Harold's Blog

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

Searstone Tour

On Monday morning, I joined Council Member Bansal at Searstone to hear board members and residents’ concerns about a proposed rezoning. The proposal would eliminate age restrictions and introduce luxury townhomes. Residents expressed opposition to removing the age restriction, noting it conflicts with the vision they originally bought into, and also raised concerns about the project’s aesthetics. We toured the property and reviewed the proposed development site. Council has not yet received a staff report on this proposal.

GRCVB Meeting

On Tuesday morning, I attended a meeting of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. After a brief financial update, the Board walked over to South Street to take part in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new five-star Omni Hotel.

The Omni Raleigh Hotel will be a 27–29 story luxury property currently under construction at 10 W. South Street in downtown Raleigh, with an anticipated opening in late 2028. Conveniently located near the Raleigh Convention Center and the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, the $360 million development will include 600 guest rooms, 60,000 square feet of meeting space, a rooftop pool, and Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

Tour of Waste Management’s Material Recovery Facility

On Wednesday afternoon, I joined the Mayor Pro-Tem and an Assistant Town Manager for a tour of the Waste Management facility on Globe Road in recognition of Earth Day. The facility processes recyclable materials from Cary and several neighboring communities.

It was fascinating to observe the sorting process and learn more about how the system operates. It was disappointing to see the contamination in the stream of recyclables, mostly plastic bags. About 20% of what people put into recyclables are not and end up in the landfill.

While there is some advanced technology in place, such as material recognition and limited robotics, the work remains largely manual. That said, it seems likely the process will become increasingly automated in the coming years.

At the end of the line, the sorted materials are compressed into massive bales by type. Some of these have significant market value, while others have little to none. If you ever have the chance to tour a facility like this, it’s well worth the experience.

Cary Matters Taping

On Thursday morning, I joined Council Member Craig to tape the May episode of Cary Matters. The episode highlights Historic Preservation Month and the many activities happening around Cary, including Herbfest at the Page-Walker, the Cary History Hunt, and the Black History Tour. Be sure to tune in when the episode airs in May.

State of Cary at Heritage Pines

On Thursday evening, I delivered the State of Cary address to residents of Heritage Pines. After a few initial AV issues, I was able to complete the presentation in under 30 minutes, leaving ample time for questions. I was joined by Mayor Pro-Tem Bush, Council Member Richards, and Council Member Kohn-Johnson.

We spent about 30 minutes responding to audience questions and remained afterward to continue the conversation. Topics included parking concerns related to Green Hope High School, water conservation efforts, the police chief’s address following a recent news article, and questions about the former town manager.

Dementia Alliance 33^rd Annual Walk

Sunday afternoon, I had the privilege of offering welcoming remarks at the 33rd Annual Walk to Defeat Dementia.

Here’s what I shared:

“Good afternoon, everyone!

It’s a true honor to welcome you to Cary for the Triangle Walk to Defeat Dementia. Days like today give us space to do two important things: connect and reflect. We connect with neighbors, friends, and others walking a similar path. And we reflect on the people we love—and the strength it takes to keep showing up for them.

Dementia is not a journey anyone would choose, yet it’s one that so many across Cary and North Carolina are navigating together. That shared experience is what makes today so meaningful.

Today is both a celebration and a moment of remembrance, honoring those living with dementia, supporting caregivers, and remembering loved ones who continue to inspire us.

Thank you to the Dementia Alliance for your impactful work across North Carolina and for bringing this community together. And thank you to everyone here, especially the caregivers, the quiet heroes among us. Your presence helps provide critical resources, support, and hope to families who need it most.

On behalf of Cary, we’re grateful you’re here and proud to walk alongside you.”

It was inspiring to see hundreds of people come out in support. As I mentioned, this event is about connection, and I was reminded of that firsthand when I ran into someone I hadn’t seen in years, now thriving in college. Moments like that are truly a blessing.

Council Out and About

There’s something special about this time of year, a season filled with pride, reflection, and new beginnings for our high school seniors. Our calendars fill with graduation ceremonies, each one celebrating hard work and possibility. This year feels especially meaningful as I celebrate my own child’s graduation. Wishing all seniors and parents the very best in these final weeks of high school.
As April is recognized as Volunteer Appreciation Month, I want to thank the many volunteers who give their time and energy to make Cary the vibrant, caring community it is. Their impact, often behind the scenes, is deeply felt.
Amid the celebrations, it also brings into focus our responsibility as a Council. We must balance honoring our community with prioritizing the needs of Cary residents through a strong, sustainable budget. Cary is at a pivotal moment, where every decision requires careful evaluation. As we look ahead, our commitment remains clear: to grow responsibly while preserving the quality of life we all cherish.

Sarika Bansal

Council D Representative

2026 CAECA Meeting

Councilmember Sarika Bansal delivered remarks at the 2026 CAECA Board Meeting, held at the NC Governor’s Mansion. The event was organized by CAECA and featured keynote speaker Prof. Yimin Yang, who shared insights on his experience establishing a new bank in the United States.

Elected Officials Banquet

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered remarks at the Elected Official Banquet hosted by the Cary Chamber of Commerce. Attendees included Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Bella Huang, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards. The event provided an opportunity for elected officials to connect and engage with members of the business community.

Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson delivered remarks and read the Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation at the Pinwheel Ceremony held at Downtown Cary Park and organized by the Cary Police Department. Additional attendees included Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Bella Huang, Michelle Craig, and Brittany Richards.

NCLM Town and State Dinner

Councilmembers Bella Huang and Brittany Richards attended the Town and State Dinner, hosted by the North Carolina League of Municipalities. The event brought together federal, state, and local officials for networking and collaboration.

Fest in the West

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Carissa Kohn-Johnson delivered remarks at Fest in the West. This event has served as one of western Cary’s signature community celebrations since 2016.

Children’s Day

Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Bella Huang, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards attended Children’s Day at Downtown Cary Park, organized by the American Turkish Association. Councilmember Kohn-Johnson read the proclamation, and Councilmember Craig delivered remarks. This event celebrates a Turkish tradition and serves as a global celebration of children, promoting joy, cultural exchange, and diversity. 

APTA Legislative Conference

Councilmember Bella Huang attended the APTA Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, representing Cary and GoTriangle. This conference provides an opportunity for public transportation professionals to engage directly with federal lawmakers and help shape national transit policy.

Kiran’s 5K Walk

Councilmember Sarika Bansal delivered remarks at Kiran’s 5K Walk supporting victims of domestic violence. This event raised awareness and demonstrated community support for survivors and the resources available to assist them.

Nepal Day Celebration

Councilmember Sarika Bansal read the proclamation at the Nepal Day Celebration, organized by the Nepal Center of North Carolina. Councilmember Bella Huang was also in attendance. The celebration highlighted Nepalese culture and traditions while fostering community connection and cultural appreciation within Cary.

Interim Town Manager’s Update

Danna’s Message

Council,

As we approach the May quarterly meeting, we’ve continued to focus on the budget, working closely with staff to review and analyze community input.

I’ve enjoyed engaging with residents and seeing the level of thought and care reflected in their feedback. It’s clear people are paying attention and are invested in the decisions that shape our community. Their perspectives are incredibly valuable as we move forward in the process.

One of Cary’s most anticipated spring traditions, the Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, returns to Bond Park tomorrow. The event features more than 170 North Carolina artists, along with live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. It’s always well attended and a great reflection of the creativity and community spirit that make Cary special.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and, if you have the chance, can make it out to Spring Daze. 

Danna Widmar

Assistant Town Manager

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,673 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,711
• Email: 375
• Web: 276
• Internal: 187
• Walk-In: 82
• Text: 32
• Social Media: 10

54.74% of cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 616
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 351
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 214
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 182
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 100

Water Main Replacement Project Update

This week, pavement was restored on the outside lanes of Kildaire Farm Road from Byrum Street to Shirley Drive. The center lane was paved in spring 2025 following completion of the water main project. Resurfacing the outside lanes was deferred to this year’s annual water main replacement project to allow for curb and stormwater installation at the Soca 56 development. In addition to work on Kildaire Farm Road, water main replacement has been completed on both Carnoustie Circle and Logan Circle. A new 4-inch ductile iron water main has been installed on each cul-de-sac, and the streets were resurfaced as part of the project.

McCrimmon Parkway Pedestrian Project Update

Cary staff continue to make progress on the design of the McCrimmon Parkway pedestrian improvements. Next week, contractors working on behalf of Cary will perform additional subsurface utility explorations. Ten utility test holes are planned to locate underground gas, water, and electric lines as part of the design process for the traffic signal and pedestrian improvements adjacent to Panther Creek High School. Traffic control will be in place for any test holes conducted in the roadway, and the work is expected to take less than one week to complete.

LED Stop Signs Installed to Support New All-Way Stop

Earlier this week, Public Works staff installed solar-powered, LED-enhanced stop signs on West Cornwall Road at Griffis Street, converting the intersection to all-way stop control. This work follows a Transportation staff analysis of traffic volumes and driver behavior. To complete the conversion, new “ALL-WAY” plaques were installed on all four approaches, and white stop bars were added to West Cornwall Road. The LED stop signs were relocated from a previous all-way stop conversion and will remain in place for several months to help alert drivers to the change.

MRF Tour Showcases Recycling Impact

Staff joined several members of Town Council for a tour of Waste Management’s local Material Recovery Facility (MRF), gaining a firsthand look at how Cary’s recycling is sorted, baled, and prepared for market. The tour highlighted the advanced technology and operational processes behind single-stream recycling and underscored the importance of proper curbside sorting in ensuring materials are successfully recovered.

In FY 2025, Cary collected 10,500 tons of recyclable material processed at this facility. Community participation continues to make a measurable impact, driven by residents’ consistent and thoughtful sorting at the curb, with contamination rates remaining low at approximately 12%. This strong performance helps maximize material recovery, reduce landfill disposal, and advance Cary’s broader sustainability goals related to waste reduction, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship.

Stormwater Workshop Draws Strong Community Interest

On Wednesday, Stormwater staff hosted a workshop for residents, maintenance providers, and inspectors responsible for Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs), such as retention ponds and bioretention areas. The session provided a practical overview of Cary’s development review process, construction site runoff controls, and the ongoing maintenance and inspection requirements that help these systems function as designed.

The workshop also reinforced the shared responsibility between Cary and property owners to protect water quality and reduce downstream flooding risks. The workshop drew 76 attendees, reflecting strong interest across the community. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants noting the session’s clarity, relevance, and immediate applicability to their work – supporting more consistent maintenance practices and stronger long-term performance of Cary’s stormwater infrastructure.

2026 ACC Tennis Championship at Cary Tennis Park

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) tennis championships were held April 14 – 19 at Cary Tennis Park. In the men’s final, the top-seeded Demon Deacons of Wake Forest University defeated the Virginia Cavaliers. The Cavaliers also advanced to the women’s final but fell to the NC State Wolfpack, marking the Wolfpack women’s second ACC Championship title. This year’s championships set new records for both attendance and ticket sales.

Fest in the West Recap

Fest in the West was held Saturday at Mills Park Field 1, welcoming approximately 2,000 attendees, vendors, and participants throughout the day. The event maintained a positive and relaxed atmosphere, with attendees enjoying kid-focused programming, entertainment, and the petting zoo. New this year, the Teen Scene provided a dedicated space for ages 11-18 to connect and participate in games. Overall, the event offered a strong opportunity for community connection.

Important Dates

Planning & Zoning Board
Monday, April 27, 6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Tuesday, April 28, 5:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, April 30, 6:30 p.m.

Council Initiated Items

The council has a process that allows members to introduce items for discussion at meetings, often leading to further action. Given the recent increase in these requests, I will begin sharing them here along with my perspective on their pros and cons.

E-Bike Safety

This proposal was submitted by Council Members Bansal and Richards and presented at the April 16^th meeting. It will come back to council with recommendations at a future meeting.

The council initially launched a pilot program in June 2022 to allow e-bikes. After a one-year trial period, the program was made permanent, with a posted speed limit of 15 mph on greenways. Recently, however, there have been complaints that e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices are traveling at excessive speeds and creating potentially hazardous conditions.

PROS:

• We are listening to our citizens’ complaints.
• Preventing e-bikes and scooters will possibly make greenways safer.

CONS:

• There is basically no way to enforce an ordinance that has e-bikes or not.
• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.
• We are revisiting a decision that was made after a one-year trial and review of data.

Smoke Free Ordinance

This proposal was submitted by Mayor Pro-Tem Bush and Council Member Craig and presented at the April 16^th meeting. It will come back at a future council meeting with recommendations.

PROS:

• Eliminates toxic secondhand smoke.
• Current ordinance does not match state law and Raleigh/Wake ordinance.

CONS:

• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.

Affordable Housing on Old Library Site

This proposal, submitted by Mayor Pro Tem Bush and Council Member Bansal, would place a podium-style parking deck with affordable housing on the former library site. This has yet to be scheduled for a meeting agenda.

PROS:

• Adds parking across from Downtown Cary Park.
• Create affordable housing units in the downtown area.

CONS:

• May underutilize one of the municipality’s most valuable properties. Downtown Cary Park generates approximately $16 million annually in economic impact, and this site could represent an opportunity for a more transformative use.
• The town has already invested millions in renovating the Ivey-Ellington House, positioning this area as a premier destination.

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina and most mid-sized cities in the U.S., uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Habitat Spreads Misinformation

A representative for Habitat incorrectly stated that Cary has a budget draft and that affordable housing was proposed to be cut:

“Hi advocates,

We have an important update about the Cary Town Budget for FY27. In March, town staff presented an early budget draft that suggested cutting funding for affordable housing. It is critical that we reach out to the Cary Town Council and urge them to keep level funding for housing in the FY 27 budget (in other words, to spend the same amount in FY27 than they did in FY26). Cary residents have already shown that they value affordable housing, and stable housing is integral to residents’ ability to thrive in their community. 

The contact information for the council is below. Please let me know if you reach out to them.

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht- harold.weinbrecht@townofcary.org <mailto:harold.weinbrecht@townofcary.org>

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush (At-Large)- lori.bush@carync.gov <mailto:lori.bush@carync.gov>

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson (At-Large)- carissa.johnson@townofcary.org <mailto:carissa.johnson@townofcary.org>

Councilmember Richards (District A)- brittany.richards@carync.gov <mailto:brittany.richards@carync.gov>

Councilmember Michelle Craig (District B)- michelle.craig@carync.gov <mailto:michelle.craig@carync.gov>

Councilmember Bella Huang (District C)- bella.huang@carync.gov <mailto:bella.huang@carync.gov>

Councilmember Sarika Bansal (District D)- sarika.bansal@carync.gov <mailto:sarika.bansal@carync.gov>

Thank you,

Blair Usedom (she/her)

Advocacy Specialist

Habitat for Humanity of Wake County Office:

919.744.2432 <tel:919.744.2432>”

All council meetings are streamed and recorded. You can watch for yourself and see that this is not true. Here are the facts: The first draft of the budget will be presented at the Council–Staff quarterly meeting on May 14. As of now, I have not heard any council or staff members discuss cutting funding for affordable housing. On the contrary, I have only heard council members express interest in increasing support for affordable housing. It is extremely disappointing that an advocacy group representing a worthwhile organization is spreading inaccurate information.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A request to sign the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge (we do it every year).
• A concern about speeding near West Cary Middle School.
• A concern about spending money to help Chatham Estates residents move: “Where is this money coming from? Does our town regularly pay for citizens’ moving costs? If so, I have a planned move that I would like the taxpayers to foot the bill for so please tell me where to send the invoice.”
• A concern about developments cutting down trees.
• A concern about threats and safety issues from “reckless motorized bike usage” and “physical endangerment and verbal threats”.
• Two requests not to cut affordable housing funds (not aware of any plans to cut affordable housing).

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a State of Cary for Berkshire Hathaway Home Service York Simpson Underwood Realty Office, an AARP regional meeting, a council work session, a meeting with a developer, a Cary Sister Cities reception, a council meeting, and a NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, May 3^rd, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina and most mid-sized cities in the U.S., uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Cary Tennis Classic Sponsor Event

The Cary Tennis Classic Board hosted a sponsor event at Rey’s Restaurant in Cary, with support from Rey’s and the Cary Chamber of Commerce. I joined Ted Reese in speaking about the future of the tournament and the Cary Tennis Center.

Council Group Photo

On Tuesday afternoon, the council gathered in the council chambers for our official group photo, a tradition that takes place after every election. Dozens of shots were taken using two different cameras, and one will be selected and shared in the near future.

Cary Chamber Elected Officials Reception

On Tuesday evening, I joined the full council at the Cary Chamber Elected Officials Reception. About a hundred attendees, including elected officials, their representatives from all levels of government, and business leaders, were present. Along with several other speakers, I expressed gratitude to our leaders at every level for helping make Cary one of the greatest communities in America.

State of Cary at Cary MacGregor Rotary

On Wednesday, I delivered a condensed version of the State of Cary address to the Cary MacGregor Rotary, which ran for about twenty minutes. Roughly a third of my remarks focused on the former town manager. During the Q&A, I was asked why certain staff members remained despite their close association with the former manager, as well as questions about the Waverly Place rezoning.

CAMPO Executive Board

On Wednesday afternoon, I attended a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board. The agenda featured two consent items and four discussion items.

The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included the adoption of Amendment #2 to the FY 2026 Unified Planning Work Program.

All four discussion items were presented for informational purposes only. These included updates on the Triangle Transportation Choices/Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program, NC 540 (R-2829) Bonus Allocation Programming, Amendment #3 to the FY 2026–2035 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and the Wake Transit Conference Committee.

Council Work Session

The council held a work session on Thursday evening to review the meeting calendar, decide on the future of the convenience center, and talk about the delegation of authority.

Changes in the calendar will require new dates for the August and November quarterly meetings.

Cary’s Convenience Center, originally established in the 1950s along a railroad right-of-way, has long been the only municipally operated convenience center in the county; all others are county funded. When Cary requested county support for a new facility within town limits, the county declined, noting that existing sites in Apex, Holly Springs, and Morrisville could serve most Cary residents within an approximately 15-minute drive.

The railroad has now required Cary to vacate the right-of-way by the end of the year, including the removal of all structures, materials, concrete, and asphalt. In response, staff recently presented the Town Council with three options. The first option, removing only the asphalt and structures, was estimated at $175,000. All options require option one.  The second option included retaining the yard waste and food waste operations on-site, at a total cost of $525,000, allowing services to continue without interruption. The third option involved relocating and rebuilding the facility at a new site, with costs starting at $5 million. There will also be a service gap of at least a year with this option. After reviewing options and discussing them for weeks, the Council unanimously selected the second option to just keep the yard and food waste on site. All other services will end on December 30.

