Central Catawba River Basin Symposium
Monday I was a joint speaker at the Central Catawba River Basin Symposium in Gastonia. I was joined by one of the engineers from WithersRavenel. Our topic was focused on the success story of Downtown Cary Park, its water features, how those features helped with flooding issues, and the park’s impact on the local economy. My focus was on the history of the park, the vision, and our downtown. The engineer focused on the details about flooding and the water features. We had about 100 in the audience. BTW, the trip was not paid for with taxpayer dollars.
Council Prep
Monday I contacted council members to hear of concerns about the upcoming agenda. Three council members expressed concern about phasing of the 22-REZ-20 Alston Yards rezoning request. The applicant asked for that proposal to be tabled later in the week.
I met with staff later in the day to go over the meeting items. Since it was short agenda the meeting with staff was brief.
Cary Tennis Classic Board
Monday night I participated in a meeting of the Cary Tennis Classic Board. We spent a lot of time reflecting on our visit to the US Open before getting down to business. Next year’s Cary Tennis Classic will be June 28th through July 5th. We are looking to have community events at next year’s tournament including abilities, wheelchair, kids’ day, adult red ball and triples, and the WWTA Charity Classic.
District C Community Meeting
Tuesday night I joined Council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, and Smith for a community meeting in District C.
I gave a high-level ten-minute version of the State of Cary. This was followed by topics of interest from the fire chief, police chief, and Senior Program Manager. Next was the Assistant Town Manager who gave a development and financial update. Then the council members held a Q&A for about twenty minutes.
Fenton Hotel Brand Reveal
Wednesday morning, I joined council members Smith, Craig, and Bansal and the brand name unveiling of the new boutique hotel in Fenton. The hotel, named Pagemore, will be a 7 story, 186 room hotel that will open in the fall of 2027. It’s designed to be a hub for Cary’s social scene, bringing together food, culture, and experience. Included will be a signature Eastern Mediterranean restaurant called Barouk, a coffee shop, and a lobby bar. It will have venues for up to 200 guests, including a ballroom, culinary studio, and an outdoor event lawn. Mainsail Lodging and Development with Ross Hotel Partners will develop and operate the Pagemore.
The reveal event included several speakers and videos of what the new hotel will look like. Speakers included the President and founder of Mainsail, the Managing Director of Hines, me, the Wake County Commissioner Chair, the President and CEO of Visit Raleigh, the Cary Chamber President, the VP of Mainsail Operations, and the VP of Hospitality for Mainsail.
After remarks everyone walked to the hotel site for photo ops behind the Pagemore sign. Instead of a ribbon cutting, there was a countdown with special guests sending up streamers. This will be a unique hotel designed to reflect Cary to visitors and be a designation for locals.
Cary Chamber Annual Banquet
Wednesday I attended the Cary Chamber Annual Banquet.
Council member Jack Smith was honored with a Legacy of Service award for his 36 years on the Cary Town Council.
The keynote speaker was Ed Rapp who is a retired Caterpillar Group President. His talk with very inspiring as he touched on his life and his ongoing 10-year battle with ALS. The focus of his talk is that we should all be working on our work-life balance.
The Business of the Year award went to Cary Towne Bank, and the Citizen of the Year award went to Barry Mitsch. Congratulations!
Sister Cities Students Presentation
Thursday afternoon I met with two students from Cary that were selected to attend the 2025 Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit earlier this summer in Washington DC. Cary Sister Cities Association and the Cary Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program granted them a $1,000 scholarship. At this presentation I presented letters of acknowledgment followed by pictures.
Council Work Session
Thursday evening the council held a work session to discuss Cricket, Artificial Intelligence & Data Governance, and an update on the Sales Tax.
In the Cricket discussion it was pointed out that pickup cricket was being played at Mills Park next to the Community Center site that was voted down at the last election. We were told that there are parties interested in creating a cricket field using little or no tax dollars. The council unanimously passed a motion to do RFP to see what kind of offers we get to build a cricket pitch.
Some of the takeaways from the AI discussion include:
- Core AI definitions:
- Generative AI: It doesn’t just analyze; it creates something new like meeting minutes.
- Agentic AI: They are goal driven actors not just assistance. For example, automating the permitting application process.
- Predictive AI: This is focused on what will happen. For example, flood predictions.
- Autonomous AI: Operates independently in the real world. For example, self-driving vehicles.
- Conversational AI: Provides human-like dialogue experiences. For example, the town’s virtual assistant for 311.
- Cary is building an AI & Data Program that connects the pieces:
- AI & Data Strategy (In Development): Brings AI, Data Governance, and Data Management together into one integrated strategy, rooted in Cary’s values and centered on serving citizens.
- AI Policy (Drafted): Establishes guardrails and ethical standards for AI use.
- Data Governance Policy (In Development) Provides the rules, roles, and oversight needed to ensure data is trusted, secure, and used responsibly.
- Data Management Program (In Development): Focuses on the day-to-day quality, organization, and accessibility of data, ensuring information is reliable and ready for AI and analytics.
