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!

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.

Cary Underrated City in NC

WorldAtlas named Cary as one of the most underrated cities in North Carolina. Here is what they said:

“Located in central North Carolina within the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill metropolitan area, Cary is a city close to Durham and Raleigh. With an estimated population of around 180,000, it ranks among the state’s largest towns, celebrated for its low crime rate, excellent schools, and easy access to parks and greenways.

Cary boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities, offering plenty of open green space such as Downtown Cary Park and North Cary Park. Residents and visitors enjoy walking trails at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and lakeside activities at Fred G. Bond Metro Park, which features the Bond Park Community Center. Other popular spots include the Cary Arts Center, Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Koka Booth Amphitheatre, and Marla Dorrel Park. Phillips Farms of Cary is a seasonal attraction that is currently closed but plans to reopen in Spring 2026.”

One note for WorldAtlas. Cary is the 2^nd largest town in the nation, and is the largest town in North Carolina.

State of North Carolina 8^th for Tech Graduates

According to TryHackMe, North Carolina ranks eighth, with tech graduates earning 67% more than average. The average annual cost of a tech degree in North Carolina is $14,073. Four years after graduation, the median earnings for graduates in the state are $35,484, compared with $59,303 for tech graduates.

Council Meeting Prep

Monday I contacted each council member to hear of any concerns or questions about the upcoming agenda. Council members had questions about the auditor’s report, the gravel lot next to the Walker, and the staff merit increase.

Council 3 x 4 Meetings

To give and receive information from staff the council and staff now hold 3 x 4 meetings which include two council members and the mayor plus the manager and at least four staff members. Topics discussed this week included the retreat agenda, the future convenience center, and the ACFR (audit) report from Cherry Bekaert. We also talked about the need to explain the council-manager form of government to the public.

CAMPO Blueprint for Safety Task Force

On Tuesday morning, I participated in a task force meeting for the CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) Blueprint for Safety, which was attended by more than 60 participants. The purpose of the task force is to identify infrastructure treatments and policy approaches that support safer road users, safer vehicles, post-crash care, safe speeds, and safer roads. The task force’s work is organized into pillars, strategies, and actions. The pillars define key areas of focus, Policy, Safety Culture, and Projects, designed to intentionally address safety needs. Strategies articulate the vision for advancing each pillar, while actions specify the work CAMPO, local governments, NCDOT, and other partners will undertake to implement the blueprint. These actions are further organized into near-term and long-term horizons.

Meeting with Citizen

I met with a citizen who had previously spoken during the Public Speaks Out portion of a council meeting, where he raised several questions and called for my resignation. The interim town manager was also present. As I explained and answered questions, I was interrupted several times by the citizen, who stated that he did not care. He ultimately said that I needed to resign because I had been in the position for 20 years, though this is the beginning of my 19th year as mayor. I asked whether he believed the issues were entirely my fault, and he responded that I had simply been doing the job long enough. At the conclusion of the meeting, he stated that I am a man of integrity.

Council Work Session

Council held a work session on Thursday evening and focused on two topics, the removal of the convenience center and the FY2025 budget.

The convenience center opened in the 1950s, with most of the site located within Norfolk Southern’s railroad right-of-way. This is not unusual; for example, Cedar Street itself lies within the rail right-of-way. We have been notified that the facility must vacate the right-of-way by the end of the year.

Currently, the convenience center accepts residential waste and recycling, recycling and composting, and large and specialty items. The center serves approximately 90,000 visits annually. Most convenience centers are operated by the county rather than by municipalities.

Council was presented with three options for the future of the convenience center:

• Close the convenience center to the public (by December 2026). Current operating costs are approximately $800,000 to $900,000 per year.
• Maintain yard waste and food waste disposal at the current site, close all other services, and reconfigure the site to accommodate those remaining functions.
• Maintain yard waste disposal at the current site and relocate all other services to a new downtown location on land owned by the Town of Cary. The estimated design fee for a new location is $175,000, with construction costs projected at $3 to $4 million.

Council members requested that staff explore the possibility of Wake County developing an additional site in Cary to help offset costs; however, this appears to be a remote possibility. Based on the discussion, the council does not appear to support pursuing a new facility at a cost of $3 to $4 million. Any selected option would result in a reduced level of service compared to what Cary residents receive today. It should also be noted that, regardless of the option chosen, there will be a period after the center closes during which no convenience center services will be available in Cary. The council will be deciding on this issue later in the spring.

The next item discussed during the work session was the FY2025 budget and the audit conducted by Cherry Bekaert. The Cherry Bekaert audit is one of several actions currently underway, including:

• An investigation by the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor into alleged fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer funds.
• Reviews conducted by Womble Bond Dickinson.
  • An examination of procurement card usage, reimbursements, and expenditures of Town funds by the former town manager.
  • A review of the former town manager’s financial reporting to the Town Council.
  • An evaluation of the work environment created by the former town manager.
• A criminal investigation requested by the District Attorney and being conducted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
• The Cherry Bekaert audit, which serves as Cary’s external independent audit and reviews financial statements for financial reporting, compliance related to federal funds, and internal controls for Fiscal Year 2025.

Staff then walked the Council through the draft Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). Once finalized, the report will be made available to the public. The ACFR:

• Confirms the Town’s overall financial condition
• Identifies financial trends and potential risks
• Supports policy development and budget decisions
• Is used by bond rating agencies, lenders, and regulatory bodies
• Demonstrates stewardship of public funds
• Measures accountability and outcomes

The findings of the report occurred during the council meeting that followed the work session.

Council Regular Meeting

The first regularly scheduled meeting of the council was held Thursday night. The agenda included three presentations, three consent items, and one discussion item.

The first two presentations were proclamations recognizing Lunar New Year and Ramadan. The third presentation addressed the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), including the results of the independent audit and an overview of the Town’s annual financial performance. Each year, Cary prepares year-end financial statements to report financial outcomes and ensure accountability for the use of public funds. These statements are reviewed by an independent auditor, who issues an audit opinion.

The audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, confirmed that Cary remains in a strong financial position. The Council presentation focused on the financial section of the ACFR. Two key takeaways from the forty-five-minute presentation were that the Town’s financial records were free of material misstatement and that Cary’s financial condition remains strong. During the fiscal year, $23.6 million was added to the fund balance, bringing the total fund balance to $106 million.

Despite these positive results, media coverage largely centered on the former town manager’s actions and recommendations rather than the Town’s overall financial health.

The consent agenda included minutes, the Walnut Street Gravel Lot Improvements Amended Proposal, and an adjustment to the meeting schedule.

The discussion item focused on restoring funding to the employee merit program, which was reduced following a recommendation from the former town manager. That recommendation was presented as having the support of the entire management team, which was not the case. The FY2026 budget currently funds Cary’s pay-for-performance employee compensation program at an average 3% merit-based increase, a 2% decrease from last year.

Underfunding the merit program makes it difficult for Cary to remain competitive in the regional labor market. When combined with the escalating cost of living, a significant number of vacant positions, and historically low staff-to-citizen ratios, the strain on many Cary employees is substantial.

This staff report recommended restoring the merit program to a 5% average increase through a series of actions, including the reallocation of existing funds. These changes can be implemented without increasing taxes, fees, or other FY2026 appropriations.

Our employees are Cary’s greatest asset, and they are truly the best of the best. The proposed funding restoration relies on reallocating funds that were already budgeted for initiatives unlikely to occur during this fiscal year. The following outlines the sources of those funds:

Reallocation From	Amount
Town Manager’s Office – Contracted Services	$500,000
Available for Mid-Year Appropriation	$450,000
Town Manager’s Office – Training and Travel	$250,000
Historic Preservation – Contracted Services	$200,000
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources – Contracted Services	$200,000
Solid Waste – Contracted Services	$150,000
General Fund Total	$1,750,000
Utility Fund – Remote Water Infrastructure Division	$280,000
Fleet – Parts	$35,000
Total	$2,065,000*

*In addition, there is a $750,000 transfer to General Fund from Utility Fund.

Council Out and About

Message from Council Member

Councilmembers attended fewer events this week, as many were rescheduled. Are you as over this winter weather, snow, ice, and unusually cold temperatures, as I am?

To the parents supporting their children through remote learning while also working from home: I see you, and I know how hard this can feel. I also recognize the difficult decisions being made to keep everyone safe.

To our small businesses and hourly workers feeling the strain of reduced hours, and to our essential workers who reported to work even before the roads were clear: I see you.

I have also seen many thoughtful posts and emails asking how to help others and expressing gratitude to the Town of Cary A+ Team, who are working around the clock to treat and plow our roads.

What stands out most, despite the frustration, is the encouragement, empathy, and respect shown across differing perspectives. This is Cary—people first—and it reminds me how proud and honored I am to live and serve here.

Michelle Craig

District B

Walk for Peace

Councilmember Sarika Bansal joined other Triangle-area elected officials as Buddhist monks participating in the Walk for Peace are expected to pass through Apex while traveling along NC 64.

Mayor’s State of Cary

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the 2026 State of Cary at the Cary Senior Center, joined by Councilmember Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig. The event provided residents with an overview of current initiatives, future goals, and opportunities for continued community engagement.

Town Manager’s Weekly Report

Russ’s Message

Council,

I want to start by thanking you for your continued support of our staff. Your approval last night of the merit increase funding means a great deal to our employees, and I know it was well received. I also appreciate the steady partnership you show our organization as we continue to work through a challenging period.

As we navigate this time and keep operations moving forward, I want to point out a new addition to this week’s report titled Cary TV Online Views. Following the decision to expand and invest in online streaming of public meetings, this section shows the impact of that decision. The numbers show that residents are using these tools and appreciate having more ways to stay informed and engaged.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

Council Manager Form of Government Webpage

For more information on the council-manager form of government, visit the webpage under the Mayor & Council section of Cary’s website.

Cary TV Online Views

Following Council’s vote to expand meeting streaming, here’s a breakdown of viewership over the last few months:

	Nov.	Dec.	Jan.
Council Meetings	524	9,689	4,857
Work Sessions	N/A	726	4,195
Planning & Zoning	62	N/A	N/A
Total Views	586	10,381	9,030

Click here for a more detailed breakdown.

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,253 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method Phone: 1,546 Email: 351 Web: 206 Internal: 81 Walk-In: 31 Text: 29 Social Media: 9

53.86% of cases fell into these top 5 categories: Utility Billing & Services: 539 Inspection Scheduling & Status: 249 Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 156 Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 145 Water Meter Service & Requests: 125

Chatham Estates Community Report Update

Nonprofit partner NeighborUp continues to administer the Stable Homes Cary program to serve Cary residents facing relocation, including those in Chatham Estates. Last week, NeighborUp created two ways for community members to offer financial support. Online donations can be made at NeighborUp.org/ChathamEstates, and gift card donations can be dropped off at NeighborUp’s Cary office. One hundred percent of these donations will go directly to Chatham Estates families to assist with moving expenses, home repairs, food, and other needs.

Chatham Street Lane Closure

Beginning Monday, February 9, contractors working on the 107 East Chatham Street development project, Lloyds Full Service, will be working in the westbound lane of East Chatham Street near the Academy Street intersection for a sewer connection. This work will require a single lane closure and a sidewalk detour. The work is expected to be completed on Tuesday, February 10, weather dependent.

22-REZ-19 Holt PDD Withdrawn

On February 2, rezoning 22-REZ-19, the Holt Planned Development District (PDD) at 8200 and 8400 Regency Parkway, was administratively withdrawn due to inactivity, and the property owner was notified. Due to changes to NC General Statutes last year, withdrawn, denied, or approved rezoning requests are no longer subject to a one-year waiting period, and a new rezoning application may be submitted following a new pre-application meeting and a Traffic Analysis Report, if applicable.

FY26 Street Improvements Project Out for Bids

The FY26 Street Improvement Project was advertised February 5, 2026, with bids scheduled to open February 26. About 10 miles of neighborhood streets will be improved, with construction expected to begin in spring and conclude in fall 2026. Affected residents will be contacted directly throughout the process. The Annual Street Improvement Project goes beyond resurfacing by upgrading pedestrian ramps to meet federal standards, refreshing pavement markings and signage, addressing minor surface issues, and applying preservation treatments that extend pavement life. This preventive approach helps control long-term costs while maintaining Cary’s 525 miles of streets at a high level of service.

Reclaimed Water Holiday

Beginning February 9, Cary will conduct the annual 10-day maintenance shutdown of the reclaimed water system, known as the Reclaimed Water Holiday. February is selected because reclaimed water use and irrigation demand are typically lowest, allowing routine maintenance on production and distribution systems while minimizing customer impacts. Postcards were mailed in January to notify customers, and the period also gives customers time to perform maintenance on onsite systems. Commercial customers using reclaimed water for cooling towers were contacted by mail and phone so they can switch to potable water backup during the maintenance window. If no significant issues are found, full service is expected to be restored by February 19.

Taste of Black History Luncheon

The Senior Center hosted its annual Taste of Black History luncheon today, bringing residents together to honor the traditions, stories, and cultural contributions that shape Black history. The event created a warm space for conversation, reflection, and connection as attendees shared memories and celebrated the richness of the community’s heritage. Events like this continue to highlight the Senior Center’s commitment to fostering understanding, unity, and shared celebration.

Important Dates

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

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, February 11
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

• Encouragement from citizens: “… I see you leading with patience, honesty, and a genuine desire to do right by this community. I also see you bringing sunlight to issues that were long tucked in the shadows by the former Town Manager. That takes courage. And it deserves to be acknowledged.

I also want to share something important: a lot of the loudest noise out there is fueled by incomplete or incorrect information. Many reasonable, thoughtful residents see this clearly and do not share those extreme views. We notice your professionalism. We notice your restraint. We notice your good faith. …”

• Complaints about “The Voice of Hind Rajab” being shown at the Cary Theater (Operational matters, such as theater programming, is not a council decision).
• A concern about allowing chain businesses to replace local businesses (We have no authority to dictate specific businesses).
• A complaint about lack of transparency. So, I provided information. Then I am told I am attempting to manage them. So, I offered to meet with them. They responded with “I have to decline the offer for a private meeting, as I expect that you would want to manage me or lecture me on civility.”
• A complaint about political signs of “Melanie Shekita”.
• A complaint about giving the staff a merit increase.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting of the Cary Tennis Classic Board, two State of Cary presentations, speaking to 5^th graders at Green Hope Elementary, a United Way of NC211 Day event, and a Lunar New Years event.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 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.

Raleigh-Cary #5 Best Performing Cities

Tuesday I was notified of the Raleigh-Cary area being one of the best performing cities in the country by the Milken Institute. Here is what they said:

“Hello – our team is delighted to share the official 2026 Milken Institute Best-Performing Cities Report. To note, Raleigh-Cary, NC ranked #5 in this year’s report, continuing the trend of remaining a top 10 city for the fourth year in a row.

As background, the Best-Performing Cities (BPC) Index offers an impartial measure of performance that policymakers, business leaders, and government officials can use to assess the economic vitality of their metros within a broader national context. The report also provides rankings for the individual components of the index, offering meaningful insights for city officials seeking to examine the underlying factors driving their metropolitan areas’ performance. The index is constructed using 13 key measures that fall into three categories: labor market conditions, high-tech impact, and access to economic opportunities. 

Please feel free to reach out with any questions – our Research team would be happy to discuss the findings and recommendations at your convenience. You can follow the conversation around the report, or join in, on the official Milken Institute X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram pages, using the official hashtag #BestPerformingCities.”

We consistently are recognized throughout the year as the best of the best.

State of Cary Taping

On Wednesday morning, I delivered the State of Cary presentation in front of a camera, with no live audience, which was a first for me. Originally, this slot was reserved for a live presentation at Prestonwood during the Cary Chamber’s annual Breakfast with the Mayor. However, due to last weekend’s weather, they made the decision to postpone the event for safety reasons, rescheduling it to February 11.

While I think the message came across well, the presentation felt a bit awkward without an audience, just me, the camera, and the slides to focus on. Still, I hope the message is valuable to those who watch. You can find the slides, script, and the video here. I’ll be presenting this live several more times, including a session at Town Hall on March 5th.

Sister Cities

On Thursday, I joined Council Member Craig and staff for a discussion with President Pam Huff about the future of Sister Cities. The town is fully committed to strengthening its partnership with Sister Cities, and we explored ways to make the relationship more formal. The goal is to ensure that both sides have clear expectations of each other moving forward.

State of Cary at Senior Center

On Friday, I gave my State of Cary presentation live for the first time to an audience of about 40 people at the Cary Senior Center. Council Members Bansal and Richards joined me for the event. The live presentation lasted about 45 minutes, compared to the 35-minute taped version. Afterward, I spent another 30 to 45 minutes answering questions. The conversation was full of thoughtful questions and great suggestions, with almost all feedback being positive. Many of the suggestions focused on improving public communication. One comment that stood out was, “We believe in you, Mayor,” which I truly appreciated. After the presentation, Council Members Bansal, Richards, and I stayed for an additional 30 minutes to continue the discussion and answer more questions.

Winter Storm Gianna

Winter Storm Gianna swept through Cary on Saturday evening, bringing up to three inches of snow in some areas. Plowing began at dawn and will continue until sunset. As of now, there have been four weather-related accidents, one of which involved injuries, and first responders have helped three stranded drivers. Thankfully, Cary avoided the worst of the storm. Meanwhile, my daughter on the NC coast received around 15 inches of snow.

Council Out and About

Message from Council Member

As a second wave of winter weather brings winter to our doorsteps, I’m reminded that while the North Carolina air is biting, the spirit of Cary remains incredibly warm.

Our dedicated crews are working around the clock to keep our streets safe, but I ask that you look out for one another as well. Please check in on your neighbors to ensure they have what they need to stay cozy. Whether it’s clearing a sidewalk or sharing a hot thermos of something tasty, these small acts of kindness define who we are.

Please be sure to check our town social channels and the local news outlets to stay informed. We are a resilient community that shows up for each other, and we’ll weather these storms together.

Carissa Kohn-Johnson

At-Large Council Member

Meet and Greet with Chinese Senior Dance Group

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Bella Huang, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson enjoyed a performance by the Chinese Senior Dancing Group, featuring singing and dancing to three songs. The event celebrated cultural exchange and highlighted the vibrant contributions of the senior community.

Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) 24^th Annual Meeting

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Bella Huang attended the Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) 24th Annual Meeting, The State of Mobility 2026, which included a presentation on The State of RDU Airport. The luncheon provided an opportunity for attendees to hear regional transportation priorities and future mobility initiatives.