The discussion on delegation of authority focused on granting the ability to negotiate, award, approve, and execute contracts and other instruments. This authority would extend to the manager, deputy managers, assistant town managers, along with targeted delegations to specific staff. In particular, the conversation addressed delegating the power to award contracts for the purchase of apparatus, supplies, materials, and equipment above the formal bid threshold; to lease or rent town-owned property for terms of one year or less; and to acquire real or personal property, including accepting donations.

The council reviewed comparative information from other municipalities and considered three potential options for moving forward. I emphasized that, regardless of the option selected, the policy should be revisited in one year.

A key challenge in limiting authority involves emergency situations, where calling a council meeting to appropriate funds may not be practical. Emergency meetings require six hours’ notice, which can be problematic in urgent scenarios such as water outages or sewer line failures.

The council will continue this discussion in the near future. There appeared to be general consensus around requiring reporting for expenditures over $300,000 and placing limits on spending authority for the manager, deputy manager, assistant managers, and department directors.

Council Meeting

The council held it first regularly scheduled meeting of April on Thursday night. The agenda included two presentations, one consent item, one public hearing, and two discussion items.

I received a big check from the CAP (Citizens Assisting Police) for the first presentation item. This check represented all the time and money saved by the CAP team volunteers. We are blessed to have so many people willing to help our police department and our community.

Council member Richards presented an Earth Day proclamation to members of the Environmental Advisory Board.

The Public Speaks Out portion of the meeting were speakers from two primary groups. Those supporting amending our smoke free ordinance and those who are part of OneWake. The OneWake speakers want the town to permanently dedicate one percent of our budget toward building more affordable housing.

The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included the call for a public hearing for an annexation petition on Macedonia Road. This is related to rezoning 23-REZ-06.  

The public hearing was for an annexation request also on Macedonia Road related to rezoning 20-REZ-12 which allows for 226 multi-family units. Previously this was approved for 250 age restricted units. After the public hearing the request was approved unanimously.

The first discussion item was a council-initiated item on our e-bike ordinance. The council asked staff to do a comprehensive review of our e-bike ordinance and come back with suggestions.

The second discussion item was a council-initiated item to amend our smoke-free ordinance. Council agreed to ask staff to come back with information to make our ordinance more in line with neighboring municipalities.

Council Out & About

With just two months left before we finalize the FY 2027 budget, the pace has picked up. This means more meetings, more decisions, and limited time to weigh competing needs. It’s pushed me to stay focused. My top priorities haven’t changed since I ran for office in 2023.

Affordable housing remains at the top. I believe we must continue investing in solutions that expand access and stability so Cary remains a place for everyone. I also remain committed to transportation-related investments, including sidewalks and maintaining our roads.

I’m focused on community engagement and fair, inclusive policies and practices that value diversity.

For me, this week included the Davis Drive Inclusive Playground dedication, time supporting Chatham Estates residents facing displacement, and listening to all voices in a rezoning case.

I told you my priorities. Let us know your budget priorities by calling 311 or emailing 311@carync.gov. To support neighbors facing displacement, visit NeighborUp.org/ChathamEstates.

Michelle Craig

District B

Child Abuse Prevention Month

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson gave remarks at the Child Abuse Prevention Month event at the Wake County Social Services Center. Also in attendance were community advocates and county staff. This event highlighted the importance of protecting children and raising awareness about abuse prevention resources in our community.

State of Cary at Searstone

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht gave remarks at the State of Cary presentation at Searstone; also in attendance was Councilmember Brittany Richards. This event provided updates on Cary’s growth, key initiatives, and future plans while engaging residents in meaningful dialogue.

Green Level High School Multicultural Festival

Councilwoman Sarika Bansal attended the Green Level High School Multicultural Festival. This event highlighted cultural diversity through performances, displays, and shared cuisine while fostering unity and raising funds for Doctors Without Borders.

Davis Drive Inclusive Playground

Councilmember Brittany Richards gave remarks at the Davis Drive Playground Celebration; also in attendance were Councilmembers Bella Huang and Michelle Craig. This event highlighted the Town’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion through the celebration of an inclusive playground, providing a welcoming space for children of all abilities to play and connect.

State of Cary at Courtyards in West Cary

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht gave remarks at the State of Cary presentation at the Courtyards at West Cary Clubhouse; also in attendance was Councilwoman Sarika Bansal. This event provided residents with updates on Town progress, priorities, and upcoming initiatives.

Battle of the Badges Softball Tournament in Holly Springs

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson threw out the first pitch at the Battle of the Badges softball tournament at Ting Stadium. Also in attendance were public safety teams from across Wake County and community members. This event highlighted community spirit and friendly competition among first responders while raising funds to benefit Make-A-Wish.

Founders Day Tour

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht participated the Founders Day Tour. This event highlighted Cary’s rich history and provided an opportunity to celebrate the Cary’s heritage.

Interim Town Manager’s Update

Russ’s Message

Council,

This week, the North Carolina General Assembly House Committee on Property Tax approved a recommendation to pursue legislation that would limit property tax levy increases by cities and counties. Property tax is our primary revenue source, and a cap like this could make it more difficult to deliver the services our community relies on. You may have seen this in the news, and we’ve shared a bit about it before. We’re keeping an eye on it as it moves through the general assembly and will keep you updated as things develop.

On a lighter note, this week, Margaret Moore from the budget team and I visited the Rotary Club to share much of the same information from the Budget Open House. It was good to get out and continue that conversation with residents.

I hope y’all have a great weekend and stay cool as this stretch of heat sticks around.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,483 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,566
• Email: 361
• Web: 285
• Internal: 182
• Walk-In: 28
• Text: 40
• Social Media: 21

55.58% of cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 511
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 307
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 205
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 205
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 149

Water Supply Update

Cary is actively monitoring developing drought conditions across the region. Jordan Lake, Cary’s primary water source, remains a reliable supply and is currently above its normal operating level.

Cary has long prioritized water conservation, with per capita water demand steadily decreasing over the past three decades. The existing year-round conservation approach remains in place, including alternate-day watering, and no additional restrictions are anticipated at this time.

More information about water conservation practices, and current drought and water supply status is available on Cary’s website, along with a history of conservation trends on the Open Data Portal.

Kildaire Farm Road Repaving

Beginning Monday, the outside lanes of Kildaire Farm Road will be resurfaced between Byrum Street and Shirley Drive. A lane closure will be in place with two-way traffic maintained by a flagging operation. This work will take approximately two days, weather dependent. Dowell Drive will be closed at Kildaire Farm Road, with a detour in place via Meadow Drive. Shirley Drive should not be used as an alternate route during this time, as sewer main replacement work is ongoing.

The center lane of Kildaire Farm Road was paved in spring 2025 following completion of the water main project, while the remaining lanes were deferred to accommodate curb and stormwater installation associated with the Soca 56 development.

Annual Street Project Improvement Begins

The construction bid award for the 2026 Street Improvements Project was approved on March 26. Beginning next week, construction crews will focus on upgrading curb ramps to meet ADA standards. Milling and paving activities are anticipated to begin in June and continue into the fall. This annual project includes maintenance patching, curb and gutter repair, pavement marking restoration, and asphalt resurfacing in priority areas, helping maintain the condition of Cary’s roadway network. For more information on the locations of these improvements, visit the project webpage.

Walnut Street Gravel Parking Lot Improvements Begin

Improvements to the Walnut Street gravel parking lot are now complete. The project included the addition of two new ADA-compliant parking pads, a connecting sidewalk to Walnut Street, and additional stone to better support parking needs. Retaining walls and regraded areas help stabilize the lot and reduce stormwater runoff, while new plants and shrubs provide additional screening and an improved appearance.

Hemlock Trees Treated for HWA

Cary continues proactive management of the eastern hemlock population at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, where staff monitor the presence of the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). Through an ongoing partnership with NC State and the NC Forest Service, staff track HWA activity and utilize a five-year cycle to protect the trees with insecticide treatments.

Recently, a small population of hemlocks located on steep, difficult-to-access sections of the bluffs required treatment. Staff arborists Kelly Blair and Joe Morgan worked with Hemlock Bluffs staff to rappel the bluff face and treat these trees, helping maintain this sensitive and defining natural area.

Health and Wellness Fair at the Senior Center

On Friday, the Senior Center hosted a newly redesigned Health & Wellness Fair focused on practical resources that support healthy aging. A WakeMed dietician shared helpful guidance on how dietary needs change over time, offering simple strategies for staying energized and well. Community partners provided information on fitness and mobility programs, social engagement opportunities, and mental health resources. The event gave attendees valuable tools and connections to help them continue living active and fulfilling lives.

Davis Drive Inclusive Playground Opening

Cary celebrated the opening of the Davis Drive Inclusive Playground last Saturday, welcoming more than 300 attendees for fun, food, and entertainment. The playground was thoughtfully designed to create opportunities for children of all abilities to play, explore, and connect, adding an accessible space to the community.

Pimento Cheese Festival

Cheese lovers gathered in Cary last Saturday for the Pimento Cheese Festival, with more than 20,000 attendees marking the event’s largest turnout in its eight-year history. The festival featured more than 35 food trucks, nine breweries, and 16 vendors in the Pimento Cheese Marketplace, with more than 10,000 pounds of pimento cheese being served. The Embers performed throughout the day, and The Soccer Tournament (TST) kicked off the festivities with the Puppy Cup.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meetings – May 6

The following neighborhood meetings will be held on Wednesday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m.

• 26-REZ-06 Regency Park PDD Amendment (Regency Woods)
• 26-REZ-07 5045 Old Raleigh Road

For more information and to register, please visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting page. 

Important Dates

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, April 22, 6:00 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, April 23, 6:00 p.m.

Council Initiated Items

The council has a process that allows members to introduce items for discussion at meetings, often leading to further action. Given the recent increase in these requests, I will begin sharing them here along with my perspective on their pros and cons.

E-Bike Safety

This proposal, submitted by Council Members Bansal and Richards, This was presented at the April 16^th meeting and will come back with recommendations at a future meeting.

The council initially launched a pilot program in June 2022 to allow e-bikes. After a one-year trial period, the program was made permanent, with a posted speed limit of 15 mph on greenways. Recently, however, there have been complaints that e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices are traveling at excessive speeds and creating potentially hazardous conditions.

PROS:

• We are listening to our citizens’ complaints.
• Preventing e-bikes and scooters will possibly make greenways safer.

CONS:

• There is basically no way to enforce an ordinance that has e-bikes or not.
• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.
• We are revisiting a decision that was made after a one-year trial and review of data.

Smoke Free Ordinance

This proposal, submitted by Mayor Pro-Tem Bush and Council Member Craig. This was presented at the April 16^th meeting and will come back with recommendations at a future meeting.

PROS:

• Eliminates toxic secondhand smoke.
• Current ordinance does not match state law and Raleigh/Wake ordinance.

CONS:

• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.

Affordable Housing on Old Library Site

This proposal, submitted by Mayor Pro Tem Bush and Council Member Bansal, would place a podium-style parking deck with affordable housing on the former library site. This has yet to be scheduled for a meeting agenda.

PROS:

• Adds parking across from Downtown Cary Park.
• Create affordable housing units in the downtown area.

CONS:

• May underutilize one of the municipality’s most valuable properties. Downtown Cary Park generates approximately $16 million annually in economic impact, and this site could represent an opportunity for a more transformative use.
• The town has already invested millions in renovating the Ivey-Ellington House, positioning this area as a premier destination.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A request to sign the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge (we do it every year).
• A complaint about airplane noise (unfortunately that authority is with RDU airport authority).
• A complaint that the Speight Branch greenway does not connect to Tryon Village.
• A complaint about a recycling pickup issue.
• A complaint that my State of Cary was “a blame-shifting attempt at deflection and obfuscation”.
• A request to help design future fire stations.
• A complaint that our interim manager does not live in Cary (Cary ordinances does not require this).
• A complaint that Mayor Pro-Tem Bush and council member Bansal are considering Affordable Housing on the old library site.
• Kudos for cleanup after the Pimento Cheese Festival.
• A request to use Apex’s budgeting tool.
• A request to do more for sustainability.
• An email stating e-bikes are not an issue on the greenways for most.
• A request to match the smoke-free ordinance of other municipalities.
• Blaming me for the Durham incident where children were taking by ICE: “sticking your head in the sand”, “Are you sleeping at night?” (BTW, not a Cary resident).

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Searstone tour, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau meeting, a tour of Waste Management’s Material Recovery Facility, a taping of Cary Matters, a State of Cary presentation at Heritage Pines, and a Walk to Defeat Dementia.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, April 26^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina and most mid-sized cities in the U.S., uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

New Inclusive Playground at Davis Drive Park

It was announced earlier this week that there will be a new inclusive Playground at Davis Drive Park thanks to the Shane Pegram Family Foundation who donated $400,000 supporting accessibility upgrades. Here is the press release from that announcement:

Cary, NC – Cary invites the community to celebrate a new inclusive playground at Davis Drive Park, 1610 Davis Drive, on April 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. Supported by ACCESS Cary, the celebration will feature free entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities, including delicious treats from Buoy Bowles and NC Mini Doughnut Co. Community members are invited to explore the new playground, connect with neighbors, and learn more about inclusive play opportunities in Cary and across the Triangle region.

Designed with accessibility and inclusion in mind, the new playground at Davis Drive Park creates a welcoming environment where individuals of all abilities can explore, interact, and play together. The space incorporates features that encourage inclusive play and support a variety of physical, sensory, and social experiences for children and families.

“The Davis Drive park inclusive playground represents more than a place to play; it’s a space where everyone can feel a sense of belonging,” said John Collins, director of Cary’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department. “We’re proud to continue advancing inclusive recreation opportunities for our community.”

Cary is committed to creating recreation spaces, programs, and experiences that are welcoming and accessible for all. In addition to more than 30 parks and natural areas, Cary offers a variety of opportunities for residents and visitors to get outside, stay active, and connect with the community. Discover even more ways to play, relax, and connect at carync.gov/parks and learn about Cary’s approach to accessibility in recreation through ACCESS Cary.

Cary is blessed to have this playground in our community so that all children can have fun and thrive no matter what their abilities.

Cary Hosting National Pickleball Championship

Monday I was notified that the National Pickleball Championship will be held here in Cary. Here is the press release of that announcement:

Cary, NC — Cary will host the Veolia Pickleball National Championships at Cary Tennis Park from Aug. 31 through Sept. 6, 2026. The event marks a major expansion of Cary’s partnership with the Carvana PPA Tour, as the Town becomes the site of the Tour’s national championship and 2026 global season launch. 

“It’s exciting to see how much the PPA Tour experience has grown here in Cary,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Our staff does an incredible job making these events special for both players and fans, and our community really shows up. We’re proud to welcome the pickleball world back to Cary.” 

The tournament will include world No. 1 players Anna Leigh Waters (Singles, Doubles, Mixed), Ben Johns (Doubles), Gabe Tardio (Mixed), and Chris Haworth (Singles), alongside North Carolina residents such as world No. 2 Kate Fahey and world No. 4 Brooke Buckner. 

“As pickleball enjoys enormous growth in popularity and participation in the United States and globally, it is critical that we bring the very best of the PPA to the most passionate regions, and North Carolina has shown us year after year how fervent they are about the sport,” said Connor Pardoe, Founder and CEO of the Carvana PPA Tour. “The PPA brings incredible energy and enthusiasm to all our tournaments, and our Slam tournaments are where we shine the brightest, with unmatched entertainment and excitement for everyone to enjoy. The first-ever Veolia Pickleball National Championships will raise that bar even higher as we turn the Greater Raleigh area into the place where every pickleball fanatic wants to be this summer.” 

The 2026 championship is expected to draw more than 2,000 players and thousands of daily attendees, with major network television and streaming coverage showcasing Cary to a global audience. The event is supported in part by a State of North Carolina grant of up to $984,850 through the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund. 

Cary hosted PPA Tour events in 2024 and 2025, which generated more than $6 million in direct economic impact, according to the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. 

“Hosting world-class events is what Cary is built for,” said Cary Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Director John Collins. “We’re building on that foundation to deliver an experience that reflects both the growth of pickleball and Cary’s ability to host at the highest level.” 

Cary Tennis Park is North Carolina’s largest public tennis facility and was named the nation’s “Municipal Facility of the Year” by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) for the second time in 2025. 

Beyond the courts, visitors will find themselves minutes from the award-winning Downtown Cary Park, dining, greenways, and cultural destinations, making it easy to turn a tournament visit into a full Cary experience. 

From early matches through championship play, the event will offer an energetic, festival-style atmosphere, including live concerts, fan engagement, and pro-led camps and clinics. 

Player registration is now open for amateur divisions across all skill levels, and tickets are available on the PPA Tour’s website. 

I am looking forward to this event and hope to see you there.

Budget Open House

On Tuesday, the town held a public budget open house at the Cary Senior Center from 3 to 7 p.m., drawing 67 attendees. The event featured a presentation on budget issues every fifteen minutes, along with representatives from all town departments. All council members were present except one. I’m interested to see the results of the surveys completed by those who attended.

State of Cary at Searstone

On Wednesday evening, I delivered the State of Cary address to residents of Searstone, joined by Council Member Richards. The auditorium was full, with an estimated attendance of more than 200 people. While there were few questions during the Q&A session, several attendees approached us with questions afterward. Overall, the feedback indicated that residents feel the town is moving forward and handling the former town manager’s situation appropriately.

TST Taping

On Thursday morning, I recorded a welcome message for TST (The Soccer Tournament), which will be held in June. The challenge was making it feel like summer while the actual temperature hovered around 40 degrees. We filmed portions at WakeMed Soccer Park and on the skywalk at Downtown Cary Park. I’m looking forward to seeing the finished product.

NC Metro Mayors Meeting

On Friday, I participated in a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors, where the primary topic was a legislative preview of proposed property tax reform. We learned how the issue originated, including a visit by several North Carolina Republican legislators to Florida, where there is no state-level property tax. Mayors and their staff were encouraged to reach out to their legislative delegations to express concerns about the potential impact. In Cary, 61% of our revenue comes from property taxes; without a replacement source of funding, any change would significantly affect service levels and quality of life.

State of Cary at Courtyards at West Cary

On Saturday afternoon, I delivered the State of Cary address to roughly three dozen residents at the Courtyards at West Cary. The Q&A session covered a range of topics, including schools, hospitals, taxes, and more. Council Member Bansal joined me and helped address questions. Several attendees stayed afterward to speak with us privately and express their appreciation. Overall, the feedback was very positive, with many noting that the town is doing a great job.

Founders Day Tour

On Sunday afternoon, I portrayed Frank Page during a walking tour as part of a Founders Day play organized by Dr. Katherine Loflin. It was an engaging and informative experience, highlighting Cary’s early history around its founding on April 3, 1871. It’s always a pleasure to take part in Dr. Loflin’s productions.

