Cary #13 in America for Safest Cities to Trick-Or-Treat
Monday I received information that Cary was one of the safest cities to trick-or-treat in America according to SafeHome.org. This study ranks 161 U.S. cities according to their relative safety for children and families participating in trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Cary was ranked 13th. The analysis integrates crime, traffic safety, and public safety resources into a composite Safety Index, ensuring that comparisons are made on a standardized basis across cities of varying size.
Council Meeting Prep
I contacted each of the council members on Monday to hear of any concerns about the upcoming agenda. Council members expressed concerns with the Alston Commons rezoning proposal.
Later in the day I met with staff to discuss the agenda items. At that time, we were not aware of any major public concerns with agenda items.
Manager One-On-One
The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. Some of the topics we talked about included crosswalks, the accident at Panther Creek High School, the campaign season, and complaints from the individual who lives across from the Downtown Cary Park’s dog park
Wake County Mayors
I attended a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association on Monday night. Attending were the mayors of Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Zebulon.
A representative from NCDOT Division 5 (mostly Wake County) gave a presentation. I hope to provide some of that information in a future post. One interesting note was about monies spent for the recovery of Hurricane Helene. The money spent will not prevent or delay future projects but instead will be taken from highway maintenance.
Council District B Community Meeting
A community meeting for District B was held Tuesday night in the Cary theater. Council member Craig gave opening remarks, I gave a brief presentation on the State of Cary, and staff provided other information and updates related to the district and the town overall. Then council member Craig and I were joined by council members Bush and Kohn-Johnson to address questions from the audience. After about thirty minutes of questions, we adjourned and continued to answer questions for another thirty minutes. There were about three dozen people in attendance.
Town of Conover
Wednesday night I had the pleasure of meeting with the Mayor of Conover NC, a few of their council members, the city manager, and several staff members. They were here mostly to see Downtown Cary Park. We had a great conversation and shared stories of issues we have in common. They were a great group and Conover is well represented. Before they left I had my picture made with the mayor, council, and manager.
Council Work Session
Council held a work session on Thursday evening to discuss the council schedule, get an update on utility payment and meter reading, and transportation system requirements.
There were two council calendar entries of note, a quarterly meeting will be held on November 13 and the swearing in of council members will be on December 4.
The first topic was on Cary’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure. Key Points in this discussion:
- Cary’s first-generation smart meters have surpassed their intended life span of ten years.
- Supply chain disruptions delayed meter replacement efforts.
- Full replacement of all first-generation smart meters (28,436) is planned by the end of 2025.
- All 14 base stations have already been replaced to improve performance.
- The original meters were SRII meters which were first generation and lasted about ten years.
- The new meters are IPERL meters, have no moving parts, and should last twenty years.
The second topic of discussion was about cumulative effects of development projects on traffic. Key takeaways from this discussion include:
- Review of approved zoning cases over the past three years shows no cases would have triggered a cumulative Traffic Analysis Report (TAR) analysis.
- Zoning conditions are voluntary and must be offered by the applicant.
- Practices of neighboring municipalities may offer potential TAR changes depending on the Council’s desired goals.
After much discussion on what triggers a traffic study and what neighboring municipalities are doing, the staff agreed to discuss with developers and provide additional information in the future.
Council Meeting
The last regularly scheduled council meeting of October was held on Thursday night. The agenda included three presentations, four consent items, two public hearings, and two discussion items. One item for discussion, 22-REZ-20 Alston Commons PDP, was tabled indefinitely at the request of the applicant when the agenda was adopted. It was questionable as to whether the Alston Commons PDP proposal had enough support for approval.
Presentations included a proclamation recognizing Diwali to the SV temple, a proclamation recognizing Cyber Security Awareness month, and a proclamation recognizing the 66th Cary High School band day on November 1st.
The first public hearing was a rezoning proposal 25-REZ-08 on Green Level Church Road for up to six single family homes on 3.31 acres. Speakers complained about traffic and stormwater that would come with the development. This will go to Planning and Zoning Board for their review and recommendation and will be returned to council in a few months for a final decision.
The second public hearing was for an annexation 25-A-07 on the corner of Bayoak Drive and High House Road. The owner’s intention is to develop residential detached dwellings. There were no speakers, and this was approved unanimously by council.
The discussion item was for Data Governance Strategy Policy and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Review. After discussion and questions the council unanimously adopted Policy Statement 188: Data Governance Strategy and Policy Statement 189: Artificial Intelligence. AI continues to evolve rapidly as will these policies.
After a close session the council meeting concluded after about three hours.
Dorcas Rebrand
Dorcas has recently merged with Western Wake Crisis Ministries. As a result, they are launching their rebrand at their annual fundraising breakfast on November 13th. I was asked to be part of a short video that will also include Apex Mayor Gilbert and Morrisville Mayor Cawley. I was interviewed for my part on Friday morning with questions focusing on being a good neighbor.
