Former City Manager Orville W. Powell passed away on February 6 in Durham, North Carolina. Powell served as Winston-Salem’s city manager from 1972 to 1979.
Powell started his career in local government in 1963 as a budget analyst for the city. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as the city’s third city manager in 1972, following the sudden passing of his predecessor, John Gold.
During his tenure as city manager, Powell implemented the public safety concept, which integrated police and fire services to enhance efficiency. He also oversaw the city’s acquisition of the Safe Bus Company with the aim of improving public transportation.
Mayor Allen Joines, who was hired by Powell, shared reflections on Powell’s impact on his early career: “I was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and mentor Orville W. Powell. Orville served the city of Winston Salem as budget director, assistant city manager and city manager. He was an innovative leader and was respected by his colleagues across the state and the country. Orville hired me and a number of other recent graduates of Public Administration master’s programs and mentored all of us to successful careers in local government. He gave all of us responsibility for programs and operations but held us accountable for those programs and expected successful performance. I am very grateful to him for giving me the opportunity to work and grow within our city government. My sincere condolences to his family.”