Traffic Signal Update for Bond Park and High House

Staff provided an update on the future traffic signal at Bond Park Drive and High House Road which will be installed this year. Here is a portion of their update:

Here is a breakdown on the work that is still needed and the timeline until the signal is operational.

• Signal Pole foundations are scheduled to be installed in the next two weeks
• Steel Poles are to be delivered in late May
• Late June is the current schedule for the signal to go operational
• Restricting left turns at Maury O’Dell to come after the signal is in operation at Bond Park Drive

These items have been completed…

• Power Service Meter and Signal Cabinet are installed
• Conduit work has been completed

Thanks to the staff for all there are doing to making this traffic signal a reality.

Interim Town Manager’s Update

Russ’s Message

Council,

I wanted to take a minute to reflect on this week’s Budget Open House.

First, a big thank you to everyone who helped make it happen. There was a lot that went into it. A lot of planning, coordination, and plenty of people jumping in wherever they were needed. From the folks who helped design the event, to setting up and breaking down, to the team handling the tech, to those out front talking with residents. It all mattered. The event felt thoughtful and welcoming. It really reflected who we are and how we serve, and that’s something to be proud of. I know I am.

We had 67 people join us in person and more than 11,500 views on the livestream. That tells me people are paying attention and staying engaged. And if anyone missed it, the recording is on Cary’s YouTube channel. About two-thirds of the folks in the room filled out a survey, which gives us some really helpful feedback. Staff is going through that now and will bring a full summary to you at a future work session.

I also had a chance to spend some time with staff earlier today at an All Hands meeting focused on the budget. It’s been great keeping everyone in the loop as we continue developing the FY27 budget together.

Cricket RFQ

A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to build a cricket ground at Mills Park has been posted to the NC Electronic Vendor Portal. Interested local cricket organizations are invited to submit qualifications by July 2.

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,205 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,342
• Email: 345
• Web: 306
• Internal: 157
• Walk-In: 29
• Text: 18
• Social Media: 8

55.17% of cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 455
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 310
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 178
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 169
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 118

Academy Street Parking Deck Opens April 11

The Academy Street Parking Deck will open tomorrow just in time for the Pimento Cheese Festival, helping accommodate increased visitor traffic and improve access to downtown. Located at the southeast corner of Harrison Avenue and Chatham Street, the five-level deck is part of the broader Northwoods Jordan development and includes 225 public parking spaces owned by Cary, with shared-use arrangements that support nearby partners. Access to the deck is available via Harrison Avenue, Academy Street, and Waddell Plaza. For more information on parking in downtown Cary, visit carync.gov/parking. 

Cary 101 Kickoff

This year’s Cary 101 program kicked off last week with its opening civics session, where Interim Town Manager Russ Overton provided an introduction to the program. Participants also received an overview of Cary’s structure, legal and financial framework, and participated in a budget prioritization exercise. The second session this week focused on how Cary promotes environmental stewardship, approaches marketing, and keeps residents informed, including how these efforts connect to and support 311.

Harrison Tank Rehabilitation Complete

Construction on the Harrison Avenue elevated water storage tank is complete, and the tank has been disinfected and returned to service. The one-million-gallon tank, originally built in 1974, received new protective coatings on both the interior and exterior. Regular preventive maintenance and rehabilitation help prevent corrosion and preserve structural integrity, extending the service life of the tank. The new coatings are expected to last approximately 15 years before requiring an overcoat.

Hampton Valley Road All Way Stop

Staff recently installed signs and pavement markings to convert the intersection of Hampton Valley Road and Willowbrook Drive to an all-way stop following a review of traffic volumes and driver behavior. LED-enhanced signs were used for the new stop approach on Willowbrook Drive and will remain in place for approximately three months to draw attention to the change.

Arbor Day Recap

Cary celebrated Arbor Day last Saturday, marking its 43rd consecutive year as a Tree City USA community. The event highlighted Cary’s continued commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, including recognition of 2025 Hometown Spirit Award recipient Carla Michaels with Cary’s official Arbor Day tree, a flowering dogwood to be planted at Jack Smith Park. Held in conjunction with My Tree, Our Tree, which distributed 600 native trees to residents, an additional 150 trees were provided through the Ask an Arborist booth, bringing the total to 750 new trees added to Cary’s urban forest.

Share and Care

ACCESS Cary successfully hosted another Share & Care, welcoming more than 50 vendors and over 260 attendees. The event brought together individuals with disabilities, families, caregivers, service providers, and community organizations to connect residents with meaningful resources and opportunities. As a key connection point, Share & Care supports those navigating services, exploring inclusive recreation, and seeking educational and therapeutic resources, while also helping reduce barriers to information, increase awareness of available services, and strengthen community connections.

Hippity Hoppity Easter Egg Hunt

On March 29, the Hippity Hoppity Easter Egg Hunt at the USA Baseball National Training Complex welcomed 900 registered children and approximately 1,400 attendees. Before the hunt, families enjoyed photos with the Easter Bunny, Spider-Man, and Rapunzel, along with roaming entertainment including bubble artists, a winged dancer, a juggler, a magician, and a mirror disco ball performer. The event created a lively atmosphere and a memorable experience for attendees of all ages.

Important Dates

Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Advisory Board
Monday, April 13, 6:00 p.m.

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, April 14, 6:00 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, April 15, 6:15 p.m.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting
Wednesday, April 15, 6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Thursday, April 16, 5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, April 16, 6:30 p.m.

Council Initiated Items

The council has a process that allows members to introduce items for discussion at meetings, often leading to further action. Given the recent increase in these requests, I will begin sharing them here along with my perspective on their pros and cons.

E-Bike Safety

This proposal, submitted by Council Members Bansal and Richards, will be on the April 16 council meeting agenda.

The council initially launched a pilot program in June 2022 to allow e-bikes. After a one-year trial period, the program was made permanent, with a posted speed limit of 15 mph on greenways. Recently, however, there have been complaints that e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices are traveling at excessive speeds and creating potentially hazardous conditions.

PROS:

• We are listening to our citizens’ complaints.
• Preventing e-bikes and scooters will possibly make greenways safer.

CONS:

• There is basically no way to enforce an ordinance that has e-bikes or not.
• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.
• We are revisiting a decision that was made after a one-year trial and review of data.

Smoke Free Ordinance

This proposal, submitted by Mayor Pro-Tem Bush and Council Member Craig, will be on the April 16 council meeting agenda.

PROS:

• Eliminates toxic secondhand smoke.
• Current ordinance does not match state law and Raleigh/Wake ordinance.

CONS:

• Any enforcement effort would require additional officers and officers’ time. We are currently underfunding officers and require overtime to maintain existing levels of service.

Affordable Housing on Old Library Site

This proposal, submitted by Mayor Pro Tem Bush and Council Member Bansal, would place a podium-style parking deck with affordable housing on the former library site. This has yet to be scheduled for a meeting agenda.

PROS:

• Adds parking across from Downtown Cary Park.
• Create affordable housing units in the downtown area.

CONS:

• May underutilize one of the municipality’s most valuable properties. Downtown Cary Park generates approximately $16 million annually in economic impact, and this site could represent an opportunity for a more transformative use.
• The town has already invested millions in renovating the Ivey-Ellington House, positioning this area as a premier destination.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A concern about time and resources used for the No Kings protest (Dozens of police officers at a cost of $32,000).
• Invitations to several events.
• Several requests to help with student projects.
• A complaint about too much construction work in downtown Cary: “I could not walk my dog without a detour.”
• Several emails asking that Tim Witting, of the Cary staff, be inspector of the year (unfortunately not involved in that decision but I recognize that he is part of our excellent staff).
• A complaint that the former town manager’s book is still on sale.
• A complaint that “Impeach Trump” protestors were allowed on the Cary Arts Center property.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic event, the official council photo, the Cary Chamber Elected Officials event, an abbreviated State of Cary for the MacGregor Rotary, a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board, a council work session, a council meeting, and a NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, April 19^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina and most mid-sized cities in the U.S., uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Nest Nominated for Best Playground Again

The Downtown Cary’s Park Nest Playground was nominated for the best playground in the country for the second consecutive year. The following is the press release:

Cary, NC — The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated again in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground, its second consecutive year on the national list. The nature-inspired play space earned the top-ranking last year and continues to draw families and visitors from across the Triangle. 

“We’re thrilled to see The Nest at Downtown Cary Park nominated again for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Public Playground,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Since opening, The Nest has become a favorite gathering place where children explore, families connect, and visitors experience the creativity and care our staff and community bring to spaces like this. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating this incredible space by voting each day and sharing the opportunity with others.”

Voting is open through noon on April 6. Supporters can vote once per day at the USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards website. No registration or email is required. 

“As Downtown Cary Park enters another year of welcoming visitors from across the region, we’re proud to see The Nest recognized again on a national stage,” said Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis. “This nomination reflects the creativity and care that went into designing a space where children of all ages can explore and play.” 

Nestled within Downtown Cary Park, The Nest is a biophilic, nature-inspired play space designed to spark imagination and exploration. Key features include: 

• Two unique play areas for different age groups
• A signature 20-foot climbing structure modeled after two cardinals – North Carolina’s state bird – by playground design-build company Earthscape
• Slides, large acorns, and fallen logs to encourage imaginative and active play
• A seasonal splash pad that provides a place to cool off during warmer months

Designed by award-winning firms OJB Landscape Architecture and urban design firm Machado Silvetti and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Downtown Cary Park reflects Cary’s commitment to innovative public spaces that enhance quality of life and strengthen the local economy. 

Since opening in 2023, the seven-acre park has become a hub for recreation, events, family play, and community connection. It has hosted millions of visitors and thousands of events and has emerged as a national model for modern public spaces, with recognitions including: 

• 2025 American Architecture Award – Parks and Gardens, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, The European Center for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and Metropolitan Arts Press
• 2025 Innovation by Design Award – Best Urban Design Project, Fast Company
• 2025 Awards for Excellence Finalist, ULI Americas
• 2024 Voters’ Choice Award – Best Park, WRAL
• 2024 Gold Award, National Association of Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence
• 2024 Grand Award, Landscape Contractors Association Excellence in Landscape Awards
• 2024 Space Award – Top Municipal Project, Triangle Business Journal 

According to the Incentis Group, the Park is generating $5 million in direct economic impact and has contributed to more than $800 million in property value increases. It has supported the creation of more than 80 full-time jobs and is projected to add $3.5 million annually in property and sales tax revenue by 2028. 

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top attractions and destinations across the country, selected by a panel of experts and voted on by the public. To learn more about the awards, visit 10best.usatoday.com.  

Make sure you vote every day until April 6^th!

Raleigh-Cary #3 for Women Owned Businesses

A recent study from CoworkingCafe found that women-owned businesses make up nearly 23% of all firms in the United States, and the Raleigh metro area stands out as one of the best places for them to thrive.

According to the report, Raleigh-Cary ranks as the third-best metro area in the country for women-owned businesses. In this region, these businesses account for more than 25% of all firms, placing it sixth nationwide by that measure alone. The area also scored highly in key factors such as earning potential, workforce participation, and a well-educated female talent pool.

World University Games Regional Stakeholders Meeting

On Tuesday, I met with more than 20 stakeholders to discuss plans for the World University Games (WUG), which are scheduled to take place in the region for three weeks in July 2029. Competitions are expected to be held across Greensboro, Durham, Raleigh, and Cary. The event is projected to generate over 3,000 hours of national and international television coverage, reaching millions of viewers worldwide.

An estimated 10,000 athletes, coaches, administrators, media representatives, VIPs, and fans are anticipated to attend, providing a significant economic boost to the area.

Cary has tentatively agreed to host competitions at WakeMed Soccer Park and Cary Tennis Park, with additional training activities planned at USA Baseball and the Triangle Aquatic Center (TAC). However, no formal commitments have been finalized at this time.

Stakeholders, particularly elected officials, expressed a strong interest in understanding the overall scope of the commitment and the associated financial requirements, especially given current fiscal constraints. Any financial contributions would likely need to be distributed over multiple years.

The North Carolina Legislature has already made financial commitments. Federal funding will also be necessary, and securing those resources will require leadership from our congressional delegation.

World Rugby Nations Cup Coming to Cary!

World Rugby, in partnership with USA Rugby and TEG Rugby Live, has announced that the World Rugby Nations Cup will be held in Cary this summer. The USA Eagles are set to face Spain on the evening of Saturday, July 18, at First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

So how did this exciting matchup land in Cary? You can thank the 2029 World University Games!

State of Cary to Cary 101 Kickoff

Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of sharing a brief version of the State of Cary at the kickoff of the Cary 101 class. I was followed by Interim Manager Overton and later by Finance Director Branch.

Cary 101 gives residents the opportunity to learn how municipal government works, the services it provides, and how they can get involved. Participants enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at local government structure, culture, and decision-making. Through discussion and hands-on activities, they gain a deeper understanding of the scope and complexity of town planning and operations.

This year, more than 80 people applied for just 25 spots, demonstrating strong community interest in engaging with local government.

Council Out and About

As we enter April, we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month by recognizing the incredible spirit of service that defines our town. Whether you are mentoring students, working to better our natural and shared spaces, or supporting the many vital nonprofits that call our community home, your tireless commitment makes a lasting impact. Your willingness to share your time and expertise strengthens the very fabric of Cary and enhances the lives of your neighbors every single day. Thank you!

In that same spirit of community involvement, we invite you to share your perspective by attending our Budget Open House on April 7, 2026. Cary’s FY27 budget is currently being developed, and your input is essential to the process. Please join us at the Cary Senior Center Ballroom any time between 3 and 7 p.m. to learn how the Town’s budget works and share your priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. This is a casual, drop-in event with no RSVP required. If you cannot attend in person, you can always share your feedback at carync.gov/budgetinput or find more details at carync.gov/openhouse.

Carissa Kohn-Johnson

Council At-Large

State of Cary – Templeton

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered his State of Cary address at Templeton Retirement Living, highlighting key initiatives and future priorities. Councilmember Bella Huang attended and joined residents for a question-and-answer session following the presentation, engaging in discussion and addressing community interests while emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and ongoing efforts to support Cary’s continued growth.

CERT Training

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush joined residents in a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class to build preparedness skills and better understand emergency response. The training covered disaster readiness, basic protocols, and how volunteers support neighborhood safety, helping strengthen community resilience and improving the town’s ability to respond effectively during crises.

Cary Arbor Day

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Bella Huang participated in Cary’s Arbor Day celebration. Craig read the official proclamation and shared remarks highlighting the importance of trees. The event recognized environmental stewardship and encouraged the community to support conservation efforts that enhance Cary’s natural beauty and sustainability for future generations.

ElevateGov AI

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush participated in ElevateGov AI, a civic innovation program by Elevate Cities and the U.S. Roundtable supporting leaders advancing responsible, transparent, ethical AI adoption. The initiative highlights city-led efforts building public trust and delivering long-term community benefits nationwide, with participation from cities like Denver and Chicago.

World Down Syndrome Day

Councilmember Sarika Bansal visited GiGi’s Playhouse in honor of World Down Syndrome Day. She met with program participants and their families, learning about services offered and celebrating the day’s significance. The visit highlighted community support, inclusion, and awareness for individuals with Down syndrome and those who benefit from the organization’s programs.

Congresswoman Ross

Councilmember Sarika Bansal met with Congresswoman Deborah Ross to discuss bus service in District D and increasing investment in affordable housing. Their conversation focused on expanding transit access, addressing affordable housing needs, and exploring opportunities for collaboration to better serve residents and support our community.

GFS Global Indian Visa Application Center

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended an event at the VFS Global Indian Visa Application Center in Raleigh to understand the needs of Indian Americans in the Research Triangle region. She learned about current challenges and opportunities, engaging with community members to strengthen connections and support inclusive local initiatives.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The town’s webpage on the Town Manager Transition can be found here. Public Records Requests and answers can be found on the 311 portal here.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint about spending in general, especially on the electric fire truck.
• Requests to fund affordable housing and Habitat (We do fund affordable housing, and Habitat didn’t ask for any funding).
• Requests to attend several events.
• Requests from several students.
• A complaint about a potential DHS facility.
• Complaints about the rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14 in Weston.
• Thanks for the State of Cary address.
• A thank you statement: “I truly enjoy the way of life in Cary and you, Mayor, as the custodian, have preserved and allowed the town to prosper.” (Thank you!)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a budget open house, a State of Cary at Searstone, a TST taping, a NC Metro Mayors meeting, a Founders Day rehearsal, a State of Cary at the Courtyards at West Cary, and a Founders Day walking tour.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Nest Nominated for Best Playground Again

The Downtown Cary’s Park Nest Playground was nominated for the best playground in the country for the second consecutive year. The following is the press release:

Cary, NC — The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated again in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground, its second consecutive year on the national list. The nature-inspired play space earned the top-ranking last year and continues to draw families and visitors from across the Triangle. 

“We’re thrilled to see The Nest at Downtown Cary Park nominated again for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Public Playground,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Since opening, The Nest has become a favorite gathering place where children explore, families connect, and visitors experience the creativity and care our staff and community bring to spaces like this. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating this incredible space by voting each day and sharing the opportunity with others.”

Voting is open through noon on April 6. Supporters can vote once per day at the USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards website. No registration or email is required. 

“As Downtown Cary Park enters another year of welcoming visitors from across the region, we’re proud to see The Nest recognized again on a national stage,” said Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis. “This nomination reflects the creativity and care that went into designing a space where children of all ages can explore and play.” 

Nestled within Downtown Cary Park, The Nest is a biophilic, nature-inspired play space designed to spark imagination and exploration. Key features include: 

• Two unique play areas for different age groups
• A signature 20-foot climbing structure modeled after two cardinals – North Carolina’s state bird – by playground design-build company Earthscape
• Slides, large acorns, and fallen logs to encourage imaginative and active play
• A seasonal splash pad that provides a place to cool off during warmer months

Designed by award-winning firms OJB Landscape Architecture and urban design firm Machado Silvetti and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Downtown Cary Park reflects Cary’s commitment to innovative public spaces that enhance quality of life and strengthen the local economy. 

Since opening in 2023, the seven-acre park has become a hub for recreation, events, family play, and community connection. It has hosted millions of visitors and thousands of events and has emerged as a national model for modern public spaces, with recognitions including: 

• 2025 American Architecture Award – Parks and Gardens, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, The European Center for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and Metropolitan Arts Press
• 2025 Innovation by Design Award – Best Urban Design Project, Fast Company
• 2025 Awards for Excellence Finalist, ULI Americas
• 2024 Voters’ Choice Award – Best Park, WRAL
• 2024 Gold Award, National Association of Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence
• 2024 Grand Award, Landscape Contractors Association Excellence in Landscape Awards
• 2024 Space Award – Top Municipal Project, Triangle Business Journal 

According to the Incentis Group, the Park is generating $5 million in direct economic impact and has contributed to more than $800 million in property value increases. It has supported the creation of more than 80 full-time jobs and is projected to add $3.5 million annually in property and sales tax revenue by 2028. 

