Walter Hines Page DAR 100th Anniversary, Election, Economic Update by Abernathy, Cary Chamber Economic Development, CPA Graduation, HRID, Veterans Luncheon, and Visit with Cub Scout Pack 216

Walter Hines Page DAR 100th Anniversary

I was provided photos of my proclamation for the Walter Hines Page DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Chapter’s 100th anniversary in London. The proclamation was warmly received by the Chapter and the President General of DAR.

A wreath was laid at the Walter Hines Page Memorial in Westminster Abbey. HRH Princess Anne and the American Ambassador attended the wreath laying ceremony along with many members from DAR from around the world. The Town of Cary was recognized for the proclamation at several of the events celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Chapter.

NC Senator Adcock’s Legislative Update

A summary of legislative actions was sent to me from NC Senator Adcock. Here is her summary:

“I wish there was better news to share in this newsletter.

State budget impasse

North Carolina has been without a new 2-year state budget for more than 120 days beyond the start of the July 1 fiscal year. This has not caused a state government shutdown because of a 2016 NC law that established an automatic continuing resolution (CR). Whenever a new budget isn’t passed on time, this CR kicks in and the state continues to function using the previous year’s certified budget. It’s not uncommon for the budget deadline to be missed by days or weeks, and running state government for a short period on an “old” budget typically isn’t a big deal. But operating on an old budget for 2 years is a problem. In 2019, the Republican-controlled legislature’s budget was vetoed by Democratic Governor Cooper, and that veto held. That 2019 stand-off was the result of partisan disagreements about spending and policy. This year is very different.

As a reminder, it takes a simple majority to pass a budget bill (26 votes in the Senate; 61 in the House). The current budget stalemate is between Republican leaders who hold 30 of 50 Senate seats and 71 of 120 House seats. They have the votes needed to pass any budget they create yet have (thus far) been unable or unwilling to resolve their differences and agree on a budget.

In real life terms, the lack of a new budget means that public school teachers and state employees’ paychecks haven’t kept pace with inflation at the same time they’re paying higher prices for gas and groceries and beginning Jan 1 will pay higher monthly premiums for State Health Plan insurance coverage. Without a new budget with meaningful raises, teachers and state employees will have less take-home pay in 2026 than they do right now. Failure to pass a budget also means delays in NCDOT highway projects, university campus capital improvements, and public safety investments. These are just a few examples of what’s at stake without a new budget.

Medicaid reimbursement cuts

Another casualty of the collapse of negotiations between House and Senate leaders is the Medicaid “rebase” (the amount needed in a new fiscal year to keep Medicaid services at the same level as the previous fiscal year). The $819M rebase request by the NC Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) would normally be included in a new budget. Without that vehicle, the legislature passed a small spending bill (aka “mini budget”) at the end of July that included $500M for the rebase, leaving a $319M shortfall. DHHS alerted legislators that without additional rebase funding it would have to cut provider reimbursements and programs to stay within its budgeted funds. With no end in sight for the budget impasse and no agreement between Republican leaders on a separate spending bill despite multiple opportunities to do so, DHHS announced in September that these cuts would go into effect October 1. The resultant across-the-board reimbursement cuts to hospitals and individual providers ranging from 3%-10% (with hospitals in the latter category), plus DHHS staff layoffs and several program eliminations, are intended to meet the agency’s fiduciary responsibility to operate with the funds it actually has. DHHS cannot operate on the hope that the needed funds could come next January or April—6-9 months into the fiscal year. The adversarial relationship between House and Senate leaders that is being played out in the press and social media makes pushing DHHS’ hard decisions into next year a bad bet.

I’ve lost count of the number of appeals I’ve had from hospitals, primary care and specialty physicians; occupational, speech-language, and other therapists; and home care providers to end the stalemate and pass a spending bill to fund the remainder of the rebase so reimbursement cuts can be reversed. They are worried about their ability to keep their doors open and continue to care for their Medicaid patients. The most heartbreaking stories are from the family members of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for whom home or facility care—paid for by Medicaid—is absolutely vital to their survival. Because of the power dynamic of the legislature, the power to fix this situation is in the hands of Speaker Hall and Senator Berger.

