Vote YES for Cary Bonds!
[DISCLAIMER – the following are my thoughts and opinions on the bond and do not represent the council or the town. The town, by law, cannot advocate or use its resources for or against any bond.]
Cary has been viewed as one of the best communities in the nation for many years. Past decisions were made with a goal to be the best of the best which was a values choice and the choice to continue to be the best of the best (what we call “top of the arc”) is a Cary citizen values choice that will be decided by the bond vote in November.
The November bond is a $590 million bond with most of the cost attributed to new community/senior center projects. Using bond money for these centers makes financial sense, as large capital projects like these are best financed through bonds. That way future residents will also pay their fair share of the cost. Currently Cary has three community centers and one senior center. These centers are decades old, require a LOT of maintenance, and don’t come close to meeting citizens’ demands. And that demand is increasing with Cary being the oldest populated municipality out of the top fourteen populated municipalities in North Carolina.
What is a bond?
The bond on the November ballot is a General Obligation (GO) bond. Citizens vote on these types of bonds and if approved have the lowest interest rate. Because Cary has the highest rating from all the major bond rating agencies, we will get the lowest interest rate on all bonds that will be used to fund these projects. GO bonds are a reliable, cost-effective, and fair way to finance important public projects, while ensuring that the costs are spread out, like a mortgage, and that citizens have a voice in the process.
Are bond votes a vote on projects?
Technically no. Bond votes are votes on project funding. However, if this bond fails then it is highly unlikely that many of these projects will be considered again for several years, and some may be scrapped forever.
What projects are in the bond and what are their costs?
- Sports and Recreation Community Center: $300 million
- Mills Park Community Center: $150 million
- Cary Tennis Park and Pickleball Expansion: $60 million
- Walnut Creek Greenway: $30 million
- Asia Garden Master Plan: $10 million
- Nature Park Master Plan: $10 million
- New Housing Projects and Programs: $30 million
The state requires us to use highly conservative estimates in my opinion. They make us post 5.34% interest for the park’s bonds and 5.59% interest for the affordable housing bond. I believe Cary will do much better than those interest rates given that our history has been that we have beaten those rates each time. If not, we can wait until the interest rates go down.
The timing of the proposed tax rate change is also pessimistic: 2026, 2028, and 2030. The timeline used in our bond materials is the earliest date that these bonds will be sold and would then impact the tax rate. Keep in mind that Cary doesn’t have the manpower and resources to take on all these projects at one time. Delays are common when planning large projects, and I believe that accomplishing all these projects in the timeframe listed is a stretch.
Sports and Recreation Community Center ($300 million)
The Sports and Recreation Community Center will have three components: Community Center, Senior Center, and Competitive Space. The competitive portion of this project is estimated to generate an annual economic impact to our area of $37 million which will more than double the annual economic impact of all current Cary sports venues (WakeMed Soccer, USA Baseball, and the Cary Tennis Park). In addition, the county has committed $75 million to the cost of this project. If the “competitive space” were in existence today it is estimated that it would be booked out most of the year with other times used for transitioning between sports.
The community center and senior center will be large enough to accommodate people that live nearby as well as all Cary residents. The senior component will have areas dedicated to senior activities. This is desperately needed, especially in this part of Cary.
The area outside the Community Center will be a park-like setting. People will be able to enjoy and experience the entire grounds without ever going inside the center. In addition, the proposed Walnut Creek greenway will connect from it to Fenton and Downtown, providing a way to get to this space without driving. In the future, the developers of South Hills vision is to connect to a redeveloped Crossroads via a pedestrian bridge.
Mills Park Community Center ($150 million)
The Mills Park Community Center will include community center and a senior center. Many of our Cary residents live in western Cary and are currently underserved by public spaces. This will allow programming to help meet the needs of an aging population and the rest of the citizenry. Is this the crown jewels of community centers? No. As plans were originally developed with citizen input, I saw a LOT of features that I would love to see in the center but are just cost prohibitive. Nevertheless, this will be one of the nicest in the region if not the state.
Cary Tennis Park and Pickleball Expansion ($60 million)
The Cary Tennis Park benefits our citizens by providing recreational opportunities, but it’s also a venue for top college and professional tournaments. As I write this there is a national tennis tournament with colleges from all over the country in our town. These tennis tournaments generate millions of dollars of economic impact each year. Expanding our facilities will meet requirements that will allow us to draw bigger tennis tournaments and have an even bigger economic impact.
In addition, the expansion will create 30 pickleball courts on land that Cary owns as part of the Tennis facility. This will not only allow for recreational play in a rapidly growing sport but also allow us to hold future pickleball tournaments.
The expansion will also allow Cary to be home to the North Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame.
Whether or not you play tennis or pickleball it makes good sense to support this expansion just for the economic benefits, which will help keep our taxes low.
