonstrates how it specifically meets National Register criteria for evaluation

It is supported by professional quality black and white photographs, maps delineating the property's boundaries, and other materials and information. The nomination must be prepared according to Federal and State guidelines.

12. Who prepares National Register nominations?

Most nominations are prepared by private consultants hired either by individual property owners or by local governments or organizations. Nominations of archaeological sites are sometimes prepared by professional archaeologists as part of their on-going research. North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) National Register staff is responsible for reviewing, editing, and processing nominations prepared in these ways. Due to the great demand for National Register nominations, the small SHPO staff is unable to prepare nominations as a public service.

An owner of a Study List property who seeks to have it listed in the National Register may hire a private consultant to prepare the nomination. SHPO staff cannot quote fees, and fees will vary depending on the consultant and the complexity of the nomination. An owner may expect to pay a professional historian, architectural historian, or archaeologist the equivalent of 40 to 80 hours of time at a professional hourly wage.

13. What happens to a completed National Register nomination?

The nomination is reviewed by members of the National Register Advisory Committee (NRAC) at one of the regular meetings. If the NRAC recommends that the nomination be submitted to the National Register, it is signed by the State Historic Preservation Officer and forwarded to the Keeper of the National Register. At the National Register office, the nomination is reviewed and the decision to list or not list is made within not less than 15 and not more than 45 days of receipt. If the property is listed, the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) will notify the owner and provide a certificate stating that the property has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Owners who desire plaques may order them from private commercial suppliers. The SHPO does not provide plaques or recommend any particular supplier.

14. How can I go list my property on the National Register?

Commission staff are available to provide basic information on the National Register program and Forsyth County’s historic properties, as well as guiding you through the nomination process. However, the National Register program is coordinated through the State Historic Preservation Office in Raleigh. For detailed information, you should contact the appropriate staff person at the State Historic Preservation Office.

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Police - 911

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1. What is 9-1-1?

9-1-1 is the emergency telephone number system in Winston-Salem which links callers to the appropriate emergency service - Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Service or Ambulance. Calling 9-1-1 helps ensure you reach the emergency service you require as quickly as possible.

2. What is an emergency?

A situation where the safety of people or property is at risk. Examples of 9-1-1 emergencies include: a fire, crime in progress, or a medical crisis.

3. What is not an emergency?

It is not an emergency when the situation is not dangerous and immediate action is not necessary. If the emergency is not life threatening, please call our non-emergency contact number at 336-773-7700.

4. What happens when you call 9-1-1?

• When you dial 9-1-1 your call is answered by professionally trained Telecommunicators. The 9-1-1 telephone system has an Automatic Location Identification System and an Automatic Number Identification System (ANI/ALI) which lets the call taker know the address and telephone number of the caller. If the caller is unable to speak, police will be dispatched to the location.
• If you call from a cellular phone, ANI/ALI information may be available to the Telecommunicator if the cellular phone is Phase II compliant. Wireless Phase II requires carriers to provide far more precise location information - within 50 to 300 meters (approximately 170 to 1,000 feet). The cell phone vendors have different methods in which the cellular phone handset can provide the latitude and longitude for the caller, either through triangulation, GPS, or a hybrid of the two.
• Try to remain calm and give your exact location or give the closest location or landmark you recognize.
• The caller must be prepared to give the following information:
  • Which service is required - Fire, Police or Ambulance.
  • Where the emergency has occurred - the full address.

5. How do I use 9-1-1?

• At home, dial 9-1-1.
  • Do not pre-program 9-1-1 into your telephone, this can cause dialing problems if the battery is low on cordless phones or the button is hit accidentally.
• At a business or other locations you may need to dial an outside line before dialing 9-1-1.
• At a pay phone, dial 9-1-1; a coin is not necessary.
• When using a cellular phone, you must specify that you are using such and be prepared to give your location, including the city or town.

6. How do I place a non-emergency call?

For non-emergency contact, please call us at 336-773-7700 or visit the Telcom page.

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Police - ALPR Information

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1. What is an ALPR?

ALPR is a system of cameras and supporting software and server engines that captures license plate information and instantly compares plate numbers to a database of wanted criminals or persons of interest.

2. How does an ALPR work?

ALPR systems function to automatically capture an image of the vehicle’s license plate, transform that image into alphanumeric characters using optical character recognition or similar software, compare the plate number acquired to one or more databases of vehicles of interest to law enforcement and other agencies, and to alert the officer when a vehicle of interest has been observed.

3. Does an ALPR capture any Personally Identifiable Information (PII)?

ALPRs do not collect information on who is driving or riding in the vehicle, therefore, it is not considered Personally Identifiable Information (PII). The technology does not capture images of pedestrians or passerby. The ALPR cameras take still images of cars passing through the lens (not video), and cannot follow or track vehicles once they leave the camera’s view.

4. Does the ALPR capture the passengers of the vehicle or their personal information?

The ALPR camera does not identify any individual or access their personal information through its analysis of license plate numbers. The data captured by the ALPR unit itself is completely anonymous. There is no personally identifiable information contained in an ALPR record and the operator can only determine the registered owner of a vehicle by querying a separate, secure state government database of vehicle license plate records, which is restricted, controlled, and audited. 

(The Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) restricts access and prohibits the release of personal information from State motor vehicle records to ensure the privacy of citizens. 18 USC § 2721-2725.)

5. Will ALPRs be used for traffic enforcement?

No. The ALPR cameras will not be used for traffic enforcement. The technology will be used to support WSPD in solving active criminal investigations. 

6. Can ALPR devices see into my vehicle and use facial recognition software?

Unlike red light cameras, ALPR devices do not have illumination to aid in identifying the driver or potential passengers of the vehicle. The purpose of the ALPR is to identify the vehicle, not the occupants. If ambient lighting is sufficient or a subject is outside and near the vehicle their image may be captured. The ALPR system is not designed to be used with facial recognition.

7. Is every ALPR image reviewed?

No, images are only reviewed by law enforcement personnel when required and based upon the need to:

• Locate Stolen, Wanted, or Suspect Vehicles.
• Locate Suspect(s) of Criminal Investigation or Arrest Warrant.
• Locate Witnesses or Victims of Violent Crime.
• Locate Missing Children and Elderly individuals (Amber / Silver Alerts). 
• Protect the Public during Special Events / Situational Awareness.
• Protect Critical Infrastructure

8. Does the ALPR system provide constant surveillance of my location?

No. ALPR systems do not provide constant surveillance of vehicles. The systems do provide authorized law enforcement personnel with a pointer for one moment in time and the location where a vehicle's license plate passed an ALPR device. 

9. Where are ALPR cameras located?

ALPR units will be deployed at fixed locations throughout the City, where they collect license plate information from vehicles on public roadways, public property and vehicles that are within public view. 

10. How is the system audited?

The system logs each user’s activity by name, date, time, and purpose of search. Audits shall be conducted semi-annually by WSPD to ensure compliance and the records of these audits shall be maintained for a minimum of three years. These records will be maintained by the WSPD ALPR Program Manager assigned to the Real-Time Crime Center. 

11. How will you address cybersecurity related to the cameras?

The cameras use cellular signals and there is no possible incoming connection to the camera. The cameras use ADF-256 encryption protocols, so any data that is on the camera itself is always encrypted. The data is encrypted in transit when it is being sent to the cloud, and Amazon AWS government cloud storage is used. All data is encrypted and rest in the cloud.

12. Can ALPR data be released outside of law enforcement?

Captured plate data obtained in accordance with Chapter 20 Article 3D of N.C.G.S. is confidential and not a public record as that term is defined in N.G.G.S. 132-1. Data shall not be disclosed except to a federal, State, or local law enforcement agency or public safety purpose pursuant to a written request from the requesting agency. N.C.G.S. 20-183. 22 defines a law enforcement agency as “any agency or officer of the State of North Carolina or any political subdivision thereof who is empowered by the laws of this State to conduct investigations or to make arrests and any attorney, including the Attorney General of North Carolina, authorized by the laws of this State to prosecute or participate in the prosecution of those persons arrested or persons who may be subject to civil actions related to or concerning an arrest. (2015-190, s. 1.)

13. What efforts will an officer have to make to ensure the ALPR data is accurate?

When an officer receives an ALPR alert, they must visually verify that  the ALPR read was accurate by ensuring the vehicle plate number matches the plate number run by the ALPR system and that the circumstances that resulted in the alert are still current (missing person/stolen vehicle). 

14. What data does an ALPR system collect?

ALPR systems typically capture the following information: a contextual photo of the vehicle, an image of the license plate, the geographic coordinates of where the image was captured, and the date and time of the recording. The systems also typically identify the specific camera/unit that captured the image. 

15. What is the retention period for the data collected?

FLOCK will automatically delete captured plate data after 30 days, which is 60 days before the deletion timeframe requried by state law. N.C.G.S. requires the data to be deleted after 90 days unless a specific exception is granted under N.C.G.S. 20-183.2 (b). The data will be permanently deleted from the system by FLOCK as indicated above.

16. How will it be destroyed?

All images are captured and stored in AWS; they are tagged with a “time to live” (TTL) which triggers deletion of the image. The image is fully removed from the cloud at that time and is fully unrecoverable by FLOCK, and the law enforcement agency. 

17. How will destruction be confirmed?

Destruction of captured plate data will be confirmed by the TTL tag that is associated with the captured plate data.

18. Under what circumstances will the data be retained for a longer period of time?

In accordance with N.C.G.S. 20-183.32  data obtained by an automatic license plate reader may be preserved for more than 90 days pursuant to any of the following: (1) A preservation request under subsection (c) of that section; 2) A search warrant issued pursuant to Article 11 of Chapter 15A of the General Statutes; or (3) A federal search warrant issued in compliance with the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. One year from the date of the initial preservation request, the agency must destroy the captured plate data, unless another preservation request is received, in which case the retention period established under this subsection shall reset.

19. How long with the ALPRs be in use?

Under the FLOCK pilot program, the ALPRs will be utilized for one year. 

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Police - Citizen's Police Academy

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1. What is the purpose of the Academy?

Participants will gain knowledge of the training received by the officers of the Winston­-Salem Police Department, and a better understanding of the policies and procedures that govern their actions. Also the Department will gain a better perspective of the issues that are important to the citizens.

The Academy is not designed to train participants to become police officers. If you are interested in a career as a police officer, please contact our Recruiting Unit.

2. Is there a charge for this program?

No.

3. What are the minimum requirements for attending the Citizen's Police Academy?

There are 3 basic requirements:

1. Must live, work, or attend school in Forsyth County.
2. Must be 18 years of age or older.
3. Must not have any felony convictions, any misdemeanor convictions within past year, or a history of suspected criminal activity, arrests, or convictions. A background check will be conducted on all applicants.

Approval is at the sole discretion of the agency and is designed to serve the best interests of the agency.

4. What is included in the background check?

A national and local criminal history check will be performed, along with a check of driving records. Some driving violations will not exclude an individual from attending the Citizen's Police Academy, but other violations may.

5. How often is the Citizen Police Academy offered?

The sessions are offered once a year in the spring. When dates have been set for next Academy, announcements will go out to the media, and put on the Winston-Salem Police Department website.

6. How do I apply for the Citizen's Police Academy?

Online applications are available on this website, or by calling Officer R.T. Hawkins at 336-416-5816 for information and applications.

7. Where do I park?

Information will be provided to all accepted participants showing where to park for the evening classes.

8. Do I have to be in good physical shape? (Are there weight or height requirements? Do I have to run or jump, etc.?)

No, there are no physical requirements; participants will not engage in any physical activities.

9. Who teaches the classes?

Police department instructors, both sworn and civilian will instruct the Academy.