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top attractions and destinations across the country, selected by a panel of experts and voted on by the public. To learn more about the awards, visit 10best.usatoday.com.  

Make sure you vote every day until April 6^th!

Council 3 x 4 Meetings

This week, I participated in three 3×4 meetings. Topics included how to provide information about a potential ICE office in Cary, interim town manager expenditures (only in December for professional license), bike month, Cary Public Service Academy for the teen council, budget planning, the citizen’s convenience center, delegation of authority, and upcoming agendas.

Council Meeting Prep

Monday afternoon, I met with the Mayor Pro-Tem and senior management team to review the agenda for Thursday’s regularly scheduled council meeting. Throughout the day, I also connected with individual council members to gather any questions or concerns regarding agenda items. Topics raised included the consent agenda process, the street improvements award process, and the Pittard Sears Road rezoning.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

I attended the Cary Tennis Classic board’s monthly meeting on Monday evening. An influencer focused on college tennis joined us to discuss a potential sponsorship opportunity. We also covered several other topics, including plans for the Mayor’s Cup on July 4^th, possible hospitality vendors, community events during the tournament, and potential changes to ticketing.

Epic Games Layoffs

Tuesday I received the following email from the Chief People Officer at Epic Games:

Dear Mayor Weinbrecht,

I regret to inform you that Epic Games, Inc. (Epic, or the “Company”) expects to

permanently lay off employees at the Company’s facility located at 620 Crossroads Boulevard, Cary, NC 27518, USA. Consistent with these plans, we anticipate employee layoffs to commence March 27, 2026. All eligible employees will receive pay in lieu of notice that exceeds the value of their compensation and benefits during the statutory notice period, and they will also have the opportunity to receive additional compensation and continued benefits, conditioned upon signing a release of claims. We are mindful of the difficulties that this layoff poses to employees and the community.

A list of the affected job classifications and number of affected employees in each

classification is attached. No affected employees are represented by a union. All affected employees will be paid all earned wages and applicable fringe benefits upon termination. Epic anticipates that these layoffs will be permanent. No bumping rights exist.

This notice is being provided pursuant to regulations contained in the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act of 1988 and applicable regulations and state obligations, which requires affected employers to provide notice to certain government units or officials of a pending mass layoff or permanent closure and is intended to provide you the best information

available to Epic at this time. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Don Davis at don.davis@epicgames.com.

Sincerely,

Monika Fahlbusch

Chief People Officer

The list of people laid off at the Cary location was 211.

Cary Reaches 100 Miles of Greenways

I was notified this week that Cary has reached 100 miles of greenways. The following is the press release:

Cary, NC – This year marks a significant milestone for Cary’s greenways: Residents and visitors now enjoy over 100 miles to walk, run, bike, and stroll, connecting even more parks, natural areas, schools, retail areas, and employment centers. Cary invites residents to celebrate this milestone at upcoming events throughout the year, including Earth Day Lane at Spring Daze in April, Bike Month in May, National Trails Day in June, Lazy Daze in August, and Great Trails Day at Harvest Fest in October. Residents can also participate in Cary’s 100 Miles Celebration Photo Contest by submitting photos of the greenways in any season by September 1. Selected entries will be featured at the Bond Park Community Center and on GoCary buses.

Cary began developing its nationally recognized greenway system in 1979, steadily building a network that today exceeds 100 miles. Within this system, the White Oak Creek and Black Creek Greenways form part of the designated primary corridor of the East Coast Greenway, a continuous bicycle and pedestrian route stretching from Maine to Florida. Across the Triangle, this corridor includes more than 70 connected miles of off-road greenway, representing one of the most complete urban segments along the entire East Coast Greenway route.

“Over the past 46 years, Cary has demonstrated a strong commitment to its greenway network through the steady expansion of new corridors, the successful pursuit of grant funding, and ongoing collaboration with the development community to deliver greenways as part of new development,” said Cassie Schumacher-Georgopoulos, Cary’s Transportation Director. “We are incredibly proud of what has been accomplished and look forward to continuing to grow a high-quality greenway system that enhances quality of life and connects the Cary community.”

In addition to connecting Cary’s top-tier recreational facilities, the greenway network provides safe, accessible routes for recreation, commuting, and connection to nature.

These shared-use trails welcome everyone, whether you’re walking, running, cycling, skating, or using an ADA mobility device. Cary’s greenways are a valued and cherished amenity for the entire community.

Greenways are a fantastic amenity for our residents and is one of the reasons we have such a high quality of life.

Council Work Session

The council held a work session Tuesday evening to discuss the meeting schedule, a preview of the FY 2027 capital budget, and the interim manager’s update.

During the discussion on the meeting schedule, the council determined that the last two quarterly meetings of the year, August 13 and November 5, will need to be rescheduled. The May 13 quarterly meeting will proceed as planned, despite Mayor Pro-Tem Bush being on vacation.

The capital budget preview prompted a lengthy discussion about increasing funding for affordable housing. I noted that it appeared to be the council’s highest priority, which members strongly affirmed. Several shared that supporting affordable housing was a key reason they ran for office. While I expressed my support for affordable housing, I also clarified that it is not my top priority. My priorities remain aligned with those established at our annual retreat, in the following order:

1. Community Safety
2. New Capital Investment
3. High Performing Staff
4. Affordability

Given the strong emphasis on affordable housing, I suggested the possibility of pursuing another bond. Staff indicated it may be too late for that option but will look into it further.

The budget presentation also highlighted significant needs in fire, police, and other service areas this year. This raises questions about how additional funding for affordable housing could be accommodated without a substantial tax increase.

In the interim manager’s update, he mentioned several items: an RFQ for cricket facilities at Mills Park; the opening of Rose Park Manor, a senior affordable housing development; the opening of the Cedar Street parking deck; the anticipated opening of the Academy Street parking deck next week; and a proposal for a downtown business alliance. The council ultimately voted unanimously against forming a downtown business alliance, concluding that such efforts should remain under the purview of the chamber.

Council Meeting

Thursday night the council held its last regularly scheduled meeting of the month. The agenda included four consent items, one public hearing, and three discussion items.

The consent agenda, which was approved unanimously, included the rezoning on Green Level Church Road which will have single family homes with a density of 1.9 units an acre. The consent agenda also called for a public hearing for the annexation of seven lots on Jones Franklin Road.

The council held a public hearing on Act 40 of the Land Development Ordinance amendments. These updates are intended to incorporate legal and procedural changes, including aligning waiting periods with state statutes, clarifying the process for withdrawing inactive development applications, and revising standards for the maximum height, appearance, and regulation of retaining walls to be consistent with practices in other North Carolina jurisdictions. The proposal will next be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board for review and recommendation.

The first two discussion items addressed the Pittard Sears annexation and rezoning request. The applicant sought to rezone the property from Chatham County Residential 1 to Residential 8 Conditional Use with a Watershed Protection Overlay District (Jordan Lake Subdistrict). Proposed zoning conditions included limiting development to a maximum of 23 detached homes, requiring electric vehicle charging wiring in all residential garages, and installing a pedestrian crossing along Pittard Sears Road. Following comments from each council member, both the annexation and rezoning were approved unanimously.

The final discussion item concerned the Street Improvements Project bid award, which was approved unanimously. During the discussion, it was noted that a recent study found Cary is not investing enough in street maintenance to sustain its current level of service. It was also emphasized that deferring maintenance can lead to costs that are not linear and may increase exponentially in future years.

No Kings Protest

There was a “No Kings Protest” in Cary on Saturday. Here is the news release on this event:

Cary, NC – The No Kings Protest was held this afternoon, organized by Ms. Helen Tack with Greenwood Baptist Church. Attendance was estimated at approximately 3,000 participants, notably smaller than previous No Kings events. The demonstration remained peaceful throughout, and no significant incidents or arrests were made.

To ensure the safety of participants, bystanders, and surrounding neighborhoods, the Town deployed 63 police officers and three fire department personnel throughout the event footprint. These resources supported emergency preparedness and overall public safety operations. Based on FEMA reimbursement standards, the Town’s estimated operational cost is approximately $32,000. We will complete a full after‑action review to capture lessons learned and ensure continued operational readiness in managing large‑scale public events.

Town Manager’s Report

Council,

This afternoon, I joined several of our Directors to Spruce Up Cary, where we helped clean up one of our greenways, and I want to thank Environmental Outreach Program Coordinator Sarah Justice for pulling it all together and making it easy for us to show up, get to work, and spend some time together doing something good for Cary. I’m thankful for leaders who are willing to step away from their desks, work side by side, and invest in both our community and each other. Those moments matter, and they make us a better team.

As a reminder, Town Hall and most staffed facilities will be closed next Friday, April 3, in observance of Good Friday, and there will be no Weekly Report next week.

I also want to highlight our Budget Open House on Tuesday, April 7. This is a first for us and a good opportunity to bring residents and staff together to talk about the upcoming FY27 budget and priorities. Looking forward to hearing what matters most to our residents.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

No 2026 Bond Referendum

Based on scoping meetings with outside bond counsel and Town financial advisors, staff has determined that we cannot seek a ballot initiative for this November’s election. While we are still technically within the window of associated deadlines with county and state agencies, we lack the lead time and capacity to prepare the extensive materials required for presentations to the Local Government Commission (LGC) and others. Following budget adoption, and should Council wish, staff can provide a general plan and schedule for Council’s discussion this summer for a potential November 2027 bond referendum.

RFP For Audit Services Posted

A Request for Proposals (RFP) for Annual Audit Services has been posted to the NC Electronic Vendor Portal. Interested independent auditors with governmental accounting and auditing experience are invited to submit proposals by April 28.

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,500 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,532
• Email: 434
• Web: 312
• Internal: 148
• Walk-In: 34
• Text: 22
• Social Media: 18

50.00% of cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 446
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 307
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 229
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 147
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 121

Joint Letter to Utilities Commission

This week, Mayor Weinbrecht signed on to the 2026 North Carolina Carbon Plan and Integrated Resource Plan (CPIRP) local government joint comment letter addressed to the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC). This letter focuses on affordability, risk reduction, and transparency and accuracy in Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress electricity modeling and forecasting, and centers on keeping costs low for everyday Duke customers and on capitalizing on investments already made to the grid. More information on the CPIRP process and timeline can be found on NC Utility Commission website.

Bid Advertisement for GoCary Bus Operations and Maintenance Facility

The GoCary Bus Operations and Maintenance Facility solicitation for construction was released on March 24, with proposals due April 23. This facility will serve as the foundation for regional mobility growth, providing space for administration, operations, and maintenance functions to support GoCary services. The project is funded through the Wake Transit Plan and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grants. Interested bidders can view the solicitation on the NC Electronic Vendor Portal.

Walnut Street Gravel Parking Lot Closure

Beginning Monday, March 30, contractors working on behalf of Cary will begin improvements to the Walnut Street gravel parking lot. Work will take place over 2 weeks and include new ADA parking pads and the addition of stone that will better meet parking needs. During these 2 weeks, contractors will phase the work to keep portions of the gravel lot open to the public. Weather dependent, work is scheduled to be complete before the Pimento Cheese Festival on Saturday, April 11.

East Chatham Street Lane Closure

Beginning Monday, March 30, contractors working on the 107 E. Chatham development project, Lloyds Full Service, will be working in the westbound lane of E. Chatham Street near the Academy Street intersection to install the new sidewalk and streetscape. This work will require a single-lane closure and a sidewalk detour. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be complete by Friday, April 17.

Leadership Cary Economic Development Day

On Tuesday, Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry joined the Cary Chamber’s Leadership Cary class for its Economic Development Day, where he discussed Cary’s approach to working with developers and regional partners to advance strategic growth. His remarks also included an overview of Cary’s evolution and the importance of public-private partnerships. Representatives from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) and the Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) also participated, along with local developers.

Urban Land Institute Carolinas Downtown Tour

Staff and local developers welcomed a group touring downtown Cary as part of the 2026 Urban Land Institute (ULI) Carolinas Meeting on Monday. The tour highlighted key features of Downtown Cary Park and major development projects in the area, showcasing how public-private partnerships have helped to shape a vibrant and connected downtown.

Creek Week Recap

Creek Week, March 14 – 21, brought together Stormwater, Environmental Services, and PRCR staff for a week of hands-on events highlighting the creeks, culverts, and watersheds that shape the community and the work required to maintain them. In-person programming engaged 466 residents across Cary’s seven watersheds through activities such as litter sweeps, storm drain labeling, and rain garden workshops. The Sip n’ Stroll event prompted thoughtful discussion, with several participants sharing how Cary’s Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) program has benefited their properties and neighborhoods. Overall, the week increased interest in green stormwater practices and strengthened understanding of how water moves through Cary.

Solar Sustainability Tour

Cary’s Solar Sustainability Tour at the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) brought together staff from Utilities, PRCR, and Environment to engage the community on a range of environmental topics. Staff shared their expertise to provide a behind-the-scenes look at how Cary manages natural resources and supports environmental sustainability. Participants explored key topics including water quality, natural resource management, pollinator protection, and renewable energy. Held twice each year, the tour gives participants a firsthand look at Cary’s ongoing environmental work.

Good Hope Farm Native Plant Sale

Cary’s Spring Native Plant Sale at Good Hope Farm brought together 85 community members and distributed more than 600 native wildflowers to support wildlife habitat across the community. Participants received resource guides and connected with staff to get answers to their pollinator-friendly gardening questions. This Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources (PRCR) event supports ecosystem health and advances natural resource goals outlined in the Urban Forest Master Plan.

All Aboard! Model Train Show

The All Aboard! Model Train Show returned to Cary last weekend with record-breaking attendance, welcoming nearly 3,600 visitors over the two-day event. Families and hobbyists of all ages enjoyed exploring detailed train layouts, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities. Now in its third year, the event continues to grow in popularity.

Important Dates

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, April 1, 12:00 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The town’s webpage on the Town Manager Transition can be found here. Public Records Requests and answers can be found on the 311 portal here.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint about a potential ICE facility.
• Several emails to include Habitat for Humanity in our budget (They did not request funding and last time we provided them funding they returned it).
• Several emails about ALS Awareness month (We always do a proclamation).
• A question about Cary 101.
• Questions about Chatham Estates and our funding effort through Stable Homes Cary.
• A complaint about a rezoning proposal in Weston.
• Several requests to continue a consulting contract for Dr. Katherine Loflin.
• A complaint about the Reedy Creek rezoning proposal.
• A complaint about the closing of the convenience center.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting about the World University Games, a State of Cary address for the kickoff class for Cary 101, and a NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, April 5^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Nest Nominated for Best Playground Again

Monday I was notified that the Downtown Cary’s Park Nest Playground was nominated for the best playground in the country for the second consecutive year. The following is the press release:

Cary, NC — The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated again in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground, its second consecutive year on the national list. The nature-inspired play space earned the top-ranking last year and continues to draw families and visitors from across the Triangle. 

“We’re thrilled to see The Nest at Downtown Cary Park nominated again for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Public Playground,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Since opening, The Nest has become a favorite gathering place where children explore, families connect, and visitors experience the creativity and care our staff and community bring to spaces like this. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating this incredible space by voting each day and sharing the opportunity with others.”

Voting is open through noon on April 6. Supporters can vote once per day at the USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards website. No registration or email is required. 

“As Downtown Cary Park enters another year of welcoming visitors from across the region, we’re proud to see The Nest recognized again on a national stage,” said Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis. “This nomination reflects the creativity and care that went into designing a space where children of all ages can explore and play.” 

Nestled within Downtown Cary Park, The Nest is a biophilic, nature-inspired play space designed to spark imagination and exploration. Key features include: 

• Two unique play areas for different age groups
• A signature 20-foot climbing structure modeled after two cardinals – North Carolina’s state bird – by playground design-build company Earthscape
• Slides, large acorns, and fallen logs to encourage imaginative and active play
• A seasonal splash pad that provides a place to cool off during warmer months

Designed by award-winning firms OJB Landscape Architecture and urban design firm Machado Silvetti and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Downtown Cary Park reflects Cary’s commitment to innovative public spaces that enhance quality of life and strengthen the local economy. 

Since opening in 2023, the seven-acre park has become a hub for recreation, events, family play, and community connection. It has hosted millions of visitors and thousands of events and has emerged as a national model for modern public spaces, with recognitions including: 

• 2025 American Architecture Award – Parks and Gardens, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, The European Center for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and Metropolitan Arts Press
• 2025 Innovation by Design Award – Best Urban Design Project, Fast Company
• 2025 Awards for Excellence Finalist, ULI Americas
• 2024 Voters’ Choice Award – Best Park, WRAL
• 2024 Gold Award, National Association of Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence
• 2024 Grand Award, Landscape Contractors Association Excellence in Landscape Awards
• 2024 Space Award – Top Municipal Project, Triangle Business Journal 

According to the Incentis Group, the Park is generating $5 million in direct economic impact and has contributed to more than $800 million in property value increases. It has supported the creation of more than 80 full-time jobs and is projected to add $3.5 million annually in property and sales tax revenue by 2028. 

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top attractions and destinations across the country, selected by a panel of experts and voted on by the public. To learn more about the awards, visit 10best.usatoday.com.  

Make sure you vote every day until April 6^th!

Wake County Mayors Association (Cancelled)

The Wake County Mayors Association’s monthly meeting was canceled due to severe weather concerns. Forecasts warned of a high-risk storm (4 out of 5), with strong winds, intense thunderstorms, and the possibility of tornadoes. Fortunately, Cary was spared any damage.

Youth Leadership Cary

On Tuesday, I spoke with about three dozen high school juniors about Cary’s local government and my role as mayor. I covered topics such as the council-manager form of government, the council’s role in decision-making, and different leadership styles. Afterward, we gathered for a group photo.

State of Cary – Templeton

This week, I delivered my State of Cary address at the Templeton retirement community, with about three dozen residents in attendance. I was joined by District Representative Bella Huong, who spoke to the group following the Q&A session. There were only a few questions, including one about the potential for an ICE facility.

CAMPO

I attended the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Executive Board meeting on Wednesday afternoon. CAMPO is a regional planning agency that coordinates transportation projects, including roads, rail, public transit, biking, and pedestrian infrastructure, across Wake County and portions of Franklin, Granville, Harnett, and Johnston counties. It also oversees federal and state funding allocations, long-range planning, and growth strategies for the Triangle region.

