Sallie Jones Celebration of Life
Tuesday afternoon I attended the memorial service for Sallie Jones, a life-long Cary resident and a centenarian. Here is an excerpt from her obituary:
“Sallie Ethel Jones, affectionately known as Aunt Sallie, Mother Sallie, or Miss Salie was the sixth of eight children born to the late James Henry and Emily Arrington Jones on September 3, 1924, in the family home near downtown Cary, NC.
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Sallie Jones is a descendant of history Cary African American families where several of her ancestors were enslaved and came to Cary after the Civil War. She lived through desegregation and the Civil Rights movement and helped integrate the schools in Cary. Growing up in the Cary community, Sallie Jones was a beloved pillar of the community and the entire Town of Cary with her involvement. As an active AARP volunteer coordinator for years, this remarkable woman played a pivotal role for affordable housing and programs for seniors. She helped with plans to build Glenaire.
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Sallie Jones was a 1940 graduate of Berry O’Kelly High School in the Method area and earned a French/English degree at St. Augustine’s College in Raleigh, NC. She spoke French very fluently and taught the French language in Parmele and Goldsboro, NC High Schools for twelve years. After receiving a master’s degree in French from the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris, France, she moved to Gary, Indiana where she taught advanced French and History at Horace Mann High School.
Sallie Jones enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to travel to 33 French-speaking countries and numerous cruises.
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Sallie Jones made it her personal project in the 1980s to preserve the Cary First Christian Church historic cemetery dating back to the 1860s to save it from being lost. The work she began in the 1980s led to a resurgence of interest in the church cemetery in the early 2000s. With the help of volunteers from The Page-Walker Historical Society, Sallie’s tireless and dedicated efforts led to the identification of many names of people buried in unmarked graves in the church cemetery and becoming a Cary Historic Landmark and registered in the NC Archives Museum with the names of all buried there through 2002.
Sallie Jones received numerous recognitions and awards by the Town of Cary and Wake County through her work and belief in preserving what you have:
2000 – Received a bronze plaque by the Wake County Historic Preservation Commission
2021 – Key contributor to the development of the cemetery’s “Walking Tour” brochure
2022 – Honored with the Anthemion Award by the Capital Area Preservation in Raleigh
2024 – Winner of the Town of Cary’s Hometown Spirit Award
2025 – On March 22nd for Arbor Day, a tree will be planted in her memory as well as a given plaque by the Town of Cary
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What a journey we’ve experienced through the life and eyes of this strong Centenarian blessed only by God! …”
NCLM Town and State Dinner
Wednesday night I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, and council member Craig at the annual North Carolina League of Municipality’s annual Town and State Dinner. It is the opportunity to talk with elected officials from all over the state and to hear from legislative leaders in the NC Senate and the NC House. In the panel discussion between NC Senate Majority Leader Berger and NC Senate Minority Leader Sydney Batch the biggest point of disagreement was the economy in the next three years. Berger believed there would be continued growth. Batch pointed out that 50% of the state’s budget was from the federal government and with massive cuts she believes we might “fall off a cliff”.
State of Cary Taping (short version)
Thursday afternoon I spent a couple of hours taping a ten-minute version of the State of Cary address. This was taped inside the council chambers from a few different angles. It will be posted on the town’s website soon. I also taped an opening for a staff version of the State of Cary address which will be available for their viewing.
NC Metro Mayors
Friday the North Carolina Metro Mayors held a weekly meeting. Here is the legislative summary from Checkmate Government Relations:
Limits to AG Power
The North Carolina General Assembly filed two bills that restrict the Attorney General’s power to engage in any litigation against a President’s executive orders. House Bill 72 and Senate Bill 58 were introduced in response to the multiple law suits that Attorney General Jeff Jackson has filed against President Trump. The executive orders being challenged include ending birthright citizenship and issues related to the creation and work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The bills cite Article 3 section 7 of the North Carolina Constitution which provides the General Assembly with the power to prescribe the Attorney General’s duties through law. The Senate version of the bill passed through the Senate Judiciary and Senate Rules Committees this week and could be heard on the Senate Floor as early as next week.
Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum
This week, Senate Bill 145, Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum, was filed by Senate Transportation Chair Vickie Sawyer (R-Iredell) and Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick). The bill would allow the Mecklenburg County Commission to add a referendum to the ballot in 2025. If approved by voters, the referendum would provide the county with the ability to levy a one cent sales tax to fund transportation projects in the area. 40% of the funds will go to road improvements, 40% of the fund will go to rail improvements, and 20% of the fund will go towards the bus system. This would include funding the recently announced Red Line commuter rail, a project that will connect Uptown Charlotte with the northern Mecklenburg County suburbs, including Huntersville, Cornelius, and Davidson.
Disaster Recovery Spending
House Bill 47, the “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I” passed unanimously through the House this week. The bill includes $500M in disaster relief funds, including:
- $125M to the Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization, for the Home Reconstruction and Repair Program.
- $75M to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Soil & Water Conservation to be used for natural restoration projects for farmers and to protect communities against additional flood damage.
- $75M to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for the Hurricane Helene Agricultural Crop Loss Program
- $100M to North Carolina Emergency Management for the Private Road and Bridge Repair and Replacement Program.
- $55M to the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program.
- $20M to the Office of State Budget Management to distribute to State agencies and units of local government for debris removal unmet needs.
- $10M for the North Carolina Emergency Management to provide grants to any member of Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster.
- $10M to the State Fire Marshal to provide funds for repairs of damage to fire stations, buildings, or vehicles used by rescue squads or emergency medical service providers.
- $10M to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Social Services, to supplement rental assistance payments.
- $5M to the Department of Commerce for marketing towards tourism.
- $15M to Golden LEAF to allocate to nonprofit organizations in the affected area.
NC Border Protection Act
This week, Senate President Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) filed Senate Bill 153, the “North Carolina Border Protection Act.” S153, requires state agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Adult Corrections, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the State Highway Patrol, to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The MOA requires the agencies to cooperate with federal immigration officials and develop departmental policies for doing so. The bill disincentives agencies and public institutions, including universities, from creating sanctuary policies via immunity waivers.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
On Tuesday, I visited the Ivey-Ellington House with staff. They’ve worked hard to bring this remarkable home back to life and we’re excited to share it with you. Friends of the Page-Walker, members of the Historic Preservation Commission, and each of you will have a chance to tour the building in the coming months.
The public will have a chance to tour the building during the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Enjoy your weekend.
Sean
SAS Insights
Chief Information Officer Nicole Coughlin was honored to take the stage at SAS Insights this week, showcasing our partnership with SAS and how we’re leveraging data and Internet of Things (IoT) to drive innovation. She was thrilled to share the stage with Jason Mann, Vice President of IoT at SAS, to discuss the power of smart technology and data analytics in building resilient, future-ready communities—using data-driven insights to enhance adaptability, sustainability, and long-term community strength.
Water Main Replacement Update
Starting in early March, contractors will begin replacing approximately 1,100 feet of aging 12-inch fiber cement water main with new 12-inch ductile iron pipe along Kildaire Farm Rd, between Byrum St and Shirley Dr. This upgrade will increase the reliability and longevity of the downtown water distribution system and will take approximately four months to complete.
During construction, traffic delays and shifts will occur along Kildaire Farm Rd and intersecting side streets. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians should anticipate a combination of conventional and automated flaggers managing traffic, ensuring at least an alternating one-way flow is maintained.
Annual Disinfection Switchover Begins
The Cary/ Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) will begin its annual disinfection switchover on March 1. In accordance with state and federal recommendations, each year the treatment facility switches from its normal disinfection mixture of chlorine and ammonia to free chlorine. This change, combined with the flushing of Cary’s water lines, cleanses the system and helps ensure safe, high quality water throughout the year. During the switchover period, which will last until April 10, residents and customers may notice a minor increase in chlorine odor. In areas near active hydrant flushing, water may also appear slightly discolored. This activity is part of the normal water system maintenance process and occurs in tandem with several of our neighboring municipalities. For more information, visit www.carync.gov/waterchange.