Town Manager’s Weekly Report

Dana’s Message

As we head into the weekend, we’re closely monitoring another round of winter weather following last weekend’s storm, with very cold temperatures and the potential for snow and ice. Public Works has brined main thoroughfares and secondary streets, equipment is fully loaded, and crews are prepared as operations transition to extended schedules to keep services running through the storm.

I’m incredibly grateful for the coordination happening across Cary to prepare in advance, and for the many employees who will be working through the weekend in challenging weather to serve the community. That level of care and commitment, much of it behind the scenes, makes a real difference.

Today, Public Works Director Jimmy Simpson spoke with ABC11, and Fire Chief Mike Cooper is tentatively scheduled for a remote interview tomorrow. We appreciate the support the media has provided to staff who are out working hard for Cary residents.

Wishing you a safe weekend, and I hope you’re able to enjoy the snow.

Dana Widmar

Assistant Town Manager

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,109 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,432
• Email: 312
• Web: 191
• Internal: 87
• Walk-In: 54
• Text: 19
• Social Media: 14

57.13% of cases fell into these top five categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 521
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 217
• Garbage Inquiries & Pickup: 209
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 147
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 111

311 and Marketing Join Forces for Snow Comms

This past weekend, staff from 311 and Marketing collaborated on communications for the Winter Storm Fern Emergency Operations Center (EOC), providing citizens with critical information about storm prep and response, as well as engaging content encouraging the public to share their snow stories. Data from eight storm-related news releases shows an impressive open rate of 50% versus Cary’s average of 30%, and a 2% click rate versus Cary’s average of 1.5%. The top-performing news release was Do You Hear What We Hear? Winter Storm Fern Whispers Into Cary, What You Need to Know. On social, 66 posts across five platforms received 1.64 million impressions, 42k engagements, and 2,926 clicked links with overwhelmingly positive sentiment. The top-performing post was Sounds of Cary ~ Safety first. Coming out of a successful weekend of communications, the team is ready for another round in the coming days!

Police and Fire Escort Buddhist Monks

On January 24, the Police and Fire Departments provided an escort to cover the 5-mile stretch along US 64 and Tryon Road from Cary into Raleigh for Buddhist monks during their Walk for Peace.

At the Raleigh city limits, officers from the Raleigh Police Department and personnel from the Swift Creek Fire Department continued the escort as the monks made their way to the State Capitol in downtown Raleigh.

This event reflects the ongoing commitment to community service and public safety, and it highlights how unity, compassion, and interagency collaboration strengthen our region.

Bronze-Level Bicycle Friendly Community Recognition

The League of American Bicyclists has again recognized Cary as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community. Cary has held this distinction since 2003 and was one of the first communities in the nation to receive the designation. The award reflects more than two decades of work to build an accessible, comfortable, and connected bicycle network and places Cary among just 13 communities in North Carolina with this recognition.

More than 120 miles of on-road bicycle facilities and over 100 miles of greenways support transportation, recreation, health, and sustainability goals, reflecting a long-term commitment to planning, strategic investment, and partnerships that expand mobility for users of all ages and abilities.

Draft updates to the ENGAGE and MOVE chapters of the Imagine Cary Community Plan, which integrate the new Bike Plan and Vision Zero principles, are now available online for feedback. Staff anticipate bringing the amendments forward for Council consideration in early 2026. These updates focus on creating a more connected network, closing system gaps, updating policies, and adopting design guidance aligned with evolving national best practices.

Applause! Cary Youth Theatre Wins Bronze at Diamond Awards

Applause! received the 2026 5 West Bronze Diamond Award for Best Performing Arts Education. The Diamond Awards recognize the best of businesses, services, and venues in Raleigh and Western Wake County. The mission of Applause! Cary Youth Theatre is to empower youth to “imagine, create, and collaborate onstage and off.” Performing Arts Education Specialist, Kirsten DeSena, and her team of educators serve participants ages 2-18 in theatre classes, camps, workshops, and three or more mainstage productions each year. Participants learn collaboration, empathy, creativity, and the courage to make brave choices as they develop theatrical and technical skills under the guidance of theatre professionals.

Important Dates

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

Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, February 2
5:30 p.m.

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

Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, February 3
6:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, February 5
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

• Questions on why we allow an ICE facility in Cary (We have no authority over the federal government).
• Feedback from a former employee.
• A request to meet in person.
• A request for more programs for individuals on the autism spectrum.
• Questions from an individual concerned about spending money on a 3^rd party investigation and an employee survey.
• A complaint about ice at the top of Summerview Lane. (staff addressed and we received a thank you).
• A request for a traffic signal at Davis Drive Middle school.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, council/staff 3 x 4 meetings, a CAMPO task force meeting, private citizen meetings, a council work session, and a regularly scheduled council meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 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.

SV Temple Vandalism

Monday, I learned of vandalism at the SV Temple in Cary. We unequivocally condemn this act of vandalism. This was not merely damage to property, it was an attack on a sacred space, a community, and the fundamental values of respect and coexistence that bind us together. Houses of worship must always remain places of peace, safety, and dignity, free from hatred and intimidation.

We stand in full solidarity with the devotees and the broader Hindu community affected by this incident. Acts of intolerance have no place in our society, and we call for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. Now more than ever, we must reject division and reaffirm our commitment to protecting religious freedom, mutual respect, and unity for all.

Wake County Mayors Association

The Wake County Mayors Association met Monday evening. In addition to me, mayors from Garner, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Wendell were in attendance. I was especially glad to see Mike Kondratick, the new mayor of Holly Springs, and Ben Clapsaddle from Wake Forest.

Each of us shared updates on what’s happening in our communities. There was, as expected, significant interest and many questions about developments in Cary. Another major topic of discussion was the future change in EMS service and its potential impact on our communities.

GRCVB Board Meeting

I attended my first Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) board meeting on Tuesday morning. Cary was previously represented by Jack Smith, who retired in December.

The Bureau was established in January 1992 by the Wake County Board of Commissioners and the Raleigh City Council, following legislation passed by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1991. The Greater Raleigh CVB is governed by a 12-member Board of Directors and is funded through approximately 22 percent of the six-percent Wake County Hotel Occupancy Tax and three percent of the one-percent Prepared Food and Beverage Tax.

During the meeting, the board made funding decisions, including support for the Cary TST tournament, and received updates on several items, such as repairs to the Raleigh Convention Center following the roof fire on December 4.

Meeting with Citizen

I met with a concerned resident on Tuesday to discuss issues related to the manager’s transition. We had a productive conversation and came away with a better understanding of each other’s perspectives. I welcome other conversations with those who have concerns about the manager’s transition.

3 X 4 Meetings

I participated in three council briefings this week, known as 3×4 meetings. These meetings include the mayor, two council members, and at least four staff members, including the manager, attorney, and clerk. This week’s discussions covered the council work session, the regular council meeting, and upcoming agenda items. Staff also provided updates on several key topics, including communications related to the manager transition, political signs, a potential social district expansion, the annual council–staff working retreat, EMS meetings, and the new organizational chart.

Council Meeting Prep

On Tuesday, I contacted each council member to identify any concerns or questions regarding the upcoming agenda. Feedback focused on the appropriations related to the Womble Bond Dickinson investigation and the appropriations for the lot adjacent to the Walker. Later that day, I met with the management team to review each agenda item and hear about the speakers who had signed up to address council.

Council Work Session

On Tuesday evening, council held a work session to discuss the upcoming meeting schedule, a housing update, review of the budget document, and a budget update. A closed session followed the work session.

The housing update included information on Stable Homes Cary and its work with Chatham Estates, a mobile home park. More than 144 residents will be displaced, and it is estimated that fewer than 40 percent will be able to find housing in Cary. Most residents earn less than 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). Staff discussed the management of Stable Homes Cary, including public outreach efforts and the assistance provided to more than 2,000 households.

Staff also addressed Cary’s housing gap, which impacts low-to-moderate-income households, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The current proposal to replace Chatham Estates includes 330 multifamily units and 97 townhomes. The project will not require rezoning and, therefore, will not require council approval.

Staff presented a 2016 budget document to identify which elements council preferred to retain in future budget materials. Council feedback emphasized the need for additional trend data.

The proposed council budget schedule was also presented, outlining work sessions, group meetings, public hearings, and the retreat. Council expressed interest in expanding public engagement opportunities, including the use of charrettes.

Following the work session, council convened in closed session.

CAMPO

On Wednesday afternoon, I participated in the monthly meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Executive Board. The agenda included three consent items, one public hearing, and six discussion items.

The public hearing addressed the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and was informational only.

During discussion items, Butch Lawter of Johnston County was elected chair, and TJ Cawley of Morrisville was elected vice chair. The board adopted a Resolution of Support and Dedication of Wake Transit funds as the local match for the NCDOT Raleigh-to-Richmond program application to the National Railroad Partnership Program grant. The board also received updates on the NCDOT Confident Scope and Cost Estimate (CSCE), the Unified Planning Work Program for 2027, the 2027 LAPP program, and Amendment #2 to the FY 2026–2035 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

The final agenda item included a performance review and merit adjustment for the Executive Director.

Chinese Senior Dance Group

On Thursday evening, I joined several town council members to attend a performance by the Cary Chinese Senior Dance Group. The group delighted us with singing and dancing, accompanied by their own live musical support. Most of the performers were in their 70s, and I was told that one member was 85. Thank you for a wonderful performance, I look forward to seeing many more in the future.

Council Regular Meeting

The final regularly scheduled council meeting of January was held Thursday night. The agenda included two consent items, one public hearing covering two items, and two discussion items.

The public hearing on a proposed annexation and rezoning of 310 Barbee Road and 974 W. Ferrell Road in Chatham County, for the development of 230 detached homes, generated significant negative feedback from both speakers and council members. Many expressed concern that the proposal did not align with the intent of the Chatham Joint Use Plan, noting that the plan calls for very low-density development, while the proposal included 10,000-square-foot lots.

The first discussion item involved council consideration of midyear appropriations from the General Fund, including up to $150,000 for a law firm investigation related to matters involving the former town manager and $100,000 for an employee engagement plan, including an employee survey. Following extensive discussion and a detailed breakdown of projected expenses, council unanimously approved the staff’s recommendation.

The second discussion item addressed rescinding the motion to approve an appropriation for a gravel lot adjacent to the Walker. Council provided feedback and voted to refer the item to a future meeting to allow staff to revise the proposal based on that feedback.

Council then went into closed session.

Winter Storm Fern

On Saturday, January 24, Winter Storm Fern moved into Cary. By daylight on Sunday, it had amounted to an inch or two of sleet with a light coating of ice. So far, we have been fortunate to avoid most of the precipitation and power outages as of this writing. Thousands remain without power in western North Carolina, but it appears we may have been spared the worst of the storm. That said, Sunday night is expected to bring the final round of precipitation.

Council Out and About

Message from Council Member

It was inspiring to see so many Cary residents and community partners come together to celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy during our recent MLK events, filling our town with a spirit of unity and hope. As we reflected on Dr. King’s powerful words about justice, dignity, and the “beloved community,” we were reminded how vitally important it is for us to work together across neighborhoods, backgrounds, and generations to make those ideals real in Cary today. By showing up, serving, and uplifting our friends and neighbors, we honor Dr. King not just in speeches and ceremonies, but in the everyday ways we care for one another and strengthen our community.

Thank you for being part of our “beloved community.”

Lori Bush

Mayor Pro-Tem

Cary Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecast

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, Councilmembers Bella Huang and Brittany Richards attended the annual Cary Chamber of Commerce economic forecast by Dr. Michael Walden. Dr. Walden is a renowned economist who offered insights on national and NC’s economy – from GDP, inflation, jobs and more, highlighting that NC continues to be a stable economic region.

Fire Department Visit

Councilmember Sarika Bansal visited the two Fire Stations in District D to show appreciation.

Muffins with the Mayor

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended a Muffins with the Mayor event at the Cary Senior Center, where he met with approximately 20 senior residents on Friday morning.

MLK Dreamfest Celebration

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush presented a proclamation to NeighborUp for their continued work in the community, accompanied by Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Brittany Richards, Michelle Craig, and Bella Huang, as part of Cary’s MLK Dreamfest celebration.

Visit to White Oak Missionary Baptist Church

Councilmember Sarika Bansal visited White Oak Missionary Baptist Church to meet with community members, including remarks highlighting the works of Dr. King.

Town Manager’s Weekly Report

Russ’s Message

Council,

It was great to spend time with staff and have the chance to answer questions this afternoon at All Hands.

As we head into the weekend, staff is closely monitoring the winter weather and preparing for potential impacts to roads, travel, and basic services, and I’ll keep you updated as conditions evolve and operations adjust. I also want to thank those who will be working through the weekend and into next week to keep the community up and running. 

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

Wake County EMS Briefings for Municipal Elected Officials

Meeting Slide Deck

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,100 new cases this week.

Volume by Contact Method:

• Phone: 1,288
• Email: 349
• Web: 206
• Internal: 194
• Walk-In: 44
• Text: 16
• Social Media: 3

50.75% cases fell into these top 4 categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 475
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 278
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 160
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 152

National Point in Time Count

The annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count is a federally required snapshot of sheltered and unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness, conducted nationwide each January. The Wake County Continuum of Care (CoC) led the 2026 PIT Count across Wake County last night.

During the count, nonprofit partner teams visited known encampments to register occupants, provide basic supplies, and connect individuals with housing resources. The Wake County CoC, which includes more than 70 public, private, and nonprofit organizations, will publish final data on its website once collection is complete. Mary Lederle, Policy & Program Analyst in Housing & Community Partnerships, was elected to the Wake County CoC Governance Board this year. More information, including ongoing efforts to support residents experiencing housing instability, is available at housing.carync.gov.

Utility Bill Payment Now Available on Apple and Google Pay

This week, Finance launched Apple Pay and Google Pay as new payment options for utility bills. Customers may now use these digital wallet options through the utility billing portal, DigiPay, alongside existing electronic payment methods. The addition of Apple Pay and Google Pay provides a fast, secure, and convenient way for customers to pay their utility bills using a mobile device or a supported web browser.

Regional Transportation Alliance 24^th Annual Meeting

On Friday, Assistant Town Manager Shelley Curran, Transportation Director Cassie Schumacher-Georgopoulos, Transit Director Kelly Blazey, Assistant Transportation Director Juliet Andes, and Transportation Engineering Manager David Spencer attended the 24th Annual Meeting of the Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) along with several Councilmembers. The over 350 attendees included elected officials, business, government, and transportation leaders. Topics included the State of Mobility 2026 presentation and an update on accelerating the US 1 Capital freeway project in northern Wake County. The Raleigh/Durham Airport Authority leadership team presented on The State of RDU, and the event concluded with an interactive panel discussion on the importance and future of RDU airport.

MLK Dreamfest Weekend

Cary observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend with a series of community events honoring the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy. The weekend began with a free screening and panel discussion of John Lewis: Good Trouble at The Cary Theater. Events continued Saturday with youth-focused storytelling and crafts at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, followed by the signature Dreamfest Cultural Celebration at the Arts Center.  The event drew an overflow crowd, with ABC11’s Kweilyn Murphy serving as Mistress of Ceremonies for an evening of performances, a keynote from Rev. Jerome Gay Jr. of Vision Church RDU, and NeighborUp’s recognition. Additional observances included an interfaith service, a community meal and learning experience, and MLK Day service projects, including a Walk for Hope and volunteer activities at Good Hope Farm. The weekend centered on the theme The Beloved Community: Honoring Dignity, Uplifting Humanity.

Diavolo at New Hope Named the Most Played Course in NC

Diavolo at New Hope was recently named the most popular (most played) disc golf course in North Carolina for 2025, according to Udisc.com. Diavolo took over the top spot from the Kentwood Disc Golf Course in Raleigh, which has held the top spot since 2018. Diavolo opened in 2020 and was approved as part of a 2012 Community Investment Bond.

Important Dates

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, January 28
6:00 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The situation created by the former town manager was aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that is an accurate analogy. As with any spill, additional issues may continue to surface as the investigation and cleanup proceed. The good news is that the primary individual responsible has been dismissed.

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

• Questions and concerns about the town manager’s transition.
• Recommendations on how to proceed with the town manager’s transition.
• A complaint about the traffic signal at Penny Rd and Ederlee.
• A complaint about the traffic signal at Davis Drive Middle School.
• Questions about the departure of an Assistant Town Manager.
• Several complaints about the film “the death of Hind Rajab in Gaza”.
• Several emails of support: “due to your tenue, lesser men would have retired out versus ensuring that the dark days were lead through. Your mettle and heart are obvious. Thank you for doing the right things.”, “Hang in there, I am confident there is a sliver lining down the road.”
• A request to be on a citizen budget committee.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include State of Cary Prep, TowneBank Grand Opening, a Sister Cities Meeting, a State of Cary taping, and the State of Cary presentation at the Senior Center.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 1, 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.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

On Monday night, I met with the Cary Tennis Classic Board. Much of our discussion focused on issues related to the former town manager. We also talked about the future of the Cary Tennis Park, particularly as interest grows in an expansion that would include pickleball.

We are well positioned not only to maintain the nation’s top public tennis facility, but also to attract tournaments that could generate millions of dollars in economic impact. The board will meet again next month as we continue preparations for the Cary Tennis Classic, which begins on June 28.

Muffins With the Mayor

On Friday morning, I met with approximately twenty senior residents as part of the Muffins with the Mayor program. I encouraged them to ask about any topic of interest, which ranged from noise sensitivity to housing density. After an hour and a half of discussion, the issue involving the former town manager had not been raised, so I brought it up myself and we discussed it as well.

I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation and have asked staff to schedule another session as soon as possible.

As a side note, although neither I nor the council have offices at Town Hall, I hope to begin holding regular times to meet with residents who would like to sit down and discuss issues, as I continue to look for ways to increase transparency.

MLK Dreamfest Celebration

On Saturday night, I attended the MLK Dreamfest celebration at the Cary Arts Center alongside Council Members Bush, Craig, Richards, and Huang. Mayor Pro-Tem Bush delivered remarks and read a proclamation. The evening was a true celebration, featuring song, dance, poetry, and inspiring remarks from keynote speaker Rev. Jerome Gay Jr. The venue was filled to capacity, and the audience clearly enjoyed the program. Special thanks to our mistress of ceremonies, Kweilyn Murphy of ABC11, for guiding a wonderful evening.