10. What type of a grade must I maintain? Is there any homework?

No grades will be kept. No homework will be assigned.

11. Will I be dropped from the class if I have to miss some classes?

Attendees are expected to attend a minimum of 10 of the 13 sessions. You will not be dropped from the academy if you miss more than 3 sessions, however you will not receive a certificate of completion, nor will you receive maximum benefit from the academy.

12. Is it possible to ride along with an officer during their shift?

Due to the pandemic (COVID-19) ride along with a patrol officer has been temporarily suspended.

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Police - General FAQs

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1. How may I obtain a copy of a police report?

You can obtain a report through our online portal.

2. Where do I file a police report online?

You may file a police report through our online portal.

3. How can I get a copy of my arrest record?

Certified copies of your arrest record which include court dispositions are available from the Forsyth County Clerk of Court in Room 216, Hall of Justice, 200 N Main Street, Winston-Salem. The phone number is 336-779-6300. There is a fee for these records.

Arrest records maintained by the Winston-Salem Police Department are not certified and do not contain dispositions. These are available from the Records Division in the Public Safety Center between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m, Monday through Friday. There is no charge for an arrest record. These records contain only arrests made by Winston-Salem Police and Forsyth County Sheriffs Department. Our records should not be used for employment or other such purposes.

4. How can I get a copy of my accident or incident report?

If the incident or accident was investigated by the Winston-Salem Police Department, the public portion of the report may be obtained by contacting the Records Division in Room 130 at:
Public Safety Center
725 N Cherry Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101

Hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no charge for a copy. To speed your request, please bring the incident number with you. The phone number is 336-773-7922.

Most reports may also be obtained online at Police-2-Citizen website.

5. What if I need more information than what the Public Record contains?

Requests for the investigative portions of a criminal incident report will be referred to the Public Safety Legal Advisor for review. The top portion of the Request for Release of Information form (Authorization for Release (PDF) must be completed and submitted to the Records Division for processing. Requests can take up to 14 days to process. To check on the status of your request, please contact the Records Division at 336-773-7922.

6. How do I get property back that was taken as evidence?

All property releases begin with the officer assigned to your case. Once the officer authorizes the transfer of property, the owner should call and confirm an appointment with Evidence Management Staff at 336-726-7285. The owner should bring photo identification and any related forms or applications to:

• 1200 Patterson Avenue
  Winston-Salem, NC 27101
• Wednesday through Thursday (excluding holidays)
  11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (by appointment only)
• The supervisor can be reached at 336-726-7270

7. Does Evidence Management sell or auction property? In particular, do you sell cars?

Evidence Management does not sell or auction any type of property.  People interested in items for sale or auction should refer to PropertyRoom.com.

8. I've been to court today and my case was dismissed. Can I have my property now?

In the event of a case dismissal, the case officer must first authorize the release of the property back to the owner before he/she will be able to retrieve that property.

9. I need to be fingerprinted for an employment application. Where can I go to do this?

Effective on 07/01/2021 you can be fingerprinted at:

• Alexander R. Beaty Public Training & Support Center
  1200 N. Patterson Avenue
  Winston-Salem, NC 27101
• Every Thursday by appointment only (except holidays)
  2 to 4 p.m.
• Please use this link WSPD Citizen Fingerprinting to schedule your appointment.

The fee is $10 per card, cash only. Photo identification (driver’s license, ID card, passport, etc.) must be presented.

10. I have an outstanding traffic ticket. Whom do I speak with to pay my ticket?

Parking tickets received within the City of Winston-Salem may be paid online. You will need your parking ticket number or license plate number to view your violation(s).

Questions

Need to ask a question? Call 336-727-8000.

Disputes

If you need to dispute a ticket, you can use the online appeal process and form, or call Parking Enforcement at 336-727-2104.

11. I would like to move to Winston-Salem. How can I find out about crime in a certain area?

You can view crimes maps at our online portal.

12. How do I get a gun permit?

Application for handgun permits takes place on the 2nd floor (main entrance) of the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office Administration Building located at 301 N Church Street in downtown Winston-Salem.

• Monday through Friday (excluding holidays)
  8:30 to 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

13. I would like to become a Winston-Salem Police Officer. Where do I find more information and an application?

See the Application Process page for additional information.

14. I would like to apply for a non-sworn position. Where can I get more information and apply?

Non-sworn postings are on the City of Winston-Salem's Job Opportunities page.

15. What is the Child Safety Seat Law?

According to the North Carolina Child Passenger Safety (CPS) law, children are required to be in a booster seat or some other type of child passenger restraint system until they reach eight years of age or 80 pounds, whichever comes first. Most drivers comply by using belt positioning booster seats, but other child restraints with harnesses rated for use over 40 pounds are legal to use as well.

16. Where can I get my child safety seat checked?

You can have child safety seats inspected at the Winston Mutual Building, 1225 E Fifth Street, by appointment only. Requests for child safety seat installations can be made by calling the Community Resources Unit directly at 336-773-7835. Please allow at least 30 minutes for the installation.

When calling to make an appointment, please be prepared to provide:

• Make/model of the child safety seat
• Serial number or the date of manufacture

At the time of the appointment, it is also is important to have:

• Owner's manual for the vehicle
• Owner's manual for the child safety seat

17. Where is the Forsyth County Jail?

The jail is located at 201 N Church Street in Winston-Salem.

18. Where is the Forsyth County Courthouse?

The Forsyth County Courthouse is located at 200 N Main Street in Winston-Salem.

19. Where is the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office?

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office is located at 301 N Church Street in Winston-Salem.

20. Whom can I contact about my home alarm system and the city ordinance?

The False Alarm Reduction Unit can be reached at 336-773-7886.

21. Where can I find detailed information on a specific city ordinance?

City Ordinances can be found on the Municode website.

22. Where can I find detailed information on a specific state law or General Statute?

See the North Carolina General Assembly website.

23. What do I do if I suspect my identity has been stolen?

Contact the three credit reporting agencies and place a Fraud Alert on your credit files.

• Equifax
• Experian
• Transunion

You can also obtain a free copy of your credit report by visiting Annual Credit Report (the official site for your free annual credit report).

• Annual Credit Report

24. I believe that an e-mail I received is potentially a scam. Whom can I report this to?

Unwanted or deceptive email (spam) can be forwarded via email to the Federal Trade Commission.

25. What if someone has used my identity for employment purposes or to file a tax return?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is responsible for administering and enforcing tax laws. If you believe someone has assumed your identity to file federal Income Tax Returns, or to commit other tax fraud, call toll-free 800-829-0433. Victims of identity theft who are having trouble filing their returns should call the IRS Taxpayer Advocates Office, toll-free 877-777-4778.

26. Can you tell the age of the print or if it was left by a male or female?

No.

27. Are fingerprints fragile evidence?

Yes, the oils and perspiration are deposited on porous and non-porous surfaces. Basically they are sitting on top of surface and can be wiped or washed off and easily destroyed.

28. Are all items/surfaces conducive for latent prints?

No, many surfaces are too textured, rough, oily, dirty and rusty. Many surfaces are textured (appliances, dash boards, countertops, etc.) to conceal or prevent fingerprints that would require constant cleaning.

29. Are prints destroyed if the area is cleaned or secured prior to an officer arriving on the scene?

Most likely.

30. What are elimination prints?

In the event the technician is able to develop latent prints at the scene of a crime, victims or those that have most likely handled these items (with the exclusion of those under 16 years of age) will be requested to provide a set of elimination prints. These are rolled in ink at the scene by the technician within a couple of minutes. The elimination prints are then compared by an examiner to the lifted prints to eliminate the lifted prints as belonging to the victim.

31. What is DNA?

DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (a person or living organism's genetic makeup).

32. How can DNA be left at a scene?

Touch DNA (items handled or touched if ungloved are potential sources) or through body fluids.

Drink cans or cigarette butts left at a scene:

These are potential sources of DNA; however, in property crime calls, the North Carolina's State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) does not process items for DNA due to cost and time and Forensic Services Division does not routinely seize these items for crimes of this nature. DNA testing is very costly and time consuming. Currently there is a backlog for testing for DNA at the NCSBI on major crimes. Not feasible in minor in possession (MIP), auto breaking and entering (B&E), larceny, HBL, etc.

33. If latent prints are developed in my case, can I contact Forensic Services Division to determine if they have been identified?

 No, if you have questions regarding your case, contact the investigating (case) officer.

34. How do I register or share my security camera locations with the Winston-Salem Police Department?

You can register and share your security camera locations through the Camera Registry Program.

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Police - Identifying & Addressing a Gang Problem

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1. What is a gang?

A gang is defined as an ongoing organization, association or group of three or more persons with a common interest, bond, or activity characterized by the commission of, or involvement in, a pattern of criminal or delinquent conduct. In other words, it is a group of people who form an allegiance for a common purpose and engage in criminal activity.

Gangs may be organized on the basis of race, ethnicity or geographical location.

2. Who belongs to gangs?

Gangs can affect anyone, regardless of where they live or what school they attend. Young people from all walks of life join gangs. Some gang members drop out of school, while others may be excellent students. Research shows that the following factors are common indicators that a young person may be involved in gang activity.

• Youth admits to gang membership.
• Is under 21 years of age and is identified as a gang member by a parent/guardian.
• Is identified as a gang member by a reliable source.
• Resides in or frequents a known gang area, uses a gang's hand signs, colors, or tattoos, and/or associates with known gang members.
• Has been arrested more than once with or in the company of known gang members for crimes that are consistent with gang activity.
• Has been stopped by the police more than four times while in the presence of known gang members.

3. Why do young people join gangs?

A gang often meets needs that go unfulfilled in other areas of a young person's life. The gang may provide a sense of security, loyalty, structure and discipline that may be missing at home. The following is a list of reasons that may lead a young person to join a gang.

• Desire for excitement/machismo
• Feeling of belonging/being cared for
• Friendship/brotherhood
• Lack of alternatives in/out of school
• Lack of economic opportunity
• Lack of positive influence by/interaction with parents
• Media glorification of gang lifestyle
• Prestige/power
• Protection/peer intimidation
• Protection/security from gang violence
• Replacement or substitute family
• Self-respect/identity

4. How can I identify gang members?

The following are some common indicators to look for if you suspect your child may be involved in gang activity. These indicators are not a guarantee that your child is involved in a gang. The only way to know for sure is by communicating with your child.

• Poor academic progress/skipping school/lack of interest in school activities.
• Large amount of unsupervised time.
• Increased conflict at home.
• Frequent disciplinary problems at home/school.
• Frequent contact with police.
• Drawing graffiti.
• Drawings/homework with the letters "B" or "C" crossed-out, inverted or used improperly.
• Using gang hand signs.
• Not associating with long-time friends/secretive about new friends/activities.
• Changing hair or dress styles/having a group of friends with the same styles.
• Changing normal routines/not coming home after school/staying out late at night.
• Photographs with others displaying gang signs, weapons or gang-type clothing.
• Physical signs of being involved in fights/secrecy as to how injuries are received.
• New-found sense of bravery/bragging that they are too tough to be "messed" with.
• Using a new nickname.
• Demanding privacy.
• Refusing to take part in family activities.
• Drinking alcohol/using drugs.
• Unusual mood swings or patterns of behavior.
• Sudden, unexplained increase in material possessions.
• Obsession with a particular color of clothing or desire for a particular logo.
• Wearing baggy pants and shirts (commonly known as "sagging").
• Wearing "Dickey" style clothing.
• Numbers, symbols and writing on jeans.
• Wearing pants with pockets that show gang colors when turned inside-out.
• Using different-colored shoelaces.
• Wearing clothing with portions of logos colored-over to make them similar to gang logos.
• Unusual writing, markings, numbers, symbols or street names on shoes or inside hats.
• Altering logos on hats to match gang logos.
• Wearing clothing of sports teams that use similar colors or logos of the gang.
• Wearing colored bandanas on their head or partially exposed in a pocket.
• Wearing belts with writing/numbers on the portion of the belt that hangs down.
• Common tattoos: three dots "Mi Vida Loca," tear drops, pachuco cross, words with the Number 13 or Number 14 in them, pitch forks, crosses, 5- or 6-point stars, and 5- or 6-point crowns, two masks - one happy/one sad.