- On October 23rd the council will have a discussion on AI and Data Governance policy. This will be followed by facilitated data workshops in the winter.
The update on sales tax, which is 20% of our revenue, showed a FT2025 growth rate of 0.94% which is below budget by $391,779. The FY2026, which began on July 1, should be close to flat.
Council Meeting
Thursday night the council held its first meeting of September. The agenda included four consent items, no public hearings and one discussion item. The discussion item for at Alston Commons was tabled at the beginning of the meeting so that the applicant to address concerns of phasing.
There was one speaker for the Public Speaks Out portion of the meeting. The consent items were approved unanimously and the council meeting adjourned in about ten minutes.
About a dozen scouts were in the audience to earn merit badges for Communication. Since the council meeting was short, six of seven council members, including me, talked with the scouts for about half an hour. I am glad that our youth are being exposed to local government.
Cary Woman’s Club 90th Anniversary Celebration
Sunday I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, council member Craig, and council member Bansal in the 90th anniversary celebration of the Cary Woman’s Club. I was one of three speakers recognizing this milestone. Here is the proclamation I read:
“RECOGNIZING THE 90th ANNIVERSARY OF THE CARY WOMAN’S CLUB
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club is commemorating its 90th anniversary on September 14, 2025. In 1935, the Cary Woman’s Club was organized and received its charter in the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. With the 90th Anniversary Celebration, we continue the mission to promote civic, cultural, social and educational advancement of Cary and to provide service to our community.
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club’s primary goal in 1935 was support of public education, it provided volunteers and funds to staff the Cary High School library for students during the school year and the community in the summer. In 1960, the Cary Woman’s Club played a major role in the establishment of the Cary Public Library.
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club, during World War II, volunteered daily in the Red Cross Sewing Room, planted trees in Hillcrest Cemetery honoring military veterans and continued the club’s environmental mission over the 90 years by planting a variety of street trees which contributed to Cary’s tree canopy.
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club formed a Girl Scout Troop in 1938. In the 1940s the Cary Woman’s Club led the support of art activities by having student art exhibits and fostered the exchange of art between Cary Elementary School and the African American School, now Kingswood Elementary. In addition, the Club co-sponsored the first and second Annual Cary Art Exhibition and founded the Cary Arts Guild in the 1960’s. Also, the Club organized the senior citizens XYZ Club in 1970, and the Friends of Hemlock Bluffs in 2001.
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club during the last 25 years has awarded $120,000 in Scholarships and $101,850 in Grants to our community.
WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club has two members, Dorothy Schmelzeis and Lillian Smith, with 50 plus years of service and leadership
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby recognize the 90th anniversary of the Cary Woman’s Club and I encourage our citizens to join me in thanking the Cary Woman’s Club for their continued efforts and many contributions to the civic, cultural, educational and social betterment of Cary.
PROCLAIMED this 14th day of September 2025.”
We are so grateful for all the Cary Woman’s Club has done over the years and look forward to celebrating their centennial in a decade.
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
Last week, Cary felt even more like home after returning from vacation. Whether I was out on the greenways catching up with old friends or simply sharing a smile with folks downtown, being surrounded by our caring neighbors reminded me why this community means so much.
I had the privilege to attend The Carying Place Gala, a celebration of hope that resonates deeply for me. The room was full of warmth and determination, with families sharing stories of how The Carying Place has helped them learn new life skills, open doors to independent living, and build a brighter future together. Moments like that make me grateful not just to witness Cary’s spirit, but to be part of shaping it. Each connection, each conversation, and every act of kindness continues to prove how compassion and progress always walk side by side here.
Thank you for letting me share these moments with you and for being part of our town’s story. There’s so much more ahead, and I’m excited to walk this path together.
Lori Bush
At-Large Council Member
Turner Creek Elementary Visit
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht visited Turner Creek Elementary, speaking with second-grade students about local government and the importance of citizenship in the community.
Ribbon Cutting at Art Swarm
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht participated in the ribbon cutting for Art Swarm and the opening of the Fine Arts League of Cary’s new location at the Waldo House. Instead of a traditional ribbon cutting, attendees collaborated on a community painting. The event showcased the creativity and energy of artists, some internationally known—who contribute to Cary’s thriving cultural scene.
Cary Environmental Symposium
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson delivered kickoff remarks at the Cary Environmental Symposium, joined by Councilmembers Lori Bush and Carissa Kohn-Johnson. The event featured a panel discussion on waste reduction, composting, and building resilient communities, highlighting Cary’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Heart of Cary Association Meeting
Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig attended the Heart of Cary Association’s September member meeting at the Cary Chamber of Commerce, connecting with community members and sharing updates. This month’s meeting featured Katherine Loflin and her newly released book, Hidden History of Cary.
Meeting with Hindu Swayamsevak Sang USA
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson met with representatives of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA, who shared about their volunteer work in the community. Council members also received symbolic red bracelets signifying good luck, protection, and connection.
New Business Spotlight – The New York Butcher Shoppe
Councilmember Michelle Craig and Jack Smith welcomed The New York Butcher Shoppe to Cary, celebrating the addition of this new small business to the community.