Federal government shutdown halts SNAP benefits

On October 10, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) informed states there would not be enough funds for November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if the government shutdown continued. On October 24, the USDA sent a second state notification that it would not use roughly $6 B in contingency funds to cover the shortfall. On October 27, the USDA publicly announced that no SNAP benefits would be issued on November 1. North Carolina’s monthly SNAP allotment is $230-$250 M per month.

NC DHHS announced at the end of October that its funds for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will be exhausted after early November.

Unlike in Virginia and North Dakota where the governors have pledged to appropriate state funds to fill the gap, North Carolina’s governor cannot appropriate money, only the legislature can do this. North Carolina has $3.6 B in a “rainy day fund” and $3.2 B in “unreserved cash balance” according to the state controller. The House and Senate are adjourned until Nov 17. While Governor Stein could call the legislature into a special session before that time, legislators would not be compelled to pass a funding bill for this purpose.

On October 28, NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced a lawsuit against the federal government, asking courts to force the USDA to use its contingency reserve to keep SNAP operating amid the shutdown.

More than 600,000 NC households—1.4 M children and adults—receive SNAP benefits. Four in five participating families have a child, senior or adult with a disability. More than 80% of SNAP recipients are employed; more than 580,000 are children.

BREAKING NEWS—On October 31, 2 federal judges ordered the Trump administration to use contingency funds to fund SNAP during the shutdown. Both rulings gave the administration until today, Monday, Nov 3 to say how it would pay for SNAP. It wasn’t clear how quickly benefit cards could be reloaded and both decisions are likely to be appealed.

Meanwhile, the food crisis is real and while it may not directly affect you or your family, it likely impacts someone you know and care about. Here are 2 options for helping those in our community who are food insecure:

Dorcas Ministries: Check here for a list of most needed food items. Drop off your donations at either of these pantry locations:

Apex Pantry—1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 408 (Flex 540 Office Space). Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–4 PM. For large food drives, please call ahead to arrange drop-off. 24/7 donation box available outside the front doors.

Cary Pantry—193 High House Road (Dorcas Plaza). Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–3 PM. Pull around the right side of the building—blue donation bins are under the awning. To get a receipt or drop off a large number of items from a food drive, enter through the double doors and alert the volunteers who are happy to help unload. Financial contributions are also appreciated.

Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina: In addition to partnerships with local farmers, retailers, and manufacturers, the Food Bank network welcomes donations from community members—including factory-sealed, nonperishable products and beverages, refrigerated or frozen items and produce, and other non-food essentials such as hygiene items, cleaning items, or paper products. Food safety regulations require donated items to be sealed and have all ingredients listed. You can also make a financial contribution here.

New Congressional maps

During the legislature’s brief return in mid-October, the Senate redrew 2 of the state’s 14 congressional districts to guarantee that the previously highly competitive District 1 would elect a Republican in the 2026 midterm election. This is not my opinion or conjecture; this is what Senator Ralph Hise (R-Ashe) stated for the record when he introduced the bill on the Senate floor. To accomplish this, 6 entire coastal counties and part of one more were moved from the third district to the first, while 4 agricultural counties were shifted from the first district to the third. One of those 4 counties (Greene) is where current Democratic Congressman Don Davis lives, moving him into the congressional district represented by Republican Congressman Greg Murphy. This unprecedented mid-cycle redistricting was hotly debated and then passed the Senate along party lines. The House followed suit 2 days later. Governor Stein cannot veto redistricting bills. More details and analysis can be found in these WUNC and John Locke Foundation stories.

Latest on RDU land development

In its exploration of options for 136 acres of airport property near Aviation Parkway and I-40, the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and developer Pacific Elm Properties held 3 public workshops in August, September and October. They are now working together on a term sheet and development agreement before project design begins. Additional details and an FAQ at www.rdu.com/recreation.