Town Manager’s Weekly Report

Russ’s Message

Council,

As you may have seen, there is a chance for light snow late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon. Our Public Works staff is ready in the event we see any accumulation. As a reminder, Town Hall will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Please refer to the news release for more details on closures and operations.

If you have some availability this weekend, I hope you can attend at least one of the annual Dreamfest events or programs. The full lineup of events is linked here. I hope you enjoy your weekend and please stay warm. 

Russ

Interim Town Manager

311 Cases

311 handled 2,574 cases this week — here’s a breakdown of contact methods and our top 5 service areas.

Volume By Contact Method:

• Phone: 1,626
• Email: 397
• Web: 284
• Internal: 207
• Walk-In: 38
• Text: 9
• Social Media: 13

53.48% cases fell into these top 5 categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 594
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 289
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 203
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 180
• Loose Leaf Inquiries & Pickup: 105

2026 Biennial Survey

The Biennial Citizen Satisfaction Survey launched January 12, to assess how well Cary is delivering on its mission and to measure overall confidence in local government operations. Consultants working on behalf of Cary will contact a randomly selected representative sample of approximately 400 residents by phone. As in previous surveys, topics include public safety, services, communications, transportation, recreation, and the environment.

Green Level West Road Renaming Letters Mailed Out

In June of 2025, Council voted to rename a portion of Green Level West Road to High House Road, from NC 55 to Green Level Church Road, with an effective date of January 30, 2026. Wake County’s Board of Commissioners later voted to approve the renaming in August of 2025. This week, staff sent out the second reminder letter to property owners on Green Level West Road that will be re-addressed, along with an FAQ sheet on readdressing. Properties to be re-addressed will receive $300 to defray the costs of changing their address.

24-REZ-14 Weston PDD Amendment Balloon Test

On January 15, the applicants for 24-REZ-14 Weston PDD Amendment conducted a balloon test on site. A balloon was raised with a boom to a height of approximately 75 feet near the high point of the site, with the intent of providing neighbors with a reference for the visibility of the potential future building(s).

White Oak Greenway Maintenance

Nine storm drainage improvements along the White Oak Creek Greenway have been completed. These improvements extend from Jenks Carpenter Road to past N.C. 55 and are designed to more efficiently convey stormwater runoff away from the greenway trail. The upgrades will help reduce standing water and improve trail conditions during and after rainfall.

Chinese Lantern Festival Recap

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival concluded another highly successful season at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, ending an eight-week run that welcomed 249,360 guests, 183 more than last year, and featured 22 sold-out nights during the holiday season. Celebrating its 10th year in Cary, the festival has grown into a beloved annual tradition since Tianyu Arts & Culture introduced it to North Carolina in 2015. In addition to its striking visual displays, the festival delivered meaningful community benefits by raising $7,014.61 for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and $7,659.49 for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina through online donations.

Three Kings Parade

The Town of Cary and Diamante Arts & Cultural Center concluded the holiday season with the 2026 Three Kings Day Parade along N. Academy Street and Town Hall campus. The event drew approximately 300 attendees and featured 20 colorful floats and community groups. The parade celebrated the cultural significance of Three Kings Day and highlighted the power of community partnerships to bring residents together.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – February 4

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

• 25-REZ-16 Jacobs Creek Lane Rezoning
• 26-REZ-01 Davis Drive Mixed Use PDD Rezoning

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

Important Dates

Town Council Work Session
Tuesday, January 20
5:30 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, January 21
6:15 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, January 22
6:30 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

WithersRavenel Contract

Under North Carolina law, an elected official may work with a company that does business with the town. These situations are governed by G.S. 14-234.3, which addresses nonprofit board involvement, and G.S. Chapter 138A, which establishes broader ethical standards for state and local officials. Both statutes emphasize transparency, disclosure, recusal when appropriate, and the avoidance of even the appearance of impropriety, particularly in matters involving contracts or quasi-judicial decisions such as zoning.

I did not conduct business with the Town of Cary while contracting with WithersRavenel.

However, the negative environment created at Town Hall by the actions of former Town Manager Stegall has had a harmful impact on staff and the organization as a whole. In addition, a false narrative surrounding WithersRavenel has cast an unwarranted shadow over a homegrown company that has provided excellent service to the town for decades. I do not want the current environment to cause harm to any individual or business. The last thing we need is for good people or a good company to be unfairly damaged.

For these reasons, I have terminated my contract with WithersRavenel. I will not provide further interviews on this matter.

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

• 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?

The questions that are new or updated are below.

Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?

Multiple reviews are currently underway concerning the former town manager’s actions, including a third-party investigation and audit, an investigation by the North Carolina State Auditor, a Wake County District Attorney investigation, and an SBI investigation. Acting before these reviews are complete risks a “ready, shoot, aim” approach and could undermine sound decision-making. Responsible action requires full and accurate information.

We will continue to be open and transparent with the public and will share information as it becomes available.

I look forward to continuing to work with that council member and the full council team on the trust and transparency initiatives we have previously discussed.

How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?

We function as a board of directors for the Town of Cary and are not involved in its day-to-day operations. We do not maintain offices at Town Hall and have limited contact with staff, typically only in the presence of the town manager. Our role is to establish policy. Our understanding of the organization is based on its performance and on information provided by staff. This structure is comparable to a corporate model in which the council serves as the board and the town manager serves as the CEO; as in a corporation, board members are not involved in daily operations.

This arrangement, known as the council–manager form of government, is used by nearly all municipalities in North Carolina. While there may be a perception that town staff report directly to me or that I hold ultimate authority, that is not accurate. Staff report to the town manager, who serves as the liaison to the town council and is responsible for staff actions and the information presented to council members. I am one of seven council members who collectively exercise authority over the town manager, town attorney, and town clerk.

The former town manager was highly adept at misleading both staff and council. He falsely warned staff of severe council repercussions from council if certain actions were not taken, while selectively providing differing information to individual council members.

Despite these challenges, the organization continues to perform at a high level, delivering an exceptional quality of life while maintaining the lowest tax rate in Wake County.

Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?

No.

I am not aware of any current or former council member who knew of this. We were all interviewed for the book and were aware that it was being written, but there was no reason to believe that a personal endeavor would be funded by taxpayers. Needless to say, we were shocked to learn that taxpayer dollars were used for this purpose.

Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?

First, he has not been paid any severance and will not receive severance unless and until all terms of his contract are met. The town entered into an employment agreement with the former town manager in 2016 that provides six months of severance unless the manager committed a criminal act, a provision that is standard in employment contracts across the country. While his conduct was clearly harmful, no evidence of a criminal act has been presented to the town at this time.

Under the contract, the severance provision applies regardless of whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town declined to honor the agreement, the former manager could have pursued legal action and likely still would have been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Extended litigation also brought the risk of further harm, including the possibility of false statements or public disparagement of the town and its employees.

As of the past few days, the former manager has been under investigation by the Wake County District Attorney’s Office and the State Bureau of Investigation.

What changes have you made and will you make?

At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.

Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These meetings are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.

Although we do not maintain offices at Town Hall, I am exploring ways to establish regular times to meet with residents and discuss their concerns.

Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.

Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to result in further procedural improvements.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Concerns about taxes.
• Several complaints about the former manager’s contract.
• “I can only hope that you do not take responsibility for another person’s poor choice, and if you do, let go and let God. Move forward and continue the invaluable leadership that has made Cary a great community.”
• “As a 15-year resident I’ve observed all the good you have done for Cary. I and my family have benefited from your efforts. The township is much better off and is a great place to live.”
• “I appreciate you, and I believe that you are doing a good job as our mayor! Thank you for leading the Town of Cary with excellence for many years…I am disappointed to hear that several of my fellow citizens are blaming you and council members for the bad decisions made by our former town manager.”
• Complaints about the movie “The Voice of Hind Rajab” being shown at the Cary Theater.
• A request to develop a sister city relationship with Italy.
• Complaints about a proposal for apartments in Weston.
• A complaint about taxpayers’ dollars spent managing the downtown park.
• A complaint about ICE in Cary.
• A request to rewrite the Cary Community Plan and basically stop funding our sports venues.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a GRCVB (Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3X4 meetings, two council work sessions, State of Cary slides prep, a CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) Executive Board meeting, and a regularly scheduled council meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 25, 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!

Interview with Indy Week

Monday morning, I did an interview with Chloe Bohl of Indy Week. We talked for half an hour in detail about topics related to the town manager’s transition. I thought the article was well written, fair, and balanced. Thanks to Chloe for being interested in getting information to the public rather than generating the anything-for-a-click news reporting we have seen from other media outlets. You can read the article here.

Interview with WUNC

I sat down with Sharryse Piggot Monday morning for an interview. I answered questions about the manager transition and how we are moving forward. Though not to detailed, I thought the article was well written, fair, and balanced. I appreciate Sharryse for meeting with me and providing information to the public. You can read the article here.

Council and Staff 3 X 4 Informational Meetings

Instead of the one-on-one meetings council used to have with the town manager, we now have two council members, and the mayor meet with four staff members. Topics included an informational preview of the January 8^th work session and council regular meeting, items for the January 22^nd meeting, and key topics council should consider. One topic was how to have drop-in public meetings on the budget to involve the residents more.

Dr. Walden’s Presentation at Cary Chamber Breakfast

On Wednesday Dr. Michael Walden from NC State University presented his annual economic outlook at a Cary Chamber Breakfast. Here are some of the points from that presentation:

• GDP growth in the US from 2018 to 2023 was 12%. The last two years it was 5%.
• GDP growth in NC from 2018 to 2023 was 14%. The last two years it was 7%.
• Employment trends in NC are stable between 3% and 4%. The US is seeing an increase and is around 4%.
• Jobless rate in US is 4.6%, in NC it is 3.7%, and Raleigh/Cary 3.2%.
• Job openings are trending downward in both the US and NC.
• The top four leading job gainers in NC are healthcare and social assistance at 101,586; professional, scientific, and technical services at 62,050; accommodation and food services at 61,292; educational services at 34,289.
• US and NC retail sales continue to expand, but with some bumps.
• Three worries: households are borrowing more, saving less, and are less optimistic
• Loan delinquencies have risen, but not to dangerous levels.
• Lower inflation rate does not necessarily mean lower prices.
• The average weekly earnings, when adjusted for inflation, haven’t gone up in the last two years.
• Tariffs were initially paid by the importing company but now more is being passed to the consumer.
• Mortgage interest rates remain between five and seven per cent but have been trending slightly lower lately.
• Median house listing in North Carolina is over $400,000.
• Home affordability in North Carolina is trending toward more affordable housing over last year.
• In 2026 GDP growth is expected to be between 2% and 3%.
• In 2026 the jobless rate is expected to be 4.5%.
• In 2026 the annual inflation rate is expected to be between 2.5% and 3%.
• Issues that could impact GDP, jobs, and inflation include tariffs, AI, Fed policies, consumer solvency/sentiment, government shutdowns, foreign conflicts, social security solvency, and national debt.

Council Work Session

The Cary Council held a work session on Thursday evening to review the meeting schedule, see the high-level budget introduction by staff, changes in EMS service, and talk about council-initiated items.

In the budget introduction the council was introduced to the duties of the Budget Officer:

Each local government and public authority shall appoint a budget officer to serve at the will of the governing board. In counties or cities having the manager form of government, the county or city manager shall be the budget officer. Counties not having the manager form of government may impose the duties of budget officer upon the county finance officer or any other county officer or employee except the sheriff, or in counties having a population of more than 7,500, the register of deeds. Cities not having the manager form of government may impose the duties of budget officer on any city officer or employee, including the mayor if he agrees to undertake them. A public authority or special district may impose the duties of budget officer on the chairman or any member of its governing board or any other officer or employee.

The staff will be recreating the budget preview packet from past years. It will include highlights, a financial summary, key trends, and major budget requests. The budget preview packet will be given to council in March. The planned schedule for the budget process:

• January 20: work session
• February 5: work session
• February 20-21: Council-staff retreat: financial fluency and priorities
• March 9-13: Small group meetings: budget previews & packet review
• March 12: work session
• March 23-27: small group meetings: budget preview Q&A
• March 24: work session
• April 16: work session
• April 28: work session
• May 7: Manager’s recommended budget delivered to council
• May 14: Quarterly: Review Manager’s recommended budget
• May 28: work session
• May 28: 1^st budget public hearing
• June 11: work session
• June 11: 2^nd budget public hearing
• June 23: work session
• June 25: budget adoption

Council asked staff to prepare ways for the public to be more involved. One idea is a focus group made up of Cary 101 graduates.

Wake County Plans changes in EMS service. They regulate all emergency and non-emergency ambulance services in Wake County municipalities. Fire departments in Cary and other municipalities provide first responder services. They just can’t do transport. Due to this lower level of service Cary Fire calls will increase and will have to remain in location longer. Ambulance service will respond to calls of highest priority based on a four-tiered system. An example of the tier one would be a heart attack. An example of tier four would be back pain or sick calls.

Council Meeting

The Cary Council held its first regularly scheduled meeting of the year on Thursday night. The agenda included three consent items, Public Speaks Out, no public hearings, and two discussion items.

The consent items were two sets of minutes and a call for a public hearing for two properties in Chatham County.

Public Speaks Out speaker comments were mostly criticism of the council and me related to the actions of the former town manager. They basically stated that everything was our fault and that I, as mayor, should resign for the actions of the former manager.

The first discussion item for staff to prepare a report for the proposed South Hills Municipal Service District was unanimously approved direction by council. The report will be made available to the public, and public hearing will be held in the future.

The second discussion item was about the Walnut Street Parking Deck Gravel lot. When the deck was completed, Cary constructed a gravel parking lot for overflow and construction vehicle parking on adjacent property owned by Academy Park Commercial LLC. Per the amendment to the Downtown Development Project Agreement with Academy Park Commercial LLC approved by Council June 26, 2025, Cary is permitted to maintain the gravel lot until a new building is constructed on that site, provided visual and safety upgrades are made. Should Cary not make improvements, per the agreement the lot must be removed by September 11, 2026. The choice was to remove the lot and plant grass or upgrade the lot and continue to allow parking. The council unanimously approved the improvement of the lot and keeping the spaces.

After the regular meeting the council spent three hours in closed session.

Town Manager’s Weekly Report

Russ’s Message

This week, we’re introducing the 311 Snapshot. Moving forward, you’ll see this routinely as a pulse check on case volume and the top case categories we’re seeing. Think of it as a quick look at how citizens interact with staff to keep the Cary machine moving forward.

I also wanted to share a brief heads-up related to this Saturday’s Three Kings Day Parade. N. Academy Street and roads surrounding Town Hall Campus — including Wilkinson Avenue and Ambassador Loop — will be temporarily closed from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition, the parking lot at Herb Young Community Center will be closed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., but Town Hall Parking Deck access will not be affected.

I’m looking forward to what 2026 has in store for Cary and for the work ahead with all of you. 

Russ

Interim Town Manager

January 8 Work Session

Definitions and examples of EMS call levels

311 Snapshot

311 processed 2,568 new cases this week:

Volume by Contact Method

• Phone: 1,655
• Email: 384
• Web: 260
• Internal: 188
• Walk-In: 54
• Text: 21
• Social Media: 6

53.86% of cases fell into these top 5 categories:

• Utility Billing & Services: 604
• Inspection Scheduling & Status: 264
• Water Meter Service & Requests: 195
• Permitting Inquiries & Payments: 192
• Recycling Inquiries & Pickup: 128

Page-Walker Willow Oak Removal Completed

A large willow oak on the west side of the Page-Walker Arts & History Center was removed earlier this week. Fungal growth identified at the base of the tree prompted multiple assessments, including a higher-level evaluation using specialized equipment to measure internal decay. These assessments confirmed advanced deterioration caused by two fungal pathogens and a high likelihood of failure, with the greatest risk being directed toward the Page-Walker building. The removal was necessary to preserve the historic structure and ensure the well-being of visitors. Looking ahead, staff plan to replant an oak in the same general area this year and are exploring opportunities to reuse salvaged wood for commemorative or public art purposes, honoring the tree’s significance to the campus.

Animal Services Prepare for Upcoming Shelter Closure

The Wake County Animal Shelter will be closed from Jan. 16 to Mar. 2 for repairs and maintenance. The Police Department’s Animal Services team is equipped to manage this temporary closure, having successfully navigated longer closures in the past. During these months, the Animal Services team will prioritize triaging animal-related service calls to explore alternative solutions, reducing unnecessary intakes while still allowing for certain cases that meet criteria. Overall, minimal operational impacts are expected as the Animal Services team relies on its experience and partnerships with the County.

Kwanzaa Celebration

The Arts Center hosted the Cary Kwanzaa Celebration on December 29, honoring African American culture and community. This year’s theme, Honoring Cultural Scholarship and Performance in the Community, included a performance by the SUAH African Dance Theatre. Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush presented a proclamation designating December 29 as Cary Kwanzaa Celebration Day.

Holiday Season Recap

Community traditions and live performances marked the close of the Christmas season. Nearly 3,000 votes were cast in the 14th Annual Gifting Tree Project, featuring 105 trees decorated by local schools, families, and organizations; the 2025 winners can be found here. In partnership with Douglas Realty, the gifting trees will be reused after the holidays to help rebuild sand dunes along North Carolina’s coast. The Motown holiday show at the Arts Center featured singers and dancers from across the Triangle performing holiday classics alongside Motown favorites, sharing a message of joy, soul, and hope.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – January 14

The following neighborhood meetings will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 6:30 p.m.

• 25-REZ-14 Maynard Spring Senior
• 25-REZ-15 Carpenter Fire Station Townhouses

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

Important Dates

Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, January 12, 6:30 p.m.

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, January 13, 6:00 p.m.

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, January 14, 12:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, January 14, 6:30 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, January 15, 6:00 p.m.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

The following questions were addressed on my January 4^th blog:

• 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?

The questions that are new or updated are below.

How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?

We serve as a board of directors for the organization called Town of Cary and are not involved in its day-to-day operations. We do not maintain offices at Town Hall; our role is to set policy. Our understanding of the organization comes from its performance and from communication provided by staff.

This structure is known as the council–manager form of government and is used by almost all municipalities in North Carolina.

While some may believe that staff report directly to me or that I hold ultimate authority, that is not the case. Staff report to the town manager. I am one of seven council members who collectively have authority over the town manager, town attorney, and town clerk.

The former manager was highly skilled at misleading both staff and council. He would warn staff of drastic council cuts if certain actions were not taken, while selectively sharing different information with individual council members.

