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Guilford County Board of Commissioners Chairman Melvin “Skip” Alston delivered the 2025 State of the County Address on Thursday, Oct. 30, on the second floor of the Old County Courthouse.
Alston’s remarks centered on the theme “One Guilford: Measuring Our Success, Planning Our Future,” highlighting how data-driven decision-making, strategic investments, and community partnerships are shaping a stronger, more resilient county.
He began with remarks on economic growth, sharing that in 2025 alone the county added more than 15,000 new jobs and attracted $5.1 billion in new capital investments. Guilford County also saw the construction of more than 700 new single-family homes.
Alston cited major projects, including a $4.7 billion investment by JetZero expected to bring 14,500 new jobs, and an $865 million distribution center by Delhaize, projected to create 500 jobs.
“Guilford County is truly in the midst of an economic boom,” said Alston. “While we may not yet match our state’s two largest counties in population size, we’re matching them in strategic investments, community amenities, quality jobs, and excellence in education. And we’re seeing results.”
Alston emphasized that more work is needed to improve education and school infrastructure. Over the past year, Guilford County Schools celebrated the opening of several new facilities funded through the voter-approved $2 billion school bond package.
Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held for six schools this year: Claxton Elementary, Peck K–8 Expeditionary School, Brooks Global, Foust Elementary, Kiser, and Peeler-Hampton, with more projects underway.
“At the same time, we continue to see steady enhancements across all our schools in technology and security. It’s making tangible impacts on our students’ learning,” said Alston. “Our schools have endured decades of underinvestment in capital improvements.”
The county is also exploring a Quarter-Cent Sales & Use Tax referendum to help fund teacher pay, fire protection, and small-town initiatives — a measure that has appeared on the ballot eight previous times. The goal is to bring it before voters again next November.
“The ninth time’s the charm,” said Alston.
With rapid growth, Alston said, comes new challenges, particularly in housing.
“We must ensure that progress is inclusive, that every worker and family has a place to live, and that our growth builds and strengthens our communities,” he said.
Alston announced that a countywide housing summit is planned for next year, bringing together public and private organizations to develop strategies and solutions for housing at every level.
Alston also discussed the county’s health and human services priorities, highlighting initiatives such as Community Paramedicine, the Adult Resource Team, school-based telehealth services, and mobile health clinics.
“Our Behavioral Health Center continues to be a national model for crisis response and integrated care,” he said. “Our Family Justice Center remains a shining example of coordinated victim support that’s saving lives every day.”
Two major facilities are slated to open next year: the Prince Edward Graves Recovery and Treatment Center, a long-term residential program, and a Women with Children’s Recovery Center, expected to open by the end of 2026.
Alston also addressed the county’s high infant mortality rate, which stands at 9.2 deaths per 1,000 live births—nearly 28 percent higher than the state average. He said the county’s Infant Mortality Task Force is working to ensure equitable healthcare for mothers and infants.
“What is even more troubling,” he said, “is the racial disparity behind these numbers. Of the 53 infants who did not live to see their first birthday, 70 percent were African American.”
Following the State of the County Address, on Friday, Oct. 31, Alston joined County Manager Victor Isler, Social Services Director Sharon Barlow, Second Harvest Food Bank CEO Eric Aft, and Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan to announce a new food initiative.
The “One Guilford: Supporting Our Pantries Plan” will bring together county agencies and community partners to “fill the gap” and ensure every resident has access to nutritious food.
According to the county’s Department of Health and Human Services, an average of 44,100 households in Guilford County receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits each month, totaling $15.8 million. Additionally, about 13,670 residents receive WIC benefits, averaging just over $1 million per month.
The plan calls for coordination with food security partners such as the Greater High Point Food Alliance and Second Harvest Food Bank, expanded data collection, and increased transparency around local food needs. The county is also encouraging public support through donations and volunteerism, with resources available on the Guilford County website and via the Greater Guilford Food Finder app.
“Together, as One Guilford, we’re not just building a stronger county, we’re building a stronger, more livable community for everyone who calls Guilford County home.”