Walnut Creek Greenway ($30 million)
The Walnut Creek Greenway project will allow citizens to go from downtown to Fenton, WakeMed Soccer Park (via Fenton) and eventually to the redeveloped South Hills on a greenway. Connecting destination centers makes sense especially given our citizens’ interest in our downtown area. Cary is known for having an excellent and well-used greenway system of over 90 miles, and this investment will continue the connectivity and IMHO be our crown jewel.
Asia Garden Master Plan ($10 million)
The Asian Garden master plan is about adding a botanical garden and beautiful quiet space in Cary on land owned and shared with Wake County. This project brings several valuable benefits of green space and beauty, where people can relax, walk and enjoy a calming environment while also celebrating our rich cultural diversity. The idea is to master plan the area and provide a space for a 1 to 2 acre set of gardens. There are few, if any, gardens like this in the Triangle area, and over time, it will provide educational opportunities and space for events to create a sense of community and likely become a destination that creates an economic impact.
Nature Park Master Plan ($10 million)
Cary purchased 200 acres to preserve its natural beauty for future generations. The current plan is to save historic structures on the site, create parking and restrooms, and create a path around the entire property. I think this nature preserve will be a fantastic amenity that keeps us the best of the best and a huge benefit to our community, families, grandkids and future generations.
New Housing Projects and Programs – Affordable Housing Bond ($30 million)
By law, Housing Bonds are separate questions on the ballot. The Affordable Housing bond is a way to work to implement our already approved Cary Housing Plan. (https://housing.carync.gov/cary-housing-plan/) If approved, the Housing bond will support housing initiatives in ALL four primary strategic areas contained in our plan, such as building housing and supporting residents with low and moderate incomes across Cary. Affordable Housing is a nationwide challenge, and Cary is not immune to this trend. Our staff is the best of the best, and although we have made investments, our community has asked us to do more. Our recently launched Stable Homes Cary Program in partnership with Dorcas Ministries- is working to support people staying in their homes and helping with relocation support when moving may be necessary. The funds provided in this bond would provide funds to create or preserve more affordable housing options, including purchasing property, providing housing development gap financing, homeownership programing and working to preserve affordable housing and helping residents age in place. Our goal is to ensure that people of all income levels can live in our community, and I believe that this bond referendum is a critical investment in Cary’s futureand a significant part of our community’s efforts to address affordability and the growing need for affordable housing.
Searstone Highview Opening
Tuesday I attended the grand opening of the new Highview residential building at Searstone. I was one of four speakers providing congratulatory remarks. The opening celebration was held in the new auditorium that seats about 350 people. I joined several dignitaries outside for the ribbon cutting. Afterwards, I toured the two model units. The Highview was very impressive and is a place to consider when thinking about retirement communities.
SAS Championship Pro-Am
Wednesday and Thursday I joined council member Jack Smith, town manager Sean Stegal, and former Cary Chamber President Howard Johnson for the SAS Championship Golf Tournament Pro-Am event. The first day we had the pleasure of playing with professional Ricardo Gonzales of Argentina. The second day we had the pleasure of playing with Paul Broadhurst of England. Both were an absolute delight, and we had a blast.
Taping for Golf Channel
Thursday afternoon I did a taping for the Golf Channel as part of the SAS Championship tournament broadcast. It was basically the same script as I have done in previous years. I was able to do this one in just one take.
Folds of Honor at SAS Championship
Friday morning, just before the beginning of the SAS Championship, I participated in the Folds of Honor ceremony by providing a few remarks of thanks to our veterans and our first responders. This organization provides life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen, disabled military, and families of first responders. To find out more go to foldsofhonor.org.
Diwali Opening
Saturday morning at Koka Booth Amphitheater I read a proclamation celebrating Diwali. I was joined on stage by council members Craig and Bansal. Other dignitaries speaking included Congresswomen Ross and Congressman Nickel. There were also several dignitaries in attendance including NC Senator Chaudhuri, Morrisville Mayor Cawley, and several Morrisville council members. After opening remarks, we all took turns lighting the ceremonial Diwali lamp. The lamp, or diyas, is lit during Diwali and symbolizes victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali Dance
Saturday night I joined council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, Craig, Bansal, and twelve Cary staff members in a celebrity Diwali dance. Our group has been practicing weekly since July. It was a great performance, and I was proud to be part of such a great group of dancers. I am sure you can find the performance on social media somewhere. We were followed by groups from Apex and Morrisville.
To finish the celebrity portion of the dance I joined the mayors of Apex in Morrisville in a quick 30 second dance which we learned the day before.
Our Diwali celebration, sponsored by Hum Sub and the Town of Cary, is a fun time for all. If you missed this year’s event, you need to check it out next year. BTW, the actual Diwali date is November 1st.