Despite this, the organization continues to perform at a high level, and we maintain the highest quality of life with the lowest tax rate in Wake County.

Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?

No.

I am not aware of any current or former council member that new. We were all interviewed for the book and knew he was writing one. There was no reason to believe that the town would pay for a personal endeavor.

Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?

First, he has not been paid severance and will not receive any severance until all terms of his contract are fulfilled. The town entered into an employment agreement with the former town manager in 2016, which provides six months of severance unless he committed a criminal act, a provision that is common in employment contracts nationwide. While his actions were clearly harmful, there is no evidence at this time that he committed a crime.

Under the contract, the severance obligation applies whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town refused to honor the agreement, the former manager could have pursued legal action and likely still would have been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Prolonged litigation also brought the risk of further harm, including potential false statements or public disparagement of the town and its employees.

At present, there is no indication that his conduct was technically illegal, although the investigation remains ongoing and may provide additional clarity.

While it was difficult to approve payment to someone whose actions caused significant harm, honoring the contract was necessary and represented the most responsible course of action to protect the town’s legal and financial interests.

What changes have you made and will you make?

At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.

Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.

Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.

Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to lead to further procedural changes.

Do you have conflicts of interest?

No.

Under North Carolina law, an elected official has a conflict of interest (COI) only when personal financial interests or those of immediate family members conflict with their public duties. When such a conflict exists, the official must refrain from participating in decisions that could provide personal benefit. State law addresses these situations through specific statutes, including G.S. 14-234.3, which governs nonprofit board involvement, and G.S. Chapter 138A, which establishes broader ethical standards for state and local officials. These laws emphasize transparency, disclosure, recusal when appropriate, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, particularly in matters involving contracts or quasi-judicial decisions such as zoning.

Despite this well-defined legal framework, The News & Observer has continued to publish stories suggesting that I have a conflict of interest where none exists. Notably, the publication was unable to identify a single currently practicing municipal attorney, of whom there are at least a dozen in Wake County alone, willing to state that my actions constituted a COI. Instead, they relied on commentary from a retired attorney from Durham, who characterized the situation as “sticky.” Further review of her background suggests she is not widely respected among her peers.

It is also worth noting that many elected officials across North Carolina are employed by engineering firms, yet this has not drawn similar scrutiny from The News & Observer. For example, a Johnston County commissioner works for the same firm with which I contract and currently serves as chair of CAMPO (the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization). All CAMPO members are required to complete ethics training and disclose their employment, a standard practice that promotes transparency and accountability.

Unfortunately, The News & Observer appears more focused on advancing a predetermined narrative rather than on accurately presenting the facts. The result is reporting that prioritizes sensationalism over substance, seemingly driven more by generating clicks than by providing fair and balanced coverage.

Here are the facts:

I am the owner of Weinbrecht Consulting LLC and provide government relations support to WithersRavenel under an hourly consulting agreement focused on asset management. I am compensated solely at an hourly rate and do not receive bonuses, commissions, or incentive-based pay. My compensation does not vary based on business outcomes or client activity, and I bill only for the hours worked.

My consulting income from WithersRavenel totaled $24,404 in 2023 and $23,694 in 2024. In 2025, I expect to earn less than $20,000, though my financial summary for the year has not yet been finalized. These amounts are not “fees,” as described in media reports, but represent the cumulative payment of hourly charges for work performed.

Most of my work involves participating in calls with staff from across the country to discuss how to effectively communicate asset management needs to elected officials. In the past several weeks, these calls have included participants from Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington state.

Another component of my role is traveling nationally to give presentations, often alongside a past national president of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and occasionally assisting with WithersRavenel’s conference booth. The purpose of the booth is to gather sales leads. In the evenings, the marketing team typically hosts those leads at dinner.

During the 2023 ICMA conference mentioned by the News & Observer, I worked at the booth helping collect sales leads. The marketing team asked me to contact Cary representatives to see if they might be interested in attending the dinner, which I did by email and again on the day of the event. That was my only involvement.

It is disappointing that the News & Observer attempted to imply otherwise. This kind of misleading characterization does little to serve readers and may help explain the outlet’s declining readership.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• “Dear Honorable Mayor:

I was distressed to hear you were asked to resign at the latest Council meeting.  We are very fortunate to have you as our Mayor! You have worked tirelessly for the Town and led in building Cary into the fine community it is today.  I know the recent breach of faith by the Town Manager was a betrayal of trust of all of us. And I believe honoring the contractual payout is the right decision, avoiding costly litigation.  I have no doubt that you and the Council will fully investigate and learn from the situation, to make the Town of Cary even stronger in the future.  

Again, thank you for all your years of hard work as our Mayor!  I hope you will continue if it’s the right decision for you and your family.”

• “Must have been pure torture for you!!   I watched on my TV for as long as I could stand it. Most citizens who have followed the chaos Sean caused know where the real problem was.   It’s true there needs to be some changes made & tightening the belt a bit, but you are not to blame for what he did.    Even when Jennifer stepped up to speak I could barely hear her so hopefully she explained a little more clearly how it all unfolded. You have been & are still a great leader both on council and for the citizens of Cary!  Hang in there and have peace knowing many of us support you as well as are happy having Russ. Hugs.”
• Several other emails of support.
• A complaint that we allow an ICE facility in Cary. (We have no authority in federal matters).
• Invitation to several events.
• A concern about ethics and trust.
• An interest expressed in being involved in budget discussions.
• A complaint about getting a building permit.
• A complaint about leaf pickup.
• A request for me to resign based on the News and Observer stories.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic board meeting, “Muffins with the Mayor” at the Cary Senior Center, and a Red Cross event.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 18, 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!

Updates on the Town Manager Transition

As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency, we continue to share updates regarding the town manager’s transition. This past week, additional information was posted on the following topics:

• Land purchase and delegation of authority
• Manager employment agreements
• Trolley purchase and resale
• Tuition reimbursement policy and related records
• Council and manager roles
• Council meeting participation links

The most current information is available here. Information from record requests can be found on the 311 portal.

The internal investigation being conducted by Womble Bond Dickinson is ongoing. The firm is reviewing whether any illegal activity may have occurred and identifying opportunities to strengthen our processes.

The State Auditor’s investigation is also ongoing, and we are fully cooperating by providing all requested documentation.

In addition, staff is compiling information on several matters of interest to the Council, including the ones requested by council member Bansal weeks ago:

• The Town Manager’s spending authority
• Professional development opportunities for Council and senior staff
• Reallocation of funds for special projects
• Implementation of a more structured review process for senior staff spending and documentation of time spent away from the office
• Review of senior staff travel expenditures to ensure accountability
• A comprehensive, in-depth review of the Town’s budget with full Council participation
• Reporting on the Town’s fund balance at all quarterly meetings

It is important to allow staff and investigators sufficient time to gather and analyze information before making changes. Acting too quickly can lead to unintended consequences. For example, reducing the Town Manager’s spending authority too drastically could have serious operational impacts. In the recent water and sewer leak at Kildaire and Cary Parkway, an authority set too low would have required a special Council meeting to allocate funds, delaying critical repairs for residents and businesses.

We must avoid a “ready, shoot, aim” approach and ensure that any changes are thoughtful, deliberate, and well-informed.

Willow Oak at Page-Walker To be Removed

In Cary we value our trees and champion trees. Sadly, I received the following information from staff on Monday:

I wanted to forward some information that was shared with the Friends of Page Walker earlier this evening regarding the removal of a champion tree near the south parking area at Town Hall and adjacent to the Page Walker.  Please see the full email below.  The tree will be removed next week, and staff is also working on a revegetation plan to regrow the canopy.  Below is a little more detail from the full arborist report and if anyone would like to see the full report, we’ll be happy to provide a copy.  Please let Danna or I know if you have any additional questions.

Tree 1 was found to have two species of fungal pathogens (Oak Bracket Fungus and Brittle Cinder Fungus) at the root flare. The fungi encompass more than 50% of the circumference of the tree and was confirmed by the Bartlett Research Lab. The consulting arborist also assessed the tree using a mallet for sounding wood decay and a resistograph to determine the level of structural integrity within the root system of the tree. Resistograph drill readings were taken at 1-inch above grade in 21 locations around the full circumference of the tree and detected major structural integrity loss within the root flare. An average of at least 9.75 inches of sound wood is necessary to support a 64-inch willow oak. Of the 21 readings only three exceeded that thickness while nine showed less than 5-inches of sound wood and five showed no sound wood present within the root flare. The likelihood of failure is probable, which means that failure may be expected under normal conditions within the next two years. The tree also presented an unbalanced crown with more weight on the north side of the tree. The location of the most significant decay is on the east side of the tree, when this is combined with the unbalanced crown, there is a higher likelihood that if whole tree failure occurred the tree would fall toward the Page Walker.

We are blessed to have town staff that care about our trees.

Stable Homes Cary

The following was a briefing we received this week about our Stable Homes Cary program:

Updated December 28, 2025

Cary Housing Plan & Support for Housing Initiatives

• Two key foundations of Cary’s housing strategy are Partnerships and People First. Through projects and programs, Cary collaborates with local and regional partners to improve housing resources in Cary. These endeavors help ensure that all Cary citizens can enjoy the high quality of life that Cary has to offer.
• Since the adoption of the Cary Housing Plan in November 2021, Cary has launched several initiatives including Healthy Homes Cary to help low-income households with home repairs; Cary’s Nonprofit Capacity Building Program to provide training for nonprofit leaders; and Cary’s partnership with Laurel Street Residential to develop 126 units of mixed-income housing on Town-owned property at 921 SE Maynard.

Stable Homes Cary – Dorcas (recently renamed NeighborUp) Partnership

• In early 2024, Cary began discussions with NeighborUp and other local groups interested in addressing housing instability, homelessness prevention, redevelopment displacement, and in particular, helping Chatham Estates residents. In addition to Cary and NeighborUp, other organizations involved in the discussions include Taylor Family YMCA, Northwest Cary YMCA, The Carying Place, A Doorway to Hope, OneWake, and the Western Regional Housing Action Group.
• Through these discussions, NeighborUp, a major Cary non-profit providing emergency relief and support services to residents experiencing housing instability, agreed to serve as lead agency to support the launch of a new program, Stable Homes Cary. The program integrates three key components: short-term emergency relief, case management, and referrals to other area service providers.
• In March 2024, Council approved the establishment of a two-pronged program including:
• An allocation of $1,650,000 through FY27 ($500,000, $550,000, and $600,00 disbursed over three years, a blend of Cary General Funds and CDBG-CV Covid Relief funds) to scale up the existing direct emergency housing assistance model, develop housing navigation counseling expertise, and administer the Oasis Utility Bill and Play It Forward programs and;
• An allocation of $800,000 (Cary General Funds) to seed a fund for assistance to be disbursed exclusively to residents who need to relocate due to property redevelopment.

Chatham Estates Potential Sale

• As of February 7, 2024, Curtis Westbrook, owner of Chatham Estates, the 27.25-acre mobile home park with 144 mobile homes located at 607 Cedar Street at the intersection of E. Chatham Street and SE Maynard Road, listed the property for sale with broker Lee & Associates.
• The listing currently includes the residential portion of the property. Cary’s understanding is that current owner plans to maintain ownership of the commercial area Chatham Square Shopping Center and Maynard Plaza.

In March 2025, a development plan was submitted to Cary by Withers Ravenel on behalf of Toll Brothers proposing the by-right development of 330 multifamily units and 97 townhouses. The plan is in the third round of review and with last activity in October 2025. While rezoning is not required, Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZOBA) approval is necessary because the development has over 100 units.

• Last month, the Toll Brothers development team initiated a meeting with NeighborUp to understand the Stable Homes Cary Program and explore opportunities to support the Chatham Estates residents through a potential contribution to the relocation fund. Cary is not aware of any additional funding committed to date.
• Cary’s understanding is that Toll Brothers and the current property owner intend on closing the sale in June 2026. Under North Carolina state law, mobile home park owners are obligated to provide a Notice to Vacate 180 days in advance of eviction. Toll Brothers’ representatives have indicated this notice will be issued Monday, December 29th.
• NeighborUp and A Doorway to Hope have begun community outreach to educate residents and provide information about Stable Homes Cary resources. Counselors have been on-site several times over the last month and a flyer with counselor information is being distributed door-to-door in person by NeighborUp and A Doorway to Hope staff on Monday, December 29th.
• Through individual case management, both in the neighborhood and at NeighborUp, counselors will help identify potential housing options, connect residents with resources, and administer relocation assistance disbursement to help meet each household’s needs. People will be eligible to be reimbursed for assistance with moving expenses (moving vehicle rental, mobile home mover, moving materials, professional labor, etc.), housing expenses (rental deposits, utility deposits, renter’s insurance, application fees, first month’s rent, etc.) and/or home purchase expenses (down payments, inspections, HOA fees, homebuying fees, etc.) Households earning at or below 300% poverty level are eligible for the Cary Stable Homes funds. (Currently, 300% poverty level is $96,450 for a household of four.) Funds will be awarded based on need and equitably as households apply. U.S. citizenship status is not a qualifying requirement.
• Once residents have received the official Notice to Vacate, NeighborUp will disburse assistance for eligible expenses as resident applications are evaluated. NeighborUp will report on program activity and request reimbursement from Cary.

Interview with WTVD ABC11

On Monday evening, I spoke with ABC11 for approximately twenty minutes. Most of the discussion focused on issues surrounding the town manager’s resignation. I was also asked about a supposed conflict of interest, a narrative being advanced by the News & Observer. I want to be clear that I have no conflict of interest.

I appreciate ABC11’s fair and balanced approach in reporting this story.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary?

Yes.

Cary was a victim of fraud. While safeguards exist to prevent this type of incident, they were not followed in this case. Through the combined efforts of the Cary Police Department, the FBI, and the bank, the funds were successfully recovered. Specific details regarding how the recovery was accomplished cannot be disclosed.

Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?

The town entered into a contractual agreement with Stegall in 2016. That agreement provided for six months of severance unless he committed a criminal act, a provision that is common in employment contracts nationwide. While his actions were clearly harmful, there is no indication that he committed a crime.

Under the terms of the contract, the severance obligation applied whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town refused to honor the agreement, Stegall could have pursued legal action and likely would have still been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Prolonged litigation also carried the risk of further harm, including the potential for lies, or public disparagement of the town and its employees.

At this time, there is no evidence that his conduct was technically illegal, though the investigation is ongoing and may provide additional clarity.

While it was difficult to pay a significant sum to someone whose actions caused substantial harm, honoring the contract was necessary and represented the most responsible course of action to protect the town’s legal and financial interests.

Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?

The mayor and council serve as members of a policy-making board. We are not full-time employees, nor do we maintain offices at Town Hall, and we do not oversee day-to-day operations. Those responsibilities rest with the town manager. This structure is known as the council-manager form of government and is used by most municipalities in North Carolina.

As a result, the manager was able to conceal his actions from the policy board, and I was unaware of his inappropriate conduct until public records requests were submitted this fall. When I first learned of the tuition expense in October, I immediately questioned the town manager about it. At that time, he defended the expenditure, and I was not aware of the full scope of the spending. Notably, he then cancelled nearly all my one-on-one meetings for the following month and a half, until the council placed him on leave.

After a second public records request was released, I went back and looked at the first one and learned that the total amount spent on tuition exceeded $25,000. I then sent an email expressing my concerns and cc’d the council. Shortly thereafter, several staff members, who requested anonymity, provided additional information, including concerns regarding land purchases and misrepresentations about the fund balance.

At that point, I contacted our auditor, Cherry Bekaert, to report what I had learned. This led to Sean’s formal review, which began on November 18 and concluded on November 20, when the council called for his resignation.

Here is my timeline of events for everything I recall:

• September 1: First record request from A. Williams
• September 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council:
  • Council Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for two council members.
  • Staff Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for Stegall and four other staff members
  • Council emails, expenses, and reimbursements for all council members including me
  • Staff emails, expenses, and reimbursements including Stegall
  • Public records can be found here.
• October 12: Public Records request for texts by A. Williams for all receipts, per diems, reimbursements, etc.
  • None found and presented
• October 13: I questioned Stegall about tuition at one-on-one meeting
  • Stegall cancels all but two weekly one-on-one meetings with me after that
• October 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council, Part 2 (text requests)
• November 5: I verify land purchase next to Cary Elementary with Wake County Real estate records
• November 13: Council Quarterly, Stegall says fund balance never was below policy which was a false statement
• November 14: I called auditor Cherry Bekaert and tell them about what I have heard
• November 14: I send email to Stegall and council:

“I reviewed this spreadsheet and looked back at previous information for A. Williams.

Based on my observations we have spent over $25,000 on tuition, which concerns me. I expressed this concern to Sean in our one-on-one a few weeks ago.

What is the projected final total for these costs? I am worried that it looks like gifts and favors especially since this is not an option for town employees. I think as a council we need to understand how it gets approved and paid. It is also troubling to me now since we are in the middle of an audit.

We should discuss this at the policy and procedure work session set for December. Thanks”

• Beginning early November: Several staff approached me anonymously about their concerns:
  • Stegall lying about fund balance policy
  • Stegall elaborate spending including hotel receipts
  • Spending Tuition on a council member when staff doesn’t get the same benefit
  • Land purchase next to Cary Elementary using money budgeted for “smart” improvements to parking decks. Land to be used for affordable housing, a Guardian ad litem project, or open space. Only two council members were aware.  
  • Old library site to be used for affordable housing.
  • Millions of dollars in contracts with friends (a company named G&H) with little or no outcomes (no other details provided to date)
• November 15: I prepared to convince my colleagues to remove Stegall
• November 18: Council began annual review of Stegall. At this point I was unable to get council to agree to his removal.
• November 20: Due to my concerns about transparency, I made a motion in our regularly scheduled meeting that all council meetings, remote and in chambers, should be televised, which was passed unanimously
• November 20: In a Closed Session meeting Sean asked to resign and is put on leave
• Week of November 24: Council member pays back tuition
• December 4: New Council members sworn in
• December 11: First meeting with new council members
• December 13: Stegall resigns
• December 15: Special Meeting to announce Stegall’s resignation

When did you learn about the land purchase next to Cary Elementary?

I learned in early November that two parcels of land adjacent to Cary Elementary had been purchased. I later verified the transactions in July 2024 using the Wake County Real Estate website.