The Carying Place Gala – A Night in Hollywood
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended The Carying Place Gala. The event, themed A Night in Hollywood, raised funds to support families on their journey out of homelessness and toward stability.
Rock Your World Festival
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended Rock Your World, a free community music festival that raised funds for several nonprofit organizations, including Hope for Haiti Foundation, Musical Empowerment, NC Leap, and US Veterans Corp.
Minor League Cricket – Coin Toss Ceremony
Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the coin toss at the Minor League Cricket match between the Morrisville Raptors and the Baltimore Royals at Church Street Park. The Raptors represent North and South Carolina in the nation’s premier domestic T20 league.
Town Manager’s Report
Russ’ Message
Council,
I enjoyed seeing you all at the various events this week and hope you have a great weekend.
Russ
District C Community Meeting
On Tuesday evening, staff attended the District C Community Meeting at Middle Creek Community Center. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht opened the meeting delivering an updated State of Cary and was followed by Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry, who gave a development and budget update. Fire Chief Mike Cooper, Police Chief Terry Sult, and Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett also attended to provide updates. Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Carisa Kohn-Johnson, and District C Representative Jack Smith wrapped up the meeting with a Q&A session.
Fenton Development Unveils New Hotel
On Wednesday, Fenton Development revealed the name and branding identity for Cary’s newest hotel, The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton, a seven-story, 186-room property set to open in fall 2027. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith, Michelle Craig, and Sarika Bansal attended the unveiling ceremony, along with Deputy Town Manager Russ Overton and Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry. The marketing team from the hotel spent the Tuesday touring Cary’s facilities, including the Downtown Cary Park, the Cary Theater, and the Page-Walker Arts and History Center researching topics for a promotional video highlighting what guests of the hotel might enjoy downtown.
Chamber Annual Banquet
On Wednesday evening, staff attended the Chamber’s Annual Banquet at Prestonwood Country Club. The event recognized incoming and outgoing Board Members and celebrated community accomplishments through a series of awards. This year, Town Manager Sean Stegall delivered remarks and presented Councilmember Jack Smith with the Legacy of Service Award in honor of his lasting contributions to our community.
Area Wide Optimization Award
This week, the NC Division of Water Resources recognized the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) with the Area-Wide Optimization (AWOP) Award for the 14th consecutive year, maintaining the facility’s Gold Star Status. This award recognizes facilities with outstanding turbidity removal and those that consistently surpass federal and state drinking water standards. The CAWTF is one of only 20 facilities in the state to receive this designation. Meeting the requirements for this award is one of the many ways staff at the CAWTF work to ensure that high quality drinking water is delivered to citizens.
Sewer Inspection Update
Cary maintains more than 1,000 miles of sewer mains and performs annual inspections as part of a proactive maintenance routine. This week, contractors performed Cary’s first official laser profiling inspections on the Lynn’s Branch Interceptor in Lochmere, in addition to the traditional video inspections. Laser profiling uses a rotating laser to capture precise measurements of pipe diameter, ovality, and surface condition, creating a 3D profile of the sewer. These inspections help Cary prioritize maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement needs, ensuring cost-effective investments and reducing the risk of unexpected system failures.
Crescent Green Intersection Improvements
Staff installed new traffic signs and pavement markings at the intersection of Crescent Green Drive and Crescent Commons Drive. These improvements include a more intuitive pavement marking design and vegetation removal to improve sight lines. The new traffic signs, including stop signs and one-way indications, employ the principles of the Safe System Approach used for Vision Zero designs, seeking to reduce conflict by more clearly separating users in space and time.
Important Dates
Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, September 17
6:00 p.m.
Greenway Committee
Thursday, September 18
6:00 p.m.
Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, September 17
6:15 p.m.
Cary Candidate Filing
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. Here are the candidates for Cary Council (Incumbents are denoted with I):
- At-Large: Carissa Johnson (I), Marjorie Eastman
- District A: Jennifer Robinson (I), Brittany Richards
- District C: Renee Miller, Bella Huang
Elections are on November 4th.
To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.
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.
In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.
Until then, 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 about e-bikes and scooters in Cary.
- Concern about a data center in New Hill (this is in Apex’s jurisdiction).
- Suggestions about what to do with the Cary Town Center site (this is private property, and we have no authority to do anything except make sure it is not a danger to the public).
- A complaint about loud noises on highway 55 near the Fieldstone community.
- A complaint about rezoning 25-REZ-05 (council will receive a staff report when there is a public hearing).
- A request to have a First Night on New Years Eve (great idea except it would be a significant expense).
- A complaint about “walking conditions” going to Horton’s Creek Elementary.
- A request for a sidewalk in MacGregor Downs.
- A request to have a public memorial service for Charlie Kirk because “Cary had services for George Floyd” (not true, but there were public events).
- A complaint about the May Quarterly meetings not being ready.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Divan Center event, a Mayors Association meeting, a CAMPO executive board meeting, and the 10th annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat races.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, September 21st, 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.
Harold's Blog 