If any of these signs are present, you should not automatically conclude that your child is involved in a gang. Instead, you should talk with them to determine whether or not they are involved in a gang and, if so, at what level. We can provide warning signs to look for, but only by communicating with your child will you know for sure.

5. How can I help my child say "no" to gangs?

Your child needs a balance between love and discipline.

• A child often uses a gang to replace a sense of belonging not found in their family.
• Spend time alone with your child. It doesn't matter what you do, as long as it helps you to get to know each other.
• Listen to your child and ask for their opinions.
• Help your child to talk with you without fear of punishment.
• Do not talk "down" to your child.
• Talk to your child about ways to deal with pressure from friends.
• Set firm limits with your child. Let them know clearly what is expected of them and the consequences for acting otherwise.
• Always know where your child is, who they are with, and enforce their curfew.
• Support your child's involvement in extracurricular activities at school or other organized events.
• Explain the dangers of gang affiliation to your child, including intimidation and retaliation against family members.
• Discourage your child from hanging around with gang members.
• Meet your child's friends. Find out who they are, what influence they have over your child, and how they spend their free time.
• Support your child's goals and ideas, even if they differ from your own.
• Make it clear that you love your child as he or she is.
• Be a good role model.

6. What are the consequences of being in a gang?

Joining a gang is never a good idea. It can place both the gang member and his/her family in danger. Although gang membership is sometimes temporary, it can have long term effects on a child's future. Gang members frequently drop out of school and/or end up in jail. As a result, it is more difficult to find a job. Many members suffer from alcohol or drug abuse. Ultimately, some gang members are seriously injured or killed.

7. What can I do if I suspect my child is part of a gang?

• Try talking to your child calmly. Ask why they are in the gang.
• Define the rules your child must follow and enforce them.
• Know your child's friends.
• Get to know the parents of your child's friends.
• Tell your child that their friends in the gang are not welcome at your house if they intend to wear gang clothing and carry drugs or weapons.
• Do not be intimidated.
• Talk with other parents who may not know of their child's involvement in a gang.
• Do not allow your child to wear gang-style clothing.
• Do not allow your child to write/practice graffiti on books, papers, clothing, etc.
• Do not allow your child to roam the streets or stay out late. Set a curfew.
• Become an informed parent and learn about gang activity in your community.
• Learn about community prevention programs that may assist you with getting your child out of a gang.

8. What can I do to help my child leave a gang?

Most gang members join a gang because it meets certain needs in their life. There are a variety of reasons for joining, but once a person realizes that those needs can be met in other ways, the gang may lose its appeal. The young person may decide they no longer want to be a gang member. Here are a few suggestions to help, after deciding to quit the gang:

• Find supportive family members or friends.
• Never tell the gang that the young person wants out or is planning to leave.
• Encourage the young person to spend time doing other things such as sports, school or family activities.
• Encourage the young person to stop looking and dressing like a gangster.
• Encourage the young person to stop hanging out with/talking like gangsters and to find other people to hang out with.
• The young person may make excuses when gang members try to contact him/her. Have a family member say that he/she is gone or busy. Don't return calls and if asked why, say that the message was never received.
• Consider transferring to another school if gang members attend the same school.

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Police - K-9 Unit

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1. What kind of dogs do you use?

We use Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds.

2. Who trains the dogs?

We train all of our dogs in house. This means that the handler and the unit trainer train them. No private individuals are involved in training our dogs.

3. Do the dogs live with their handlers?

Yes. Each dog is assigned to one handler who is responsible for the care of the dog. The dogs live at home with their handler in a kennel provided by the city.

4. How old are the dogs when they start training?

Dogs are carefully screened and tested before they begin training. The dogs need to have the appropriate drive for Police work. They must also be environmentally sound and mature to deal with the pressures of training. We also want the dog to be fully developed so we can get a good x-ray of the hips and elbows. In order to properly test a dog we like the dogs to be about 18 months to 3 years old.

5. How old are the dogs when they retire?

We do not retire a dog based upon a certain age. It depends on their health, but generally a Police Dog retires around 8 or 9 years old. We did have a dog successfully work past 10 years of age.

6. Where do they go when they retire?

It has been the city's practice to let the dogs live out the remainder of their lives with the handlers with whom they worked their career.

7. How long are the dogs trained?

The K-9 team completes a 400-hour basic patrol and detection course.

8. How do officers get selected to become canine handlers?

Officers must complete an application process and an interview. We generally look for dependable, self-motivated officers. An officer in the K-9 unit must be able to work without direct supervision and be extremely motivated. Candidates must also have been an officer for at least two years.

9. Where does Winston-Salem Police Department get their dogs from?

We get our dogs from a K-9 vendor who imports them from Europe. We receive calls from the public about donating dogs to the department and they are welcome; however, they usually don't pass our screening process.

10. How much do the dogs cost?

A dog usually costs between $3,500 to $8,000. This may seem like a lot but the dog will usually pay for itself within the first six months on the street after training.

11. Who pays for the care of the dogs?

The City of Winston-Salem pays for all of the dog's upkeep. They are provided with the very best medical care available. Their food, flea spray, bowls, toys, leashes, and all other equipment are also provided by the city.

12. Are the dogs safe when left in their patrol cars while the handler isn't there?

Absolutely! The canine vehicles are equipped with the most up-to-date canine safety devices on the market. Heat sensors in the car will activate the car's horn, roll down the back windows and turn on a fan in the car if the dog's area gets too warm. Remote control door opening ensures the dog can get out of the car to assist the handler at the touch of a button or in any other emergency situation.

13. How is a dog able to smell so well?

A number of things contribute to the dog's keen sense of smell. Their long snouts have a large turbinate bone structure that holds millions of scent receptor cells, plus the olfactory lobe of their brain is much larger than that of a human being.

14. Is hurting a Police Dog the same as hurting a Police Officer?

A person who willfully causes or attempts to cause harm to a police dog is a Class 1 Misdemeanor. A person who willfully causes or attempts to cause serious harm to a police dog is a Class 1 Felony.

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Post-Construction Stormwater Management Permitting

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1. What ordinance regulates Post Construction Stormwater Management in the City of Winston-Salem?

Chapter 75 Article IV of the City of Winston-Salem’s Code of Ordinances is the regulatory document for this activity.

2. Are all developments subject to requiring a permit or providing post construction Stormwater management controls?

No. Not all developments are subject to a permit or required to provide post construction Stormwater management controls. Permitting and controls depend on the size of the development and if certain thresholds are exceeded then a permit will be required. If certain thresholds are not exceeded then a development may be exempt from some, or all, of the provisions of the Post Construction Stormwater Management ordinance. If they are exempted from all of the provisions then a permit and hence management would not be required. Some developments may also be excluded from the provisions of the ordinance based on grandfathering etc.

3. Does the City of Winston-Salem review plans for Post Construction Stormwater permitting in the County and in other municipal areas such as Clemmons, Kernersville etc.?

No. The City of Winston-Salem post construction Stormwater management reviews and hence permitting is only applicable to the city limits of Winston-Salem. Developers should contact other municipal or State authorities for areas outside of the City limits for permitting reviews and questions. 

NOTE: The City of Winston-Salem DOES review plans within areas of the Salem Lake Watershed located in the County area for compliance with the Chapter C of the UDO Environmental ordinance and developers should submit appropriate Stormwater management plans to the City for review in those cases.

4. What developments or redevelopments are excluded from the City of Winston-Salem’s Post Construction Stormwater Management ordinance provisions and therefore would not be required to apply for a permit

Developments which are excluded from the City of Winston-Salem’s Post Construction Stormwater management ordinance provisions would include: 

1.  A development or redevelopment that received a grading permit or building permit prior to the effective date of the ordinance (September 2008)
2.  A site specific development or redevelopment plan or site specific phases development or redevelopment plan that was submitted prior to the effective date of the ordinance, approved within 6 months of the effective date of the ordinance and which has made substantial progress within two years of the site plan approval (Note: These plans are typically plans that received a Planning Board approval for example prior to the effective date of the ordinance)
3.  Any development or redevelopment activity which has received a Stormwater management plan approval prior to the effective date of the ordinance and substantial progress is made within 2 years of the effective date of the ordinance
4. A right that has vested statutory or local law prior to the effective date of the ordinance.

5. What constitutes “substantial progress”?

If grading activities had occurred on the site and the developer is able to document or prove such activities, then this would constitute substantial progress. Also, construction of infrastructure such as streets, drainage systems, utilities etc. would also constitute substantial progress.

6. What developments or redevelopments may be exempt from some, or all, of the provisions of the City of Winston-Salem’s Post Construction Stormwater Management ordinance?

There are a number of exemptions which may be applicable to site developments or redevelopments. They are as follows: 

1. Developments that cumulatively disturb less than one acre during construction and are not part of a large common plan or phased development are exempt from the water quality provisions of the ordinance
2.  A development that creates less than 20,000 sq.ft. of a net increase in impervious area above and beyond what already existed on the site before the development or redevelopment took place is exempt from the water quantity provisions of the ordinance
3.  Any redevelopment activity for which the proposed impervious area is equal to or less than the preexisting impervious area shall be exempt from all the provisions (quality and quantity) of the ordinance
4.  Activities exempt from permit requirements of Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act as specified in 40 CFR 232 (primarily, ongoing farming and forestry activities)
5.  For any development or redevelopment that cumulatively disturbs less than 3 acres, is not part of a large common plan of development, redevelopment or sale and is less than 24% impervious, then the standards for Stormwater quantity management shall be limited to controlling only the peak rates for the two and ten year design storms.

7. Are there any development projects or activities that are not subject to this ordinance?

Yes. Public works projects such as road projects and greenways (typically referred to as linear projects) shall follow the NC Department of Transportation BMP’s outlined in NCDOT’s “Stormwater Best Management Practices Toolbox” to the extent practicable and shall be permitted accordingly.

8. What developments or redevelopments are subject to adhering to some or all of the provisions of the post construction Stormwater management ordinance provisions?

Those developments or redevelopments that are not excluded or exempt (as addressed in prior FAQ’s). An engineer must determine what provisions, quality, quantity, or both, apply should no exclusions or exemptions be met.

9. When are the quality provisions of the ordinance applicable to developments that are not exempt or excluded?

When a development or redevelopment disturbs greater than 1 acre during construction, or disturbs less but is part of a larger common plan or phased development where all phases combined are expected to disturb more than 1 acre and there is an increase in impervious area. If this is the case a development must apply for a post construction Stormwater management permit that addresses the applicable low density or high density quality provisions of the ordinance.

10. When is a development considered low density and thus must only comply with the ordinance low density water quality provisions?

When a development is less than 24% impervious (built upon) area or less than 2 units/acre.

11. When is a development considered high density and thus must comply with the ordinance high density water quality provisions?

When a development exceeds 24% impervious area and is greater than 2 units/acre.

12. How is project density percentage determined?

There are two methods a designer can choose in the calculation of project density: 

1. Project density can be calculated as the total built upon area divided by the total project area; 
2. A project with existing development may use the calculation above as described or shall have the option of calculating the project density as the difference of total built upon area minus the existing built upon area divided by the difference of total project area minus the existing built upon area.

13. When is a development subject to the water quantity provisions of the ordinance?

When it proposes to create more than 20,000 sq.ft. of net new impervious area.