Stegall had authority for up to $1 million in discretionary spending. Because the two parcels were acquired through separate contracts, each individual purchase did not exceed that threshold, allowing staff to execute the agreements without bringing them before the Town Council for approval. Although the parcels are adjacent and likely intended for a single future project, one that would ultimately require Council approval, they were treated as separate transactions.

Stegall directed staff to purchase the parcels separately, which was technically legal. However, the purchases were not disclosed to the full Council. This appears to have been done to avoid public discussion and to accommodate the preferences of a small subset of Council members. The land acquisition is one example of how Sean operated in secrecy and in ways that benefited individual Council members rather than the Council as a whole.

The first parcel, measuring 0.58 acres, was assessed at $149,064 but purchased by the town for $379,000. The second parcel, approximately 1 acre, was assessed at $248,292 and purchased for $686,000. Combined, the total cost of the two purchases exceeded $1 million. The money came from a budgeted item for smart technology for our parking deck.

What changes have you made and will you make?

At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.

Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.

Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.

Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to lead to further procedural changes.

Why did you say downtown trolleys were returned when they were not?

Unfortunately, this is very misleading story by the News and Observer. I am surprised that this is what I am being asked to address when there are more pressing issues facing our town.

In the blog post they reference from October 29, 2023, you will see a single statement about trolleys is listed under the work session notes. At that time, I was simply relaying information that staff had presented to the council.

Regarding the trolleys, here are the facts as I understand them. The town manager sent a staff member to accept delivery of the trolleys. That individual was not qualified to determine whether the trolleys met ADA compliance requirements. As a result, the town was placed in a difficult position when we later attempted to return them and the seller refused.

Subsequent negotiations were discussed in closed session, and state statute prohibits disclosure of those discussions. That is why no further details appeared on my blog. In the meantime, the trolleys were stored while the town attempted to resolve the matter.

Ultimately, the trolleys were sold to another community that was aware they were not ADA compliant and chose to purchase them anyway. The sale price was close to the depreciated value. While the town did incur a loss, it could have been significantly worse.

The fundamental error was the manager’s decision to send an unqualified individual to accept the trolleys. Council relies on management to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions on behalf of the town.

Do you have conflicts of interest?

No.

Under North Carolina law, an elected official has a conflict of interest (COI) only when personal financial interests or those of immediate family members conflict with their public duties. When such a conflict exists, the official must refrain from participating in decisions that could provide personal benefit. State law addresses these situations through specific statutes, including G.S. 14-234.3, which governs nonprofit board involvement, and G.S. Chapter 138A, which establishes broader ethical standards for state and local officials. These laws emphasize transparency, disclosure, recusal when appropriate, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, particularly in matters involving contracts or quasi-judicial decisions such as zoning.

Despite this well-defined legal framework, The News & Observer has continued to publish stories suggesting that I have a conflict of interest where none exists. Notably, the publication was unable to identify a single currently practicing municipal attorney, of whom there are at least a dozen in Wake County alone, willing to state that my actions constituted a COI. Instead, they relied on commentary from a retired attorney from Durham, who characterized the situation as “sticky.” Further review of her background suggests she is not widely respected among her peers.

It is also worth noting that many elected officials across North Carolina are employed by engineering firms, yet this has not drawn similar scrutiny from The News & Observer. For example, a Johnston County commissioner works for the same firm with which I contract and currently serves as chair of CAMPO (the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization). All CAMPO members are required to complete ethics training and disclose their employment, a standard practice that promotes transparency and accountability.

Unfortunately, The News & Observer appears more focused on advancing a predetermined narrative rather than on accurately presenting the facts. The result is reporting that prioritizes sensationalism over substance, seemingly driven more by generating clicks than by providing fair and balanced coverage.

Here are the facts:

I own Weinbrecht Consulting LLC and work with WithersRavenel under an hourly consulting contract providing government relations support related to asset management. I am paid only an hourly rate and do not receive bonuses or commissions.

My consulting income from WithersRavenel was $24,404 in 2023 and $23,694 in 2024. In 2025, I expect to earn less than $20,000, although I have not yet finalized my financial summary for the year.

Most of my work involves participating in calls with staff from across the country to discuss how to effectively communicate asset management needs to elected officials. In the past several weeks, these calls have included participants from Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington state.

Another component of my role is traveling nationally to give presentations, often alongside a past national president of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and occasionally assisting with WithersRavenel’s conference booth. The purpose of the booth is to gather sales leads. In the evenings, the marketing team typically hosts those leads at dinner.

During the 2023 ICMA conference mentioned by the News & Observer, I worked at the booth helping collect sales leads. The marketing team asked me to contact Cary representatives to see if they might be interested in attending the dinner, which I did before the event by email and again on the day of the event. That was my only involvement.

It is disappointing that the News & Observer attempted to imply otherwise. This kind of misleading characterization does little to serve readers and may help explain the outlet’s declining readership.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint that I wasn’t doing my job supervising the manager.
• A complaint that I am “bought and paid for” based on the News and Observer false narrative.
• A threat based on the News and Observer narrative (Thanks guys – turned that one over to the police).
• A complaint “you and your team council are no longer trusted to make ANY decision in my opinion.”
• Suggestions on how I should proceed as mayor.
• A thanks for my “steady leadership, good heart and fortitude, especially in this challenging time”.
• A request for a traffic signal at Morrisville Parkway and Highcroft Drive.
• A complaint about the ICE facility off Evans Road.
• Questions about Trolleys.
• A request to have recycling every week (This would require more equipment, more personnel, and more tax dollars. A better solution would be to get an additional recycling bin which we will gladly provide.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, media interviews, a council work session, and a council meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 11, 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.

Year End Message

This is my final blog post of 2025, and I want to reflect on a few important things we will be carrying with us into 2026.

Cary remains the best of the best, our employees, our financial position, our strong business climate, and the recognition we continue to receive through award after award. You’ll hear much more about this in the 2026 State of Cary, so stay tuned.

That success is possible because in Cary, being the best never depends on one person. It depends on all of us. We will not only move beyond Stegall’s tenure, but we will also grow stronger together.

As many of us began to learn toward the end of 2025, Stegall’s actions and decisions became increasingly unwise, less transparent, and hurtful to many of the people who worked most closely with him. I am grateful to those who came forward to help confirm and expand upon what I, and others, learned, much of it through what appear to be anonymous public records requests.

At this point, we are not aware of anything strictly illegal that Stegall did. However, two significant matters will be carried into 2026: the review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, and the Council’s own internal investigation being conducted by Womble Bond Dickinson.

While Womble’s work has only just begun, the State Auditor is already in possession of what may be hundreds of thousands of records. I don’t know how long their review will take or when their report will be released, but I continue to welcome and support their partnership in getting to the full truth of what occurred under Stegall’s “leadership.” Both investigations will help make us stronger as we move forward. In my experience, reviews of this scope are unprecedented in modern North Carolina local government, and I hope the resulting updates to our policies, procedures, and practices will serve as a model for others so that something like this never happens again.

Regarding policies and practices, at my direction the Council began a public discussion of ours during the December work session. We must do more, and we must do so openly. That is why, on November 20, I made a motion to live-stream all remote meetings. I appreciate the unanimous support of my Council colleagues, and I believe this change is already having a positive impact. Many people are watching, and that transparency matters.

Another positive we are carrying into 2026 is Interim Town Manager Russ Overton, who has truly hit the ground running. Russ brings much-needed stability, sound judgment, and a strong commitment to transparency. He has instituted a practice of meeting only with small groups of Council members, no one-on-one meetings as occurred in the past, to ensure everyone stays informed. He is also joined by at least one other staff member in these meetings, so discussions are properly documented and shared. This added “light” is both welcome and necessary.

That same level of transparency will extend to our upcoming budget process. Expect more budget discussions to take place in live-stream meetings that are open to the public.

At our December 15 emergency meeting, I promised to keep you, our citizens, updated, and I intend to keep that promise. If you don’t like where we’re heading, tell us. Attend a Council meeting or send us an email. We want to hear from you.

This month also marks the launch of our 2026 Biennial Citizens Satisfaction Survey. For the first time, it includes questions specifically about trust. If you are one of the 400 Cary residents selected to participate, please take the call. The survey takes about 20 minutes, and we know your time is valuable. We have conducted this survey every two years since 1998, something no other government can claim, and we carefully review and act on the results. All past survey results are available on our website at www.carync.gov .

Finally, for the first time in more than 10 years, we will also be conducting an employee survey. I greatly appreciate Russ’s leadership on this effort. The Council requested such a survey for years, and it never happened. Given everything our employees have experienced during this Town Hall transition, it is imperative that we hear from them and continue to support them. Our employees are a vital part of what makes Cary the best of the best.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary?

Yes.

Cary was a victim of fraud. While safeguards exist to prevent this type of incident, they were not followed in this case. Through the combined efforts of the Cary Police Department, the FBI, and the bank, the funds were successfully recovered. Specific details regarding how the recovery was accomplished cannot be disclosed.

Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?

The town entered into a contractual agreement with Stegall in 2016. That agreement provided for six months of severance unless he committed a criminal act, a provision that is common in employment contracts nationwide. While his actions were clearly harmful, there is no indication that he committed a crime.

Under the terms of the contract, the severance obligation applied whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town refused to honor the agreement, Stegall could have pursued legal action and likely would have still been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Prolonged litigation also carried the risk of further harm, including the potential for lies, or public disparagement of the town and its employees.

At this time, there is no evidence that his conduct was technically illegal, though the investigation is ongoing and may provide additional clarity.

While it was difficult to pay a significant sum to someone whose actions caused substantial harm, honoring the contract was necessary and represented the most responsible course of action to protect the town’s legal and financial interests.

Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?

The mayor and council serve as members of a policy-making board. We are not full-time employees, nor do we maintain offices at Town Hall, and we do not oversee day-to-day operations. Those responsibilities rest with the town manager. This structure is known as the council-manager form of government and is used by most municipalities in North Carolina.

As a result, the manager was able to conceal his actions from the policy board, and I was unaware of his inappropriate conduct until public records requests were submitted this fall. When I first learned of the tuition expense in October, I immediately questioned the town manager about it. At that time, he defended the expenditure, and I was not aware of the full scope of the spending. Notably, he then cancelled nearly all my one-on-one meetings for the following month and a half, until the council placed him on leave.

After a second public records request was released, I went back and looked at the first one and learned that the total amount spent on tuition exceeded $25,000. I then sent an email expressing my concerns and cc’d the council. Shortly thereafter, several staff members, who requested anonymity, provided additional information, including concerns regarding land purchases and misrepresentations about the fund balance.

At that point, I contacted our auditor, Cherry Bekaert, to report what I had learned. This led to Sean’s formal review, which began on November 18 and concluded on November 20, when the council called for his resignation.

Here is my timeline of events for everything I recall:

• September 1: First record request from A. Williams
• September 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council
  • Council Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for two council members.
  • Staff Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for Stegall and four other staff members
  • Council emails, expenses, and reimbursements for all council members including me
  • Staff emails, expenses, and reimbursements including Stegall
  • Public records can be found here.
• October 12: Public Records request for texts by A. Williams for all receipts, per diems, reimbursements, etc.
  • None found and presented
• October 13: I questioned Stegall about tuition at one-on-one meeting
  • Stegall cancels all but two weekly one-on-one meetings with me after that
• October 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council, Part 2 (text requests)
• November 5: I verify land purchase next to Cary Elementary with Wake County Real estate records
• November 13: Council Quarterly, Stegall says fund balance never was below policy which was a false statement
• November 14: I called auditor Cherry Bekaert and tell them about what I have heard
• November 14: I send email to Stegall and council:

“I reviewed this spreadsheet and looked back at previous information for A. Williams.

Based on my observations we have spent over $25,000 on tuition, which concerns me. I expressed this concern to Sean in our one-on-one a few weeks ago.

What is the projected final total for these costs? I am worried that it looks like gifts and favors especially since this is not an option for town employees. I think as a council we need to understand how it gets approved and paid. It is also troubling to me now since we are in the middle of an audit.

We should discuss this at the policy and procedure work session set for December. Thanks”

• Beginning early November: Several staff approached me anonymously about their concerns:
  • Stegall lying about fund balance policyStegall elaborate spending including hotel receiptsSpending Tuition on a council member when staff doesn’t get the same benefit.Land purchase next to Cary Elementary using money budgeted for “smart” improvements to parking decks. Land to be used for affordable housing, a Guardian ad litem project, or open space. Only two council members were aware.Old library site to be used for affordable housing.
  • Millions of dollars in contracts with friends (a company named G&H) with little or no outcomes (no other details provided to date)
• November 15: I prepared to convince my colleagues to remove Stegall
• November 18: Council began annual review of Stegall
• November 20: Due to my concerns about transparency, I made a motion in our regularly scheduled meeting that all council meetings, remote and in chambers, should be televised, which was passed unanimously
• November 20: In a Closed Session meeting Sean asked to resign and is put on leave
• Week of November 24: Council member pays back tuition
• December 4: New Council members sworn in
• December 11: First meeting with new council members
• December 13: Stegall resigns
• December 15: Special Meeting to announce Stegall’s resignation

When did you learn about the land purchase next to Cary Elementary?

I learned in early November that two parcels of land adjacent to Cary Elementary had been purchased. I later verified the transactions in July 2024 using the Wake County Real Estate website.

Stegall had authority for up to $1 million in discretionary spending. Because the two parcels were acquired through separate contracts, each individual purchase did not exceed that threshold, allowing staff to execute the agreements without bringing them before the Town Council for approval. Although the parcels are adjacent and likely intended for a single future project, one that would ultimately require Council approval, they were treated as separate transactions.

Stegall directed staff to purchase the parcels separately, which was technically legal. However, the purchases were not disclosed to the full Council. This appears to have been done to avoid public discussion and to accommodate the preferences of a small subset of Council members. The land acquisition is one example of how Sean operated in secrecy and in ways that benefited individual Council members rather than the Council as a whole.

The first parcel, measuring 0.58 acres, was assessed at $149,064 but purchased by the town for $379,000. The second parcel, approximately 1 acre, was assessed at $248,292 and purchased for $686,000. Combined, the total cost of the two purchases exceeded $1 million. The money came from a budgeted item for smart technology for our parking deck.

What changes have you made and will you make?

At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.

Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.

Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.

Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to lead to further procedural changes.

Why did you say downtown trolleys were returned when they were not?

Unfortunately, this is very misleading story by the News and Observer. I am surprised that this is what I am being asked to address when there are more pressing issues facing our town.

In the blog post they reference from October 29, 2023, you will see a single statement about trolleys is listed under the work session notes. At that time, I was simply relaying information that staff had presented to the council.

Regarding the trolleys, here are the facts as I understand them. The town manager sent a staff member to accept delivery of the trolleys. That individual was not qualified to determine whether the trolleys met ADA compliance requirements. As a result, the town was placed in a difficult position when we later attempted to return them and the seller refused.

Subsequent negotiations were discussed in closed session, and state statute prohibits disclosure of those discussions. That is why no further details appeared on my blog. In the meantime, the trolleys were stored while the town attempted to resolve the matter.

Ultimately, the trolleys were sold to another community that was aware they were not ADA compliant and chose to purchase them anyway. The sale price was close to the depreciated value. While the town did incur a loss, it could have been significantly worse.

The fundamental error was the manager’s decision to send an unqualified individual to accept the trolleys. Council relies on management to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions on behalf of the town.

Do you have conflicts of interest?

No.

In North Carolina, an elected official has a conflict of interest (COI) when their personal financial or familial interests clash with their public duties, generally meaning they can’t participate in decisions benefiting themselves or close relations, with specific laws like G.S. 14-234.3 targeting nonprofit board roles, and G.S. Chapter 138A setting broader ethical standards for state officials, requiring disclosure, recusal, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, especially in contracts or quasi-judicial matters like zoning.

The N&O had a story about the town manager’s spending at an ICMA (International City/County Management Association) conference in Austin, Texas in 2023. In the story it talks about my presence there as if I was representing the town. Not true. Why did they add this to the story? Who knows. I am guessing they are angry because I didn’t break the law and didn’t provide them with more information about the town manager’s leave until he resigned. What was their intention? Not sure. I am guessing character assassination. But it made people question my integrity. Unfortunately, the N&O seems to be focused on creating misinformation rather than telling the facts. …

Here are the facts:

I own a consulting firm, Weinbrecht Consulting LLC. I have an hourly contract with WithersRavenel to provide Government Relations consulting, with a focus on asset management. I do not do any work for the Town of Cary with WithersRavenel.

My consulting income from WithersRavenel was $24,404 in 2023 and $23,694 in 2024. In 2025, I expect to earn less than $20,000, although I have not yet finalized my financial summary for the year.

Most of my work involves participating in calls with staff from across the country to discuss how to effectively communicate asset management needs to elected officials. In the past two weeks alone, these calls have included participants from Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington state.

Another component of my role is traveling nationally to give presentations, often alongside a past national president of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and occasionally assisting with WithersRavenel’s conference booth. The purpose of the booth is to gather sales leads. In the evenings, the marketing team typically hosts those leads at dinner.

At the ICMA conference referenced by the News & Observer, I was working at the booth to help gather sales leads. On the day in question, there were not enough prospective clients available to fill a dinner table that had been reserved. The marketing team asked me to reach out to Cary representatives to see if they would be interested in attending, which I did. That was the extent of my involvement.

It is disappointing that the News & Observer attempted to imply otherwise. This kind of misleading characterization does little to serve readers and may help explain the outlet’s declining readership.

Cary One of the Best Places to Visit

According to South Living Cary is one of the best places to visit:

“Cary (once a small suburb of Raleigh) has blossomed into a coveted destination in its own right. Named one of our South’s Best Cities on the Rise, it’s home to dozens of wonderful local restaurants, great shopping, unique stays, and a thriving art and culture scene. Cary is making the case that there has never been a better time to do a little further digging into the state’s famed Research Triangle. Read on for the best things to do when visiting.”

You can find the entire article here.

Cary’s Ginny Johnson is a Master Clerk

Tuesday the council received information from our clerk, Ginny Johnson, that she had achieved the highest certification available from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), Master Municipal Clerk (MMC).

IIMC grants the MMC designation only to those Municipal Clerks who complete demanding education requirements; and who have a record of significant contributions to their local government, their community and state. The program has an extensive and rigorous educational component and a professional and social contribution component. The MMC applicant must demonstrate that they have actively pursued education and professional activities. Based on information available on their website, only 14% of clerks reach this level. Congratulations to our Master Municipal Clerk, Ginny Johnson!