Legislative Update
The following is this week’s legislative update was provided by Checkmate Government Relations:
“Tensions between legislative leaders resurfaced this week as discussions around the state budget and major policy items once again stalled.
Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon returned four bills to the House that were ruled ineligible under the chambers’ agreed-upon rules for the October session:
- SB 378 – Align Medicaid Eligibility with Federal Law
- SB 405 – Healthcare Investment Act
- SB 599 – State/Teacher Pay & Local LEO Bonus
- HB 491 – Medicaid Rebase Funding
The Senate argues the House violated procedural rules by sending bills over not permitted under the current adjournment resolution, while the House continued advancing its preferred versions. The dispute underscores the ongoing rift between legislative leadership, leaving major issues such as state employee pay raises, Medicaid funding, and the overall budget unresolved.
You can read the full press release from Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger here.
Still, not all was lost this week. Lawmakers enacted SB 449 (SL 2025-97) Continuing Budget Operations Part IV., which includes several positive changes, such as waiving State Health Plan local government surcharges and clarifying criminal history background check requirements, two issues created under prior legislation this session.”
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
This week reminded me of how many ways our community comes together to celebrate, serve, and support one another. I was honored to join Governor Josh Stein and community members at the SV Temple for the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month, a celebration that beautifully reflects Cary’s spirit of unity and inclusion.
I also had the opportunity to connect with inspiring mothers and daughters at the National Charity League event, where service and leadership go hand in hand, and at the Equality NC Gala, which honored decades of advocacy for a more equitable North Carolina.
The week ended close to home at the Advisory Volunteer Event in Downtown Cary Park, where we recognized the dedicated residents who lend their time and expertise to Cary’s boards and commissions. Their contributions help shape the thoughtful, community-driven decisions that make Cary such a special place to live. Thank you to everyone who continues to invest their time, energy, and heart in making Cary stronger together.
Carissa Kohn-Johnson
All Hands Meeting
Councilmember Jack Smith participated in the Town’s internal All Hands meeting, where staff honored him as the longest-serving councilmember. His decades of experience continue to provide valuable insight and leadership.
Habitat for Humanity Anniversary Event
Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the 40th Anniversary celebration of Habitat for Humanity of Wake County. Habitat’s work has empowered families for decades by building homes, stability, and hope. With one in four Wake County residents housing cost-burdened, their mission is more vital than ever.
Celebration at SV Temple
Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month by Governor Josh Stein at the SV Temple. The event honored the cultural significance of Diwali and celebrated community unity.
Furniture Store Grand Opening
Councilmember Jack Smith attended the grand opening of Bob’s Discount Furniture in Cary. The company, originally founded in the Northeast, is expanding its presence into North Carolina with this opening.
Groundbreaking for Lucy Daniels Center Expansion
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the groundbreaking of the expanded Lucy Daniels Center for Early Childhood. The expansion will triple the number of children served annually, providing essential mental health services to over 1,500 children. The Center has supported families across the Triangle for 35 years.
National Charity League Event
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended a National Charity League event. The organization empowers mothers and daughters through leadership and service, contributing nearly three million volunteer hours annually to over 6,000 charities nationwide.
Equality NC Gala
Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Equality NC Gala. Equality North Carolina is the nation’s oldest statewide LGBTQ advocacy organization, working to build a safer and more equitable future for all.
Advisory Volunteer Event
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith attended the Advisory Volunteer Event at Downtown Cary Park. The event recognized the service of outgoing, current, and incoming advisory board volunteers as part of the Jazz’d Up Sundays concert series.
Grand Opening of Local Spa
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the grand opening of Aura Bliss Spa, supporting a new local business in our community.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar and I had the opportunity to present at the UNC School of Government this week on building trust through equitable engagements, specifically how Cary works to move beyond individual preferences toward a shared sense of responsibility. The session offered a chance to reflect on the partnership between elected officials, staff, and citizens that defines our community. Danna’s thoughtful remarks on Count Me In, Cary! captured the depth of her leadership.
The questions and dialogue reminded us that Cary’s success is rooted not in a single program or policy, but in the culture of learning and collaboration that Council has made possible. I left feeling deeply grateful for the partnership of colleagues like Danna, for the hospitality of UNC’s faculty, and for the continued opportunity to represent Cary among those who serve with purpose.
On a personal note, I am off today spending time with my daughter who is home on fall break.
Sean
Early Voting
Additional Early Voting sites will open on October 25. Wake County voters can vote at Herb Young Community Center, and Chatham County voters can vote at New Hope Baptist Church in Apex. This is in addition to the Wake County Board of Elections and the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, which opened last week.