SAS Championship Final Round
Sunday I attended the final round of the SAS Championship golf tournament held at Prestonwood County Club in Cary. This event puts Cary on the international stage and is a great economic boost. Congratulations to this year’s 2024 winner Jerry Kelly who won with a score of -13.
Update from Asheville Mayor
I received a copy of an update Asheville mayor Manheimer sent to her citizens. It shows the slow progress and how long the recovery will be:
“Water is known to signify life, connectivity, power, and rebirth. With every household that can turn on the tap and get water, Asheville comes back to life. We’re regaining our strength and getting reconnected, and I have no doubt that as we recover together, our city be better than before.
I couldn’t be prouder of the work our city crews, contractors, and federal partners have done to get the bypass connected in record time. We are pressurizing the system and water is beginning to flow in some places. Homes at lower elevations and closest to the North Folk Reservoir may already be getting water. As the pressure builds in the system to push water out further and to higher elevations, more and more residents will start to have water flow. THIS WATER IS NOT YET SAFE FOR DRINKING FROM THE TAP. We are still some time away from a fully-functioning system and as the water moves through the lines, the crews are watching for leaks that could have emerged because of pipes shifting and breaking underground. If you see a leak, report it to 828-251-1122. We remain under a mandatory boil water advisory until further notice for residents who receive water from the North Fork Reservoir. Please share the following critical safety measures concerning the water with everyone you know:
𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁
- Sediment Alert: Newly available water may contain more sediment than usual. Turn off ice makers and cut off water to toilets when not in use.
- Boil Water Notice: If you receive water from the City of Asheville, you MUST boil it vigorously for at least one minute before using it for cooking, brushing teeth, or drinking. It’s safe for showers but avoid getting water in your mouth. Sponge baths are recommended for babies and small children.
- Hot Water Heater Tips:
- If the water looks dirty, close the valve to your hot water heater or whole house filter to prevent sediment build-up.
- Remember to open the inlet valve once the water is clear. It is also best to turn the power off to the hot water heater to ensure no damage occurs if you don’t have water but have power. You can turn it back on once clean water is restored.
- Other Household Considerations: If visible sediments appear, turn off ice makers and toilets, flush discolored water through a bathtub faucet. Then return toilets and ice makers to service.
- Black Mountain Residents: If you’re receiving water, DO NOT drink it or give it to pets—even if boiled. Only use it for flushing toilets.
Along with the water system, we’ve also been working non-stop with federal and state agencies to get the needed resources flowing from FEMA Serious Needs Assistance to SBA solutions for small businesses to addressing public housing residents and veterans’ needs with HUD. There is still much work to be done, but each day, let’s take a moment to celebrate progress and encourage each other. Thank you for all that you’re doing to keep Asheville moving forward. We’re one step closer!
Click here for City of Asheville water treatment plants approximate map of service areas.“
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
As you can see from this picture, Cary was well represented at this week’s SAS Pro-Am. The Pro-Am is a golf tournament that pairs tournament sponsors with the professionals competing in the official SAS Championship, which kicks off today at Prestonwood Country Club.
The SAS Championship is one of a handful of signature events that brings positive national and international attention to Cary while providing an amazing experience for our citizen spectators.
Once again, there are several interesting updates in this week’s report. Thank you for reading, and I hope you have a great weekend.
Sean
The Highview Grand Opening
On Tuesday, Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Business Services Manager Bryan Hayes attended the grand opening of Searstone’s highly anticipated expansion, The Highview. This new addition represents Searstone’s latest vision for senior living in Cary. During the event, they toured the building to explore its amenities and offerings, as well as meet staff members and dignitaries. We are excited about the future of the Searstone Retirement Community and look forward to having them in Cary for many years to come.
SAS Women’s Day
As part of Cary’s partnership with the SAS Championship, 30 Cary staff members from various departments, along with Councilmembers Lori Bush, Sarika Bansal, and Michelle Craig, joined women from across the Triangle for an inspiring event focused on well-being and growth for women in the workplace. Councilmember Bush, representing the Town of Cary, shared remarks during the event, contributing to the meaningful discussions. This gathering provided a unique opportunity for participants to reflect on their professional development and gain valuable resources to mentor and support other women within Cary.
Turkish Consul General Visits
On Oct. 7, Councilmember Jack Smith, along with Cary Sister Cities and leaders from the American Turkish Association of N.C., welcomed Mr. Resul Sahinol, the Turkish Consul General in Miami, for a luncheon at Page-Walker. During the event, Mr. Sahinol learned about the diverse cultural events and exchanges Cary hosts with its community partners and expressed his support for future collaborative endeavors.
Cary High School Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
The Cary High School Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place on Oct. 4. The event honored six former student athletes who were inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame: Jo Ann Hines Duncan, Wanda Mauney, Lakeisha “Mimi” Warner, Bakri Abushouk, Donte Tatum, and Dennis Landin. Council members Michelle Craig and Jack Smith were in attendance and participated in the proclamation presentations.