Media Interviews

I was scheduled to meet with three media outlets this week to answer questions related to the former town manager. Since one of them was unable to meet we decided to postpone until after Christmas.

Council Out and About

Friends of the Page-Walker Holiday Party

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the annual Friends of Page-Walker Holiday Party, which brings together the organization’s board of directors and volunteers to celebrate the holidays together. Earlier in the month, Councilmember Craig also joined Friends of Page-Walker volunteers in decorating the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center for the holiday season.

Altitude Trampoline Park Opening

Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards attended the grand opening of Altitude Trampoline Park in Cary. The event welcomed a new recreational destination for families and youth, highlighting Cary’s continued growth and support for local business development.

Rotary Peace Pole Dedication

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered remarks at the Rotary Peace Pole Dedication, emphasizing unity, peace, and global goodwill. Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards were also in attendance to support the event, Rotary Club, and its commitment to community values.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht provided remarks at the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Cary Downtown Park. He was joined by Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards in celebrating the start of the holiday season at this event.

Wreaths Across America

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered remarks at the Wreaths Across America ceremony honoring veterans and their families. The event served as a solemn moment of remembrance and gratitude for those who served and sacrificed for the nation.

Cary Christmas Parade

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards participated in the Cary Christmas Parade. The annual parade brought the community together to celebrate the holidays with local organizations, schools, and families.

Wake County Mayors Association Holiday Event

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Wake County Mayors’ Association Holiday Event, joined by Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Sarika Bansal.

Annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush delivered remarks at the annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting and was joined on stage by Councilmember Brittany Richards. Together, they marked the third night of Hanukkah with blessings and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah, while Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig attended in support of the celebration.

Cary Sister Cities Association Holiday Party

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Sister Cities Holiday Party. The event celebrated international partnerships and cultural exchange while recognizing the volunteers who strengthen Cary’s global connections.

Governor Stein’s Menorah Lighting

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush attended Governor Stein’s Menorah Lighting at the Governor’s Mansion on Sunday, December 14th to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah. It was an honor to join friends, families, and community leaders in marking this special tradition of light, hope, and unity.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Several citizens thanking me for the work I am doing and encouraging me.
• A complaint about construction vehicles in Wynwood South.
• Congratulations to the town for the Cary Tennis Park receiving the Racquet Sport Industry 2025 Municipality of the Year.
• A complaint from a resident about the Grove at Cary Park about the landlord.
• A complaint that I was “snarky” for providing an answer to the question about getting money back from the fraud incident. (see above)
• A complaint that I am the “ultimate owner of this whole mess” and should resign. (A couple of things: (1) there are seven of us with equal authority. (2) I was the one that brought the information to the entire council which led to the resignation.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, media interviews, and writing my annual address.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 4, 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.

Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items

Why did you say downtown trolleys were returned when they were not?

Unfortunately, this is very misleading story by the N&O. I am surprised that this is what I am being asked to address when there are more pressing issues facing our town.

In the blog post they reference from October 29, 2023, you will see a single statement about trolleys is listed under the work session notes. At that time, I was simply relaying information that staff had presented to the council.

Regarding the trolleys, here are the facts as I understand them. The town manager sent a staff member to accept delivery of the trolleys. That individual was not qualified to determine whether the trolleys met ADA compliance requirements. As a result, the town was placed in a difficult position when we later attempted to return them and the seller refused.

Subsequent negotiations were discussed in closed session, and state statute prohibits disclosure of those discussions. That is why no further details appeared on my blog. In the meantime, the trolleys were stored while the town attempted to resolve the matter.

Ultimately, the trolleys were sold to another community that was aware they were not ADA compliant and chose to purchase them anyway. The sale price was close to the depreciated value. While the town did incur a loss, it could have been significantly worse.

The fundamental error was the manager’s decision to send an unqualified individual to accept the trolleys. Council relies on management to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions on behalf of the town.

Do you have conflicts of interest?

No.

In North Carolina, an elected official has a conflict of interest (COI) when their personal financial or familial interests clash with their public duties, generally meaning they can’t participate in decisions benefiting themselves or close relations, with specific laws like G.S. 14-234.3 targeting nonprofit board roles, and G.S. Chapter 138A setting broader ethical standards for state officials, requiring disclosure, recusal, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, especially in contracts or quasi-judicial matters like zoning.

The N&O had a story about the town manager’s spending at an ICMA (International City/County Management Association) conference in Austin, Texas in 2023. In the story it talks about my presence there as if I was representing the town. Not true. Why did they add this to the story? Who knows. I am guessing they are angry because I didn’t break the law and didn’t provide them with more information about the town manager’s leave until he resigned. What was their intention? Not sure. I am guessing character assassination. But it made people question my integrity. Unfortunately, the N&O seems to be focused on creating misinformation rather than telling the facts. …

Here are the facts:

I own a consulting firm, Weinbrecht Consulting LLC. I have an hourly contract with WithersRavenel to provide Government Relations consulting, with a focus on asset management. I do not do any work for the Town of Cary with WithersRavenel.

My consulting income from WithersRavenel was $24,404 in 2023 and $23,694 in 2024. In 2025, I expect to earn less than $20,000, although I have not yet finalized my financial summary for the year.

Most of my work involves participating in calls with staff from across the country to discuss how to effectively communicate asset management needs to elected officials. In the past two weeks alone, these calls have included participants from Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington state.

Another component of my role is traveling nationally to give presentations, often alongside a past national president of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and occasionally assisting with WithersRavenel’s conference booth. The purpose of the booth is to gather sales leads. In the evenings, the marketing team typically hosts those leads at dinner.

At the ICMA conference referenced by the News & Observer, I was working at the booth to help gather sales leads. On the day in question, there were not enough prospective clients available to fill a dinner table that had been reserved. The marketing team asked me to reach out to Cary representatives to see if they would be interested in attending, which I did. That was the extent of my involvement.

It is disappointing that the News & Observer attempted to imply otherwise. This kind of misleading characterization does little to serve readers and may help explain the outlet’s declining readership.

Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?

The mayor and council serve as members of a policy-making board. We are not full-time employees, nor do we maintain offices at Town Hall, and we do not oversee day-to-day operations. Those responsibilities rest with the town manager. This structure is known as the council-manager form of government and is used by the vast majority of municipalities in North Carolina.

As a result, the manager was able to conceal his actions from the policy board, and I was unaware of his inappropriate conduct until public records requests were submitted this fall. When I first learned of the tuition expense in October, I immediately questioned the town manager about it. At that time, he defended the expenditure, and I was not aware of the full scope of the spending. Notably, he then cancelled nearly all of my one-on-one meetings for the following month and a half, until the council placed him on leave.

After a second public records request was released, I went back and looked at the first one and learned that the total amount spent on tuition exceeded $25,000. I then sent an email expressing my concerns and cc’d the council. Shortly thereafter, several staff members, who requested anonymity, provided additional information, including concerns regarding land purchases and misrepresentations about the fund balance.

At that point, I contacted our auditor, Cherry Bekaert, to report what I had learned. This led to Sean’s formal review, which began on November 18 and concluded on November 20, when the council called for his resignation.

Here is my timeline of events for everything I recall:

• September 1: First record request from A. Williams
• September 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council
  • Council Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for two council members.
• • Staff Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for Stegall and four other staff members
• • Council emails, expenses, and reimbursements for all council members including me
• • Staff emails, expenses, and reimbursements including Stegall
  • Public records can be found here.
• October 12: Public Records request for texts by A. Williams for all receipts, per diems, reimbursements, etc.
  • None found and presented
• October 13: I questioned Stegall about tuition at one-on-one meeting
  • Stegall cancels all but two weekly one-on-one meetings with me after that
• October 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council, Part 2 (text requests)
• November 5: I verify land purchase next to Cary Elementary with Wake County Real estate records
• November 13: Council Quarterly, Stegall says fund balance never was below policy which was a false statement
• November 14: I called auditor Cherry Bekaert and tell them about what I have heard
• November 14: I send email to Stegall and council:

“I reviewed this spreadsheet and looked back at previous information for A. Williams.”

Based on my observations we have spent over $25,000 on tuition, which concerns me. I expressed this concern to Sean in our one-on-one a few weeks ago.

What is the projected final total for these costs? I am worried that it looks like gifts and favors especially since this is not an option for town employees. I think as a council we need to understand how it gets approved and paid. It is also troubling to me now since we are in the middle of an audit.

We should discuss this at the policy and procedure work session set for December. Thanks”

• Beginning early November: Several staff approached me anonymously about their concerns
  • Stegall lying about fund balance policy
• • Stegall elaborate spending including hotel receipts Spending Tuition on a council member when staff doesn’t get the same benefit.
• • Land purchase next to Cary Elementary using money budgeted for “smart” improvements to parking decks. Land to be used for affordable housing, a Guardian ad litem project, or open space. Only two council members were aware.
• • Old library site to be used for affordable housing.
  • Millions of dollars in contracts with friends (a company named G&H) with little or no outcomes (no other details provided to date)
• November 15: I prepared to convince my colleagues to remove Stegall
• November 18: Council began annual review of Stegall
• November 20: Due to my concerns about transparency, I made a motion in our regularly scheduled meeting that all council meetings, remote and in chambers, should be televised, which was passed unanimously
• November 20: In Closed Session Sean asked to resign and is put on leave
• Week of November 24: Council member pays back tuition
• December 4: New Council members sworn in
• December 11: First meeting with new council members
• December 13: Stegall resigns
• December 15: Special Meeting to announce Stegall’s resignation

Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?

The town entered into a contractual agreement with Stegall in 2016. That agreement provided for six months of severance unless he committed a criminal act, a provision that is common in employment contracts nationwide. While his actions were clearly harmful, there is no indication that he committed a crime.

Under the terms of the contract, the severance obligation applied whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town refused to honor the agreement, Stegall could have pursued legal action and likely would have still been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Prolonged litigation also carried the risk of further harm, including the potential for lies, or public disparagement of the town and its employees.

At this time, there is no evidence that his conduct was technically illegal, though the investigation is ongoing and may provide additional clarity.

While it was difficult to pay a significant sum to someone whose actions caused substantial harm, honoring the contract was necessary and represented the most responsible course of action to protect the town’s legal and financial interests.

When did you learn about the land purchase next to Cary Elementary?

I learned in early November that two parcels of land adjacent to Cary Elementary had been purchased. I later verified the transactions in July 2024 using the Wake County Real Estate website.

Stegall had authority for up to $1 million in discretionary spending. Because the two parcels were acquired through separate contracts, each individual purchase did not exceed that threshold, allowing staff to execute the agreements without bringing them before the Town Council for approval. Although the parcels are adjacent and likely intended for a single future project—one that would ultimately require Council approval—they were treated as separate transactions.

Stegall directed staff to purchase the parcels separately, which was technically legal. However, the purchases were not disclosed to the full Council. This appears to have been done to avoid public discussion and to accommodate the preferences of a small subset of Council members. The land acquisition is one example of how Sean operated in secrecy and in ways that benefited individual Council members rather than the Council as a whole.

The first parcel, measuring 0.58 acres, was assessed at $149,064 but purchased by the town for $379,000. The second parcel, approximately 1 acre, was assessed at $248,292 and purchased for $686,000. Combined, the total cost of the two purchases exceeded $1 million. The money came from a budgeted item for smart technology for our parking deck.

What changes have you made and will you make?

At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.

Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.

Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.

Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to lead to further procedural changes.

Raleigh-Cary Ranked #2 in US for Young and Rich

Monday I learned that Trust & Will ranked the Raleigh-Cary area as the #2 location in the nation for the young and the rich. The analyzed eight indicators across the 73 most populated millennial U.S. metros to identify where affluent millennials currently reside and where conditions point to future growth. Here is what they said:

“High‑income filers #8 sits in the top 11%, while GDP growth #10 is top 14% and permits #16 top 22%. The lag is high‑value assets #41, lower half of the study. Raleigh’s appeal is a balanced economic base with steady wealth signals and an active building pipeline.”

Emergency Meeting – Manager Resigns

Monday an emergency meeting was called to announce the resignation of Sean Stegall as manager of Cary and name Russ Overton as the interim. The following is the press release:

CARY, NC – Following the December 13 resignation of Sean Stegall, Cary Town Council today appointed Deputy Town Manager Russ Overton to serve as interim town manager. The appointment of a seasoned Cary employee signals a deep focus on the fundamentals of local government management: sound financial stewardship, operational accountability, and reliable service delivery for Cary citizens and visitors. The appointment goes into effect immediately.

“Appointing a long-tenured internal leader provides continuity of operations and stability for our organization, our staff, and our community during this period of transition,” said Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “On behalf of Cary Town Council, we appreciate Russ stepping in and sharing his deep institutional knowledge and clear understanding of operations during these unprecedented moments in Cary’s evolution.”

Overton, 51, was promoted to deputy town manager and chief operating officer in 2017. He joined the Town of Cary in 1998 as an engineer and held leadership roles in the Engineering department before serving as the Inspections & Permits department director and eventually moving to the Town Manager’s Office as an assistant town manager in 2013.

Overton holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from North Carolina State University and is a licensed Professional Engineer. He is a graduate of the UNC School of Government’s (SOG) Municipal and County Administration Course, the UNC SOG’s Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA), the Senior Executive Institute (SEI) program at the University of Virginia, ICF – Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance at North Carolina State University, and the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program, John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, Executive Education. Overton is a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and is an ICMA Credentialed Manager and a member of the North Carolina City and County Management Association (NCCCMA).

Overton is an avid fisherman raised in Ahoskie, North Carolina. He and his wife, Kristy, live on a micro-farm in the Apex portion of Wake County with their three daughters and labradoodle.

The meeting started with me making comments explaining the situation and how we got to this point. I then opened it up to council members for remarks before swearing in Russ Overton as Interim Town Manager. The following are remarks I made during the meeting:

In North Carolina, city and town Councils appoint three staff members: the clerk, the attorney, and the manager. These three people report directly to the Council. All of the rest of the staff, which in Cary is just over 1300 people, work for and ultimately report to the Town Manager.

As part of our supervisory responsibilities of the three appointed staff members, we, the Cary Council, conduct annual performance reviews of each of them.  This typically occurs in the fall, and this year, those performance reviews occurred during the week of November 17th.

In the days and weeks leading up to these performance reviews, a number of public records requests that involved Sean, the Council, and several other staff revealed activities directed or undertaken by Sean that were inconsistent with the Town’s culture.  The Council was copied on the responses to the records requests, and, for the first time, we, the Council as a whole became aware of disturbing decisions made by and direction given by Sean to staff. As part of our due diligence, we met with several Town staff to better understand what these records were showing and to confirm our concerns.

Then on November 20th in closed session, the Council voted unanimously to immediately place Sean on paid Administrative Leave as we took the steps necessary to separate Sean from the organization.

Multiple Federal and State privacy, public records, and equal employment laws governed what we could say at each step. And they still do. Also, like most city managers around the state and nation, Sean worked according to an employment contract signed by him and the Town when he was hired in 2016. That contract also dictates elements of what would happen in the event that either Sean or the Council wanted the employment arrangement to end.

So, we have been following applicable federal employment laws, state public records, open meetings, employment laws, and applicable Cary personnel laws as well as the provisions of Sean’s contract to get us here today where the Council and I can say these words..

It has been hard not being able to share more than we have up to this point. And it’s been sad and difficult emotionally to unwind our relationship with Sean.

For many of us, we saw Sean as our friend, not simply an employee.

Even so, there were basically three issues that led to us deciding to place Sean on leave:

-Over-the-top spending and inadequate financial reporting;

-A lack of transparency with the full Council, staff, and citizens;

-And an unhealthy work environment created by Sean with many of the staff he worked most closely with.

For me as Mayor, it just came down to a lack of trust and confidence.

While we know a lot more now about things that have occurred over the last few years, there may be more to learn. And so, we have hired a law firm specializing in employment investigations to join us in looking deeply into Sean’s activities and the things he’s directed staff to do to ensure we are fully aware of any problems and that we put process changes in place so that something like this never happens again in Cary.

The firm’s work will take time, I expect several months if not more. And I promise that we will keep you, our Cary citizens and staff, updated on our progress, our findings, and our direction to Russ for changes, as well as changes that we know we may need in how the Council operates, which will be up to us here at this table.

I have to say, having been part of Cary for most of my life and Mayor for so many years, I am stunned at the revelations that have come forward so far. I am sick and sad and I am mad.

And, like my Council colleagues, I am committed to setting things right and moving Cary forward, which we’re doing by naming Russ our Interim Town Manager.

I want to say that I, personally, am not aware of anything illegal that has occurred. And our finances are in good shape, thanks to staff who’ve been working hard to blunt the impacts of Sean’s direct and indirect actions. And for folks who live and work in Cary every day, the beautiful and high-performing Cary machine has continued to hum despite the problems in one part of Town Hall.

It is not lost on me or this Council what great work you’ve been doing, and we are grateful to you.

With that, I’ll open it up to my Council colleagues for any comments before I swear in our Interim Manager.

After the meeting, I held a Q&A with the media to address as many questions as possible before departing for the Wake County Mayors Association event. I will continue to blog responses to additional questions as they come in. Additionally, the town will make all public records releases available for everyone to view.

Wake County Mayors Association Holiday Event

On Monday evening, I attended the Wake County Mayors Association holiday event in Fuquay-Varina, joined by Council Members Craig and Bansal. The evening provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow municipal leaders and staff.

I also had the pleasure of meeting the new mayors of Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest, and Zebulon. While I will miss the departing mayors, I am confident the new mayors will serve their communities with distinction.

State Auditor

Tuesday the state auditor visited the town hall with multiple requests. Our staff continues to be fully cooperative. The following is the press release I have made related to the state auditors:

“Today, the N.C. Office of the State Auditor visited Cary Town Hall to continue discussions about their concerns surrounding the departure of former Town Manager Sean Stegall.

We were first contacted by the state auditor’s office on November 25 when they visited Town Hall. Since that day, we’ve been working with them to provide the information they’ve requested.

We are fully supporting their exploration of these concerns, which mirror our own. These concerns were discussed at the December 15 Emergency Council Meeting, and are foundational to why the Council put Sean on administrative leave on November 20.

We welcome the assistance of the state in unwinding these issues associated with over-the-top spending and inadequate financial reporting, a lack of transparency with the full Council, staff, and citizens, and an unhealthy work environment created by Sean with many of the staff he worked most closely with.