Raleigh Union Bus Station Facility

Also known as RUS Bus, GoTriangle’s newly-opened transit hub is located in the Warehouse District, strategically located adjacent to Raleigh Union Station train facility. RUS Bus was designed to serve the ever-growing Triangle region with high-quality public transportation offerings and as the new hub for GoTriangle. Highlights include 5 bays for passengers and 2 layover bays; waiting areas; passenger amenities and public restrooms; bike parking and bike racks and lockers; accommodations for future GoRaleigh Bus Rapid Transit; roadway improvements; and GoTriangle bus service improvements. Learn more at Raleigh Union Bus Station Facility.

A ray of HOPE

Every fall since 1980, I’ve attended the NC Nurses Association convention. I learn a lot from the many continuing education sessions, but what I enjoy most is the opportunity to make new friends and reconnect with longtime colleagues from across the state. This year’s meeting was in Winston Salem and included an extra-special treat that lifted everyone’s spirits (especially mine).

Thanks to Senator Adcock for all she does for Cary and for keeping us informed.

Manager One-On-One

The town manager and I met briefly for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included different scenarios of how staff feel after an election.

A Quote from Me Used in a Campaign Posting

I was made aware Monday, the day before the election, of a Facebook post using a quote from me. It was somewhat out of context, so I think it is important to understand the quote and the context. The recording was in April before the council began detailed discussions about the budget and the potential for a tax increase. Keep in mind the budget was approved in late June. A budget briefing exercise was presented to the Economic Development Committee members. The following is a dialog between me and board member Eastman during the meeting:

MAYOR: “…I had a conversation with a lady two days ago: ‘What happens when I can’t afford to pay my taxes anymore? What’s the answer to that? I have lived here 30 something years. What happens when I can’t afford to pay my taxes?’

EASTMAN: “She’s gonna sell”

MAYOR: “Yeah”

EASTMAN: “and move away and someone else is gonna come and buy.”

After that discussion over the next several weeks the council did a deep dive into the budget, put $85 million in capital projects on hold, and decided to increase the tax rate by 1.5 cents rather than cut police, fire, or public works which make up 80% of our expenses. With that tax rate we still have the lowest tax rate of all 12 municipalities in Wake County for the 17th consecutive year.

It is also important to understand that no one has to be taxed out of their home. The equity gained in the last revaluation can be realized at any time and that would pay increases in taxes for years. For example, my home increased in value by $200,000 and my taxes went up by $2000. Realizing that equity now I can pay the increase in taxes for decades.

Town Manager’s Post to Employees About the Election

The town manager contacted all employees the day after the election with this posting:

“Team Cary,

Good morning.

I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your work leading up to and during yesterday’s election. Whether you directly supported election operations or ensured that our community continued receiving exceptional service, your professionalism made a difference.

Election Results

Yesterday was Election Day for three of our seven Cary Town Council seats. Based on the unofficial results from last night, Cary voters have chosen:

  • At-Large: Carissa Kohn-Johnson (re-elected)
  • District A: Brittany Richards
  • District C: Bella Huang (open seat)

The official canvass—the formal certification of results—is scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025. Results remain unofficial until that process is complete.

What Happens Next

Until then, Town operations continue as usual. Our purpose—to serve Cary with excellence, integrity, and care—remains the same.  Following certification, staff will begin working with our Council to support onboarding and orientation for new members and to ensure a seamless transition as we continue advancing our shared priorities.

Continuing Leadership: Carissa Kohn-Johnson

We are pleased to congratulate Carissa Kohn-Johnson on her re-election as Cary’s At-Large Council Member. Since joining the Council in 2021, Carissa has been a thoughtful, engaged, and collaborative leader whose work reflects both her deep love for Cary and her dedication to equitable, sustainable growth.

Carissa has lived in Cary for nearly three decades and brings experience from her professional background in technology and public advocacy. Her leadership has focused on expanding access to affordable and safe housing, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring that Cary’s policies reflect the needs of all residents.

