North Carolina lawmaker introduces bill for Winston-Salem community center funding

State Rep. Kanika Brown has introduced a bill in the North Carolina House with the goal of advancing development and increasing recreational resources in Winston-Salem, according to the North Carolina State House.

Designated as HB 1170 and filed on April 30 for the 2025 regular session, the measure’s short title is listed as: ‘Funding for Winston-Salem.’

Below is a summary based directly on the bill text. Some interpretation is included to explain selected sections.

The legislation allocates $210,800 in one-time funds from the General Fund to the Office of State Budget and Management during the 2026-27 fiscal year for a specified grant to Bodegas Alvarado Inc., a Winston-Salem-based nonprofit. Funds are intended to aid completion of a multi-use community center, transforming a former industrial site for activities such as recreation and sports. The bill’s objective is to strengthen local growth and offer broader recreational access. The measure takes effect July 1, 2026.

During the 2025 regular session, Brown introduced a total of 38 bills.

The legislative process in North Carolina involves multiple steps before a bill becomes law. A legislator initiates the process by submitting a bill for filing, after which it is sent to a committee. Every bill receives three readings in both chambers. Any amendments made by one chamber after the other’s approval require both chambers to reconcile the bill’s final form. Once both houses pass the same version, it moves to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if not in session) to sign, veto, or allow it to become law without a signature.

Additional information on legislative measures can be found here.

Elected to the North Carolina State House in 2023, Brown, a Democrat, represents the 71st House district and succeeded former representative Evelyn Terry.