Independent of the state auditor’s efforts, Council has hired a law firm, Womble Bond Dickinson, that specializes in these types of issues; to work with us to ensure we’re looking at everything that’s important to our organization and our community. Our finances are in good shape, and we appreciate the leadership that our interim town manager, Russ Overton, brings to help us resolve these issues and move us forward.”

It is extremely important to me that we work with all parties to find out any issues, correct them, and provide the public with information about what we found.

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting

On Tuesday night, I attended the Hanukkah Menorah Lighting at Downtown Cary Park. All council members were present, with the exception of two who were traveling abroad. One of the speakers, a rabbi, spoke movingly about the fear currently felt within the Jewish community, the importance of holding this event, and how meaningful it is to see non-Jewish community members in attendance. I wholeheartedly agree.

Cary is a diverse and welcoming community. Nearly one quarter of our residents were born in another country, and we represent more than 60 nationalities. We embrace our diversity and celebrate our differences. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible.

Sister Cities Holiday Event

Wednesday evening, I attended the Sister Cities Holiday Event at the Mayton Inn, which attracted approximately 100 attendees. Remarks were given by Jack Smith, the former Sister Cities liaison, and Michelle Craig, the current liaison. During the event, Sister Cities honored Jack Smith with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The organization also presented Jack Smith and me with beautiful drawings from Le Touquet, his featuring a golf theme and mine highlighting tennis.

The Sister Cities organization continues to be both successful and growing, and we are hopeful to welcome Wiesbaden, Germany, as a new partner city next year.

Public Records Information Portal

Friday the Public Records Information Portal for the town manager’s transition went live. It can be found here. This public access to information is key for transparency and to start building public trust.

Flex High School Forced to go to Virtual Learning

This week I was contacted by several parents of children attending Flex High School in Cary. The school was forced to close for in person learning because it doesn’t meet state building code requirements. The police chief responded with the following message:

“We have received the emails sent to Wake County Public Schools and the elected officials in Cary regarding the status of the FLEX Academy High School. As the Fire Chief of Cary Fire Department, I wanted to personally provide you with some information about the status of this situation.

First, I apologize for the hardship and challenges that the recent change in operations of the high school has created for you and others that it may impact.  We have been in conversation with both the Wake County Public School System and the Wake County Fire Marshal’s Office for quite some time regarding FLEX Academy High School.  As Dr. Robinson stated in his email to parents, operations of the school have evolved over time, and the current operation of the school in this space does not comply with the NC State Building Codes as well as local zoning ordinance. 

Cary, Wake County Public Schools, the Wake County Fire Marshal’s Office, and the building’s owner have had multiple conversations in an attempt to find an amicable solution for all parties that would be code compliant. These included having the building owner add a sprinkler system to bring the building into compliance with the State Building Code.  In our last meeting, all parties agreed to an option that would limit the entire building to 49 occupants, which include staff, students, and visitors.  The delivery of virtual instruction was not discussed in these conversations, as school operations are not under Cary’s scope of authority. 

Again, I am sorry and empathize with you regarding the change of operation for the FLEX High School.  We are committed to ensuring that all facilities in Cary, including schools, are code compliant, and staff will continue to collaborate with Wake County and the school system.

Please let me know if there are any additional code-related, or other questions that I may answer.”

Mike Cooper

Fire Chief

Historic Holiday Stroll Event

Friday night, I participated in the Historic Holiday Stroll in downtown Cary, a production by Katherine Loflin. The event brought local history to life through stories about downtown structures and perspectives from different points in time. I portrayed Frank Page.

We began at Fidelity Bank and made stops at Ashworth Drugs, the Esther Ivey House, the Ivey-Ellington House, the Cary Arts Center, the Guess-Ogle House, and the Methodist Church. In addition to the wonderful performances, we were fortunate to hear first-hand stories from Ralph Ashworth. We also enjoyed several Christmas carols performed by the Cary Christian Choir at the Cary Arts Center.

The evening was a lot of fun, though navigating the crowds along Academy Street was a challenge with The Nutcracker performances and the Holiday Market happening at the same time.

Manager’s Weekly Report

Council,

Today I hosted the last All Hands meeting of 2025. It was great to get staff together before the end of the year and share updates on this interim period. One key update I shared was the launch of the 311 cases portal for public records requests. There is more information on that in the Weekly Updates below.

As a reminder, this will be the last Weekly Report of the year. I want to give a special shoutout to those employees working over the holidays. I don’t think I could ever fully express how grateful I am to them for keeping our community safe so the rest of us can enjoy this season with our loved ones. Happy holidays to all of our staff and Council, and I look forward to moving forward together in 2026.

Russ Overton

Interim Town Manager

First Generation Smart Meters Replaced

This week marks the completion of the meter replacement project for the remaining residential water meters originally installed in 2011/2012. Cary was among the first municipalities in the state to implement Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), also known as smart meters, which allow for remote collection and analysis of water usage data to better monitor water demand, identify water loss, and detect leaks more quickly. Staff will continue proactive management of the AMI system, which now includes approximately 75,000 meters and fixed network radio communications serving Cary, Morrisville, and Wake-RTP.

Town Manager Transition Portal

Over the past several weeks, our organization has experienced an unusually high volume of public records requests related to recent leadership changes. To provide full transparency to the larger citizenry, we’ve created a 311 Cases Portal to share requests and associated records as they are processed, and we will continue to update it on an ongoing basis. 

The portal allows anyone to:

• View public records requests that have been submitted
• See the records that have been released in response
• Track the status of requests as they are processed

Cary Housing Application Period Now Open

Applications for the 2026-2027 Cary Housing cycle opened this week. Each year, Cary invites organizations working in the key areas of new housing development, housing rehabilitation, and housing stability support services to apply for funding. Cary supports these key initiative areas to further the goals of the Imagine Cary Community Plan and Cary Housing Plan using a blend of local and federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Under the 2026-2027 Cary Housing Program application process, organizations are invited to submit applications for funding to carry out eligible housing activities during the fiscal year from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Applications are due February 13. Awards are made competitively, and draft recommendations will be posted for public comment in March. Awards are ultimately considered by Council in April and are contingent upon the approval of the FY 2027 budget.

Security Camera Replacement at Walnut Street Parking Deck

Cary IT will be replacing existing security cameras at the Walnut Street Parking Deck between Sunday, January 4, and Friday, January 9. The parking deck, including stairwells and elevators, will remain open to the public throughout the installation. However, parking capacity will be temporarily reduced during certain times, as outlined below.

Sunday, January 4, and Monday, January 5 (8 p.m. – 5 a.m.)

• Levels 1, 2, and 3 will be closed overnight.
• The Walker Street entrance will be closed overnight.
• Access via Walnut Street will remain open.
• Levels 4 through 7 will remain open.

Wednesday, January 7, through Friday, January 9

• All parking levels and entrances will remain open.
• One traffic lane will be partially blocked at a single level at a time.
• On-site personnel will be present to direct traffic.

We appreciate your patience during this work and apologize for any inconvenience.

Ten Ten Road at Penny Road Traffic Signal

Cary partnered with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) on a project to design and install a new traffic signal at the intersection of Ten Ten Road and Penny Road.

The project included installing the signal and fiber cable to integrate it into the Cary Signal System, bringing the total number of traffic signals maintained by Cary to 230. The signal will remain in flash condition until December 30 to alert drivers that it will soon be activated. On that date, it will be placed into full operation to help improve traffic flow at this busy intersection.

Winter Wonderland

On Saturday, December 13, the Community Engagement Team hosted its annual Winter Wonderland event, a festive celebration designed to bring holiday cheer to children from underserved communities. The Cary Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) group generously provided each child with a special gift, such as a bicycle, scooter, or rollerblades, along with essential winter items, including coats, hats, and gloves. Children also received toys, toiletries, and other necessities, while families enjoyed a warm, shared meal.

The event continues to grow each year, and this year marked the largest attendance to date, with 50 children and their families gathering at the Herb Young Community Center. Thanks to the generosity of our community partners, Winter Wonderland once again created meaningful holiday memories.

2025 NCAA Men’s College Cup

In partnership with the University of North Carolina, the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance, and NCFC Youth, Cary proudly hosted the 2025 NCAA Men’s College Cup this past weekend. This is the 42nd national championship held in Cary and the largest yet, with record-breaking attendance both nights. Many departments worked together to make this the best championship yet, welcoming more than 21,000 fans to WakeMed Soccer Park to cheer on NC State, Furman, Washington, and Saint Louis. Washington claimed the national title in a thrilling overtime finish.

Important Dates

There are no meetings scheduled for next week.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Several comments and complaints related to the manager’s resignation. I am not even going to begin posting the nasty quotes I received.
• A thank you for being “an outstanding Mayor”.
• Several concerns from former employees about corruption.
• A request to be considered for town manager.
• A request to help get a student’s career started.
• A request to help find a healthcare provider.
• Several complaints about the closing of the Crossroads Flex school.
• Thank you from Kat Campbell, WRAL weather, for the Christmas lights.
• A request to recognize International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, media interviews, and the Christmas holidays.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 28^th, 2025. 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.

Cary Tennis Park #1 Municipal Facility in US

Cary Tennis Park was named Municipal Facility of the Year by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) magazine. Here is the press release from the town:

CARY, N.C. – Cary Tennis Park has been named Municipal Facility of the Year by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) magazine, marking the second time the world’s leading tennis and racquet sports publication has honored the venue with this distinction. 

“Cary Tennis Park means a great deal to our community,” said Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “For more than 20 years, it has been a place where people of all ages can play, train to compete, see rising stars, or watch some of the best players in the world. That kind of place doesn’t happen by accident, and this national award is a testament to the dedication of our staff and volunteers who bring life to this facility each day.”

Developed at the direction of Cary’s Town Council and shaped by extensive public input, Cary Tennis Park opened in 2002 following a comprehensive master planning process aimed at creating a premier, centralized tennis facility for the region. Built in partnership with Green Hope High School, the project represented a $6 million investment and quickly became one of the largest and most innovative public tennis complexes in the Southeast. 

“We try to make the park a place people enjoy coming to, and that takes a lot of hands behind the scenes. This honor really belongs to them,” said John Collins, director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources. “They’re the ones setting up courts, greeting players, solving problems, and keeping the park welcoming. I’m grateful for their work and glad to see it recognized.” 

Today, the 24-acre park welcomes more than 300,000 visitors annually, hosts 20+ sanctioned tournaments, and serves as a year-round hub for athletes of all ages and skill levels, making about $3 million in total economic impact throughout the community each year. The complex features 25 lighted outdoor courts, seven covered courts, four permanent pickleball courts, scenic pedestrian bridges, and a wide range of tennis programs, lessons, leagues, and community events.  

This year’s RSI Champions of Tennis awards also honored longtime Cary resident and Western Wake Tennis Association Executive Director Laura Weygandt as the magazine’s Grassroots Champion of the Year. Weygandt was recognized for her impact on players of all abilities through more than a decade of volunteer work, her leadership in United States Tennis Association (USTA) Southern, and her advocacy for adaptive tennis through organizations like Wheel Serve NC. 

Cary Tennis Park continues to expand its reputation on the professional circuit as well. In 2024, the Cary Tennis Classic advanced from an ATP Challenger Tour 75 to a Challenger Tour 100 event, and Cary added a Women’s Professional WTT Tour 100 event. The tennis park also welcomed the debut of the Pro Pickleball Association’s (PPA) North Carolina Cup, part of its national PPA Tour, bringing top-ranked athletes and national broadcast attention to the venue. 

In 2019, the complex received the USTA Featured Facility Award and was previously honored in 2006 with both the USTA Outstanding Facility Award and RSI’s Municipal Facility of the Year. Cary Tennis Park is managed by Cary’s Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources department, which was named the USTA North Carolina Outstanding Parks & Recreation Department in 2023. 

For more information, visit carync.gov/tennis. 

Cary is blessed to have such an amazing facility. Even if you don’t like tennis, it provides millions of dollars in economic benefits each year. Congratulations to the PRCR (Parks Recreation Cultural Resources) staff and to the Cary Tennis Park staff headed up by Sean Ferreira.

Cary Clerk Receives Evergreen Excellence Award

Ginny Johnson, Cary’s Town Clerk, received Evergreen Excellence Award from the Central Pines Regional Council. The Evergreen Excellence Award recognizes a leader whose professionalism, integrity, and dedication have strengthened both their community and its relationships with neighboring municipalities. Johnson’s work ensures seamless community events, promotes inclusivity and transparent communication, and reinforces Cary’s reputation as a collaborative regional partner. Her consistent engagement with regional stakeholders has built trust, transparency, and strong intergovernmental cooperation. 

Staff – Council Briefings

In the past Cary Council members received staff updates from the manager. This has now been changed to having two council members, the mayor, and four senior staff members including the Deputy Manager. This will provide consistent and timely information to all council members. I attended all three of these meetings this week. This week I participated in three meetings of this nature where staff provided updates.

Council Meeting Prep

Monday I contacted each council member to hear of any concerns related to the upcoming agenda on Thursday. I walked through each agenda item with the two new council members. Later in the day I met with staff to go over the agenda items.

Leadership Cary

Tuesday I spoke to several dozen business leaders at the Cary Chamber as part of their Leadership Cary class. I talked about my role as mayor and answered several questions. Businesses ARE the backbone of our community, and I was encouraged by the number of business leaders attending.

Council Work Session – Policies and Procedures

The first work session with the two newest council members was held Tuesday evening. I spent the first few minutes talking about trust and understanding the council.

My comments were based on a presentation I have given around the country with past national president of the American Public Works Association. The talk, called “Are You Listening” helps public work managers, other staff, and elected officials understand how to trust each other and work better together. These talks are part of my role as a Government Relations consultant with a local engineering firm.

After my brief talk the council reviewed and commented on policies and procedures:

Policy 143: Rules of Procedure for the Cary Town Council

Policy 150: Rules of Order for Boards and Commissions

Policy 152: Public Records Policy

Policy 164: Ethics Policy for Town Council

Policy 181: Conflicts of Interest and Gift Policy

There weren’t a lot of discussion points among council members, so the work session lasted about forty-five minutes. This was followed by a three-hour closed session.

Council Work Session – South Hills Service District

Thursday evening the council held their second work session of the week. The topics were calendar review for early next year, a proposed South Hills Service District, the Biennial Survey, and a sales tax update.

A municipal service district is a defined area within a municipality or county where an additional property tax is charged to provide extras services. Extra services could include maintenance, revitalization, environmental improvements, and more. While most of the property owners within South Hills are in favor, a few are not. A proposal for a plan will be brought to council for a vote in January. Then there will be notifications and public hearings.

The biennial survey will begin on January 12 and run through February. Cary has been doing this survey every two years since 1998. While some of the questions will be new, many will remain the same so that comparisons can be made.

In the sales tax update, encouraging news was presented. August sales tax receipts are up 2.13%, September up 6.64%, and October up 10.05% over the last year. While this is early in the fiscal year, which began on July 1^st, it is much better than the 1% we budgeted.

Council Meeting

The last regularly scheduled council meeting of the year was held Thursday night. The agenda included speakers at Public Speaks Out, consent agenda, one public hearing, and one discussion item.

Public Speaks Out speakers mostly bashed the town and its council for not providing information about the manager’s suspension. Two of the speakers were candidates who were defeated in the last election. We are not allowed to talk about the town manager’s leave according to state statutes. Doing so would break the law and could put the town at legal risk. I applaud council colleagues who choose to stay silent and protect the town. It is like being in a fight with both hands behind your back and not being allowed to talk. The truth will come out one day and I, for one, will be glad.

The four items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously and included 2026 advisory board meeting schedule, the White Oak Church Road Annexation 25-A-04, the White Oak Church Road rezoning 25-REZ-07, and the Fairbanks Road Rezoning 25-REZ-09.

The public hearing was an annexation request by the owner of the property at 2220 Jones Franklin Road due to poor well water       quality. After the public hearing the council unanimously approved.

The discussion item was to authorize $40,000 to evaluate options for the future of the Citizen’s Convenience Center. The center must be moved since part of it is on the North Carolina Railroad right-of-way and they want that back within a year. This was also approved unanimously.

Karen Gray’s Retirement

Friday afternoon I had the joy of attending the retirement ceremony for Karen Gray who has worked in the town clerk’s office and town attorney’s office for decades. What a wonderful lady who helped so many of us over the years. And of course, her personality made her a friend to many people including myself. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her over the years and to be her friend. I wish her the best in her retirement.

Wreaths Across America

Saturday I was honored to participate in the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Hillcrest Cemetery. The event was attended by over a hundred people including Cary High School JROTC who I joined in a picture. As part of the ceremony, I provided remarks which included the following:

“Good afternoon! It is an honor to join you today for the Wreaths Across America ceremony, an annual tradition that brings us together in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. Each year, this moment calls us to pause and recognize the extraordinary men and women who answered the call to serve our nation with courage, integrity, and selfless devotion.

As we stand among these headstones, each adorned with a wreath placed with care, we are reminded that behind every name is a story. A life lived in service to something greater than oneself. These are stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and love of country. Today, we gather not only as members of the Cary community, but as Americans united in our promise to remember.

Wreaths Across America teaches us an important mission: to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach future generations the value of freedom. May today’s ceremony strengthens our commitment to that mission and inspire us to carry these values forward. Through our actions, our service, and our support for veterans, service members, and their families.

Thank you for being here today and for helping to ensure that these heroes are never forgotten. Your presence is a powerful reminder that remembrance endures, and gratitude lives on in this community.”

After my remarks I thanked the veterans attending and placed a wreath on one of the hundreds of veterans in the cemetery.

Cary Jaycees Parade

Saturday afternoon I had the joy of being part of the Cary Christmas parade. I was in vintage 1960’s Olds with my wife, retired Cary Planner Debra Grannon and her husband Bob. The parade lasted about an hour and forty-five minutes. Based on my estimation, I believe the attendance has doubled in the last ten years and increased significantly in the last five. While we are no longer allowed to throw out candy, for safety reasons, we did have volunteers from Cary Teen Council passing it out. As is my tradition, I wore a black top hat, waved, and said Merry Christmas to all I saw. I was warmly greeted by those in attendance even with a “We love you mayor!”.

Thanks to the Jaycees, the Cary Fire and Police departments for making this a safe and wonderful event.

Manager’s Weekly Report

Council,

This week began with an opportunity to welcome Councilmembers Bella Huang and Brittany Richards to our Directors’ Meeting, where we shared insights about our roles and responsibilities. This was a great introduction and truly valuable for building strong working relationships that will serve us well going forward. Your leadership was evident throughout the week—from special events to board meetings, work sessions, and our regular meetings and I’m grateful for the time and thoughtful discussion you brought to each. As we head into the weekend, I’m excited about the parade and looking forward to seeing you there tomorrow. 

