The Westside Neighborhood Association (WNA) is a community organization officially recognized by The City of Charleston representing residents of the Westside neighborhood on the Charleston Peninsula in Charleston, South Carolina. It serves as a collective voice for residents and works with the City of Charleston on issues affecting the neighborhood.

Purpose

The association’s goal is to bring neighbors together to advocate for and improve the community, focusing on areas such as:

• Neighborhood safety and traffic issues

• Beautification and environmental projects

• Development and historic preservation

• Community events and volunteer initiatives

• Communication with city officials and departments

Neighborhood associations like WNA are considered an important part of Charleston’s civic structure because they help residents coordinate with the city, organize community efforts, and represent neighborhood concerns during planning and development discussions.

Meetings

The Westside Neighborhood Association typically meets monthly:

• When: 4th Thursday of each month

• Time: 6: 30 PM

• Where: Mitchell Elementary

• What: Meetings entail invited speakers from the city, state, or non-profits working in the Westside Community. Past Speaker:

  • Michael Mathis: Director of Traffic and Transportation, Charleston City

  • Mayor Cogswell

  • Charleston City Police Chief Walker

  • Josh Martin: Special Advisor to Mayor Cogswell

  • Amy Southerland: Director of Livability and Tourism, Charleston City

    • Todd Layman: Livability Team Manager

    • Darrel Wright: Livability Review Board Manager (Vacant Homes)

  • The Charleston Preservation Society

What the Association Does

Typical activities include:

• Advocating for safer streets, crosswalks, and traffic calming

• Supporting local schools and community programs

• Organizing cleanups, beautification, and tree planting projects

• Communicating with Charleston city departments about neighborhood issues

• Hosting community meetings and events

What it is NOT

• A concierge service: We advocate, educate, and empower our citizens. We do regularly step in when issues are unresolved to work with our city contact.

• An HOA: The neighborhood association does NOT require money for attendance. Membership allows renters and owners to vote. All are always welcome to come learn and meet new friends.