The agenda included three consent items and four discussion items. The consent agenda was unanimously approved and covered meeting minutes, CAMPO’s Local Input Methodology for use in Prioritization 8, and additional funding for the City of Raleigh’s Crabtree Creek Greenway at Lassiter Mill.

During the discussion portion, the board unanimously approved the Regional Transit Technology Plan as a guiding document for future technology investments. The remaining three discussion items were informational only and included the FAST (Fixing America’s Surface Transportation) Study 2.0 recommendations, a Wake Transit Bus Rapid Transit update, and the draft FY 2027 Wake Transit Work Plan.

South Hills Developer Meeting

On Thursday morning, I met with representatives involved in the South Hills redevelopment. The purpose was to share information and confirm the town’s continued interest in the project. One potential future tenant is the Carolina Ballet, which could occupy a redeveloped former car dealership building. After meeting with all council members, the team will begin working with staff on a developer agreement.

NC Metro Mayors

On Friday morning, I participated in a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors, with sixteen mayors from across the state in attendance. Much of the discussion was held among mayors only and focused on security and additional measures to ensure the safety of mayors and other elected officials.

Our meetings will shift to a more legislative focus once the North Carolina General Assembly reconvenes on April 21. As this is an election year, this will be a “short session”.

Council 3 x 4 Meetings

This week, I participated in several 3×4 meetings, two council members plus the mayor, along with the interim manager and at least three senior staff members. Our focus was on capital budget requests from staff. Last week, we reviewed the initial submissions; this week, we examined those same requests after the first round of reductions. Everything we’ve seen so far is very preliminary and earlier in the process than we would typically review.

Council Out and About

Last week, I had the privilege of attending SmartCities Connect – three days of conversations, collaboration, and real talk about the technologies reshaping how cities work. Municipal leaders, technologists, researchers, and utilities came together to dig into everything from transportation and energy systems to urban data and public services. The focus wasn’t on flashy concepts; it was on what’s actually working, from pilot projects to full citywide rollouts.

One of the highlights? Cary got a chance to show off. We hosted a walkthrough of the innovative capabilities in Downtown Cary Park, and I had the chance to connect with leaders from across the state and country and share our story. Watching their reactions reminded me of something I already know but never take for granted: this town is special. Cary’s people are genuinely curious, collaborative, and always leaning toward what’s next.

That spirit of learning, sharing, and innovating, is what makes this community worth showing to the world. And I’ll be honest, it makes me proud, humbled, and grateful every single time I get to represent us.

Lori Bush

Mayor Pro-Tem

From Smart to Cognitive Event

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht welcomed attendees to From Smart to Cognitive: Live in Downtown Cary Park, an immersive event exploring connected community technologies at the Downtown Cary Park. Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmember Bella Huang attended alongside state and technology leaders. The event was hosted by the Town of Cary.

Davis Drive Elementary’s 30^th Anniversary

Councilmember Brittany Richards attended Davis Drive Elementary School’s 30th Anniversary Gala. The event brought together school leadership, including Principal Barbara Fair, Wake County School Board Chair Tyler Swanson, and WCPSS Western Area Superintendent Dr. Will Chavis. Families, staff, and alumni gathered to recognize the school’s history and community.

AI and Data Governance at Smart Cities Connect

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush participated in a keynote panel on AI and data governance at SmartCities Connect. The discussion focused on the role of local elected officials in guiding AI policy and oversight. Cary staff and representatives also attended sessions throughout the conference.

National 311 Day

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Bella Huang and Brittany Richards participated in a tour of Cary’s 311 Center in recognition of National 311 Day. The visit highlighted how residents access non-emergency services and support. Mayor Weinbrecht acknowledged the day at the following council meeting with a proclamation in honor of the day.

Affordable Housing Listening Session

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Bella Huang and Michelle Craig attended an Affordable Housing Listening Session with regional leaders. The discussion focused on housing challenges across Wake County. Community members and officials shared perspectives on needs and potential approaches.

Town Manager’s Report

Council,

I enjoyed the discussions this week during our meetings as we talked through Capital Budget. Staff continues to do really good work on it, and we are looking forward to hearing your feedback at the Work Session next Tuesday.

I hope you all have a great weekend and get a chance to enjoy the nice weather we’re supposed to have. Looks like a good couple of days to get outside a bit before another busy week.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

House Property Tax Proposals

As you may have heard earlier this week, the House committee on property tax is discussing several proposals. We have been in communication with our lobbyist, Philip Isley, and will continue to keep you informed as we learn more.

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,186 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,382
• Email: 292
• Web: 254
• Internal: 181
• Walk-In: 35
• Text: 37
• Social Media: 5

Categories

53.20% cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 451
• Inspections Scheduling & Status: 261
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 194
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 162
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 95

Cedar Street Parking Deck Opens

The Cedar Street Parking Deck officially opened to the public this week, adding approximately 300 free public parking spaces downtown. Located between Cedar Street, Chatham Street, and the newly constructed Rogers Alley, the deck also includes approximately 4,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space that will further support downtown businesses and activity. Primary vehicular access is provided from Cedar Street, with elevators and stairs located in a distinctive architectural tower along Chatham Street, as well as an additional stairway on Cedar Street. Final punch list items will be completed throughout the spring. For more information about parking downtown, visit carync.gov/parking.

Youth Leadership Cary

On Tuesday, 40 high school juniors participating in the Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Leadership Cary program spent the day at Town Hall learning about local government and potential career paths. Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry welcomed the group, and throughout the day, students heard from the Mayor and staff from Information Technology (IT), Police, Traffic Management, Emergency Communications, 311, Planning and Development Services, and the Environmental team.

NCDOT Begins Street Improvement Work

Cary completes annual street improvement projects to maintain the streets it owns and operates, while the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) performs similar maintenance on state-owned roads. To learn more about street ownership and maintenance responsibilities, visit the Street Maintenance webpage. This year, improvements are planned for Old Apex Road between Laura Duncan Road and West Chatham Street, the entire length of Melody Lane, and streets within the Homestead community.

Beginning Monday, March 23, contractors working on behalf of NCDOT will begin upgrading curb ramps along Old Apex Road in preparation for resurfacing work. Work on Melody Lane and within the Homestead community is expected to begin later this year, with a final schedule to be determined. Lane closures and night work will be necessary to complete the work while minimizing impacts during peak travel times. No road closures are expected.

Traffic Signal Update

Public Works staff recently upgraded the signal at Morrisville Parkway and Louis Stephens Drive to include Flashing Yellow Arrows for left turns along Morrisville Parkway. The signal can now operate in two modes: permissive-protected, where motorists receive a green arrow followed by a flashing yellow arrow to complete left turns, and fully protected, where drivers receive a green arrow followed by a red arrow with no permissive left turns.

Transportation staff partnered with NCDOT during design to incorporate additional features, including emergency vehicle preemption, which allows the signal to detect approaching emergency responders and provide a green indication, and a Leading Pedestrian Interval (LPI), which gives pedestrians a head start into the crosswalk while all vehicle signals remain red.

New Greenway Art Installation

Black Creek and White Oak Creek Greenways, which form the backbone of Cary’s more than 100-mile greenway system and are part of the East Coast Greenway, are being enhanced this spring through a placemaking initiative designed to further activate these popular corridors. In partnership with public artist Lisa Gaither, artistic centerline striping inspired by Cary’s native flora and fauna will be introduced at strategic locations, including curves and approaches to underpasses. These enhancements will improve visibility and wayfinding while also bringing energy, identity, and a more cohesive and memorable experience to this signature corridor.

Teen Council Supports Vision Zero Communications

In Cary’s ongoing efforts to partner with the community to advance Vision Zero, Assistant Director of Citizen Information & Outreach Carolyn Roman engaged nearly 150 Teen Council members in a live research exercise to better understand travel behaviors and how teens receive and respond to transportation messaging. Using a live poll, participants provided feedback on the effectiveness of campaign messaging, generating more than 3,200 individual responses. Staff will analyze this feedback to help inform future communications and targeted outreach to teen audiences. This work supports Cary’s Vision Zero strategy, a data-driven approach aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries through education, engagement, and transportation system improvements that account for human behavior.

Volunteer Fair at the Senior Center

Today, the Volunteer Fair at the Senior Center brought together more than 30 nonprofit organizations and over 100 older adults for a day of connection and community engagement. Attendees explored a wide range of volunteer opportunities, from education and advocacy to hands-on service projects. The strong turnout reflects the continued interest among Cary’s older adults to stay engaged and give back to the community. 

2025 Water Resources Year in Review

The 2025 Water Resources Year in Review is now available, providing insights into key performance metrics, historical trends, and the continued reliability of Cary’s water utility services. This year’s report includes updates on per-capita water use and overall demand within the Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) service area.

Since reaching a peak of 72 gallons per person per day in 1995, Cary has achieved a sustained reduction in per-capita water use, which has remained steady at approximately 49 gallons per person per day for nearly the past decade. The average daily demand in 2025 was 22.6 Million Gallons per Day (MGD), with the highest single-day demand of 31.7 MGD recorded on July 27, approximately 10% lower than the previous year’s peak.

Volunteers Engage to Impact Water Quality

Creek Week kicked off with litter sweeps in the Swift Creek Watershed and the Jordan Lake Upper New Hope Watershed. As part of a longstanding partnership with Wake County and Keep America Beautiful, these biannual litter sweeps engage environmental volunteers in meaningful service opportunities. Last Saturday, 81 volunteers gathered for Cary’s Spring Litter Sweep, removing more than 1,000 pounds of litter from the community. Keeping litter out of waterways is an important way to improve water quality, with impacts that flow all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

Important Dates

Planning & Zoning Board
Monday, March 23, 6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Tuesday, March 24, 5:30 p.m.

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, March 25, 5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, March 26, 6:30 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The town’s webpage on the Town Manager Transition can be found here. Public Records Requests and answers can be found on the 311 portal here.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• One complaint about the possibility of ICE moving into a Regency building.
• A complaint about political sign enforcement.
• A request to make Cary more walkable.
• Several requests for an ALS proclamation (we do one every year).
• A complaint about a rezoning proposal on Reedy Creek Road.
• A complaint about uninhabitable conditions within the Grove at Cary Park.
• A request for code enforcement in a neighborhood off High House Road.
• Requests to attend several events.
• A request to continue to fund Cary History classes.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, Council Work Session, and Council Meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 29^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Nest Nominated for Best Playground Again

Monday I was notified that the Downtown Cary’s Park Nest Playground was nominated for the best playground in the country for the second consecutive year. The following is the press release:

Cary, NC — The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated again in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground, its second consecutive year on the national list. The nature-inspired play space earned the top-ranking last year and continues to draw families and visitors from across the Triangle. 

“We’re thrilled to see The Nest at Downtown Cary Park nominated again for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Public Playground,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Since opening, The Nest has become a favorite gathering place where children explore, families connect, and visitors experience the creativity and care our staff and community bring to spaces like this. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating this incredible space by voting each day and sharing the opportunity with others.”

Voting is open through noon on April 6. Supporters can vote once per day at the USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards website. No registration or email is required. 

“As Downtown Cary Park enters another year of welcoming visitors from across the region, we’re proud to see The Nest recognized again on a national stage,” said Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis. “This nomination reflects the creativity and care that went into designing a space where children of all ages can explore and play.” 

Nestled within Downtown Cary Park, The Nest is a biophilic, nature-inspired play space designed to spark imagination and exploration. Key features include: 

• Two unique play areas for different age groups
• A signature 20-foot climbing structure modeled after two cardinals – North Carolina’s state bird – by playground design-build company Earthscape
• Slides, large acorns, and fallen logs to encourage imaginative and active play
• A seasonal splash pad that provides a place to cool off during warmer months

Designed by award-winning firms OJB Landscape Architecture and urban design firm Machado Silvetti and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Downtown Cary Park reflects Cary’s commitment to innovative public spaces that enhance quality of life and strengthen the local economy. 

Since opening in 2023, the seven-acre park has become a hub for recreation, events, family play, and community connection. It has hosted millions of visitors and thousands of events and has emerged as a national model for modern public spaces, with recognitions including: 

• 2025 American Architecture Award – Parks and Gardens, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, The European Center for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and Metropolitan Arts Press
• 2025 Innovation by Design Award – Best Urban Design Project, Fast Company
• 2025 Awards for Excellence Finalist, ULI Americas
• 2024 Voters’ Choice Award – Best Park, WRAL
• 2024 Gold Award, National Association of Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence
• 2024 Grand Award, Landscape Contractors Association Excellence in Landscape Awards
• 2024 Space Award – Top Municipal Project, Triangle Business Journal 

According to the Incentis Group, the Park is generating $5 million in direct economic impact and has contributed to more than $800 million in property value increases. It has supported the creation of more than 80 full-time jobs and is projected to add $3.5 million annually in property and sales tax revenue by 2028. 

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top attractions and destinations across the country, selected by a panel of experts and voted on by the public. To learn more about the awards, visit 10best.usatoday.com.  

Make sure you vote starting on April 6^th!

Smart Cities Connect Conference

Monday evening, I had the honor of offering welcome remarks at the opening event of the Smart Cities Connect Conference. Attendees toured the park and experienced several innovative implementations that are helping shape the future of smart communities. I also had the pleasure of introducing North Carolina’s Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, who proudly calls Cary home.

Here is an excerpt from my remarks:

“What makes this park unique is not only what you see, but how it operates. Behind the scenes, technology and data help us better understand how this space is used, how to care for it, and how to continuously improve it. That insight allows us to be more proactive, more efficient, and more responsive to the people we serve.

Here in Cary, we are committed to learning, adapting, and striving for better ways to serve our community. We believe innovation should be practical, responsible, and focused on real outcomes that improve everyday life.

This work is strengthened through partnership. We are proud to collaborate with Lenovo and NVIDIA, whose leadership and expertise help us think bigger about what is possible while staying grounded in what matters most, our residents.

This is not about technology alone. It is about building a community that is resilient, forward looking, and always seeking better ways to serve. Downtown Cary Park is our proof point and our learning lab.”

As a reminder, Downtown Cary Park generates about $16 million in annual economic benefits, demonstrating that thoughtful investment in public spaces creates real value for the community.

Fire Department Accreditation

Tuesday I was notified that our fire department has earned its sixth international accreditation, placing it among just 334 agencies worldwide that have successfully completed this rigorous review. This achievement reflects the department’s strong culture of excellence, professionalism, and dedication to service. The independent accreditation process confirms that Cary meets, or exceeds, national best practices in fire service. We are truly fortunate to live in a community served by one of the finest fire departments in the country.

Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary Through 2034

Wednesday, I learned that the Chinese Lantern Festival has been extended through the 2033–2034 season after a record-breaking anniversary year. This season generated more than $11.6 million in direct economic impact and continued to attract visitors from across North Carolina and beyond. Learn more about the festival on the Koka Booth Amphitheatre website.

Council Work Session

Thursday evening the council held a budget work session that focused mostly on capital projects. It was pointed out that at this point we are looking at director requests and not anything that is recommended. Here are some notes from that session:

• There are 310 funded capital projects at the beginning of 2026: 141 General Capital and 169 Utility Capital.
• Money encumbered on those projects to date is $710 million.
• There is approximately $50 million in authority for the 2019 bonds. That will no longer be nearly enough to do the projects that were listed.
• Council budget priorities (decided at the recent retreat) in order are community safety, new capital investment, high-performing staff, affordability, maintaining service levels, maintaining facilities, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and service excellence.
• FY 2027 requested capital, not committed, to date:
  • Fire: $14.2 million
  • General Government: $51.5 million
  • Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources: $33.3 million
  • Transit: $5.8 million
  • Transportation: $32.5 million
• The budget exercise that council participated in during the retreat is now being given to all boards and commission.
• A budget open house will be on April 7 at 7 PM at the Cary Senior Center.

The Interim Town Manager also provided a few updates. The following is what was on his slides:

• The Cedar Street Parking deck should open by the end of March.
• The Academy Street Parking deck will probably not open in March but soon afterwards.
• A downtown business alliance study, budgeted for this year, will begin stakeholder meetings this summer and report to council next winter.
• A cricket request for qualifications will this spring for 60 days.
• Rose Park Manor, with 81 senior affordable housing units, has a temporary Certificate of Occupancy.
• This year’s budget includes $5.9 million for street resurfacing. Ten miles of neighborhood streets will be improved. Construction will begin this spring.
• Our next work session will be on March 24^th. Topics will be Capital Projects and delegation of authority.

Council Meeting

The first regularly scheduled council meeting of March occurred Thursday and included a 311 proclamation, 21 Public Speaks Out speakers, 5 consent items, and 2 discussion items.

Fifteen speakers during the Public Speaks Out session addressed the potential ICE facility in Regency. Sadly, many referenced information that was inaccurate, and some pointed to actions taken by municipalities in North Carolina that are not legally enforceable. Most of the speakers criticized me for not protesting, with some drawing comparisons to remaining silent during the Holocaust.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved and included receiving wireless carrier colocation funding, right-of-way closing on West Chatham, right-of-way closing on Jones Franklin, changing a temporary position to a full-time position for the town clerk’s office, and a meeting schedule adjustment.

The first discussion item was a speed reduction on Lochmere Drive, Cozy Oak Avenue, and Green Hope School Road. This is part of our commitment to Vision Zero to eliminate traffic fatalities.

The last discussion item was for the Alston Commons Rezoning proposal 22-REZ-20. A motion was made and failed for the approval of the proposal. A follow up motion was made and approved to table this item indefinitely which was passed 6 to 1. Most comments against the proposal were the inclusion of a car wash.

Mayor’s Monarch Pledge

I have received several requests to sign the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge. This is something I have done for years. Here is what staff say about this:

This program is part of our ongoing participation in the National Wildlife Federation’s Community Wildlife Habitat initiative. We were one of the first communities to participate in this initiative with Council approval in 2015. Since then, we have worked to seamlessly incorporate various designation requirements into our ongoing annual program offerings making wildlife habitat education part of who we are and what we do.

Two exciting upcoming examples of Cary programs that will fulfill our designation requirements are:

• Our Spring Native Plant Sale at Good Hope Farm on Friday, March 20 is from 3-6 p.m. and includes native milkweed plants for sale.
• Arbor Day includes a chance for participants to win a Native Pollinator Garden Starter Kit from the Cary It Green booth and we will also have an info booth from the Native Plant Society at the celebration.  This event takes place on March 28 from noon-3 p.m. on the Page-Walker lawn.
• Our other resources and offerings that support meeting our requirements can be explored under our Natural Resources Section at www.carync.gov/green

We are proud to include pollinator protection education and outreach initiatives as part of our ongoing offerings and our community members seem to really enjoy these opportunities.

Council Out and About

Spring is always a special time in Cary. As the weather warms up, there seem to be more opportunities than ever for neighbors to gather, celebrate, and enjoy all that makes our community such a wonderful place to call home.