She continues to champion pragmatic solutions and inclusive engagement—values that align deeply with our organizational culture and with the vision that guides the Cary Way.

Welcoming New Council Member Brittany Richards

We are pleased to welcome Brittany Richards, who will represent District A. Brittany brings fresh energy and a community-centered vision for Cary. With a background in higher education and nonprofit work, she has been active in advocating for environmental protection, community engagement, and government accessibility.

Her priorities include:

  • Protecting Cary’s tree canopy and ensuring our natural spaces remain a defining strength of the town.
  • Supporting quality services for residents of all ages, including responsive customer service and vibrant community programming.
  • Expanding housing affordability so that public servants, seniors, and others earning below the median area income can continue to live and thrive in Cary.

Brittany’s commitment to thoughtful growth, equity, and sustainability aligns strongly with our values as an organization, and I look forward to working with her in the months ahead.

Welcoming New Council Member Bella Huang

We are also excited to welcome Bella Huang, who will represent District C. Bella is a long-time Cary resident and community advocate with experience in urban planning and sustainability. She has been active in civic and volunteer efforts focused on youth engagement, cultural inclusion, and environmental stewardship.

Her priorities include: 

  • Making District C more bikeable and walkable by connecting greenways and sidewalks.  
  • Exploring solar on town facilities (via sponsorships and grants) and add more public EV chargers.  
  • Expanding programs like “My Tree, Our Tree,” grow composting alongside the community farm, and improve bus service coverage.  

Bella is passionate about maintaining Cary’s small-town feel as we grow, while ensuring that every resident—regardless of background—feels a true sense of belonging. Her thoughtful approach and enthusiasm for collaboration will be a welcome addition to the Council team and our shared work.

Honoring Council Members Jennifer Robinson and Jack Smith

This election also marks the conclusion of service for two long-standing Cary leaders: Jennifer Robinson and Jack Smith.

Jennifer has served our community for more than two decades in District A, representing Cary regionally and nationally with vision and grace. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing technology, sustainability, and intergovernmental collaboration. She has championed innovation, data-driven decision-making, and inclusive public service that will leave a lasting legacy.  She has served on the boards of so many regional and state agencies that I could not begin to list them all.  She is known throughout the state and nation for expertise in local government.

Jack’s service in District C spans nearly 36 years, making him one of Cary’s longest-serving elected officials. His thoughtful leadership, deep understanding of Cary’s history, and unwavering focus on what’s best for the community have guided countless decisions that shaped our growth and identity. His wisdom and steady presence will be deeply missed, and his influence will continue to be felt across generations.

We are profoundly grateful to both Jennifer and Jack for their decades of partnership, integrity, and devotion to the people of Cary.  On a personal note, they are two of the seven council members that allowed me to come to this wonderful community and organization; for that I will forever be grateful.

Professionalism and Next Steps

In today’s politically charged environment, the Cary staff stood out once again.  I am very proud of our ability to remain politically neutral in our official roles and avoiding any political activity while on duty or using Town resources.  This is the mark of not only adherence to the law, but to our cultural values and democratic values of serving whomever the voters have chosen with the best of our capabilities. If residents or media ask about election results, please direct them to the Wake County Board of Elections or to our official Town of Cary communications channels.

Thank you for the pride, professionalism, and compassion you bring to your work every day. No matter who is elected, Cary’s greatest strength will always be its people—you.

In service to you,

Sean

Four Wake County Mayors Lose Elections

Four out of five Wake County Mayors lost their re-election bids. All of them were Republican. These include long-time mayor Vivan Jones from Wake Forest, Mayor Mayefskie from Holly Springs, Mayor Massengill from Fuquay Varina, and Mayor York from Zebulon. Mayor Curran made the following comments about the election in an email to the outgoing mayors:

“Sean/Blake

I hope you guys are doing well. I will miss you, and very much appreciative for all the work you guys have done for your communities and the Mayor’s Association.  I have always thought Holly Springs and Fuquay were in a good place and don’t fully understand all that is going on. I hope non-political Mayors is not a thing of the past, but it looks that way.  Many of you I never knew the letter beside your name, because that is not what we should be about.  Enough of that. As for the Mayor’s Association meeting, has any information been shared with the town managers yet? I don’t recall seeing any communications. Let me know if I can help with transition. Vivian and Glenn, I will miss you as well.”