14. What constitutes impervious area or built upon area?

That portion of a development or redevelopment that is covered by impervious of partially pervious surface including, but not limited to, buildings, pavement and gravel areas such as roads, parking lots, paths and recreation facilities such as tennis courts which does not allow water to infiltrate through the surface into the subsoil.

15. What are examples of surfaces that would not be considered impervious or built upon area?

Surfaces such as a slatted deck, the water area of a swimming pool and pervious paving material that absorbs water and allows it to infiltrate through the material such as pervious asphalt or pervious concrete would not be considered impervious or built upon. Also, a surface of number 57 stone as designated by the American Society for Testing and Materials, laid at least four inches thick over a geotextile fabric, a trail that is either unpaved or paved as long as the pavement is porous with a hydraulic conductivity greater than 0.001 centimeters per second (1.41 inches per hour), landscaping material including but not limited to gravel, mulch, sand and vegetation placed on areas that receive pedestrian or bicycle traffic or on portions of driveways and parking areas that will not be compacted by the weight of a vehicle such as the areas between sections of pavement that support the weight of a vehicle shall not be considered as impervious area.

16. Is existing impervious area required to be managed or treated?

No. Existing impervious area is not required to be managed or treated unless it cannot be bypassed around the Stormwater management system which in that case it must be accounted for in the design calculations. Similarly, off site areas are not required to be managed or treated unless they cannot be bypassed around the system.

17. What is the design manual that the City of Winston-Salem references and adheres to for Stormwater Management Plan designs?

NCDEQ’s Stormwater Design Manual and its constituent chapters and sections.

18. What does SCM or BMP mean?

SCM is an acronym for “Stormwater Control Measure”. BMP is an acronym for “Best Management Practice”. They are the same thing, just a different way of referring to them.

19. If a development is considered low density in regards to water quality is management required?

No. Low density developments do not have to manage for water quality. However, they must meet all applicable low density provisions of the ordinance and design manual such as use of vegetative conveyances to the maximum extent practicable, provision of stream buffers off of all perennial and intermittent streams/conveyances and adherence to the Minimum Design Criteria of the Low Density chapter of the NCDEQ Stormwater Design Manual.

20. When and where do stream buffers apply and what are the requirements for such buffers?

Stream buffers apply to all developments that contain a perennial or intermittent stream or conveyance that is located on the property proposed to be developed and that falls under either the low or high density water quality provisions. The buffer width is based on the amount of proposed disturbance during construction. If there is 1 to 10 acres of disturbance the buffer width is 30 feet as measured from the top of bank on both sides of the conveyance. If there is 10 to 50 acres disturbance the buffer width is 50 feet and finally greater than 50 acres of disturbance requires a 100 foot buffer. No matter the width of the buffer, in all cases where they apply no built upon area shall be permitted within any of the full width of the buffer zone. The inner half of the buffer closest to the stream bank shall not be disturbed during construction while the outer half of the buffer may be disturbed and graded but no built upon area is allowed within it.

21. What is considered a perennial or intermittent stream or conveyance?

Anything that is marked as a stream on either the USGS maps or the soil survey maps for the site is considered a perennial or intermittent stream or conveyance. If an engineer wished to dispute this then they must have a NCDEQ certified individual provide documentation indicating that it is not such a conveyance.

22. If a development is considered high density in regards to water quality is management required?

Yes. In addition to meeting all applicable low density requirements, high density developments must capture and treat the first inch of runoff (the water quality design storm) in an approved SCM (or multiple SCM’s should the designer choose to use multiple SCM’s) that is listed as a primary SCM in the design manual and ensure all MDC’s (Minimum Design Criteria) listed in the design manual for that particular device are met.

23. What are some examples of primary SCM’s?

Wet detention ponds, constructed wetlands, sand filters, bio-retention cells, permeable pavement, stormfilters and bayfilters are some examples of primary SCM’s.

24. If a development exceeds 20,000 sq.ft. in net new impervious area and the water quantity provisions apply, is management required?

This is up the designer and City Stormwater staff. Management is usually the chosen option but the designer also has the option of providing a “no adverse impact downstream study” in lieu of management if indeed a no adverse impact situation can be proven and with the permission of Stormwater staff.

25. What constitutes a no adverse impact study?

The designer must assess and satisfy all of the applicable Stormwater quantity management requirements as specified in section 75-303 of the ordinance at a minimum ensuring that the study addresses those items and hence shows there are no impacts such as flooding, erosion of land and waterways and other such impacts to downstream properties and also properties located immediately upstream.

26. The no adverse impact study must assess impacts to a suitable point downstream. Where or how far downstream is this point located?

The point downstream is chosen based on agreement or gaining the concurrence of City Stormwater staff and is either: 

1. a point downstream where drainage from the proposed site development or redevelopment represents less than ten percent of the total watershed area draining to that point (typically referred to as the 10% guideline). This is the most common study point analyzed; 
2. a point downstream where drainage from the development or redevelopment site enters a FEMA established floodway; 
3. a point where the Stormwater Director knows of no existing Stormwater problems that the proposed development or redevelopment is likely to exacerbate or 
4. a point where there are no public road crossings or other public infrastructure that may be adversely impacted by an increase in runoff from the proposed development or redevelopment. 

Note: This determination/study shall not alter any requirements related to the Stormwater quality provisions of the ordinance

27. If management is to be provided for quantity what are the design storm events that must be managed or attenuated?

For the proposed development or redevelopment the peak runoff rates for the post developed site must be managed to be at or below the pre development peak runoff rates for the 2, 10 and 25 year storm events of minimum 6 hour duration. In addition the increase in the 25 year volume must be shown to be stored in the device and this volume released or drawn down over a 2 to 5 day period.

28. What type of SCM’s can be used to attenuate for these quantity requirements?

The designer has more options available to them for quantity management as compared to the water quality management. Usually most of the quality SCM’s will also be able to attenuate the quantity requirements. However, in some cases a designer may not be able to design a quality SCM adequately to also attenuate for quality and will “daisy chain” SCM’s together so that one achieves the quality control and the other the quantity control. Examples of SCM’s used to achieve quantity attenuation include, but are not limited to, wet detention ponds, wetlands, sand filters, dry detention basins, underground cisterns or oversized piping, underground infiltration systems etc.

29. Is there a variance procedure allowed for in cases where it’s impossible to treat or capture all proposed impervious area or in cases where for example its impossible not to avoid an impact to a buffe

Yes. In such cases the applicant must complete a variance application form stating the case for requesting and been granted a variance and submit it to the Stormwater Director for his review. It is at the discretion and judgement of the Stormwater Director whether to approve the variance or not.

30. Is there a financial surety required for permitted Stormwater management systems?

Yes. The amount of surety depends on how the developer intends the system to be owned and operated in the future. For one owner type developments (usually commercial) the developer is typically the entity that will be the party who will own, operate and maintain the system. In that case the developer must provide the City of Winston-Salem with a non-refundable cash surety equal to 4% of the construction cost of the Stormwater management system. This surety is then deposited into a City maintained “catastrophic failure account”. For developments where the system will be owned, operated and maintained by a HOA (Home Owners Association) or a POA (Property Owners Association), the surety required from the developer is 15% of the construction cost of the Stormwater management system. The developer in this case must establish an escrow account and have an escrow agreement in place with the approval of the City and fund that escrow account with the 15% cost at the time of permitting. The HOA or POA, whichever is the case, is then required to deposit funds, based on an operation and maintenance expense estimate that will need approval at the time of permitting, into that established escrow account in the next 10 years after as-built certification.

31. When and how is the developer’s surety amount determined?

The surety amount is determined at the time of permitting. The design engineer for the proposed development must submit a sealed engineer’s cost estimate of the cost of constructing the Stormwater management system for approval to the Stormwater Division. Once approved by Stormwater staff the surety will be the required percentage amount (4% of 15% depending on the type of future owner – see last question) of this overall approved estimate. Submittal of the certified contractors bid tab of the construction cost of the system will also be an acceptable means of determining the surety.

32. When and how is the HOA or POA’s, whichever is applicable, cost for their future surety funds determined?

The amount of funds that are required to be deposited by a HOA or POA into the escrow account in future years after certification and approval of as-builts is determined at the time of permitting by the engineer submitting a sealed engineer’s estimate of the cost of the annualized operation and maintenance. The HOA or POA will be required to deposit two-thirds of this amount into the escrow account within 5 years of the as-built approval date and deposit the remainder of the funds into the account within 10 years of the as-built approval date.

33. Is there an Operation and Maintenance Agreement required as part of permitting?

Yes. One of two City standard Operation and Maintenance Agreement templates, whichever is applicable, must be used in the permitting process. One such agreement is for “one owner” type of developments and is a two party agreement between the City and the developer. The other agreement used in HOA or POA type developments is a three party agreement between the City, the developer and the HOA or POA.

34. What constitutes an Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Agreement?

The Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Agreement contains the main body of the agreement (the template described in the last question) and also 3 exhibits that must be attached to the back of the agreement. These exhibits are: Exhibit A – A legal description of the property on which the development is taking place; Exhibit B – A copy of the recorded plat of the required private drainage and access easements for the Stormwater management system, or, a legal description of the blanket easement that covers the entire property and Exhibit C – The O&M Manual(s) for the specific type of Stormwater management system used. The agreement including all exhibits must be prepared and signed by the owner and notarized and submitted to the City Stormwater Division for review and signature. Upon approval and signature by City officials the owner must then record this agreement at the Forsyth County Register of Deeds office and provide a copy of the recorded agreement back to the City for their files.

35. When is a Post Construction Stormwater Management permit issued?

A Post Construction Stormwater Management permit is issued once the Stormwater Management plan and its supporting design documentation has been reviewed and approved, the financial surety has been provided and the Operation and Maintenance Agreement has been recorded.

36. Once a development that has a Stormwater management system construction is complete what does the owner/engineer have to do to continue to satisfy their permit?

Once construction of the system is complete and it is functioning as designed the engineer of record must submit to the Stormwater Division a set of sealed as-built plans and records that certify that the system is complete and functioning as designed/permitted. Once received the Stormwater engineer will conduct an inspection of the system and assuming there are no issues with the system will then notify the owner (the entity who signed the recorded O&M Agreement) of the need to now start inspecting and maintaining the system per the recorded agreement and operation manual. Records of all inspections and if applicable maintenance must be submitted annually to the Stormwater Division on the date of the certification of the system (anniversary of notification sent to owner by the Stormwater Engineer).

37. How often must an owner inspect the system?

This depends on the type of SCM(s). The owner should refer to the recorded O&M Agreement and specifically Exhibit C which contains the frequency of inspections. A wet detention basin should for example be inspected monthly and within 24 hours of any rain event greater than 1 inch, a sand filter should be inspected quarterly and within 24 hours of any rain event greater than 1 inch etc.

38. Who should carry out the inspections?

A North Carolina Registered Professional Engineer or Landscape Architect or an individual who has attained a BMP inspector certification through NC State. The inspector should include his/her credentials in the submittal of inspection reports.

39. Are there any other Agreements other than an Operation and Maintenance Agreement required as part of permitting?

It depends. If a Home Owners Association or Property Owners Association (HOA/POA) is intended to be the entity responsible for the long term Operation and Maintenance of the system then in addition to the Operation and Maintenance Agreement approved and recorded an Escrow Agreement also needs to be approved and recorded as part of the permitting process. If the developer is to be the long term Operation and Maintenance entity then this escrow agreement is not required.

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Recycling - Carts & Recycling

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1. How do I know what week to put out my cart?