Over the past few weeks, members of the Town Council and I have had the chance to attend a wide variety of events across Cary. From community celebrations and youth programs to business and cultural gatherings, these moments are always a great reminder of what makes our town so special. It’s inspiring to see residents so engaged and so committed to making Cary the very best it can be.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our outstanding Town staff, volunteers, and community partners who help bring these events and initiatives to life. On behalf of the entire Town Council, thank you for all you do to make Cary such a vibrant, welcoming, and connected community.

Harold Weinbrecht

Mayor

State of Cary at Glenaire

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the Mayor’s State of Cary event at Glenaire, sharing updates on Cary’s continued growth, community priorities, and vision for the future. Residents gathered to hear highlights from the past year and learn about upcoming initiatives shaping Cary’s next chapter.

Speaking to Scouts

Councilmember Sarika Bansal recently attended a local Scout meeting, where she spoke with young scouts about civic leadership, community service, and the importance of staying engaged in their community. She enjoyed answering questions and encouraging the next generation of leaders.

NC Secretary of Commerce

Councilmember Bella Huang attended an economic development meeting hosted by the Cary Chamber of Commerce with Senator Gale Adcock, featuring North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley. The meeting focused on strengthening economic development, expanding workforce opportunities, and supporting North Carolina’s growth. 

State of Cary at Town Hall

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the Mayor’s State of Cary event, highlighting key accomplishments from the past year and outlining priorities for the year ahead. The full Council was in attendance and the Mayor took questions following the presentation.

Dr. Sharma’s 100^th Birthday

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig joined community members in celebrating Mr. Sharma’s remarkable 100th birthday. The celebration honored a century of life, family, and contributions to the community, making it a truly special milestone.

International Women’s Day

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush welcomed attendees to the HerVoice, HerPower event in celebration of International Women’s Day. Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards also attended the event, which highlighted the leadership, achievements, and impact of women in the community. The gathering served as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women while encouraging continued empowerment and leadership.

American Turkish Women’s Day

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the American Turkish Association of NC Women’s Day event; a gathering provided an opportunity to recognize inspiring stories and encourage continued advocacy for women’s empowerment.

Hum Sub Basant Bahar

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Michelle Craig, and Brittany Richards attended the Hum Sub Basant Bahar celebration, enjoying an evening that highlighted culture, community, and the arrival of spring. The vibrant event brought together residents to celebrate traditions, music, and the diversity that enriches Cary.

HSS Sakhi Sammelan Event

Councilmember Sarika Bansal spoke at the HSS Sakhi Sammelan event held at Bond Park Community Center in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event brought community members together for an afternoon of sisterhood, culture, and connection featuring games, chai, and engaging discussions celebrating Nari Shakti.

Town Manager’s Report

Council,

It was great seeing everyone this week. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,545 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,577
• Email: 383
• Web: 298
• Internal: 196
• Walk-In: 55
• Text: 25 Social Media: 11

52.26% of cases fell into these top 5 categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 508
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 325
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 210
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 189
• Parks & Recreation Programming Inquiries & Registration: 98

3/11 Day Recognition

Cary celebrated National 311 Day with a focus on promoting 311’s texting channel, making it easier for residents to connect with Town services in ways that work best for them. As the Town’s non-emergency customer service hub, 311 serves as the primary point of contact for residents to report concerns, ask questions, and request assistance. The day included special visits from several Councilmembers, who toured the center, met with Citizen Advocates, and observed operations firsthand. The visit provided Council with a deeper understanding of the complexity and value of 311’s work and the professionalism of the team serving Cary residents every day.

April 7 Budget Open House

Residents are invited to attend a drop-in Budget Open House on April 7 from 3–7 p.m. at the Cary Senior Center ballroom to learn how the Town’s budget is developed, connect with department staff at interactive booths, and share their priorities. Budget presentations will repeat throughout the evening, and the event will be livestreamed on Cary TV, carync.tv, Facebook, and YouTube. Feedback gathered will help inform the FY 2027 budget currently under development.

Vote Daily: The Nest Returns as USA Today 10 Best Nominee

The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Public Playground for the second consecutive year. After earning the top national ranking last year, The Nest is in contention to defend its title. Voting is open until noon on April 6, and anyone can vote once per day with no sign-in required.

Fire Achieves 6^th Accreditation

Following a unanimous vote by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, the Cary Fire Department was again granted international accreditation on Tuesday. This marks the department’s sixth accredited agency designation since first receiving it in 1999, and it is one of only 334 fire and rescue agencies worldwide to achieve it. Accreditation is a comprehensive self-assessment and evaluation model that allows organizations to review past, current, and future service levels and internal performance against industry best practices, leading to improved service delivery. The commission hearing was held at the annual Center for Public Safety Excellence Conference in Orlando, Florida, where Assistant Chief Matt Jacoby and Fire and Emergency Services Analyst Blake Boyd were also selected to give presentations.

The Snow Ball: Daddy Daughter Dance

On Saturday, Cary’s beloved Daddy Daughter Dance welcomed more than 200 snow princesses and their fathers to the Herb Young Community Center for a winter wonderland–themed ball. Guests enjoyed live music, a swirling snow machine, and a whimsical scene complete with igloos, penguins, and frosty décor. Families danced, shared delicious food and sweet treats, and created lasting memories together.

Important Dates

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, March 18, 6:15 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, March 19, 6:00 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The town’s webpage on the Town Manager Transition can be found here. Public Records Requests and answers can be found on the 311 portal here.

Mayor’s Mailbox

ICE:

I continue to receive concerns about a potential ICE office in Cary including one from NC Representative Von Haefen. Here is my response to that request:

“Representative Von Haefen,

Thank you for contacting me and for taking the time to share your concerns.

As an elected official, I’m sure you understand that those of us who serve in public office take an oath to uphold the Constitution and the laws of our jurisdiction. That oath requires us to operate strictly within the scope of the authority granted to us by law. In other words, while we work to represent our constituents and address local concerns, we must do so within the limits established by state and federal law.

With that in mind, I want to clarify that our office does not have jurisdiction over the federal government or its operations. Local governments do not have the legal authority to regulate, restrict, or prevent federal agencies from occupying or operating within federal facilities. As such, we are not able to pass ordinances or take local action to stop a federal agency from maintaining or using its office.

That said, I appreciate you bringing your perspective forward, and I value your engagement on this issue. Your input is important, and I encourage you to continue sharing your concerns with the appropriate federal representatives who have the authority to address matters involving federal agencies and facilities.

Here is information provided by staff about the location in question:

“Many of you have seen a recent article regarding a potential Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) location online and have inquired about what if anything we know about this property. Recent tenants of the existing office building include software and technology businesses as well as commercial real estate office. Cary has not received any requests or permit applications for government offices or other potential tenants that indicate ICE is planning to move into this space. The property is located within the C-6 Tract of the Regency Park Planned District (PDD). Permitted uses include office, institutional, commercial, hotel and club.”

Thanks again,”

BTW, I released a statement about ICE in November. I stand behind that statement today:

“This is a sad and difficult time in Cary, where more than a quarter of our citizens are from other countries and have chosen to bring their talents, ideas, and hard work to make this community the amazing place it is today.

Over the last 24 hours, I have gotten reports of federal agents moving throughout Cary — at homes, schools, hospitals, restaurants, and construction sites. Their activities were neither coordinated with nor conducted by the Cary Police Department, a department of caring professionals who do what it takes every day to help keep Cary one of the safest cities in America.

Regardless of one’s stance on immigration, I think we can all agree that the tactics used in these operations instill fear in our community and erode trust between our citizens and the government put in place to protect, support, and serve them.

As Mayor, my heart breaks for all those impacted by these actions, and I look forward to doing what I can to help us heal.”

• Complaints about the possibility of ICE moving into a building in the Regency area. Some of the complainers are not Cary residents.
• A complaint about not specifying how many ICE complaints I received. (This week it was 5)
• I received thanks for my leadership on the potential ICE facility:

“…

Madam Clerk Johnson, I am respectfully requesting that the attached be made part of the official public record.

With that, Mayor Weinbrecht, I stand behind my statement of defending your honor as a father, son, lifetime Cary resident, American, and more importantly, a human.

I am profoundly perplexed and simultaneously confused how so many perceived intellectual people can continue to make statements like, “I know and understand you cannot do anything, but I still want you to do something.”

If a statement is issued, none of these people will be satisfied. They will then demand that the Mayor and Council stand with them at a protest. Then, when you do that, they will demand the Chief of Police do the same.

These people are extremely unreasonable, and I am being told by credible sources that many are paid and go from town to town just to follow their script.

Many of these people are not even from nor live in Cary.

They need to be contacting Congresswoman Deborah Ross and Valerie Foushee and making a trip to Washington, D.C.

I feel for all of you for this absolutely disrespectful and unreasonable behavior.

…”

“…

I was eager to watch the video of your State of Cary Address, and what you said was both interesting and encouraging!  I especially appreciated your appeal for people to work together and be strong.

Although I expected some questions or comments about the potential ICE facility in Cary, I was surprised that so many residents focused on this topic. I hated to hear some people trying to pressure you to break the law or to get involved with police training and protocols. In my opinion, the man who thought you were a coward was far from the truth. From my perspective, you are very courageous!

You demonstrated courage in the following ways:

• You gave residents an opportunity to share their opinions.
• You listened when people were speaking.
• You were respectful, even when people were attacking you.
• You are doing the right thing (obeying laws, as well as making a statement that everyone should be treated respectfully and fairly) even when it is unpopular.
• You are continuing to provide transparency, even though you receive some disrespectful or unkind comments from people.

I totally agree with your point that making a loud political statement about ICE is not wise! I think that stirring up strife with the federal government can have harmful effects for the residents of Cary (and for North Carolina overall). There are better ways to support the people who are being treated unfairly.  Furthermore, speaking to our leaders who have authority to change what we don’t want, as well as voting out leaders who misuse their authority is much more effective than inviting the type of chaotic and unsafe situation that occurred in Minnesota.

Please don’t let this vocal but small group push you. They have 1,300 signatures of support among 192,000 Cary residents. Although I understand their concerns about inappropriate actions from ICE, I do not agree with the methods they are recommending. I hope and pray that this drama about ICE will decrease and the citizens of Cary will again focus on the situations that we need to deal with.

Thank you for being courageous!   

…”

“…

Thank you for your service as our mayor and for standing strong through the storm of criticism. As you’ve noted, issuing a public statement would likely attract unwanted attention, and it’s not clear what meaningful purpose it would serve. While it might be politically popular and offer some people a momentary sense of reassurance, it could ironically place the very individuals they claim to care about at greater risk.

…”

• A complaint that town employees won’t answer emails.
• A request to talk with Womble, Bond, Dickenson.
• A complaint about the need for a sidewalk on a portion of Old Apex Road.
• A complaint about a work truck in a neighborhood.
• A complaint about a rezoning proposal on Weston Parkway.
• A complaint that the council did not ask for a lower percentage of AMI in the Alston Commons rezoning proposal. (The council does not have authority to require affordable housing. It is all voluntary.)
• A complaint from someone in Orlando, Florida about a rezoning from 2020.
• Invitations to several events.
• Thanks, from the Executive Director of the Western Wake Tennis Association, for speaking at the council meeting.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, council-staff 3 x 4 meetings, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, the Cary Chamber Youth Leadership event, a State of Cary address at Templeton, a CAMPO Executive Board meeting, and a North Carolina Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 22^nd, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Meeting with Citizen

Monday evening, I met with a citizen about issues related to the former town manager. Their concerns included land purchase next to Cary Elementary, the tuition payment, and the fact that certain council members should resign because of their actions with the former manager.

State of Cary – Glenaire

On Tuesday, I delivered the State of Cary address to approximately 100 residents at Glenaire in the old auditorium. The presentation lasted about 50 minutes, followed by roughly 20 minutes of questions and another 20 minutes spent speaking with residents afterward. Questions included topics related to the former town manager and rumors concerning ICE. As always, those in attendance were very kind, and I look forward to my next visit.

Cary AAA Confirmed with Fitch’s

Fitch Ratings has affirmed the Town of Cary, NC’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and General Obligation (GO) bond rating at ‘AAA’. This top-tier rating means Cary can secure the lowest possible interest rates when issuing GO bonds to fund capital projects.

Fitch’s detailed commentary is available in their full report. In it, they outline the factors that could—individually or collectively—lead to a negative rating action or downgrade, including:

• A sustained decline in general fund balances to below 7.5% of general fund expenditures;
• Weakening demographic or economic trends, such as slower population growth, higher unemployment relative to the national average, or declining median household income compared to Fitch’s portfolio benchmarks.

At present, Cary is not at risk of either of these conditions.

State of Cary – Town Hall

Thursday night, I delivered the State of Cary address to a council chamber that was about half full. A large portion of those in attendance were protesters expressing concern about a potential ICE facility in Regency.

My remarks lasted just under 50 minutes, and I devoted a significant portion of that time to discussing the actions of the former town manager and the impacts those actions have had on our community. Because many attendees were there specifically to protest the potential ICE office, most of the questions during the public comment period focused on what the town could do to prevent ICE from locating in those offices, rather than on topics related to the State of Cary address.

As I have stated many times, the town does not have authority over the federal government and cannot control where it chooses to locate its offices.

Dr. Sharma’s 100^th Birthday

On Saturday, I had the honor of attending and speaking at Dr. Sharma’s 100th birthday celebration at the HSNC temple in Morrisville. Several hundred people attended, including Congresswoman Ross, NC Secretary of State Marshall, NC Senator Chaudhuri, Morrisville Mayor Cawley, and many other elected officials from Cary and Morrisville.

There were dozens of speakers, and the remarks lasted more than an hour. Mayor Cawley and I wrapped up our comments with a quick 10-second reprise of our Diwali dance from last year, complete with our dance jackets. (That dance ended up getting more than 190 million views in India last year!)

My wife also had the opportunity to speak, sharing that she was one of Dr. Sharma’s high school students more than 50 years ago.

Dr. Sharma has truly been a blessing to Cary, Morrisville, and the surrounding communities. Through his leadership in the Hindu Society, he helped our community grow in diversity while creating opportunities for all of us to learn from and celebrate different cultures.

Happy 100th Birthday, Dr. Sharma!

Basant Bahar

Sunday afternoon, I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bush and council members Craig and Richards at Hum Sub’s Basant Bahar celebration. This year’s theme, Dharma – a spiritual awakening, was brought to life through performances that told the stories of two aspiring individuals who chose to walk the path of Dharma, or righteousness.

At the beginning of the event, I had the opportunity to offer welcoming remarks, including:

“…Cary is proud to be one of the most diverse communities in the nation, with residents representing more than 60 nationalities. Our strength comes from embracing the many cultures, traditions, and perspectives that shape our community.

Basant Bahar is a wonderful reflection of that spirit, celebrating spring through music, dance, color, and community. Events like this give us the opportunity not only to share our cultures, but also to learn from one another and build the connections that make Cary such a special place to call home…”

It truly is a blessing to celebrate and share our cultures here in Cary.

Council Out and About

One of the things I love most about Cary is how our community shows up for one another. Whether it’s celebrating young innovators, honoring veterans and their families, or gathering across faiths during Ramadan, these moments reflect what makes our town such a special place to live.

That shared commitment to community also guides our work on Council. Last week, along with Councilmembers Huang and Bansal, I attended the Essentials of Municipal Government class at the UNC School of Government. It was a great way to deepen our understanding of the laws, ethics, and many responsibilities that come with serving in local leadership. I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep learning how to better serve Cary.

As the weather warms up, I hope you’ll take time to enjoy our many parks, events, and small businesses. Please also stay connected through the Town’s official news releases and social media channels.

Thank you for being part of Cary’s vibrant spirit!

Brittany Richards

District A Council Member

Triangle Community Coalition Annual Meeting

Councilmember Bella Huang attended the Triangle Community Coalition Annual Meeting. The 2026 meeting featured newly elected municipal mayors from across Wake County, including leaders from Zebulon, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, and Wake Forest.

Essentials of Municipal Government at UNC School of Government

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards participated in Essentials of Municipal Government at UNC School of Government. The program provides updates on laws affecting municipal governance, covers ethics training, and strengthens leadership skills for effective local government service.

Banquet Welcoming the National President of VFW Auxiliary

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended a banquet welcoming the National President of the VFW Auxiliary, where he also shared remarks honoring veterans and their families. He expressed gratitude for the sacrifice and dedication of service members and recognized the vital role of local veterans organizations in supporting the community.

Islamic Center of Cary’s Annual Interfaith Iftar Dinner

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmember Michelle Craig joined the Islamic Center of Cary’s annual interfaith Iftar dinner. The gathering brought together people of many faiths and backgrounds in a spirit of shared respect, compassion, and community during Ramadan.

Future Scholars Summit

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the Future Scholars Summit, celebrating young entrepreneurs and their innovative ideas. The event brought together community leaders and partners to support the next generation of business and technology talent, highlighted by an impressive student robotics demonstration.

Town Manager’s Report

Council,

It was great seeing you, residents, as well as many of our community partners this week as I attended Information Services Advisory Board (ISAB), NeighborUp, WakeMed Hospital, and the Mayor’s State of Cary. It’s always good to engage directly with the community, and a good reminder of why we do this work.

I also wanted to highlight some good financial news for Cary this week. Building on the clean audit report we recently received, we learned that Fitch Ratings reaffirmed Cary’s AAA bond rating with a stable outlook. That’s the highest rating possible and reflects the strong financial stewardship that has been a hallmark of this organization for many years.

Thanks to all of you and our staff for the steady work that keeps Cary on that strong footing, and I hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy the nice weather this weekend. Don’t forget to spring forward!

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

Information from Foundry Commercial About ICE in Regency

Email from Foundry Commercial RE: 11000 Regency Parkway

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,596 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,579
• Email: 411
• Web: 306
• Internal: 207
• Walk-In: 57
• Text: 28
• Social Media: 8

54.62% cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 589
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 334
• Parks & Recreation Programming Inquiries & Registration: 188
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 178
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 129

State of Cary Address Engagement

Last night, the Mayor’s State of Cary Address gave community members a chance to hear directly from Mayor Weinbrecht about Cary’s progress and future, with about 65 citizens attending in person and more than 1,500 viewing online. The event’s success reflected a strong collaborative effort across multiple departments, with staff working together behind the scenes and on-site to deliver a well-coordinated, welcoming experience for the community. The Address also generated strong interest beyond the event itself, with media coverage reaching a potential audience of 117 million across five outlets, dedicated social media content reaching nearly 33,000 viewers, more than 2,000 news release readers, and over 500 visits to the event webpage. Together, these efforts broadened the event’s reach and highlighted Cary’s commitment to transparency and citizen engagement.