As a result of this election, I will now be the longest serving mayor in Wake County.  

Ted Abernathy on the Economy

Wednesday morning Ted Abernathy gave an update on the economy at a Cary Chamber breakfast. Here are some of the takeaways from that talk:

  • According to the US economic policy, uncertainty index uncertainty has skyrocketed.
  • Most people believe that the pace of change will surge.
  • US economic outlook:
    • Real Gross Domestic Product 2.0% in 2026 was 2.9% in 2023.
    • Total US Employment 0.8% in 2026 was 2.2% in 2023.
    • Real Disposable Personal Income 1.2% in 2026 was 5.1% in 2023.
    • Consumer Price Index 2.5% in 2026 was 4.1% in 2023.
  • Growth is steady but it is projected to remain around 2%.
  • NC remains one of the strongest states in real GDP.
  • Raleigh metro has a 11.6% change in real GDP per capita from 2019 to 2024.
  • Unemployment remains low, but has been rising in 2025, and job creation has slowed.
  • Cary has the lowest unemployment rate in the region at 3.3%.
  • Employees are staying in their jobs, especially Gen Z and Millennials.
  • NC biggest employment gain in the last year was in education & health services, professional & technical services, and construction. There has been a significant loss in manufacturing.
  • The projected job growth in Raleigh metro is 11.4% in the next 10 years, which is the highest in the state along with Wilmington.
  • Cary employment is at 98,833 which is down from 98,994 in 2024.
  • Two thirds of the economy is consumer consumption.
  • NC is among the national leaders at 6.1% growth in personal consumption expenditures.
  • The average hourly earnings increased by 3.8% last year, which is the lowest since the recession.
  • Some of the biggest consumer price index changes have been in natural gas at 11.7%, motor vehicle repairs at 7.7%, hospital services at 5.5%, meat/fish/eggs at 5.2%, and electricity at 5.1%.
  • The average annual cost of a family health insurance plan is $26,993.
  • The US has had the highest tariffs since the 1940s.
  • Because of tariffs the average tax for a US household increased $1300 in 2025.
  • Businesses are absorbing the majority of tariff costs, but that is about to change.
  • Candy prices increased by over 10% in 2025.
  • In 2025, Americans are expected to spend $157 billion on their pets, 62% more than 2019.
  • Last year, consumer spending grew by almost 3%. That fell to 1.4% in the second quarter of this year and is expected to remain tepid.
  • The top 10% of earners now drives about half of spending, up from 36% three decades ago.
  • The loan delinquency rate for commercial properties rose to nearly 7.5% in October, compared with 6.0% a year ago. Office delinquencies hit another all-time high at almost 11.8%. The other big climb was in multifamily delinquencies which passed 7.1%.
  • Data Center spending I set to exceed office construction.
  • The Raleigh metro area has seen a 4% decrease in housing starts.
  • In 2010 Cary had 27% of new residential permits in Wake County. Now it has 5.7%.
  • Cary residential properties sold is about the same as last year which is one of the three lowest in 25 years.
  • Cary has saw a 58% rise in single family home values from 2015 to 2025. This past year it was 0.2%. We have the highest residential values in Wake County.
  • Based on residential properties sold Cary saw an average increase of 109% in the past ten years.
  • AI accounted for 80% of the gain in US stocks so far in 2025. AI was 40% of the growth in US real GDP last quarter.
  • North Carolina ranked as #1 state for business by CNBC, #2 by Business Facilities, #3 by Site Selection, and #4 by CEO magazine.
  • North Carolina ranked #1 for access to qualified labor, #3 for available sites, #6 for business incentive programs, #3 for cooperative and responsive state and local government, #2 for corporate taxes, #5 for energy availability and cost, #2 for favorable property tax environment, #5 for logistics and infrastructure, #7 for cost of doing business, #4 for site readiness, #8 for water availability, and #6 for workforce training.
  • Millennials are having even fewer children. Grade school population is now declining in most states due to fewer babies being born.
  • North Carolina is expected to see an 8.2% population increase by 2034 with Raleigh having the highest growth rate of over 18%.
  • Older workers continue to leave the labor force.
  • The current immigration policy is projected to reduce the US workforce by 6.8% million people by 2028 and by 15.7 million people by 2035.
  • Selected occupations that require workers to have bachelor’s degree will have the following worker shortages through 2032: managers 2.9 million, teachers 611,000, nurses 362,000, accountants and auditors 226,000, engineers 210,000, attorneys 203,000, and physicians 189,000.
  • The US has 26.80% of the world economy up from 24.40% in 1995. China has 16.90% of the world economy up from 2.4%.
  • China leads globally, producing much more than the US signaling a decline in American industrial dominance. Skills gaps, cumbersome procurement processes and restrictive policies limit innovative companies. Accelerating AI adoption and streamlining government contracts are crucial steps to rebuild America’s manufacturing prowess.
  • The US is the world’s top producer of both oil and gas. In 2023, fossil fuels were 75% of US energy production, with natural gas accounting for 38.2% and crude oil accounting for 26.1%. Renewable energy sources comprised 8.2%. Nuclear energy was at 8.1%.
  • Ford CEO Jim Farley declared, “Artificial Intelligence is going to replace literally half of all white-collar workers in the US. AI will leave a lot of white-collar people behind.
  • 50% say they’re more concerned than excited about the increased use of AI in daily life, up from 37% in 2021. More than half of Americans (57%) rate the societal risks of AI as high, compared with 25% who say the benefits of AI are high.
  • 65% of Americans believe businesses have a positive impact on people’s lives.