You can look up your rollout recycling and garbage collection days by address online through the Winston-Salem Collects tool. This tool is also free to download to your phone through the Google Play and Apple app stores. Residents without access to a computer or cell phone can call CityLink at 311 and a CityLink agent will provide their collection information.

2. What if I have more recyclable materials than will fit in my recycling cart?

You have several options: 

• Flatten your recyclables to create more space in the cart.
• Retain your excess recyclables for the next collection.
• Take your additional materials to the free recycling drop-off center at the Hanes Mill Road Landfill.
• Focus on another of the 3 R's of recycling! See if there are easy ways to first reduce or reuse items that you are throwing out or recycling.

Please note that recycling carts are serviced with automated collection trucks. Recyclables left beside the cart cannot be collected.

3. My recycling was missed. How do I report a missed pickup?

First, check to see if you were left a red non-collection courtesy notice explaining why the materials were not collected. If you did not find a notice, call the Recycling Hotline at 723-2784 (72-EARTH) between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. Please allow 24 hours for pickup.

4. How do I obtain a rollout recycling cart?

Each single family household is allowed one 96-gallon recycling cart for all its recyclables, no sorting needed. Call City Link by dialing 311 or 727-8000. You can also request a cart online by emailing the Citizen Service Desk or by visiting the Recycle Today page.

5. How can I get a replacement for my cart that is missing or damaged?

Call CityLink 311.

6. The recycling truck usually comes by my house late in the day. Why do I have to have my cart at the curb by 6 a.m.?

Route schedules may change due to employee changes, weather conditions, or other factors. Late set-outs may delay your pickup until your next collection day.

7. Should I put my recycling cart out when it's raining?

Yes.

8. What if I cannot roll my cart to the curb?

Households where no one is physically able to roll out the cart, but want to participate in rollout recycling, can call City Link 311 and make arrangements for a crew to service their cart. These households will have to compete a Rollout Recycling Exemption Form (PDF) certifying that no one in the home is physically able to roll out the cart, and print and mail it in.

9. I'm moving. What should I do with my recycling cart?

Each cart is assigned to a particular address and the city retains ownership of the cart. If you move, leave the cart for the next resident to use. If there isn't a cart at your new residence, call City Link at 311 or 727-8000.

10. I live in a multifamily complex with a recycling station. Will I receive an individual cart for my unit?

No. Residents in a multifamily with a recycling station must take their recycling to the station. If your multifamily complex does not have a recycling station, the complex manager should email Derek Owens, the city’s recycling coordinator, to arrange for a station.

11. What do I do with my old green recycling bin?

You may keep the bin and use it for something else. If you want, you may recycle your bin by putting it in your cart once rollout recycling starts.

12. What if I want to turn my green bin in?

Call CityLink 311 and request a pickup.

13. I understand that there is a computer chip in the cart. What is it for?

The carts come with unique radio frequency identification (RFID) chips. The chips may eventually be used with short-range scanners mounted on the collection trucks to keep track of the carts and provide collection data. However, this is not currently part of the program.

14. I own a commercial business. Can I recycle through the city?

Recycling is available to qualifying small businesses. Businesses that receive once-a-week hand collection of garbage qualify to participate in the Small Business Curbside Recycling Program. Businesses (including churches and non-profit organizations) that are ineligible for the city's program are: 

1. Those that use a dumpster for garbage collection 
2. Those located in the Central Business District receiving hand collection of garbage six days a week

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Recycling - City Requirements

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1. Is recycling required by law in Winston Salem?

No, it is a voluntary program. But a new state law, effective on Oct. 1, 2009, makes it illegal to dispose of plastic bottles in the trash; they must be recycled. Aluminum cans are also banned from the landfill from a prior law. See our Banned from the Landfill page for more information.

2. Is recycling yard waste required by law?

It is not required by law, but North Carolina State Law prohibits the disposal of yard wastes (e.g., leaves, grass clippings, tree limbs, etc.) in sanitary landfills. Therefore, the Sanitation Division operates two permanent leaf drop-off sites:

• Overdale Yard Waste Facility - Accepts leaves from the general public as well as the city Sanitation crews throughout the year
• Reynolds Park Road - Only accept leaves from city Sanitation crews during the leaf season

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Recycling - Miscellaneous

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1. If something is made from recycled paper or plastic, can it be recycled again?

Yes.

2. What are the top three simple steps I can take to reduce landfill waste and improve recycling in Winston-Salem?

Reduce first, then reuse, and finally recycle. Learn what is accepted in the program and then recycle everything that you can. Encourage others to recycle, whether at home, school, work, and on the go.

3. What would happen if everyone in Winston-Salem stopped recycling?

If everyone stopped recycling, there would be increased environmental problems, an increase in waste in the landfills, and the life of landfills would be reduced.

4. What are the benefits of recycling?

Benefits of recycling include:

• Conserving energy
• Creating jobs
• Reducing the need for new landfills
• Reducing pollution and litter
• Saving natural resources and landfill space

5. What else can I do to help?

Encourage others to reduce waste and recycle. Don't forget to "close the loop" by purchasing recycled content products and packaging.

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Recycling - Product Specific Questions

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1. What do the little numbers on the bottom of plastic containers represent or stand for?

The numbers on the bottom of plastic containers are resin identification codes and they indicate the type of plastic a container is made from. The codes are not intended to mean that a particular product is recyclable, which is why recycling programs identify what plastic products are acceptable and are not acceptable.

2. Can I bag my recyclables?

If you want to bag recyclables, you can do so in paper bags. However, avoid bagging recyclables in trash bags as they will likely be mistaken for trash in the recycling facility and won't get sorted.

3. What should I do with Styrofoam packing materials?

The UPS Stores at 380 Knollwood St., and 550 N. Liberty St., here in Winston-Salem will accept any clean packing materials for reuse. The styrofoam needs to be clean, otherwise the stores will not be able to reuse it. They will also accept bubble wrap.

4. Should plastic bottle caps be recycled or not?

Plastic bottle caps can be recycled if left on the plastic bottle. But remember to empty and rinse the plastic bottle before putting the lid on to ensure it is properly prepared to be recycled.

5. Do I need to take the labels off jars and cans?

No, labels are okay.

6. How clean do containers need to be before I toss them into the recycling cart?

All you need to do is simply rinse the containers. There is no need to wash them.

7. Why can't I recycle pizza boxes?

Pizza boxes generally contain grease and/or food residue that make them unable to be recycled.

8. Do I have to separate glass, plastic, aluminum, and steel?

 No. Place all you recyclables in your blue rollout cart.

9. Should I step on plastic bottles and crush cans before recycling?

Only if you need more capacity in your cart.

10. What are the basic procedures for recycling aluminum cans?

Basic procedures for aluminum cans involve emptying and rinsing them. You do not need to crush unless you need more space in your cart.

11. Is paper worth any money when you recycle it?

Yes.

12. What can I do with packing peanuts?

Save packing peanuts for personal use or check with packaging service stores to see if they will accept them.

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Recycling - What Can & Can't Be Recycled

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1. What is not accepted for recycling?

The following items are not accepted:

• Antifreeze containers
• Books
• Binders
• Ceramics
• Deli containers
• Dishes
• Drinking glasses
• Hazardous waste containers
• Light bulbs
• Mirrors
• Motor oil containers
• Paint cans
• Pesticide containers
• Pizza boxes or other cardboard boxes that are contaminated with grease or food residue
• Plastic bags
• Plastic newspaper bags
• Plastic wrap
• Pyrex containers
• Spiral notebooks
• Styrofoam
• Wide-mouth containers (margarine tubs, ice cream pails, etc.)
• Window glass

If in doubt, please call 723-2784 (72-EARTH).

2. Why should I recycle?

Recycling has both environmental and economic benefits. Recycling reduces the amount of waste generated by your household, saves landfill space, and reduces the costs for landfill disposal. Also, recycling saves energy and natural resources (i.e., water, minerals, trees), reduces air and water pollution, and creates markets for recyclable materials.

3. Can bottle caps and lids be recycled?

Plastic bottle caps can be recycled, but lids to glass jars can not be recycled.

4. Can I recycle envelopes with the plastic windows? What about staples? Glossy advertisements? Post-its? Can I recycle paper with tape on it?

Yes, you can recycle all of these items.

5. Can I recycle spiral notebooks?

No.

6. Can I recycle batteries?

No, batteries can not be recycled through the curbside program.

7. Can I recycle cereal boxes?

Yes, they are chipboard (paperboard with a gray inside).

8. Can I recycle plastic bags?

You cannot put plastic bags in your recycling cart, however most grocery stores provide recycling bins for plastic bags.

9. Can I recycle toys and household objects made of plastic?

No.

10. Can I recycle my computer and printer?

Computers and printers can be recycled at Goodwill Attended Donation Centers through Reconnect, a Dell/Goodwill partnership.

11. Can I recycle any plastic that has a recycling sign and number on it?

No, it must be a plastic bottle with a neck that is smaller than the base or widest part.

12. If plastic doesn’t have a recycling logo on it, can it still be recycled?

Per Terry Feeney of Recycle America, a recycler would have to see such a bottle before accepting it. There has to be a market for it in order to be accepted. Most bottles are coded 1 through 7.

13. Can some things be recycled more easily than others?

Paper is the easiest material to recycle into new products.

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Recycling - What Happens to Recyclables

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1. Where do Winston-Salem's recyclables go?

Recyclable materials are taken to a materials recovery facility (MRF), where they are separated, baled, and prepared for market. Ultimately, those recyclables will come back in the form of new products.

2. Does stuff put in recycling carts ever get thrown away?

Yes, unacceptable items, known as contamination, are taken to the landfill.

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Risk Management

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1. How do I file a claim against the City for property damage or physical injury?

You may file a claim against the City by reviewing:

• Auto Liability Claim Form (for automobile accidents)
• Sewer Claim Form (for sewer backup claims)
• General Liability Claim Form (all other claims)

You will need to complete the applicable form and follow the instructions on the form for reporting your claim to the Risk Management office. Please include any additional relevant information when filing the form, such as receipts, police reports, and photographs. These forms help us to gather all relevant information related to your claim in a quick and convenient manner.

2. What happens after I file a claim?

The City's Claims Adjuster will review the information you provided and will request any supporting documentation. After the Claims Adjuster has reviewed all relevant claim information, he or she will contact you via email or phone to discuss your case. The City must have been negligent in causing the damages or physical injuries to pay a claim.

3. Is the City responsible for vehicle damage resulting from potholes, manholes, or other road hazards?

Typically, no. If the City didn't have prior knowledge of the pothole, or any other hazard existing in the roadway, and that hazard causes damage to an individual's vehicle, the City is usually not considered negligent and is not responsible for paying the claim. This type of damage may be covered under the collision coverage on your personal automobile insurance policy.

4. Does the City usually pay for sewer backups?

The City and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities Commission will only pay for damages related to a sewer back-up claim if the City is determined to have been negligent in causing the damages, or if the damages meet the criteria for payment under the Good Neighbor Policy (PDF).

5. What do I do if I observe a City employee behaving unsafely?

Risk Management is committed to the safety of all City employees and citizens. If you see a City employee behaving or driving unsafely, please call 311 to report them. We will investigate the situation and take necessary action.

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Risk Management - Hearing Conservation [Intranet]

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1. Who is required to be tested?

The Occupational Noise Exposure Standard requires us to test employees annually when their noise exposure levels equals or exceeds an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 decibels.The hearing test is conducted annually.

2. How do we measure noise levels in the workplace?

We measure noise levels in the workplace using a dosimeter and a sound level meter.A dosimeter measures noise levels over a period of time and provides us with a TWA. A sound level meter takes direct noise measurements from various distances from the noise source. If you would like a work area, process or piece of equipment tested, contact the safety office.