Assistant Town Manager

Dana Widmar

November 13 Quarterly Meeting Question About Dragonflies

This question came up at our Quarterly Meeting, regarding the new wetlands downtown, and it’s true: one mature dragonfly can eat up to 100 mosquitoes a day, making them a helpful part of Cary’s balanced outdoor ecosystems. Cary’s landscape and wetland plantings are selected with multiple benefits in mind. Along with being drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and visually appealing, many plants are chosen because they provide habitat for beneficial species, like dragonflies.
Plants such as pickerelweed, swamp milkweed, water lilies, and black-eyed Susans help create the right environment for dragonflies to thrive. In some parks and wetland areas, staff have intentionally planted around ponds with this benefit in mind, while also tracking dragonfly species to better understand the success of these habitats.
These same plants also support pollinators. Staff regularly shares this “layered” approach to plant selection through classes, social media, and event materials, highlighting how small, thoughtful decisions contribute to keeping Cary’s parks and public spaces healthy, enjoyable, and well cared for.

Intersection Upgrades

Two intersections in western Cary and one downtown were recently converted from two-way stops to all-way stops: Preston Village Way at Walcott Way, Park York Lane at Fryar Creek Drive, and South West Street at West Park Street. Each conversion followed a citizen request and staff assessment confirming that an all-way stop would improve mobility for both pedestrians and drivers. The new stop signs are equipped with LEDs that flash continuously to draw attention to the change and will be replaced with static signs in approximately three months.

Heart of the Holidays

Heart of the Holidays kicked off in Downtown Cary Park with Photos with Santa, drawing more than 1,400 visitors for games and holiday treats served by Teen Council. For the first time, Santa also made a special visit to the Neighborhood Park on Carpenter Fire Station Road. Throughout downtown, families enjoyed seasonal activities along South Academy Street, including curling, snowball fights, and a holiday market. The celebration featured 105 Gifting Trees, the 15th Annual Gingerbread House Competition, and Victorian Christmas at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, which welcomed 450 guests for carolers, crafts, and historic décor. The evening concluded with more than 5,000 people gathering alongside Mayor Weinbrecht and Council to light the Downtown Cary Park Christmas tree.

Holiday “Light Seeing” with the GoCary Downtown Loop

Two nights remain for GoCary’s special Downtown Loop “light-seeing” service; Tuesday, December 16, and Tuesday, December 23. This free, no-reservation service invites the community to enjoy twinkling lights, festive decorations, and other Heart of the Holidays activities. The Downtown Loop will follow its regular route, beginning at the Town Hall parking deck at 6 p.m. and running continuously until 8 p.m., with each loop taking about 25 minutes. Parking is available at Town Hall, and riders may board at the bus stop outside the parking deck or at any of the 13 Downtown Loop stops.

Cary Named Global Industry Champion in SAS Hackathon

Cary was selected as the Global Industry Champion in the Internet of Things (IoT) category at the 2025 SAS Hackathon for a project that analyzed traffic patterns, population and employment density, existing Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and zoning data to identify optimal locations for future EV charging stations. The data-driven model, developed by team members Cayla Denning, Naeem Toomer, and Sara Caliendo, will help inform smarter planning, advance sustainability goals, and enhance mobility for residents and visitors. Learn more about the award-winning project here.

Community Cyber Safety Outreach at Laurel Park Elementary

The Information Technology (IT) Security team was invited by the Laurel Park Elementary PTA and principal to participate in the school’s annual science fair. IT Security Manager Erik Chapman delivered a 30-minute cyber safety presentation for approximately 40 parents, fifth-grade students, and staff. The presentation prompted a thoughtful discussion among the group. Principal Lovett shared appreciation for the partnership and invited the team to return for future sessions.

Important Dates

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, December 17
6:00 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, December 17
6:15 p.m.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Statement and Comments on Town Manager and News Stories

At the time of writing this I am still unable to talk about the town manager’s leave. The statement I issued at the work session on December 9^th still holds:

“Tonight marks our first televised and streamed council work session. Moving forward, all work sessions, quarterly meetings, and retreats will be accessible for public viewing. I introduced this proposal at our November meeting, and it was unanimously approved by the council.

Transparency and accountability are extremely important to me, which is why making all of our meetings publicly available is essential. This step is especially critical in light of recent events.

A public records request submitted several weeks ago produced receipts, emails, and other documents that revealed certain key information had not been shared with me or the full council, and that decisions were made without council approval.

While I would like to provide more details about the manager’s leave, state law currently prevents me from doing so. However, as soon as we are legally permitted to share additional information, we will.”

It is my hope that we will be able to provide information soon.

There was a news story this past week about the town manager’s spending at an ICMA (International City/County Management Association) conference in Austin, Texas in 2023. In the story it talks about my presence there as if I was representing the town. Not true. Why did they add this to the story? Who knows. I am guessing they are angry because I won’t break the law and provide more information about the town manager’s leave. What was their intention? Not sure. But it made people question my integrity. And now the truth about me behind the misleading news story about my presence at this conference …

I work part time (average about five hours a week) as a Government Relations consultant with an engineering firm based in the area. I am not allowed to work on any issues related to Cary. Part of my job is to go around the country and give talks with past national President of the APWA (American Public Works Association) and sometimes help with the company’s booth. The purpose of those booths is to gather sales leads. In the evening the marketing people host those leads at dinner. At this conference there were not enough leads to fill the table that was reserved. They asked if I would contact the Cary people to see if they would attend. And that was what I did. Shame on the media outlet for trying to imply there was more going on.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Several complaints about lack of information on Manager’s leave.
• A complaint about water service being cut off.
• A complaint about a neighbor’s “light pollution”.
• A video that included Cary’s Mayton Inn.
• Several thank you messages about my commitment, dedication, and courage.
• A complaint about a site plan approval.
• A complaint about leaving the soccer facility after a College Cup match.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Wake County Mayors Holiday event, Hanukkah Menorah Lighting, Sister Cities Holiday Party, and a Holiday walking tour event.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 21^st, 2025. 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.

Tea for the Soul

Tuesday, I participated in a program called “Tea for the Soul” at WakeMed Raleigh with elected officials from Wake Forest, and Raleigh. We were also joined by the Executive Director of the Regional Transportation Authority. The “Tea for the Soul” program is run by the spiritual care chaplain. It involves visiting ICU healthcare workers and offering hot tea, sweets, snacks, and a moment to relax. I was honored just to meet these frontline workers that are the difference between life and death every day. We visited three ICU sections at WakeMed Raleigh and had our picture made at the last one. WakeMed does over 400 of these at all their facilities every year. I look forward to participating in another one soon. Words can’t express what all these frontline workers mean to our community.

Annual CAP Dinner

Tuesday night I joined council members Smith, Craig, and Bansal for the CAP (Citizens Assisting Police) Appreciation Dinner. This is put on every year by the police department for the more than 120 CAP members. I provided remarks along with the police chief and other officers. I also invited Council member Jack Smith to make a few remarks since this was his last official act as a 36-year council member. I, along with many others, will miss Jack.

First Responders Breakfast

Wednesday morning, I joined council members Craig and Bansal at the Cary Chamber’s First Responders Breakfast. The keynote speaker was NC Highway Patrol Colonel Freddy Johnson. There were hundreds of firefighters, police officers, EMS, and other first responders in attendance.

Cary is blessed with exceptional fire and police departments, and our gratitude for these everyday heroes runs deep. Thank you to every first responder who bravely moves toward danger so the rest of us can stay safe.

Council Sworn In

A reception was held Thursday evening in the lobby outside the council chambers for newly elected council members Bella Huang and Brittany Richards, and re-elected council member Carissa Kohn-Johnson. There were about a hundred people in attendance.

Before the regularly scheduled council meeting, we gathered in the council chambers for pictures.

The meeting included the swearing-in of the council members and their remarks. The council then elected Lori Bush as the Mayor Pro-Tem. I announced my council liaison appointments and other committees before adjourning. The entire meeting lasted about 25 minutes.

Rotary Peace Pole Dedication

Friday, I joined council members Kohn-Johnson, Craig, Richards, and Huang in the dedication of Cary’s first Peace Pole sponsored by the Cary Rotary.

Peace Poles carry the message of peace, “May Peace Prevail on Earth”, in several languages from around the world. Peace Poles are recognized as the most prominent international symbol and monument dedicated to peace on earth. Peace Poles have been planted on every continent in over 200,000 communities by friends and supporters working in unison to uplift the consciousness of humankind.

The dedication event included comments by Rotarians, me, NC Senator Adcock, and NC Representative Cervania. Afterwards I was given the honor of unveiling the pole. This was followed by various groups taking their picture with the pole including council members.

I do hope this Peace Pole acts as beacons of hope, inspiring people to come together and work towards a more peaceful world rejecting divisiveness. 

Cary Tree Lighting

Saturday night the entire council joined me in a brief ceremony to officially light the town Christmas Tree in Downtown Cary Park. Lauren Johnson of WTVD was the emcee, introduced me, and I made a few remarks before introducing the council. To light the tree, I invited my 3-year-old grandson, Brady, to help. It was a special time for me, and I hope everyone had a great time. Enjoy the holidays!

Manager’s Weekly Report

Council,

I had the pleasure of celebrating our first responders at the Cary Chamber breakfast on Wednesday, always a meaningful reminder of the courage and care behind their service. What a special night with Council last night, and congratulations again to Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards.  Holiday activities in downtown Cary are also picking up, with the Tree Lighting at Downtown Cary Park this Saturday. To make room for the festivities and the expected crowds, Academy Street will be closed from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. It’s shaping up to be a bright and busy weekend in Cary, and I hope you get a chance to enjoy a little of it. 

Russ

Deputy Town Manager

December 9 Work Session – Policies

The following policies may be discussed at the Council Work Session on Tuesday, December 9. Links to the policies are provided below for your review and familiarization with the content in advance.

• Policy 143: Rules of Procedure for the Cary Town Council
• Policy 150: Boards and Commissions General Rules of Order
• Policy 164: Ethics Policy for Town Council
• Policy 181: Conflicts of Interest and Gift Policy for Federal Procurement

Q1 Report

The Quarterly Report for July through September is available online. This quarter’s highlights include FY 2026 first-quarter financial results; the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, which drew 55,000 visitors downtown; a $400,000 donation from the Shane Pegram Family Foundation to renovate the Davis Drive Park playground; Cary’s new FEMA flood rating, which may lower flood insurance costs for some residents; and Cary’s first Scam Jam and Senior Home Fair.

ICCP ENGAGE and MOVE Chapter Updates

After many months of meaningful conversation, idea sharing, and community engagement, the draft Cary Bike Plan is now available for review.

Cary is also seeking community feedback on proposed updates to the Imagine Cary Community Plan (ICCP). These updates focus on the ENGAGE and MOVE chapters and reflect recent planning efforts and Council direction.

The ENGAGE chapter update incorporates the new Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources (PRCR) System Plan, which was approved by Council in December 2024. The plan will move forward for formal adoption as part of this comprehensive plan amendment process.

The MOVE chapter update integrates recommendations from the draft Cary Bike Plan and incorporates Vision Zero principles following Council’s April 2025 resolution adopting a Vision Zero strategy.

Community feedback is currently being collected on the proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment and the Cary Bike Plan. Staff anticipates bringing the amendments to Council for consideration in early 2026.

Fire Gets Recommended for Reaccreditation

The Fire Department wrapped up a peer team visit on November 20 as part of its application for reaccreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. Four team members from fire departments across the country toured facilities and spoke to personnel from Fire and several other departments and partner agencies to verify and validate Fire’s documents and processes supporting its pursuit of continuous improvement. The team recommended reaccreditation, and if the commission approves it at its hearings in the spring, it will be the Cary Fire Department’s sixth accreditation since 1999.

Higgins Greenway Mid-Block Crossing Improvements

Higgins Greenway Phase III crosses Griffis Street at a mid-block location. Narron Contracting and Public Works staff worked together to install and program new signage and push-button-activated, solar-powered lights that alert drivers when pedestrians are using the crosswalk. This upgrade is designed to enhance and improve the crossing for both greenway users and drivers.

Western Parkway Bridge Repair Update

As of November 19, the Weston Parkway bridges over the Black Creek Greenway have reopened to two-way, two-lane traffic. Improvements were performed to protect the structural components from water infiltration and extend the service life of the concrete. Restoration work, including final pavement markings, will continue over the next several weeks, weather permitting.

Paramount Pump Station Construction Update

Wastewater flows were transferred from the old Paramount Pump Station to the new station this week, marking the completion of 16 months of construction. Located along Paramount Parkway, the new facility increases pumping capacity to 1 million gallons per day, supporting planned development including the Wake Tech RTP campus, TownePlace Suites Marriott, and Perimeter Park Tracts 4 and 6. The original station, acquired from Morrisville during the 2006 utility merger, sat within the 100-year floodplain. The new station provides both capacity upgrades and improved resiliency by being located outside the 500-year floodplain. Replacing aging infrastructure strengthens system reliability, reduces the risk of wastewater spills, and supports future growth. After several weeks of smooth operation, the old pump station will be demolished and the site restored to a natural state.

Annual Water Main Replacement Project Begins Construction

The Annual Water Main Replacement Project is beginning downtown. J.F. Wilkerson Construction Co. was awarded the contract at the August 28 Council meeting and will begin mobilizing on December 8. Residents in affected areas have been notified. The project will replace approximately 5,000 feet of existing water main, and the aging sewer infrastructure along Shirley Drive will be upgraded before the street is resurfaced. Work on Shirley Drive will not begin before January 12.

This project complements recent improvements on Griffis Street, Harrison Avenue, and Kildaire Farm Road by upsizing and completing a loop of water main on Shirley Drive. Increasing the pipe size from 8 to 12 inches will strengthen system resiliency and support the growing demands of nearby redevelopment. Additional work includes new water main installations on Tanglewood Drive, Logan Circle, and Carnoustie Circle, along with new connections on Sarazen Meadow Way and Crabtree Crossing Parkway. The full project is expected to be completed within 12 months.

Cary Hosts Connected Vehicle Summit

In November, Cary partnered with Applied Information and Temple, Inc. to host a Connected Vehicle Summit at Downtown Cary Park. The event brought together about 40 participants from industry, municipal, and state transportation agencies to learn about Cary’s Connected Vehicle (CV) program and discuss the future of CV technology nationwide.

Cary’s CV program is among the most advanced in the country, integrating features that support drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, school zones, emergency response, transit, and railroad crossings. Presentations highlighted how this technology enhances mobility efficiency for our citizens and previewed the next generation of CV advancements.

The day concluded with demonstration rides around downtown, giving attendees a firsthand look at the program in action. The rides showcased the full range of CV features as well as the growing potential of autonomous vehicle technology.

Tree Lighting Ceremony Walkthrough

Staff braved a heavy mist at Downtown Cary Park this morning for a run-through of tomorrow’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, ensuring a smooth production for visitors to the event and those watching online. As the new Cary Town Council flips the switch at 6 p.m., viewers can tune in to Cary TV on Spectrum cable channel 11 or online at carync.tv, Facebook, and YouTube. A view of the festivities will also be featured on the World Christmas Webcam for those watching around the globe.

Cary Citizen Celebrates 101^st Birthday

Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett attended the 101st birthday celebration of Cary resident Ruth “Jeanne” Marmarose on Thursday at Brookdale Assisted Living Center. During the event, Michelle presented Ms. Marmarose with a letter of recognition from Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. Jeanne has led an extraordinary life marked by service, love, and family. A proud member of the Nurse Corps during World War II, she served her country with compassion and courage. She later married her college sweetheart, Frank Marmarose, a Navy dentist, and together they built a beautiful family. Cary is proud to honor Jeanne’s remarkable journey and the legacy she continues to inspire in our community.

Growing the Future of Regenerative Agriculture in NC

As Good Hope Farm marks its tenth year as a regenerative agriculture education site, it welcomed students from UNC’s new Environment, Energy & Ecology program for their senior capstone research this semester. Using the site as a living classroom, the students explored the region’s agricultural history and examined how regenerative practices can support local food systems and environmental sustainability. Their hands-on work included tours, volunteer activities, interviews, and community engagement, culminating in the presentation of their final project this week to project sponsor and Environmental Outreach Program Coordinator Sarah Justice.

The students’ research highlighted Indigenous farming practices and the contributions of African American agricultural history to modern techniques.

10^th Annual NC Chinese Lantern Festival

The 10th Annual North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival returned to Koka Booth Amphitheatre this month. The festival is open through January, featuring all-new lantern displays, cultural performances, menu items, and merchandise. At the media preview on November 14, Mayor Weinbrecht opened the festival with the ceremonial “flipping of the switch,” joined by Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith, as well as NC Representative Ya Liu and members of Cary’s citizen boards and commissions. Opening weekend drew 11,764 visitors, an increase from 9,408 last year, marking a strong start to the season.

ACC Soccer Championships

Over the past two weeks, WakeMed Soccer Park hosted six soccer matches as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships. Fans from across the country came to experience Cary and one of the nation’s top soccer landmarks. With Stanford claiming the women’s title and Southern Methodist University (SMU) capturing the men’s championship, the event was a fantastic lead-in to the NCAA Men’s College Cup coming to Cary this December.

Old North State Storytelling Festival

The North Carolina Storytellers Guild returned to The Cary Theater November 7 – 8 for its annual Storytelling Festival. The event featured three sold-out performances totaling 465 patrons, along with a special sensory-friendly show. While attendees traveled from across the state, 64% of those in the audience were Cary residents. Audiences enjoyed homespun stories that were both humorous and heartfelt, making it a memorable event for all who attended.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, December 8
5:15 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, December 8
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Tuesday, December 9
5:30 p.m.

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, December 9
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, December 10
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Thursday, December 11
5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, December 11
6:30 p.m.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint EBikes on greenways.
• Several requests for interviews.
• A complaint about Wake County Public Schools.
• Thanks for my leadership during the ICE raids.
• A complaint about the Weston rezoning proposal.
• Thanks for my leadership in being transparent.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Leadership Cary event, two council work sessions, the only regularly scheduled council meeting of December, a staff member’s retirement party, the Cary Police Winter Wonderland event, Wreaths Across America, and the Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 14^th, 2025. 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.