Community Input on CDBG Annual Action Plan

Staff hosted a public meeting this week to gather input for the upcoming Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan. Residents, community partners, and members of the development community came to learn more about these programs and to share their perspectives. These discussions will help inform how Cary allocates CDBG funding in the coming year. These proposed allocations will be available for public review for 30 days beginning in late March before consideration by Council.

Biannual Bridge and Culvert Inspections Begin

This month, contractors working on behalf of NCDOT will conduct structural inspections of 23 bridges and culverts across Cary. Most locations will experience minor traffic impacts with temporary lane closures as needed. Two locations will have greater impacts: the Cary Parkway bridge over Black Creek and the Old Reedy Creek Road bridge over Crabtree Creek.

Cary Parkway Bridge over Black Creek:

Inspections will occur on March 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A snooper truck will be used, requiring a single-lane closure on one side of the bridge for the duration of the inspection.

Old Reedy Creek Road Bridge over Crabtree Creek:

Inspections will occur on March 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Due to the bridge width, the entire structure will be closed during the inspection. A snooper truck will be used, but the bridge surface will not be affected and could be crossed in an emergency. The closure will affect access to the Old Reedy Creek Road Trailhead parking lot and residential properties north of I-40. NCDOT’s contractor, HDR, will notify affected property owners and provide signage and message boards.

Greenway Eco-Counter Installations

Installation of 10 Eco-Counters along some of Cary’s most heavily used greenways began in early March and will continue through April. These low-profile devices count pedestrians and bicyclists, capture direction of travel, and categorize general bicycle speeds without collecting images or personally identifiable information.

This initiative coincides with Cary’s celebration of surpassing 100 miles of greenways, a milestone that underscores the importance of data-driven planning as the system continues to expand. The data will provide a clearer, real-time picture of greenway use to support planning, guide future investments and expansion, and strengthen competitive grant applications. The information will also be shared through the Open Data Portal.

My Tree, Our Tree Registration Open

Registration is now open for My Tree, Our Tree. Through this forestry program, residents may receive a free tree, while supplies last. Participants can choose from five native species: Sweetbay Magnolia, American Snowbell, Swamp White Oak, Arrowwood Viburnum, or American Fringetree. Tree pickup will take place March 28 during Cary’s Arbor Day celebration at Town Hall.

Spring Compost Workshops Kickoff

The spring Compost Workshop Series kicked off this week, with 1,080 bags of compost from Cary’s yard waste collection service set to make their way to lawns and gardens across town this weekend. Classes take place at historic Good Hope Farm and include hands-on instruction for backyard composting as well as tips for applying finished compost in residential landscapes. This biannual initiative provides a seasonal service to the community while supporting long-term environmental health.

Black History and African American Appreciation Month Recap

The community celebrated Black History and African American Appreciation Month in February with events highlighting this year’s theme, The Brilliance of Resilience.

The month began with two art exhibitions: Portraits of Resistance and Resilience, a quilt exhibition honoring eleven African American women from Reconstruction through the Civil Rights era, and Christopher Evans’ Within the Light—Finding the Balance.

The Theater hosted several Black History Month film screenings, a sold-out concert,  Sisters in the Name of Song, and a fireside chat and book signing with Mark Curry. On Valentine’s Day, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Chip Shearin performed to a sold-out crowd of more than 400 at the Arts Center. The Willie Hinton Dance Collective also presented RISE: The Story of Love and Resilience.

The celebration concluded with the Annual Youth Advocacy Summit at Downtown Cary Park, featuring nationally recognized civil rights historian Dr. Yohuru Williams. The summit engaged young people in workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on activities focused on civic engagement, leadership, and community impact.

Important Dates

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 10, 6:00 p.m.

Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 10, 6:00 p.m.

Wake County EMS Community Meeting: Cary
Wednesday, March 11, 1:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, March 11, 6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Thursday, March 12, 5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The questions that are new or updated are below.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• I have received dozens of emails about the possibility of ICE moving into a building in the Regency area. The Town does not have authority over the federal government. At this time, the Town has not received any requests or permit applications from ICE. However, they could still proceed with locating there, and the Town would not have the authority to prevent it. Unfortunately, some of the emails have not only criticized me, the Council, and the Town, but have also included name-calling and personal insults.
• A request to support ICE.
• A request to stand with Iranian people.
• Questions about the former town manager.
• A complaint about a rezoning request, 26-REZ-02 after a neighborhood meeting. This is early in the process and council has yet to see a staff report.
• A request to deny a rezoning based on a story in the Triangle Business Journal. Again, the council has yet to see a staff report on this proposal.
• A request for a small parade in the Downtown Cary Park to recreate a celebration from Bulgaria.
• A continued concern about wanting a traffic signal at Green Level Church Road and Carpenter Hill Lane.
• Several compliments for my State of Cary addresses.
• A concern about the Cary Convenience Center being shut down at the end of the year.
• A complaint about open house directional signs.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Smart Cities Connect Conference, council-staff 3 x 4 meetings, a work session on capital budget priorities, and the first regularly scheduled council meeting of March.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 15^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

Kiwanis Club Meeting

Monday I met with regional members of the Kiwanis Club who are attempting to start a chapter in Cary.

Kiwanis is a local service organization focused on improving the lives of children and communities through volunteer-driven service projects and fundraising. Members, known as Kiwanians, address community needs by building playgrounds, supporting literacy, mentoring youth, feeding the hungry, and raising funds for pediatric health initiatives. Local clubs perform over 1.3 million projects annually. Common activities include stocking food pantries, cleaning parks, ringing bells for the Salvation Army, and buying medical equipment.

You can find out more about joining here.

VFW Auxiliary National President

Thursday evening, I had the distinct honor of attending a banquet welcoming the National President of the VFW Auxiliary, Lois Callahan. Along with hearing inspiring remarks from President Callahan, I also had the opportunity to share a few words of my own. An excerpt from my remarks is below:

“It is truly a privilege to stand among the men and women whose sacrifice and dedication protect the freedoms we cherish. Please know that I, along with the citizens of our community, will never forget what you have given—and continue to give—so that we may live in liberty and peace.

While I have not worn the uniform myself and cannot fully understand the thoughts and experiences that come with active duty and deployment, I do understand the pride, concern, and deep love that surround your service, as my own family is currently supporting a deployed service member.

VFW Post 7383 plays a vital role in our community, steadfast in its commitment to veterans and their families. Though the words ‘thank you for your service’ may sometimes sound routine, their meaning is profound. You have placed service above self, and that selflessness is the very definition of heroism.”

It was a wonderful evening spent visiting with veterans and their supporters. We are truly blessed by their sacrifice, dedication, and continued commitment to our community.

Morrisville Apartment Fire

I was heartbroken to learn about the apartment fire in Morrisville this week. Having lost my own home to a fire in 2002, this news feels especially personal. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this devastating event. No one ever imagines facing something like this, and it’s incredibly difficult to see families and neighbors navigating such sudden loss and uncertainty.

To those who have lost their homes or been displaced, please know you are not alone. The strength and compassion of Morrisville and the surrounding communities are most evident in times like these. I’m confident that neighbors, friends, and local organizations will rally to provide comfort and support. I understand that NeighborUp (Dorcas) has been on site assisting residents, and the United Way 211 center is also available to help connect people with needed resources.

Wishing safety, healing, and resilience to all who have been affected, and sincere gratitude to the first responders who acted swiftly and courageously.

Town Manager’s Report

Council,

I want to thank you again for your time and engagement at last week’s Council-Staff Annual Meeting. I thought it was a productive time together, with great dialogue and candid feedback, and I appreciate the way each of you contributed. That kind of conversation makes us better and helps staff move forward with clarity, especially as we shift our attention toward budget season. I look forward to continuing those conversations in the months ahead.

This week, Danna and I were in Chapel Hill attending the UNC School of Government’s Essentials of Municipal Government course, along with Councilmembers Bella, Brittany, and Sarika. The program, offered in partnership with the North Carolina League of Municipalities, is a solid refresher on municipal authority, financial oversight, ethics, and the council-manager form of government. Even after all these years, it’s helpful to step back, focus on the fundamentals of good governance, and remind ourselves why structure matters.

Since we skipped last Friday’s report because of the annual meeting, this week’s report is a bit longer than usual, but it’s full of important updates that I hope you’ll have time to review.

Have a great weekend.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

Quarterly Cary Economic Development Report

Cary Chamber of Commerce President Mark Lawson submitted a summary of economic development activity between November 2025 and January 2026. The report can be found here.

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,339 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,490
• Email: 359
• Web: 232
• Internal: 157
• Walk-In: 54
• Text: 40
• Social Media: 7

55.02% cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 563
• Inspections and Certifications: 316
• Permitting: 171
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 129
• Parks & Recreation Programming (Classes/Camps): 108

FY 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

As reviewed at the February 5 Work Session and Council meeting, the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for Fiscal Year 2025 has been completed and officially submitted to the Local Government Commission (LGC). As this year’s Report concludes, attention also turns to the future. The audit is not just a conclusion; it is an opportunity to strengthen systems and affirm the organization’s responsibility to maintain effective internal controls.

2026 Cary 101 Applications Open

Applications for Cary 101 are now open through March 17. Residents can apply today at www.carync.gov/cary101. Cary 101 is a nine-session program that offers citizens an opportunity to deepen their understanding of local government and inspire greater community involvement. Participants receive a behind-the-scenes look at Cary’s culture, departments, and operations prior to their graduation in May.

Haleys Branch Trails Community Meeting

Wake County will be holding a community engagement meeting to share updates on the 286 East property, now named Haleys Branch. The 151-acre site, located adjacent to Lake Crabtree County Park, is currently leased to Wake County from RDU Airport Authority. The meeting will provide a first look at the concept plan for the property, including proposed mountain bike and hiking trails, and offer an opportunity for public feedback. It will be held on March 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Academy Pavilion Event Space at Downtown Cary Park.

CDBG Public Input Opportunity

To further the goals of the Imagine Cary Community Plan (ICCP) and Cary Housing Plan, Cary supports key initiatives in new housing development, housing rehabilitation, and housing stability support services. To accomplish this, Cary uses a blend of local and federal funds, including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Every year, Cary prepares an Annual Action Plan outlining how federal CDBG and local funds will be used to implement community goals for the coming fiscal year, in alignment with community input and the ICCP. Before preparing the draft 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan, staff will host a CDBG Public Input Opportunity on March 3 from 4-7 p.m. at the Herb Young Community Center to share information about community goals and receive public comment. Staff will consider all feedback when drafting the 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan, which will be posted for public review in late March. For more information about the March 3 public input opportunity, visit housing.carync.gov.

25-REZ-15 Carpenter Fire Station Townhouses Withdrawn

On February 12, the applicant for rezoning 25-REZ-15 Carpenter Fire Station Townhouses at 7021, 7025, and 7029 Carpenter Fire Station Road requested to withdraw the rezoning request. A neighborhood meeting for this case was held in January, and it had not yet been scheduled for a public hearing.

Council-Staff Annual Meeting Community Engagement

Staff kept the community informed during this year’s Council-Staff Annual Meeting through clear and accessible communications. The three livestream sessions averaged about 2,600 viewers, significantly extending the meeting’s reach, with two residents attending in person. Media coverage included seven online articles and 14 television segments across major outlets. Social media posts generated over 25,000 impressions and nearly 1,000 engagements (clicks, reactions, shares, or comments), keeping key information visible throughout the weekend. Emails to around 6,600 subscribers had strong open rates with over 1,600 opens each, directing residents to videos and materials online. With only two 311 inquiries, the low number of follow-up questions suggests the information was easy to find and understand. Overall, the communications approach helped reinforce transparency throughout the meeting. View a detailed breakdown of outreach and content here.

Annual Water Disinfection Switchover

The Cary/ Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) will begin its annual disinfection switchover process today. In accordance with state and federal recommendations, each year the treatment facility temporarily stops adding the normal chlorine/ammonia disinfection mixture and switches to free chlorine. This change to a more potent disinfectant, combined with flushing of water lines, cleanses the system and helps ensure high-quality drinking water throughout the remainder of the year. During this time, residents and customers may notice a minor increase in chlorine and, in some cases, the water may appear slightly discolored. This activity is part of our normal water system maintenance process and will be taking place in tandem with several of our neighboring municipalities. The switch in disinfectants will continue until April 6.

Annual Biosolids Report

In 2025, the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) and Western Wake Water Reclamation Facility (WWWRF) produced 6,174 dry tons of biosolids. Cary reports annual biosolids production to the Environmental Protection Agency and the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. The report documents production volumes, treatment performance, and compliance with Class A Exceptional Quality standards. Through thermal drying at the SCWRF and WWWRF, biosolids are converted into Enviro-Gems, a fertilizer and soil amendment used in agriculture, supporting sustainable reuse and reducing waste. Read the 2025 Annual Biosolids Report here.

Aquastar Anniversary and AMI Updates

This year marks the 15th anniversary of Cary’s implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), a milestone in commitment to innovation and responsible water resource management. While all of our first-generation residential meters have been replaced and upgraded, staff continue to upgrade infrastructure as part of our proactive, asset-management-based meter management program. These efforts ensure long-term system efficiency, billing accuracy, and reliable service for our citizens and customers.

Water Main Replacement Construction Update

The Annual Water Main Replacement Project has mobilized to Shirley Drive, where the existing 8-inch water main will be upsized to 12 inches to improve downtown system resiliency. Aging sewer infrastructure will also be replaced before street restoration to reduce future maintenance needs. Letters and door hangers were distributed to impacted residents to provide advance notice of the work and associated closures. Beginning Monday, Shirley Drive will be closed to through traffic weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. while a new gravity sewer main is installed. Due to the pipe depth and center-road location, traffic cannot be maintained during construction. Daytime closures are expected to last approximately three months. Resident access will be maintained, and a signed detour will use Kildaire Farm Road, W. Cornwall Road, and Griffis Street. Since starting in December 2025, the project has progressed steadily. Water main installation is complete on Logan Circle and Carnoustie Circle, with final pavement restoration pending warmer temperatures. New water mains on Tanglewood Drive and Sarazan Meadow Way are undergoing testing before being placed in service.

Wake County Hotel Development Summit

On Thursday, Cary Chamber President Mark Lawson, Director of Planning and Community Development Heather Whelehan, and Assistant Director of Administrative Services Brittany Edwards represented Cary at the Wake County Hotel Development Summit, organized by Visit Raleigh, JLL, and Wake County Economic Development. The event connected dozens of hotel developers from across the country with municipal leaders through a series of 20-minute appointments. At Cary’s table specifically, discussions focused on local supply and demand trends, the type of hospitality product best aligned with Cary’s market, and the Town’s targeted mixed-use strategy.

Cary Chamber Business Expo

Staff from our 311 team were in attendance at this year’s Cary Chamber of Commerce Business Expo on February 25. The expo is an opportunity to showcase Cary’s 311 services to Chamber members and the community. The event was well attended and featured business exhibits, educational seminars, networking, and an afternoon social.

School BreakOUT! The Arts

More than 600 people stopped by Downtown Cary Park for School BreakOUT. Families explored a wide variety of artist-led, hands-on activities designed to spark imagination and keep young creators engaged throughout the afternoon. Participants painted ceramics, crafted pearler bead necklaces, and experimented with open-ended art using reusable materials. Artists from the Cary Arts Center also led interactive experiences, guiding guests through mosaic wood slice creations, mini watercolor resist paintings, and step-by-step Chibi manga drawing.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting: March 4

The following neighborhood meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 4 at 6:30 p.m.

• 26-REZ-02 Ferrell Sowter PDD Rezoning

For more information and to register, please visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting page.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, March 2, 5:15 p.m.

Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, March 2, 6:00 p.m.

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, March 4, 12:00 p.m.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting
Wednesday, March 4, 6:30 p.m.

2026 State of Cary
Thursday, March 5, 6:00 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The questions that are new or updated are below.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Dozens of emails about ICE potentially moving into a building in Regency. (We have no authority over the federal government. At this time, the town has not received any requests or permit applications from ICE. However, they could proceed there, and we do not have the authority to stop them.)
• A complaint about a town utility vehicle blocking traffic.
• Thank you for our police officer’s compassion and care after an accident.
• A request for a letter of congratulations.
• Requests to help with school projects.
• A request for flags at half staff for Jesse Jackson (these are done by the Governor, and this one was already approved).
• A question about the former town manager’s hiring process.
• Requests to attend several events.
• A request to recognize a student who is competing for a national award.
• A thank you: “I continue to have full confidence in your leadership. We need your guidance and role model now more than ever. I know this is a challenging time, but you are the perfect person to lead Cary forward. Thank you for your continued dedication to making Cary the best place to live, work, and play.”

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, meetings with residents, a State of Cary address at Glenaire, a State of Cary at town hall, a NC Metro Mayors meeting, Dr. Sharma’s 100^th birthday celebration, and Hum Sub’s Basant Bahar celebration.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 8^th, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Purpose of this Blog

It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.

This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!

How Cary Government Works

Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina, uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.

Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.

In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.

You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.

NC Association of Zoning Officials Midwinter Meeting

On Monday, I delivered welcoming remarks to the NC Association of Zoning Officials mid-winter conference, which had about 200 attendees. I spoke just before the keynote address.

Although zoning officials often work behind the scenes, their influence is clearly seen in neighborhoods, local businesses, and the overall character of their communities. Their decisions go far beyond buildings and parcels of land; they help shape the future of the places people call home.

They operate at the intersection of law, policy, and people. Every application they review reflects someone’s investment, someone’s home, or someone’s livelihood. They are tasked with balancing private property rights and the public good, economic opportunity and infrastructure capacity, and growth with preservation. Doing so requires not only technical expertise, but sound judgment and a high degree of professionalism.

Cary was proud to be the host municipality of this conference, and I hope they consider returning next year.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday evening, I attended a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association. Joining the discussion were the mayors of Cary, Fuquay Varina, Garner, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, and Wendell.

We covered a range of topics, including pending legislation on property taxes, General Fund balance considerations, different types of council members, and the council-manager form of government. It was an excellent group, and the conversation was both thoughtful and lively.

GRCVB Board

On Tuesday morning, I attended the monthly meeting of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau in North Hills. The group began with the treasurer’s financial report, followed by several funding requests, including some already submitted for fiscal year 2031. This year, nine of the twelve municipalities, including Cary, received funding. One notable update was that hotel occupancy rates are down, a trend being seen nationwide, though our market is projected to outperform much of the country.

A representative from Kane Realty Development shared updates on current and upcoming projects in North Hills, and the meeting concluded with a walking tour of the area.