3. What are some locations and equipment that produce unsafe noise levels?

The following produce unsafe noise:

• Blowers
• Chain saws
• Emergency sirens
• Guns
• Jackhammers
• Lawn mowers
• Leaf loaders
• Pipe saws
• Power actuated tools
• Sewer jets
• Street vacuums
• Tamps
• Tractors
• Water and sewer plants
• Woodworking power saws

4. What effects does noise have on your hearing?

Prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels can cause noise-induced hearing loss. The first stage of hearing loss may be temporary hearing loss but over time the hearing loss can become permanent. Noise-induced hearing loss can occur at work or at home. Permanent hearing loss is irreversible.

5. How can your hearing be protected?

We can protect an employee's hearing by the following methods:

• Administrative Controls: Administrative controls means to reduce the amount of time a worker is exposed to the noise environment or take some other measures to limit or eliminate the exposure.
• Engineering Controls: Engineering control means you eliminate or reduce noise exposure by modifying the equipment, purchasing quieter equipment, enclose the equipment in a room or behind a wall, lubricate, tighten loose parts, install quieter mufflers, or other modifications as necessary to reduce level of noise exposure.
• Hearing Protection: Hearing protection is the most common method of protecting workers from noise exposure. Hearing protectors are either placed over the ear or inserted into the ear canal to block high-frequency noise and reduce noise to a level of what is considered safe. The effectiveness of hearing protectors depends upon whether they are the proper type and the user wears them properly.

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RUMA Pandemic Assistance

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1. What is a “household”?

Any group of people, related or not, sharing living arrangements. The household income is the combined total income of all workers in the household, including children aged 18 and older.

2. I live by myself. Am I an eligible “household?”

Yes, provided that you are responsible for paying the rent, mortgages and utilities where you live and that you meet all the other eligibility requirements.

3. How is household income calculated?

Household income is the combined total income of all workers in the household, including children aged 18 and older.

4. How do I prove that my household has experienced economic hardship due to COVID-19?

You must provide documents that show one or more individuals within the household: 

• Has qualified for unemployment benefits; or
• Has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Is at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, which may include:
• A past due utility or rent notice or eviction notice
• Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions

5. I am a tenant; do I need to get my landlord to participate?

Yes. You will receive more information about this when you apply.

6. Who receives the payment?

Payments will be made to the landlord or property management company or in the case of mortgage assistance, to the lender.  

7. How much can I receive?

The program is designed to make up the difference between what you can afford to pay and what you have to pay for rent, mortgage or utilities. The agency taking your application will work with you; the amount of assistance will vary from household to household based on its circumstances.

8. I have a mortgage, but I also need assistance with utilities. Can I apply for both at Financial Pathways of the Piedmont?

Unfortunately, no. Financial Pathways is only set up to administer mortgage assistance. You will have to make a separate application for utilities assistance at either Sunnyside Ministry or HARRY Veteran Community Outreach Service.

9. Is HARRY Veteran Community Outreach Service only accepting applications from veterans?

No. HARRY will process all application, including those of non-veterans.

10. How is the RUMA program different from ERAP?

RUMA is available to low-income homeowners who are behind on their mortgage as well as to renters. ERAP (Emergency Rental Assistance Program) is available only to renters. Also, ERAP includes internet service as a utility that is eligible for payment assistance. RUMA does not.

11. This is a city program. Why do I apply at these social agencies?

The city does not have any existing programs that deliver monthly assistance to residents, nor does it have any experience administering such programs. Because of the extremely short time that was available between when the city learned it would receive the money, and when the federal government wanted funds to start being disbursed, the city chose to partner with these social service agencies to administer the program.

12. How long can I receive assistance?

The RUMA program provides assistance for up to six months, provided that funds are still available and the recipient continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

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Sanitation - Curbside Garbage Collection

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1. I'm new to curbside collection. What do I do with my old garbage cans?

If you want, the city will recycle your old garbage cans, plastic or metal, any size or shape. Call City Link at 336-727-8000 and then set your cans at the curb with a note attached. Someone from Sanitation will come by and pick them up.

2. Why is the city switching to curbside collection?

Curbside collection is a more efficient way to collect residential garbage, which saves taxpayer money. It saves fuel, reduces emissions from city trucks, reduces injuries to city employees, and is less susceptible to disruptions from winter storms. Additionally, the city has received a positive response to the voluntary curbside collection program it started five years ago.

3. Will the cart be big enough for all my garbage?

The carts have a 96-gallon capacity and can hold 10 average garbage bags. This should be big enough to meet the needs of most families. They roll easily, even when fully loaded.

4. One 96-gallon container is not enough for me. Can I get another rollout cart?

Households may request up a second and third cart. However, an annual service fee of $40 will be charged for each additional cart.

5. I have a rollout yard-waste cart. Can I use that for my excess trash?

No. Yard waste carts can only be used for yard waste. Citizens should never mix household waste with yard waste. The city will provide rollout carts to citizens for garbage at no charge, so there should be no need to share carts.

6. When will the city start curbside collection?

City households will convert to curbside collection as the carts are delivered. The Sanitation Division is scheduled to begin delivering 96-gallon rollout carts in August to city households that are not already participating in the curbside collection program. The schedule will depend on the ability of the manufacturer to produce and deliver the carts. All city households should be converted by the end of October.

7. What about those who are physically unable to roll out their garbage cart?

Exceptions will be made for households where no one is physically able to roll out the cart. Households may request an exemption via online form or by calling CityLink at 336-727-8000 and requesting a Garbage Collection Exemption Form (PDF). No exemptions will be granted without a written request. If you are exempt from using the rollout cart, you will need to continue to use your current garbage can; you will not receive a new rollout cart.

8. Is the cart mine to keep?

No. The city retains ownership of the cart. Each cart is assigned to a particular address. If you move, you must leave the cart for use by the next occupant.

9. Are these carts a traffic safety hazard?

The city has allowed yard-waste carts, which are the same size and shape as the garbage rollout carts, to be placed at the curb for years, and this has not created safety problems for vehicles or for pedestrians. There are areas where the steepness of the terrain, the narrowness of the street, the amount of on-street parking, or other unusual situations may require adjustment of the typical cart placements. In these cases, the Public Works staff will work with the affected citizens to identify the best placement locations.

10. How do we keep the lids and carts from blowing down the street once the crews empty the carts?

The lids of the carts are permanently attached to the carts and will not blow off. The carts are light enough to be easily maneuvered, but heavy enough to resist being blown over under normal conditions.

11. What happens if I forget to roll my cart to the street?

If you forget to roll out your garbage cart, roll it out the next week for collection.

12. Will my collection day change?

It may. After curbside garbage collection is fully implemented, the Sanitation Division may adjust some collection routes. This may lead to changes in collection days for some residents. The city will mail postcards to all households that change collection days.

13. What can I put in the rollout cart?

Only bagged household trash can be put in the cart. Do not place yard waste, brush, or any construction debris in the garbage cart. The following items are also prohibited:

• Automotive Parts
• Corrugated Cardboard
• Hazardous Waste
• Hot Ashes
• Plastic Bottles
• Tires

You should continue to place recyclables in your recycling bin for collection.

14. Can I set out other garbage containers?

Only the 96-gallon rollout cart issued by the city can be used.

15. Can I place excess garbage next to the cart at the curb?

No. All garbage must fit inside the cart. If you have more than will fit, retain the garbage for collection the next week.

16. Do I still need to bag my trash?

Yes. All trash must be bagged before being put in the rollout cart. City ordinance requires that garbage be bagged to reduce wind-blown litter and discourage vermin.

17. When should I put the rollout cart out?

Your cart must be at the curb by 6 a.m. on your collection day and no earlier than 5 p.m. the night before. Carts must be removed from the street by 8 a.m. the day after collection. Friday carts must be removed by 8 a.m. on Monday, unless the schedule is changed. Exceptions will be made during schedule changes due to emergencies or holidays.

18. What happens if I do not obey the guidelines for when to set out and remove my cart?

City code enforcement officers will be monitoring neighborhoods for compliance and will leave a notice when violations occur. Continued violations could result in penalties.

19. What if I have to be out of town during collection?

If feasible, retain your garbage until you’re back in town. Otherwise, ask a relative or neighbor to roll out or roll in your cart. Because many people leave for a long weekend on Fridays, those households with Friday collections have until 8 a.m. Monday to remove their cart from the curb.

20. I was in the voluntary curbside collection program. How am I affected?

You are not affected. Continue to roll out your garbage as before. However, keep in mind that curbside collection is no longer a voluntary program.

21. What if my cart gets damaged or stolen?

The rollout cart is the property of the city and is assigned a unique serial number. All reports of damage or theft will be investigated and carts will be repaired or replaced if necessary.

Do not write house numbers or put any other markings on the carts.

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Sanitation - Yard Waste Carts

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1. What is the automated waste collection system?

Automated collection uses a specially-fitted waste truck. Waste is mechanically dumped into the truck from a curbside location. The operator uses a set of controls inside the truck cab to operate a mechanical arm that lifts, dumps, and returns your roll-out cart to the curb.

This automated collection service is Winston-Salem’s preferred choice.

2. When should you place your cart at the curb?

When you purchase your cart the city will notify you of your collection day.

After you fill your yard-waste cart, place it at the curb no earlier than 5 p.m. on the day before your normally scheduled collection day and remove it from the curb by 8 a.m. the day after collection. For more information about the yard-waste cart collection service, call City Link at 336-727-8000.

3. How can you purchase a yard-waste cart?

The city will continue to have available for purchase durable 96-gallon yard-waste carts with hinged, tight-fitting lids to eliminate litter, odor, and insect problems.

Yard-waste carts may be purchased at the City Warehouse, located at 1550-A Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive for $65.

Call 336-727-8000 to order a new yard-waste cart, or you can pick up a yard cart at the City Warehouse during the hours of 7:30 a.m. to  4:15 p.m. You will need enough space in your vehicle to hold the 96-gallon cart.

Cart & Sticker Bundle

You can order a new yard-waste cart and sticker together for $125. The annual fee included with the cart is for the city's fiscal year of July 1 through June 30.

Pay for new yard-waste cart and sticker together with an online form.

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Security Procedures FAQs

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1. What are the new security measures?

The security measures include a walk-through metal detector, a brief bag search and additional screening, including wanding and pat down as required. 

2. What items are prohibited in city buildings?

Items that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, firearms or items resembling firearms, knives and handheld weapons, explosives, controlled substances, stun guns, alcoholic beverages, tools, heavy chains, flammable, explosive or other hazardous substances.

3. Which city buildings are affected?

City Hall at 101 N. Main St. and the Bryce A. Stewart Building at 101 E. First St.

 

4. Why is the city doing this?

Screening measures are designed to ensure the safety of people who work in and visit city buildings. 

5. Can citizens with concealed carry permits enter with their firearms?

No. No firearms may be brought on city property, even by those with concealed carry permits.

6. What about citizens with implanted medical devices that might trigger an alert, or other medical conditions that prevent them from passing through the metal detector?

They should speak with the security staff before any searches are begun. Alternative security measures, such as wanding or a pat down, may be used.

7. What if someone wants to enter one of these buildings with a service animal?

They should speak with the security staff before any searches begin.

8. What if I have some other special need that pertains to the screening requirement?

Requests for accommodations that security personnel cannot authorize must be presented to the city manager. Those requests should be sent to: City Manager’s Office, 101 N. Main St., Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101.

9. Do the measures apply each time someone enters one of these buildings?

Yes.

10. What happens if someone refuses to participate in the security screening?

Anyone declining to take part in screening will be denied access to the building.

11. What happens if prohibited items are discovered as part of the screening?

Security staff will be notified, and if appropriate, law enforcement.

