Nonprofit leaders packed a Forsyth County budget meeting Monday to protest a proposal that would eliminate discretionary grants for community organizations.
More than 30 local nonprofits were slated to receive a total of $1.8 million in county funding. But in the county manager's recommended 2026 budget, that line item was cut entirely.
The change sparked nearly four hours of public comment, with dozens of representatives expressing alarm.
“The potential impact for further cuts to the arts is deeply concerning,” said Samantha Howard of the Arts Council of Winston-Salem & Forsyth County. “Such measures could lead to the dissolution of programs that many in our community really rely on.”
“We are the only organization that provides emergency winter shelter in Forsyth County,” said Emily Harkins with The Dwelling. “Without us, people will die. It is that simple.”
Speakers also said the proposed cuts could affect services ranging from Meals on Wheels deliveries to free school field trips to Kaleideum.
At times, tensions flared. During an exchange with Board Chair Don Martin, Kernersville resident Kathy Gydus pressed for answers.
“If you deny this grant, what are you going to do with the money? Where's it going to go? Anybody know? Anybody care to answer that question?”
Martin said the money would go toward restoring the county’s fund balance. That reserve, similar to a savings account, has been depleted over the past several years in an effort to avoid raising taxes. But officials say it’s now so low that the county’s bond rating is at risk, which could lead to higher borrowing costs.
County Manager Shontell Robinson emphasized the need to rebuild the fund, especially amid economic uncertainty.
“These organizations are very worthy, and there's no doubt, again from myself as the manager, if I had unlimited funds, by all means, this is not something I would have recommended. But I also have to be a responsible fiduciary.”
Robinson’s recommendations are not final. She said it’s up to the county commissioners to decide whether to raise taxes or cut other services to preserve nonprofit funding. The issue is expected to be discussed further at the next budget meeting on Thursday at 9 a.m.