Staff Visits WRAL Station
On Thursday, Police Sergeant- Public Relations Officer Kenric Alexander, along with 311 Assistant Director Carolyn Roman and 311 Communications Specialist Rebecca Pearce toured WRAL’s station. The visit provided an opportunity to connect with the professionals behind the scenes who produce, edit, and deliver news to the Triangle.
Cary maintains strong partnerships with local media and regularly collaborates with stations to ensure accurate and timely information reaches the community. As part of this ongoing effort, Cary staff remains committed to being accessible and responsive.
AMI Updates
This year marks the 14th anniversary of Aquastar! As a result, in the coming months contractors working on behalf of Cary will be upgrading aging Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters across our utility service area, which includes Cary, Morrisville, Wake County’s portion of RTP, and RDU Airport. These upgrades will ensure continued efficiency, accuracy, and reliability in water service for our citizens and customers.
Annual Biosolids Report
Cary’s South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF), North Cary Water Reclamation Facility (NCWRF), and Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF) play a critical role in managing and treating biosolids through thermal drying processes. This process transforms nutrient-rich wastewater byproducts into EPA-Certified, Class A Exceptional Quality biosolids, which are then repurposed as a natural fertilizer and soil amendment. In 2024, the NCWRF and SCWRF together generated 3,481 dry tons of biosolids, while the WWRWRF produced 3,107 dry tons. These high-quality, dried biosolids—referred to as Enviro-Gems—are marketed to a vendor for use in the agribusiness sector. For a detailed overview, you can read the full 2024 Annual Biosolids Report here.
Cary Utilities Welcomes Visitors
On Tuesday, Utilities staff from Aiken County, SC and Brunswick County, NC visited the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF) to observe Cary’s biosolids treatment process. Aiken County representatives also visited the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) to exchange experiences with biosolids rotary drum dryer systems. Both communities are preparing to expand their wastewater treatment capabilities and came to learn from our experienced operators. These visits are part of broader collaborations on wastewater biosolids treatment that are taking place across the region.
Black History Month Highlights
Throughout February, Cary celebrated Black History & African American Appreciation Month with the theme, “Recognizing the Role of Creatives in Shaping Black History & Modern Culture.” The community enjoyed a variety of events, including a sold-out Neo Soul Jazz concert at the Cary Arts Center and films by African American creatives at The Cary Theater, which also hosted a Big Civil Rights Singalong. Art exhibitions at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center and Cary Arts Center highlighted Black history and culture, with classes inspired by influential Black artists. The Downtown Cary Park hosted a discussion on the transformational impact of Black creatives on modern culture, while the Senior Center hosted a Taste of Black History Luncheon. The celebrations concluded with the Youth Advocacy Summit at the Cary Arts Center, where youth organizations led sessions focused on service, belonging, and creative expression.
Statewide Aging Conference
Michelle Barrett, the Program Manager for Seniors and Aging, attended the North Carolina Association on Aging State Aging Conference in Chapel Hill this week. She engaged with other state leaders and received an update on the next steps for the All Ages All Stages plan. Keynote speakers, NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson and NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, addressed the conference, highlighting their dedication to protecting our aging population from fraud and scams.
Upcoming Meetings
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, March 3
5:15 p.m.
Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, March 3
6:00 p.m.
Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, March 3
6:30 p.m.
Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 4
6:00 p.m.
Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, March 5
12:00 p.m.
District A Information Meeting
Wednesday, March 5
5:30 p.m.
Mayor’s Mailbox
- Complaints about the proposed Waverly Place rezoning generated by a social media post asking folks to send the council emails.
- A request to make the old mall site an MLB location (the land is owned by Epic Games not Cary. We have no authority in the dealings of two private entities).
- A complaint about the tax rate.
- A complaint about the railroad crossing closure at Indian Wells Road.
- A complaint about me: “it looks more and more like old entrenched interests hiding behind ugly Soviet-era words like misinformation and disinformation, who simply don’t like the idea that somebody with an alternative viewpoint might express a different opinion…” (Wow! Really?! That is exactly opposite of how I operate. I have 17 years of council meetings to prove it! BTW, everything I do is public record and available to anyone.)
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with private investors, a HRID meeting, a short version of the State of Cary at a District A meeting, and a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 9th, 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.
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