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SNAP EBT at Farmers Market

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1. Is there any limit to the number of tokens I can get with my SNAP EBT card?

The only limit is the balance on your EBT card.

2. I didn't spend all my tokens. Can I get my money back?

Yes. Go to the Fairgrounds Farmers Market office with your unspent tokens and the receipt you received when your card was swiped. Turn in your unspent tokens and their value will be put back on your EBT card. 

Note: You must have your receipt to have the value of unspent tokens put back on your EBT card.

3. Do the tokens ever expire?

No. If you have leftover tokens you can keep them, if you want, and use them the next time you come to the Fairgrounds Farmers Market.

4. If I run out of tokens while I'm at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market, can I get more?

Yes, as long as you still have a balance on your EBT card. Just return to the office and have your card swiped a second time.

5. Can I use these tokens at the grocery store?

No. The tokens can only be used at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market.

6. Can I use my tokens at other farmers markets that accept SNAP EBT cards?

No. The tokens you get at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market can only be used at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market.

7. Can I use a debit or credit card to get tokens?

No. The token system is set up only to accept SNAP EBT cards.

8. My purchase from a vendor includes both SNAP-approved items and items that are not approved for SNAP. Can I use my tokens?

You can use tokens only to pay for those items that are approved for purchase with SNAP EBT cards. You must use cash to pay for any items from the same vendor that are not approved for SNAP.

9. Are there any other limitations on what I can buy with SNAP tokens at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market?

You cannot use tokens to buy food or drinks intended to be consumed on the spot. This is in keeping with federal SNAP guidelines that do not allow SNAP benefits to be used at restaurants.

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Spring Park Infrastructure Project

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1. Are all of the trees in the park going to be removed?

No, only trees within the construction limits for the project will be removed. Existing trees outside these limits will remain and more trees will be planted as part of the project’s stream restoration.

2. How will the project impact neighbors of the park?

Construction equipment will be used in the stream restoration project, to reshape the stream channel, install storm drain lines, and move heavy items, such as trees and rocks. There will be some disturbance and inconvenience while the construction takes places, but the end goal should be a drastic improvement that is worthy of the disturbance.

3. What is stream restoration?

Stream restoration repairs or restores a damaged stream to a more natural condition.

4. What will the stream restoration look like?

There will be large construction equipment, bare soil, and some trees will be cut down for access. Construction equipment will need to cross the streams and work in the streams. Stream water may be pumped around the construction work area during the project. We will replant shrubs and trees when we finish the project.

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Stormwater Billing

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1. Why do we have a stormwater service?

The origins of stormwater service in the United States can be traced back to an incident which occurred on Ohio’s Cuyahoga River. In 1936, the river caught fire when the spark of a blow torch ignited the floating oils and debris. The Cuyahoga River caught fire again in 1952 causing over $1 million in damages to boats and a riverfront property.  During the 1960s, the lower part of the river had become saturated with debris, oils, sludge, industrial wastes, and sewage. National attention was brought to the river when another fire occurred on June 22, 1969. Time Magazine wrote and article about the fire and described the Cuyahoga River as the river that "oozes rather than flows" and in which a person "does not drown but decays." The national coverage led to a series of pollution control activities which ultimately resulted in the Clean Water Act and the creation of the federal and state Environmental Protection Agencies.

In 1972, the Clean Water Act was passed and remains today as the cornerstone of surface water quality protection in the United States. The goal of the Clean Water Act was nothing less then the restoration and maintenance of the nation's waters so that they could support "the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and recreation in and on the water."

The initial focus of the Clean Water Act was on the source of pollution. Discharges from industry and municipal sewage facilities as well as those which could be identified as coming from a specific source or point were the primary concern. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) provides a permit program which continues address the pollution today. After years of issuing NPDES permits and regulating dischargers, it became evident that stormwater runoff was also a serious contributor to the problem of maintaining water quality.

In 1987, the Water Quality Act was passed, and the EPA required states to regulate stormwater runoff and to prepare nonpoint source management programs. The nonpoint programs were intended to manage nondirect sources of pollution such as stormwater. One of the biggest sources of pollution and the number one threat to surface water quality is stormwater runoff.

The City of Winston-Salem is a Phase I community (a population over 100,000).  As a result, the City of Winston-Salem has been mandated under the Water Quality Act of 1987 to develop a stormwater management program. The city received an NPDES permit and began its stormwater utility program in 1995.

Phase II expands the scope of the NPDES program to include smaller local governments serving populations of less than 100,000 (a population of 1,000 people or more per square mile). The stormwater Phase II program requires most municipalities and local governments to obtain NPDES permit coverage. These local governments have been mandated to establish a stormwater management program. The program indicates the development and implementation of six specified measures which assist in the reduction of stormwater pollution. These include the following: 

1. Public Education and Outreach on Storm Water
    Impacts
2. Public Involvement and Participation
3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
4. Construction Site Storm Water Runoff Control
5. Post-Construction Stormwater Management in New Development and Redevelopment
6. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations 

City Code Chapter 75  authorizes the charging of a stormwater fee

Sec. 75-43. Stormwater management system utility.

Pursuant to state law the city hereby designates the stormwater management system as a utility, enterprise activity of the city to be supported all or in part by the imposition of user fees on all developed parcels of property within the city which discharges stormwater to the storm drainage facilities or are otherwise served by the storm drainage facilities.

(Ord. No. 4536, § 3, 10-24-05)

For more information regarding the stormwater problem and the stormwater department, visit our webpage.

2. Where does the money go?

The Storm Water Fee pays for storm water programs in Winston-Salem. A portion of all Winston-Salem stormwater revenue goes to citywide efforts to reduce flood risks, improve water quality, and restore streams. Drainage systems inside the City includes channels, pipes, storm drains, and culverts on private property and in the street right-of-way. 

For property owners inside the City, approximately:

73% of fee revenue goes to storm water projects inside the City limits
15% of fee revenue goes to NPDES compliance related efforts
12% of fee revenue goes to administrative and billing costs

3. Which department provides the stormwater service?

The Stormwater Division of Traffic Field Operations is responsible for administrating and executing the City of Winston-Salem’s stormwater plans.

Contact Us

Stormwater, City of Winston-Salem
Suite 53, City Hall, 101 N. Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Mail to P.O.Box 2511, Winston-Salem, NC 27102-2511
Voice (336) 748-3070, Fax (336) 748-3173

4. How can a property owner find out more information about their bill?

To find out more about your stormwater bill, please contact the Stormwater Collections and the Stormwater Collections staff can be reached at (336) 748-3221.

5. How often will a citizen get billed for stormwater service?

It depends on whether the citizen has residential or non-residential property. A non-residential citizen typically owns a commercial business, industrial firm, or is a landlord who rents the property. A residential citizen owns a single-family homeowner property.

Residential customers are billed bi-monthly and the stormwater fee will appear on the normal utility bill (see next FAQ). If the citizen does not have another utility service such as water or sewer then he will receive a separate stormwater bill.

Non-residential citizens will be billed monthly, and the stormwater fee will appear on their normal utility bill. If the citizen does not have another utility service such as water or sewer, then he will receive a separate stormwater bill. With landlord/tenant relationships, the tenant may receive the utility bill, but a separate stormwater bill may be sent to the landlord. This situation requires special arrangements/documentation with the Stormwater Collections Department.

6. Where is the stormwater fee located the customer's bill?

The citizen can locate their current stormwater fee on their utility bill as a separate line item labeled “Stormwater Fee”. If they do not have other utility services they will receive a separate stormwater bill. For questions regarding your stormwater bill, please contact the Stormwater Collections staff at 336-748-3221.

7. What happens if the stormwater fee is not paid?

The April 16 and June 18, 2007 amendments to Ordinance Sections 75-45 and 75-46 of the City Code allows the termination of water utility services for non-payment of stormwater fees. In other words, the customer’s water may be cut-off for non-payment of stormwater fees.

8. Why has the stormwater fee changed?

City Code Chapter 75 (45-46) describes the billing and collection methods in effect for stormwater service management fees. An amendment has been made to the current code which further clarifies the billing processes and to provides enforcement options for delinquent storm water accounts.

Residential storm water charges are currently billed through the Utility Billing System and collected when payment is made for utility services. Non-residential stormwater is billed through a separate system. By the end of the current fiscal year, all non-residential storm water accounts will be billed through the Utility Billing System, allowing staff to bill, track, and collect all stormwater charges from one central system. Any delinquent storm water balances owed at the time of system transition will be moved and billed in the new system. 

9. Why did the residential fee change from a flat rate to a tiered rate?

The previous residential stormwater fee was simply a flat rate of $51/yr billed bi-monthly at $8.50/month.

The new structure determines the fee based on the amount of impervious surface area on the property. Impervious surface areas include driveways, buildings, construction sites, and farms. The fee structure is progressive meaning that a higher rate is charged for larger amounts of impervious surface area. This is the same principle as the progressive income tax.

The change to a tiered fee structure was motivated by considerations of engineering reality and social equity and fairness. It is an engineering fact that the impact and cost of runoff from impervious surfaces increases more than proportionately as the size of the area increases. For example, if a mansion is only four times as large as a cottage, the impact and cost of its runoff will be more than four times as great. Therefore, properties having more impervious surface due to large houses, driveways, tennis courts, sidewalks should pay more than less affluent properties. In summary, more affluent citizens (reflected in the size of their houses etc.) can afford and should bear a proportionately larger share of the cost.

The tiers are designed so that citizens with smaller impervious surface areas will not see an increase in the fee and, could possibly see a reduction. Those citizens with larger areas may see an increase in the fee.

Residential Stormwater Billing Tiers

If the impervious surface area is…

Between 1 and 2,000 sq ft then the fee will be $51 annually or $8.50 bi-monthly
Between 2,001 and 4,000 sq ft then the fee will be $54 annually or $9.00 bi-monthly
Between 4,001 and 6,000 sq ft then the fee will be $81 annually or $13.50 bi-monthly
More than 6,000 sq ft then the fee will be $108 annually or $18.00 bi-monthly.

10. What if a property owner thinks the impervious area of their property is incorrect?

The customer should contact Stormwater Staff at 336-727-8000 or CityLink 311 to discuss the issue and request a re-measurement of their property's impervious area.

11. Can a property owner reduce their stormwater fee?

Other communities may offer fee exemptions if runoff from the property does not impact the public drainage system or if a property owner installs a stormwater management control that is not a result of a development requirement in order to improve water quality or to reduce flooding within applicable standards.

City of Winston-Salem does not currently have a fee credit policy. However, a property owner may reduce stormwater fees by reducing the amount impervious area of the billed property. This reduction can be reported to the City and the bill would be reduced based on the amount of impervious area removed.

12. How does the City determine the impervious surface area of a property?

It depends…

For most residential customers the impervious surface area was determined from aerial photographs (called ortho photography). The digitized photos are individually examined and the impervious areas are outlined using digitizing software tools. This process was performed on over 150,000 parcels in 2005. In some cases, the impervious area may be determined from builder or contractor site plans and drawings and sometimes by direct physical measurements taken by the Stormwater Department.

Non-residential impervious surface areas are determined from builder site plans or direct measurement.

In cases where the impervious surface area is in dispute, a stormwater staff member can be requested to visit the site and physically perform a measurement of the impervious surface area.

13. Where can the impervious surface area value be found?

The billed impervious surface area for a location can be found on your utility bill or by contacting Stormwater Collections at 336-748-3221.

14. How is the billing tier for a location determined?

Residential Locations

For residential locations, once the amount of impervious area is determined then the billing tier can be found as follows:

If the impervious surface area is…

Between 1 and 2,000 sq ft then the location is in Tier 1 
Between 2,001 and 4,000 sq ft then the location is in Tier 2
Between 4,001 and 6,000 sq ft then the location is in Tier 3
More than 6,000 sq ft then the location is in Tier 4

Non-Residential Locations

Non-residential stormwater fees are not tiered.