The session was wrapped up with reports from the four liaisons, including Cary. In my report, I highlighted the TST tournament and upcoming performances at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

After the meeting I received the following information about visitors to the Raleigh area for this quarter:

• Around 43% of Q4 2025 visitors were day-trippers to Wake County, who did not stay overnight in the destination at paid accommodations or private homes.
• The top origin market for Q4 2025 visitors to Wake County was the Raleigh/Durham/Fayetteville Designated Market Area (DMA, a 23-county region), and 55.8% of all visitors hail from North Carolina. Other notable origin states for Q4 include D.C. and Va., Fla., S.C., N.Y. and Ga. These origin insights can help our business partners with ad and promotional targeting.
• Out of 700 POIs tracked in Wake County, RDU International Airport saw the most visitor volume in Q4 2025, followed by Crabtree, Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, North Hills – Main District and Lenovo Center, respectively. Of the top 25 POIs by visitor volume, RDU International Airport drew the highest proportion of visitors (52%) vs. residents of Wake County (48%) in Q4 2025.
• Insights for accommodation partners from Q4 2025: overnight visitors from the New York, Charlotte, Greenville/New Bern/Washington, Atlanta and Wilmington DMAs spent the most with Wake County hotels across all hotel classes. Q4’s average hotel revenue per arrival was $266. (Revenues tracked by the LED vs. STR’s accounting suggest capture of approximately 28% of hotel stays with these data.)

For your data-related questions or even more insights, please contact GRCVB’s Destination Data, Technology and AI Department at data@visitRaleigh.com.

CAMPO Executive Board 

Wednesday afternoon I participated in a meeting of the CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) Executive Board. CAMPO is a regional transportation planning organization serving communities in Chatham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston and Wake Counties. According to The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1962, areas considered by the Federal Census to be urban in nature with a population of at least 50,000 must have a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive transportation planning process. In order to receive funding from the federal government in the state of North Carolina, this process is carried out by Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO). Members from each of the MPOs make up the North Carolina Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations. Currently, there are 19 MPOs in North Carolina.

The meeting agenda featured four consent items, four public hearings, and five discussion items.

The consent agenda included approval of meeting minutes, the FY 2026 Third Quarter Wake Transit Work Plan Amendment Requests, the NCSU-ITRE Master Service Agreement Amendment, and the Apex Pleasant Park Access Study Interlocal Agreement. All consent items were approved unanimously.

Public hearings were conducted for the FY 2027 Unified Planning Work Program, the Program Management Plan Update for Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities, the FFY 2027 LAPP Program, and Amendment #2 to the FY 2026–2035 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). Each of these items was approved.

Discussion items included presentations on NCDOT’s winter weather preparedness efforts, the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, a congestion management update, the Cape Fear River Basin Wildlife Crossing Study, and the Wake Transit Conference Committee.

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee met Wednesday night. The agenda included remarks from the Interim Town Manager Russ Overton, a development update from Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry, and the Quarterly Chamber report from Chamber President Mark Lawson.

The manager’s remarks were brief and primarily served as an introduction, providing background context.

The development update covered trend data from the second quarter of fiscal year 2026 (October–December). The trends indicate that Cary’s growth continues to slow.

The following are a few takeaways from the Chamber report:

• Unemployment in November: Cary 3.2%, Wake County 3.5%, NC 3.7%, US 4.4%
• Unemployment in December: Cary 2.8%, Wake County 3%, NC 3.9%, US 4.4%
• Monthly Inflation Rates for 2025:

January 2025 3.00%

February 2025 2.82%

March 2025 2.39%

April 2025 2.31%

May 2025 2.35%

June 2025 2.67%

July 2025 2.70%

August 2025 2.92%

September 2025 3.01%

October 2025 N/A

November 2025 2.74%

December 2025 2.70%

Average: 2.69%

• Inflation for January 2026 – 2.50%
• Jobs created in 2025: 1,275 in order (Technology, Life Science, Advance Manufacturing, Financial Services, Professional Services, Health Care, Sports & Entertainment.)
• Business Recruitment Pipeline:

Active Projects: 13

Potential Jobs: 3,038

Potential Investment: $983M

Industries: Advanced Manufacturing, Life Science, IT, Research & Development, and Food & Beverage Manufacturing.

• New Headquarters: Invicta Water – This organization relocated their business, which was in Burlington, NC to Cary, so they could have a larger operation and be in a more modern space to further expand their client reach. This company specializes in the removal and destruction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” from water sources. Unlike traditional methods that merely filter or capture PFAS, Invicta Water’s technology aims to eliminate these harmful substances without producing toxic byproducts.

Council-Staff 3 x 4

The council-staff 3 x 4 meetings focused primarily on planning the retreat agenda. Proposed retreat topics include a financial update; budget financial fluency and priorities; Cary’s DNA; the evolving Cary community; service levels; and Cary’s mission, vision, and values. In preparation, staff requested input on which service-level discussion topics should be included.

Upcoming work sessions will address the delegation of authority policy, capital projects, and a retreat follow-up, if needed.

Looking ahead, future topics include Alston Commons, ACT 38 Imagine Cary Community Plan, ACT 23 retaining walls, and various real estate items.

Each 3 x 4 meeting lasted one hour.

Interview with WRAL

On Thursday, I gave an interview to WRAL regarding the council staff working retreat scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Although the discussion centered on the retreat, the resulting story leaned toward the kind of clickbait coverage we’ve seen from the media in recent months, particularly around the manager transition. You can review the story here. Only the final portion reflects the recent comments; the rest appears to have been blended in to heighten the drama.

Interview with Graduate Student

Thursday afternoon, I participated in an interview with a graduate student from North Carolina A&T State University who is currently studying public policy. The questions covered my background and upbringing, leadership style, key policies and initiatives, and the changes that have taken place during my time in office.

Council-Staff Working Retreat Friday

On Friday, I joined the council and staff for the start of our annual two-day retreat to establish the town’s direction and vision. Much of the conversation centered on financial planning and the budget.

The Interim Manager started the retreat with the poem “Still I rise” by Maya Angelou which was so fitting. I, along with others, feel that we have unjustly received a lifetime of hate in the last few months, so it was very uplifting. Some of the versus that really resonated with me:

“You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise.

…

Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise.

Did you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops. Weakened by my soulful cries.

…

You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise. … I rise I rise I rise.”

With that the rest of the retreat was about how we were moving forward.

After an icebreaker, the council spent an hour and a half in a circle with NC Senator Adcock, who previously served as Cary’s Mayor Pro-Tem, discussing strategies for building a stronger, more unified council. While some might view this as unproductive, it’s important to note that council members rarely have the opportunity for these kinds of group discussions outside of official town business. Building working relationships and engaging in these conversations is not only valuable but a crucial step in helping us move forward from where we are today.

To set the tone for the remainder of the retreat, a video highlighting the future of Cary was shown, featuring both staff and council members. Following the video, the council engaged in a discussion about what defines Cary’s DNA.

The next session on Friday focused on reviewing Cary’s vision and values, which have not been updated since 2006. Participants split into seven small groups to evaluate them, with each group including one council member. We then reconvened to discuss the proposed changes and recommendations from each group. Several council members raised objections to the word “citizens” and preferred “residents” instead. They also disagreed with the statement, “We will continue to be nationally recognized for excellence in local government” and said that “we shouldn’t be chasing national awards”.

After lunch, the council received a presentation on demographics and development. The data, including graphs and charts, highlighted much of what I talk about in my State of Cary address and that we are an ageing community with a strong preference to age in place.

The subsequent presentation focused on service levels and featured a panel of staff representing utilities, fire, police, development, parks, and public works. In preparation, council members were asked several days in advance which service areas they wanted to explore. Topics included:

• Loose-leaf collection between November and January, including three rounds of collection, two completed prior to December 24, and the collection of more than 10,000 tons annually.
• Sidewalk maintenance under Policy 135 (covering more than 400 miles) and greenway maintenance (over 100 miles).
• Greenway mowing on a 10-day cycle and trash collection on a 7-day cycle, maintained by a team of six full-time employees and three seasonal staff, with an average FY26 cost per mile of approximately $8,600.
• Sidewalk maintenance response times, with assessment occurring within one day of a reported concern.
• Street maintenance and pavement conditions, including a goal of addressing 90% of reported potholes on Cary-owned streets within 24 hours, and coordinating with North Carolina Department of Transportation regarding potholes on state-maintained roads.

Key takeaways from the discussion included:

• Service levels require both personnel and funding.
• The definition of “service level” varies depending on perspective.
• Service levels are interconnected, often involving multiple departments and layers of coordination.

While the information shared was thorough and impressive, one of my most significant takeaways was that each department indicated their current operating model is not sustainable. Maintaining our existing service levels will require substantial budget considerations moving forward. One of the most significant comments I heard from some of the council members was that we do not have to be the best of the best in every area.

The council spent the rest of Friday in a closed session with the attorney, interim manager, and town clerk.

Council-Staff Working Retreat Saturday

Saturday morning began with a session to potentially prioritize budget items. Council voted on these items using the quadratic method which resulted in the following:

• Community Safety: 29
• New Capital Investment: 23
• High Performing Staff: 22
• Affordability: 21
• Maintaining Service Levels: 21
• Maintaining Facilities: 21
• Fiscal Responsibility 16
• Environmental Stewardship: 16
• Service Excellence: 16
• Operational Efficiency: <10

Each council member acknowledged that all priority items were important, though they placed greater emphasis on certain items when casting their votes. Staff will use both the quantitative and qualitative prioritization results to guide budget decisions.

The second session on Saturday was a financial update with key financial indicators. Here are some of the points that were made:

• Top five General Fund expenditures Public Safety, General Government, non-departmental (debt service, utility, etc.), PRCR
• Top five Spending increases:
  • Police: $11 million
  • Non-departmental: $10 million
  • Parks: $9 million
  • IT: $9 million
  • Public Works: $5 million
• Top five Personnel Spending increases:
  • Police: $9 million
  • Parks: $5 million
  • Fire: $5 million
  • Public Works: $5 million
  • Town Manager’s Office: $4 million
• Top five Operations and Maintenance increases:
  • IT: $8 million
  • Parks: $5.5 million
  • Non-departmental: $4.5 million
  • Finance: $2.75 million
  • Police: $2.75 million
• Fund Balance at 41%, policy is 33%
• Available Fund Balance Revenue: 21.5%
• Debt Service/Expenditures: 8.7%
• FY 2026 Q2 Financial Key Takeaways:
  • Property tax and sales tax revenues outperforming budget.
  • Staff closely monitoring financial performance, including revenue growth and net results.
  • Positive net results and fund balance projected for June 30, 2026.

Saturday’s third session focused on the Fund Balance Policy. Key takeaways included:

• Fund Balance and its categories are measured at year-end and used strategically when making spending decisions.
• As Cary continues to mature as a community, our financial benchmarks and policies should evolve accordingly.
• Bond ratings remain critically important and are a key area of focus for the Council, leadership, and the investment community.

Our current policy states that Total Fund Balance must be at least 33.33%, approximately four months, of budgeted General Fund expenditures. General Fund expenditures include total expenditures and debt service but exclude other financing sources and uses. It is worth noting that our fund balance policy is significantly higher than that of many comparable communities. Staff will prepare options for potential changes to the Fund Balance policy and present them at a future work session.

The next session focused on unfunded positions and preliminary staff requests for the upcoming FY 2027 budget. Because a number of positions have been held vacant over the past several years, there is now a significant backlog of needs.

The interim manager ended the retreat with reflections and looking forward.

In summary, the retreat was centered more on conversation and collaborative discussion than on formal presentations. Both staff and council remained fully engaged throughout the two days, which made the experience especially productive and valuable. If you want to watch the retreat, you can view it here on Cary’s YouTube channel.

Downtown Cary Park Design Firm Receives Top US Architectural Honor

Downtown Cary Park was recently recognized for innovative park design by the 2025 American Architecture Awards, the nation’s highest architectural honor.  Designed by the Boston-based firm Machado Silvetti in partnership with the Town of Cary, the Park seamlessly integrates landscape and architecture to create a cohesive, contemporary civic destination in the heart of Cary. 

“The American Architecture Award is a national recognition of the design achievements of Downtown Cary Park,” said Jeffry Burchard, managing partner and principal at Machado Silvetti. “It is a reminder of the importance of community support and collective effort in the pursuit of beautiful and innovative public spaces.”

The Downtown Park design was selected for the award from a shortlist of over 1,500 submissions across 27 unique disciplines. It is one of only five parks in the nation recognized by the 2025 American Architecture Award. 

One notable achievement of the park is Machado Silvetti’s unified design approach, where architecture and landscape function as one experience. The Park transitions from an urban plaza to natural spaces, creating diverse spatial and ecological conditions across the site. 

Equally important to its recognition is the Park’s measurable social impact. With more than 750,000 visitors in its first year and over 1,000 events hosted, Downtown Cary Park has become a vibrant hub for recreation, culture, and community connection, demonstrating the power of design to shape public life and strengthen a growing community.

“This recognition reflects the vision and care that went into creating a park that truly belongs to the community,” said Joy Ennis, Downtown Cary Park General Manager. “Downtown Cary Park was designed to bring people together and seeing how residents and visitors have embraced the space makes this honor especially meaningful.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to experience the award-winning Downtown Cary Park and discover how thoughtful design, community vision, and public investment are shaping the future of Cary.

Learn more at downtowncarypark.com.

Council Out and About

Hope you’re enjoying the warmer weather and, like me, are ready to be done with the harsh winter we had this year. Many of our local businesses were impacted by the severe weather, and that’s why I organized an open walk-in meeting at a coffee shop in my district — to support the business, and to bring the community together.

The response was far more than I expected. We had a packed house and some really meaningful conversations with residents. Connecting, listening, and sharing my perspective reminded me why these moments matter so much, and it has motivated me to put more of these meetings on the schedule.

I encourage everyone to continue supporting our local businesses and help them through this challenging time. There’s a lot happening in our town, with many opportunities to engage and support our community. One event I’m especially looking forward to is Fest in the West, an event organized annually by a long-time Cary resident in my district. It features a wonderful variety of vendors and activities for young kids and families to enjoy. Please mark your calendars for April 18th. 

For more events and updates, be sure to sign up for the Town’s newsletter.

Sarika Bansal

District D Representative

Connecting With the Community

Councilmember Sarika Bansal hosted open-walk-in office hours in District D. She enjoyed connecting with residents and hearing firsthand about the ideas and issues that matter most to the community.

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Bella Huang attended the Lunar New Year Celebration hosted by the North Carolina Chinese American Society and the North Carolina Asian Americans Alliance. The festive event brought the community together to celebrate culture, tradition, and the beginning of a new year.

Councilmember Brittany Richards attended the Lunar New Year Banquet hosted by the Chinese-American Friendship Association. The evening was filled with vibrant performances and joyful fellowship in honor of the holiday.

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson toured the SAFEchild Advocacy Center in Raleigh on Monday. She was joined by Development Director Anna Jackson, Board Member Virginia Anthony, and Executive Director Rebekah Paredes to learn more about the center’s services for Wake County municipalities.

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the State of Cary at Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate, with Councilmember Sarika Bansal also in attendance. The presentation highlighted Cary’s progress and was followed by an engaging Q&A session.

Mayor Weinbrecht delivered the State of Cary address at the Cary Chamber of Commerce Eye Opener event. Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about Cary’s accomplishments and future initiatives. Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Bella Huang, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards also attended.

Mayor Weinbrecht spoke with fifth-grade students at Green Hope Elementary School. He shared insights about local government and encouraged students to get involved in their community.

Mayor Weinbrecht toured the United Way Call Center in Cary in recognition of NC211 Day. The visit highlighted the vital services NC211 provides to residents across the state.

Mayor Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Bush, and Councilmembers Bansal, Craig, Huang, and Richards attended a Lunar New Year celebration hosted by Representative Ya Liu at Prestonwood Country Club. The celebration brought community leaders and residents together to honor cultural heritage and welcome the Year of the Fire Horse.

Councilmember Bella Huang attended the grand opening of LIVE Hydration Spa Cary. The ribbon-cutting marked an exciting addition to Cary’s thriving small business community.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th, January 11^th, and January 18^th blog:

• WithersRavenel Contract
• Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
• Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
• When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
• Do you have conflicts of interest?
• Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
• How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
• Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
• Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
• What changes have you made and will you make?

The questions that are new or updated are below.

Town Owned Properties

We have received a variety of questions related to the manager’s transition, one of which was about town owned properties. The Town currently owns 352 fee simple properties. You can find a map of these properties here. To get information on the parcel, zoom in and select.

Transit Service in District D

In response to District D citizens about transit to their area the staff provided the following:

• We do not currently have any new fixed route transit service planned for implementation in western Cary.
• The current Wake Transit Bus Plan / short-range operations plan does not include funding for any new service in Cary; beyond the two new routes we implemented last November.  The last Bus Plan update (2021-2022) looked at service options in western and southern Cary and determined that the density/ridership potential wasn’t high enough to prioritize Wake Transit Plan funding above new service for other transit providers in Wake County.
• After the last Bus Plan update, Cary conducted a Microtransit Study to determine the feasibility of Microtransit service as a “starter” option in areas that don’t score high enough for Wake Transit funding.
• The Microtransit Study determined this service type is a good fit for western and southern Cary. The study was presented to Council in January 2025. It was noted that this service will require 100% Town funding for at least 3 years before the service could start generating federal support. It could eventually be eligible for some level of Wake Transit funding, but the amount and timing are uncertain.  We do know we won’t receive funding in the next five years.
• It was also noted that it would take at least one year to purchase vehicles and design/construct stops to support new service.  Service would begin the year after infrastructure needs are met. Initial capital needs are in the $1-$2M range, depending on the level of initial service, with another $1-$2M required annually to operate the service.  Capital needs should be considered during the upcoming capital project prioritization discussions. 
• The next Wake Transit Bus Plan update will kick-off later this year, with a final plan expected in late 2027.  We will advocate again to start including service in western and southern Cary in the funding model. If they are included, funding will likely not be until 2031 or later.
• We continue to provide Door to Door service to eligible customers in all areas of Cary.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Dozens of emails about ICE potentially moving into a building in Regency. (We have no authority over the federal government. At this time, the town has not received any requests or permit applications from ICE. However, they could proceed there, and we do not have the authority to stop them.)
• Complaints and a petition about a proposed mixed use on Davis Drive. (So far, this has not been introduced to council, and we have no staff report.)
• Questions about the former town manager’s actions.
• A complaint about the Downtown Cary Park’s dog park location.
• Several invitations to events.
• A request for a traffic signal at Green Level Road and Carpenter Hill Lane. (NODOT is the decision maker for traffic signals.)
• A concern about PFAS in Cary. (We eliminated that years ago.)
• A complaint about town vehicles in the parking deck during early voting. (All town lots were full of town employee cars. There was nowhere else for them to go. FYI, two decks will open in March.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with Kiwanis Club International, a Ramadan Iftar dinner, and a proclamation for VFW Auxiliary.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 1^st, 2026. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.