GREENSBORO, N.C. — Mayor Nancy Vaughan stopped by the WFMY News 2 studio to discuss recent changes and upcoming events in the city of Greensboro. She also took questions texted in from viewers and answered them live on-air.
CIVIL SERVICE BOARD
In March, House Bill 470 was filed in the North Carolina General Assembly. If passed, it would enact a civil service board in Greensboro and Winston-Salem. The five-member board would be able to hear city employee grievances and other personnel matters.
"There are five other cities that have a civil service board. It reviews the process to make sure when a person is terminated or moved against their will to another department, to make sure policy is followed," Mayor Vaughan explained.
Several community members attended the meeting and spoke out in favor of the bill. Some said the civil service board would provide protection against wrongful termination and discrimination. Council members opposing the bill are worried it would limit already existing power and cost the city more money. Ultimately, city leaders voted against the bill; however, Mayor Vaughan said she supports it.
BUSINESS GROWTH
The city of Greensboro is welcoming big business. Two new companies recently announced plans to set up shop at Piedmont Triad International Airport.
One of them is Marshall Aerospace, headquartered in the United Kingdom. The company focuses primarily on a particular aircraft's maintenance, modifications, and repairs. The second venture is TAT Piedmont Aviation. It is also an aviation maintenance and repair manufacturer. Together the companies are slated to bring more than 300 jobs, competitive benefits, and training.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Keeping young people busy during the summer months is one of the top concerns in Greensboro. Guilford Works recently held its 500 Jobs Initiative aimed at connecting young people with jobs in efforts to reduce crime. The program runs from June 5 through August 18. Once enrolled, young adults are assigned to a career advisor who introduces them to employers and helps them apply for as many positions as necessary until they are hired.
"We did hire a violence prevention coordinator, who will be working specifically with populations at risk. We have the police chief's 500 job initiative, which was to put teens to work," Mayor Vaughan shared.
The Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department is also working to keep teens busy. It is hosting special teen nights at recreation centers across the city from May 25 through August 11. Each night will feature free games and activities. Registration is required in advance.