15. How is the stormwater fee determined?

The calculation differs between residential and non-residential accounts. Residential locations use a tiered structure while the non-residential fee is simply proportional to the amount of impervious area. Both calculations and examples are explained in detail in Appendix B.

For residential locations the stormwater fee is determined as follows:

If the impervious surface area is…

Between 1 and 2,000 sq ft then the fee will be $51 anually or $8.50 bi-monthly
Between 2,001 and 4,000 sq ft then the fee will be $54 annually or $9.00 bi-monthly
Between 4,001 and 6,000 sq ft then the fee will be $81 annually or $13.50 bi-monthly
More than 6,000 sq ft then the fee will be $108 annually or $18.00 bi-monthly.

For non-residential locations the monthly stormwater fee is determined as follows:

$19.08 x (impervious area in square feet) / 1000 x 12

16. What is impervious surface area?

Impervious surface area: Any part of any parcel that has been modified by the action of any person in a manner which reduces the land's natural ability to absorb and hold storm and surface water. This includes the grading of the property and/or creation of any hard surface area which either prevents or retards the entry of water into the soil mantle, and/or the hardening of an existing surface which causes water to flow at an increased rate. By way of example, common impervious areas include, but are not limited to, roof tops, walkways, patios, driveways, parking lots or storage areas, concrete or asphalt paving, gravel roads, or any cleared, graded, graveled, or compacted surface or paved earthen materials used for vehicular travel, or areas covered with surfaces which similarly impeded the natural infiltration of surface water into the soil mantle.

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Sustainability Initiatives

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1. Why doesn't the city ban single-use plastics like plastic bags?

The current state legislature restricts certain action cities in North Carolina can take, including on banning certain items from being used. This is best demonstrated through the action taken in the Outer Banks. Senate Bill 1018 from 2009 implemented a ban on the use of plastic bags by retailers on the Outer Banks. However, in 2017 House Bill 56 repealed this ban after overriding a veto from Governor Cooper. Since the repeal, no other ban similar to this has been passed or has attempted to be passed in the state by any jurisdiction.

2. What should I do with Styrofoam packing materials?

The UPS Stores at 380 Knollwood St., and 550 N. Liberty St., here in Winston-Salem will accept any clean packing materials for reuse. The styrofoam needs to be clean, otherwise the stores will not be able to reuse it. They will also take bubble wrap.

3. Does the city have a compost program?

The city does compost the loose leaves collected by sanitation crews. More information is on the Utilities pages. The city does not collect food scraps as part of the compost program. You can learn more about backyard composting from the Forsyth County Cooperative Extension, where they host educational workshops and provide information on their website to get you started.

4. How can residents help get a single-use plastic ban implemented?

If residents are passionate about the City of Winston-Salem banning certain single-use plastic items, please contact your state representatives.  Let them know how important the issue is to you that cities be able to implement single-use plastic bans and other material bans in their local jurisdictions.

5. What does a LEED for Cities certification mean for Winston-Salem?

The new LEED for Cities platform will be able to provide us with a road map to help evaluate, assess and improve our community’s economic, environmental, and social performance measures and become healthier and stronger together. LEED for Cities can help the City of Winston-Salem set a clear path for sustainability, and measure and track progress towards meaningful results that save money and improve this community.

For more information about this project, email Helen Peplowski.

6. What happened to STAR Communities?

STAR Communities as an organization has recently become part of the US Green Building Council (USGBC), organization in efforts to create a stronger LEED for Cities framework. What this means for our efforts is that we will now be pursuing certification under the soon to be updated LEED for Cities program. You can learn more about this new certification on the LEED for Cities web page.

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Transportation - Old Salem Improvements

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1. When can I expect work to be done around my residence?

The contractor has developed a work schedule. Please refer to the timeline section of the website for information regarding work schedule and location. The progress map will also show a top view of the work locations as the contractor progresses along.

2. What are the different color markings on the ground?

The contractor is currently conducting survey work. Locating services provide marks on the ground that indicate where underground utility lines are. It is important to properly survey a construction site to identify where underground utilities are so they can be avoided.

3. How will the construction affect traffic patterns?

The contractor is responsible for managing adequate traffic flow throughout Old Salem. All road closures will have clearly indicated detour routes and adequate detour signage. All road closures will be called out in the project updates section of the website in advance.

4. Who do I contact for more information?

For more information on this project, contact Jeffrey Fansler, Acting Deputy Director of Transportation, at jeffreygf@cityofws.org.

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Transportation - Traffic Counts

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1. What are traffic counts?

Traffic counts provide traffic volume information on selected roads and intersections. They are used for road condition and safety surveys, level of service and capacity analyses, and traffic studies. There are two types of counts:

• Tube Counts measure traffic volume along streets and are conducted mechanically using tubes laid across the road over a 24-hour period.
• Intersection Turning Movement Counts provide detailed information about traffic flow and traffic needs at intersections and are conducted by field investigators over an 8-hour period.

2. How are counts available?

• View current traffic counts in the interactive viewer!
• The 2016 Average Daily Traffic Count Map (PDF) shows the most recent counts for Forsyth County and the surrounding transportation planning area in parts of:
  • Davidson
  • Davie
  • Stokes Counties
• The Historic Traffic Counts Table (PDF) is an alphabetical listing of all the traffic count locations available. This document requires the free Adobe Reader that may be downloaded from the Adobe website.

3. When are traffic counts taken?

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) conducts traffic counts every two to three years on selected roads and the Winston-Salem Department of Transportation (WSDOT) conducts counts within the Central Business District as a service to NCDOT. In addition, the WSDOT conducts annual Traffic and Intersection Turning Movement Counts at locations chosen on an as needed basis.

4. Who uses traffic counts?

• Consultants for conducting traffic impact studies
• Entities including:
  • City/County Planning Board
  • Forsyth County Environmental Affairs Department for:
    • Planning
    • Studies
    • Traffic analyses
  • North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
  • Winston-Salem Department of Transportation (WSDOT) staff
• Individuals and groups such as:
  • Businesses
  • Developers
  • Future home buyers
  • Real estate professionals

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Transportation - Urban Circulator

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1. What could an urban circulator look like?

An urban circulator may be, or have:

• Air-conditioned
• Color scheme would be compatible with Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) or other destination characteristics
• A more modern-looking, sleek vehicle
• An old-fashioned trolley or streetcar
• Rubber-tire bus or rail vehicles
• Wheelchair-accessible

2. How would an urban circulator work?

An urban circulator may include the following features:

• Circulator stops would be located at high demand destinations and/or businesses
• Could potentially utilize historic Union Station in East Winston
• If rail, would run on a separate track
• If rubber-tire, would obey same traffic signals and speed limits as automobiles
• Routes would be short, with a high frequency of service
• Would also have stops at locations that would spur economic development
• Would travel on same streets as automobiles

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Utilities - Grease Control Program

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1. Why not just pour grease down the drain?

Grease coats the insides of drain and sewer pipes. Over time, the grease builds up until it blocks the pipe. When this happens, the drain backs up into the house. If the clog is in a sewer pipe, raw sewage can back up into your house!

2. Where does grease come from?

Grease is used in cooking and it occurs naturally in many foods. It can be found in such items as: 

• Baking goods
• Butter
• Cooking oil or shortening
• Food scraps
• Lard
• Margarine
• Meat fats
• Salad dressing
• Sauces

Hot water does not dissolve grease. If you pour grease down the drain with hot water, it will harden in the pipes as soon as the water cools off.

See our Can the Grease - La Grasa al Bote flyer (PDF) for more information. Print 2-sided & cut in half.

If you have a sewer backup, see our Good Neighbor Policy (PDF) or Politica del Buen Vecino (PDF). You may also visit cityofws.org/gnp for more information on plumber and property owner responsibilities.

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Utilities - Residential

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1. Why is my water bill higher than last year at this time?

Water and sewer costs are determined by the prevailing rate per 1,000 cubic feet of water used during each billing period. Rate adjustments are based on a detailed cost-of-service analysis to ensure that each utility customer pays a proportionate share of the cost to provide services. All meters have a monthly Readiness-to-Serve charge regardless of usage, which varies by size of meter. Irrigation charges have a set uniform rate.

Water and sewer rates are based on volume and cover the majority of the cost of water and sewer treatment, water distribution and sewer collection. Tax revenue is not used to fund our services. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utility Commission approves rate changes as part of the Utilities Department budget, which is also submitted to the City of Winston-Salem budget and approved by the City Council. 

Your water and sewer bill may fluctuate as the seasons change. Water consumption usually increases in the spring and summer months, and your bill will reflect this increased usage. In addition, as more people are working and learning at home, water consumption may also increase.

2. What is the Readiness-to-Serve Charge and why does the charge depend on the size of my water meter?

The Readiness-to-Serve Charge, formerly known as the Base Charge, is a fee implemented to cover a portion of the fixed costs associated with meter reading, billing services, and providing the availability to serve customers with service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This component of the bill includes fixed operating, maintenance and capital costs for both the water and the sewer systems that the utility bears in order to ensure the availability of clean and safe service to all customers, whether they use the service or not. The Readiness-to-Serve Charge is set based on the meter size so that operational costs associated with replacing, reading and rebuilding the meter, as well as providing adequate flow and pressure to those meters, are covered. The factors that apply to how the Readiness-to-Serve Charge is set are established by the American Water Works Association.

3. Where is my water meter located?

Water meters are generally located in the front yard of the residence to allow access by Utilities Department employees.

4. Why was I charged a Service Initiation Fee?

A non-refundable service initiation fee of $20 is charged to all customers requesting water and wastewater service and appears on the first bill. This fee covers the costs associated with account setup, service activation in the field, and applies to all accounts that are activated on a yearly basis, such as irrigation meters.

5. I have a question about underground utilities. How do a make this request?

Please call City Link 311 or 336-727-8000.

6. What is in our tap water that causes a pink film?

A pink or black film on fixtures may be caused by an airborne fungus called Aspergillus sp. that is commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens. The fungus reproduces by spreading spores via air that land on moist surfaces, which are ideal conditions for its growth. A cleaning solution of one part bleach to five parts water, or commercial products containing bleach are effective to kill the fungus and remove most stains.

Learn more on our Black Mold Fact Sheet (PDF) & Pink Stuff Fact Sheet (PDF).

7. What causes the "earthy taste" that sometimes affects our water?

Earthy and musty odors are usually caused by algae in our raw water that produce two compounds: Geosmin, which causes earthy tastes and odors, and 2-methylisoborneol (commonly referred to as MIB), which causes musty odors. The algae that produce these compounds are normally present in the summer when conditions are warm and better-suited for algal growth. These compounds are very difficult to remove during the purification process and while some people find the taste unpleasant, they are not harmful when consumed. Our treatment process utilizes powered activated carbon (PAC) and we actively manage our raw water sources to minimize algal growth.

8. How do I request that my water to be tested?

To request your water be tested, please call City Link 311 or 336-727-8000.

9. How do I report what appears to be a sewage-related odor?

Occasionally, you may become aware of what appears to be sewage-related odor in your neighborhood. While most often these odors are the result of shifts in weather patterns, an odor can also signal a ruptured or clogged line. To report an odor, please call City Link 311 or 336-727-8000.

10. I received a kit at my home urging me to test my water. Was this sent by Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities?

No. Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities does not solicit testing from our customers. We perform regular testing at our Water Treatment Plants and in the distribution system. We’re constantly monitoring our water for potentially harmful chemicals and bacteria. If there is a need to perform a sample test, you will be in contact with a clearly identifiable WSFC Utilities representative.