Newcomers Breakfast at Senior Center
Last Friday, Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Sarika Bansal attended the “Newcomer’s Breakfast” at the Cary Senior Center. This monthly event, hosted by volunteers, kicks off with an overview of helpful information, including the PRCR program guide and GoCary, along with other resources and happenings at the senior center. The breakfast was well attended by newcomers eager to connect with the Cary community and form new friendships at the senior center.
National Walk and Roll to School Day
On Oct. 9, National Walk and Roll to School Day took place, and Councilmember Michelle Craig participated with Briarcliff Elementary. During the event, students learned about the health and environmental benefits of walking and rolling to school. It also raised awareness of safe routes for students to get to school.
Imagine Cary Community Plan 2024 Update
The final draft update of the Imagine Cary Community Plan is available for public review, with a public hearing scheduled for Oct.22. The update focuses on four items, a new preface for the plan; the incorporation of the 2021 Cary Housing Plan into the LIVE chapter; expanding efforts related to the environment, which was previously included in the SERVE chapter, into a new chapter called ENRICH; and an update to the SERVE chapter focused on our evolving community services. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmember Lori Bush filmed a Cary Matters segment to highlight the update, which was posted to social media and on the website. Communication about the final draft and public hearing will be sent to all boards and commissions and published in the BUD Newsletter and This Week in Cary. The Imagine Cary Community Plan, adopted in 2017, is Cary’s comprehensive plan created by the community. For more information and to review the draft update, please visit www.carync.gov/imaginecaryupdate.
Temporary Closure of Green Level West Road
Starting Monday, Oct. 14, contractors working on behalf of a private development will temporarily close a section of Green Level West Road, west of Wimberly Road, as part of the Green Level Trail Site Development. The closure is expected to remain in effect until Monday, Nov. 11, weather permitting.
Thru traffic will not be allowed, but local traffic along Green Level West Road and Wimberly Road will be maintained. Drivers are encouraged to follow the posted detour. Access to Batchelor Road from Green Level West Road will remain open during the closure, located west of the work area.
Final Bands, Bites, and Boats of the Season
Last Friday, hundreds gathered at Bond Park for the season’s final Bands, Bites, and Boats event. Guests enjoyed food from Buff-O-Lina and Atlas Nomads, along with brews from Fortnight, while listening to a performance by Garland Mason. The concert series, which typically draws 500-800 attendees, runs monthly from April through October. The 2025 lineup will be announced early next year.
Fall Litter Sweep Volunteers
Thanks to the hard work of our Fall Litter Sweep volunteers, Cary is cleaner and greener. Last Saturday, 44 dedicated residents collected around 520 pounds of litter, helping to protect our local streams and rivers. Since 2010, the Spruce Program’s annual event has brought citizens together each fall to clean up streets, parks, and trails.
As part of Cary’s ongoing efforts to engage the community in environmental stewardship, individuals and groups can schedule their own litter sweep year-round using the online Spruce Program tool at carync.gov/spruce.
Specialized Recreation Monster Mash
The annual Specialized Recreation Monster Mash Dance was a huge hit! Participants showed off their most creative costumes and danced the night away with friends and caregivers. From fun music to festive treats, the room was full of laughter and joy as everyone celebrated Halloween together.
Major Cross Country Events in Cary
Over the past month, Cary has hosted over 15,000 visitors at two major cross-country events held at WakeMed Soccer Park. The Great American Cross-Country Festival attracted 3,500 athletes and 6,000 spectators from around the country, while the Adidas XC Challenge brought in 2,000 athletes and 3,500 spectators. These events highlighted Cary’s capability to host top-tier competitions, while also providing a significant boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. As the cross-country season continues, we anticipate even more visitors, solidifying Cary’s reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism.
Upcoming Meetings
2024 Cary Community Bonds Public Meeting
Monday, October 14
6:30 p.m.
Greenway Committee
Tuesday, October 15
6:00 p.m.
2024 Cary Community Bonds Public Meeting
Tuesday, October 15
6:30 p.m.
Mayor’s Mailbox
- A complaint about a leaking garbage truck.
- A complaint about the Cary Bond referendum.
- A thank you email for staff investigating a sewer line issue.
- A complaint about traffic on Highway 64.
- A request for Cary to support a new soccer initiative.
- Cut and paste emails about signing a national petition on fossil fuels. (I don’t respond to cut-and-paste emails. We don’t sign national petitions since their purpose is just to make people feel good, in some cases make people feel bad, and are not part of our core services.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, a ULI event, a CAMPO Executive Board meeting, and a Public Hearing Presentation for WakeMed.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 20th, 2024. 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.
Harold's Blog 