News Summary
The Greenwood City Council held a meeting where they addressed several ordinances focused on enhancing public safety and community engagement. Local advocate Jumelle Brooks urged the adoption of a hate crime ordinance amid rising concerns. The council also announced community initiatives such as ‘Greatest American Cleanup Day’ and ‘Community Action Month,’ promoting environmental and social activism. Events like Community Action Day and Small Business Week were also highlighted, signaling a commitment to fostering a strong, inclusive community.
Greenwood City Council Takes Big Steps Towards a Safer Community
In the charming city of Greenwood, excitement filled the air as the City Council came together on Monday to discuss a series of promising ordinances aimed at enhancing city operations and public safety. The council approved five first readings of these important measures, setting the stage for a vibrant and inclusive community.
Addressing Community Concerns
One of the standout moments from the meeting was when local advocate, Jumelle Brooks, took the floor. She passionately urged the council to consider the adoption of a local hate crime ordinance. Brooks expressed her concerns regarding the rising issues of racism, classism, and the growing tension within the community. This ordinance aims to protect everyone, regardless of their race, religion, or gender identity, reinforcing that Greenwood stands united against hate.
Celebrating Community Initiatives
The city didn’t just stop at addressing urgent issues. Mayor Brandon Smith, along with council member Amber Nappier, proudly announced April 21, 2025, as the “Greatest American Cleanup Day.” This initiative is part of a partnership with Keep America Beautiful, encouraging the community to roll up their sleeves and make a positive impact on the environment.
Adding to the celebration, the Mayor and fellow council member Zsaquez Flucker declared May as “Community Action Month.” This month will be filled with activities and initiatives aimed at fostering community spirit and engagement.
Community Action Day and Small Business Week
Mark your calendars! The GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission will host a Community Action Day on May 16, where residents can enjoy a free lunch, door prizes, and resources from over 50 vendors. This event will take place at Piedmont Technical College and is a great opportunity for some family fun and community bonding.
Moreover, Greenwood City Council has designated May 4 to 10, 2025, as Small Business Week. This week highlights the 111-year legacy of the Greenwood SC Chamber of Commerce, steadfastly supporting local businesses and encouraging residents to shop local and support their neighbors.
Recognizing Local Heroes
During the meeting, the council took a moment to recognize the hard work of the Lander University student-athletes. The men’s baseball and women’s volleyball teams made significant contributions to community clean-up efforts, with nearly 700 student-athletes participating in two major cleanup events recently. They collected hundreds of bags of trash, showcasing their commitment to improving the city’s appearance.
Interestingly, during their cleanup activities, the athletes discovered more than just litter. They uncovered over 30 discarded lottery tickets near a local middle school, sparking curiosity and conversation among community members.
Fun Fundraisers and Future Ordinance Discussions
In a fun twist for the youth, the Mayor’s Youth Council is organizing a fundraiser on April 26 at 9 a.m. at the YMCA. Activities like a walk-a-thon and color throws promise a fun-filled day while benefiting the Next Level Lifestyles program.
Looking ahead, the city council plans to revisit the proposed ordinances in their next meeting scheduled for May 19 at 5:30 p.m. Some of the topics up for discussion include changes to lien collection timelines for neglected properties, addressing public land issues concerning homeless encampments, and rezoning a parcel on Maxwell Avenue for a small store, among others.
Mayor Smith is eager to ignite the community’s spirit in cleanup initiatives by launching the #Greatest25 campaign. This friendly challenge asks citizens to help pick up litter around Greenwood, echoing the ambitious goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by July 4, 2026, which will mark America’s 250th anniversary.
As Greenwood continues to thrive and grow, the collaboration between the city council and its vibrant community remains essential. With positive ordinances on the horizon and a strong focus on community involvement, the future of Greenwood is looking brighter than ever!
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Hate Crime Ordinance Plea
- Wikipedia: Hate Crime
- NWA Online: City Council Member Arrested
- Google Search: Greenwood City Council
- Arkansas Online: City Council Tables Votes
- Google Scholar: Greenwood City Council Ordinances
- 5 News Online: City Council DWI Charge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenwood City Council
- River Valley Democrat Gazette: Council Approves First Step
- Google News: Greenwood County Updates