Early Voting ends November 1, and Election Day is November 4. You can vote early at any Early Voting location in the county where you live, but on Election Day, you must vote at your assigned polling place.
Weston Parkway Bridge Maintenance
Beginning October 27, the westbound lanes of Weston Parkway will close for bridge maintenance over Black Creek through early December, weather dependent. To maintain two-way traffic, westbound vehicles will be shifted to an eastbound lane. Turning movements at Verizon Driveway and Winstead Drive will be limited to right-in and right-out only, with detours available via Norwell Boulevard and Old Reedy Creek Road. Drivers should anticipate changes in traffic patterns and possible delays.
GoCary Service Changes
On November 1, GoCary will launch two new routes with connections to Raleigh and Apex. Route 2 will connect downtown Cary, NC State University Centennial Biomedical Campus (CBC), and the NC State Fairgrounds. Route 9 will replace the Apex-Cary Express with a local route offering all-day service between downtown Cary and downtown Apex. In addition to the new routes, schedule changes to existing routes and systemwide accessibility improvements will expand access, enhance mobility, and strengthen regional connections.
Moldovan Delegation Visits Cary
On Thursday, Assistant Town Managers Danna Widmar, Shelley Curran, and Scot Berry, along with Town Attorney Lisa Glover, Chief Strategy Officer Susan Moran, Marketing & Creative Manager Kristy Buchanan, and Marketing Strategist Sean Maroney, welcomed a delegation from Moldova hosted by the NC Department of Secretary of State.
The group included mayors, local government division directors, and a county commissioner who were interested in Cary’s public-private partnerships, organizational structure, and stormwater management. They were highly impressed by the Imagine Cary Community Plan’s long-range vision and the walking tour of the Downtown Cary Park. Here’s what the group’s district council president shared online.
EDF Cities Initiative and SSDN Meeting
Cary welcomed 40 local and regional leaders to Bond Park Community Center on Tuesday for a joint meeting of the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Cities Initiative and the Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN). NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Secretary D. Reid Wilson, and representatives of Duke Energy and the Sierra Club, led thoughtful discussions on North Carolina’s Carbon Plan, non-residential solar and battery storage opportunities, and the challenges facing communities in advancing climate and energy goals. Cary showcased the Pierce Volterra electric fire truck, inspiring other municipal leaders to explore similar innovations.
WWWRF Forcemain Repair Training
This week, local contractors joined staff to participate in a steel pipe repair training session focused on repair methods for the 54-inch steel effluent force main. This style pipe has been in service since 2014, and transports treated wastewater 11.5 miles from the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWWRF) to the Cape Fear River. Participants were trained in the latest repair techniques and materials to ensure readiness and collaboration in the event of an emergency.
Harvest Fest Recap
Harvest Fest welcomed a record 1,500 guests to Good Hope Farm last Saturday, reflecting growing community interest in Cary’s agricultural and environmental initiatives. The event showcased strong partnerships with organizations such as Future Farmers of America, NC Forest Service, NC Bluebird Society, Piedmont Fibershed, Farmer Food Share, NC Conservation Network, and others that help advance Cary’s sustainability and local food goals. Participants enjoyed engaging environmental education, children’s activities, and farm tours connecting them to the people and programs that keep Cary rooted in environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.
Mummy and Son Ball
On October 21, the annual Mummy and Son Ball brought Halloween magic to life as mummies and sons gathered for an evening of spooky fun and laughter. The event featured a variety of carnival games, a Halloween costume contest, and the “Not So Scary” Halloween tale of the Giant Whistling Frog said to live in the mysterious woods of Ritter Park. To end the night on a sweet note, families roasted “ghosts” over the fire for delicious s’mores.
Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting Cancelled
The Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting for 25-REZ-13 & 611 E. Chatham has been cancelled at the applicants request.
For more information visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting page.
Important Dates
Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, October 27
6:30 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
- Agreeing with me that “blame and hurt is the culture today”.
- A complaint about the Weston rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14.
- Several complaints about Eastman’s mailer which used a logo very similar to Cary’s logo.
- A complaint debris on Jones Franklin Road, tree limbs down on West Chatham, and buckling pavement on Meeting Street.
- Thanks for the police officer’s help in a hit and run case.
- A request to not pick up leaves to help wildlife.
- A complaint that I didn’t respond to an email “You silence is deafening. Hope your children and grandchildren are not listening. You have allowed a very vile old man to take your humanity and your dignity. …” (Wow! This was after he agreed with me that blame and hurt is the culture of today. I didn’t know he was waiting for a response. I certainly will.)
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a State of Cary address at Carpenter Village, a joint meeting of the Capital Area MPO and Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization, and the 5th Annual Taste of China Festival.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 2nd, 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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