Cary Chamber Economic Development Report

The President of the Cary Chamber provided a quarterly Economic Development Report this week. Here are some of the takeaways:

  • Unemployment Data:
    • Cary: 3.3% (as of 8/31/25)
    • Wake County: 3.5% (as of 8/31/25)
    • North Carolina: 3.7% (as of 8/31/25)
    • United States: 4.3% (as of 8/31/25) – note, due to the government shutdown, the Sept. data for the US was not available.
  • Consumer Price Index:
 Month202020212022202320242025
Jan257.971261.582281.148299.17311.08320.32
Feb258.678263.014283.716300.84312.041320.775
Mar258.115264.877287.504301.836313.224321.105
Apr256.389267.054289.109303.363314.133321.489
May256.394269.195292.296304.127315.012321.75
Jun257.797271.696296.311305.109315.933321.98
Jul259.101273.003296.276306.016316.734323.048
Aug259.918273.567296.171307.026317.241323.976
Sep260.28274.31296.808307.789317.693
Oct260.388276.589298.012308.352318.301
Nov260.229277.948297.711309.26319.014
Dec260.474278.802296.797310.149319.811
  • Annual Inflation Rates
YearJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAug
202532.82.42.32.42.72.72.9
  • 2025 avg year to date is 2.65%
  • 5 yr avg is 4.18%
  • Business Recruiting Pipeline: Active Projects: 16; Potential Jobs: 4,302; Potential Investment: $1.8B; Industries: Advanced Manufacturing, Life Science, IT, Research & Development, and Clean Tech.
  • Heron Therapeutics moved their main operations from San Diego to Cary. They develop and commercialize innovative treatments primarily for oncology and acute care settings.
  • Invicta Water relocated their business from Burlington, NC to Cary to have a larger operation, be in a more modern space, and to further expand their client reach. They specialize in the removal and destruction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” from water sources. Unlike traditional methods that merely filter or capture PFAS, Invicta Water’s technology aims to eliminate these harmful substances without producing toxic byproducts.
  • Park Overlook’s first phase is now complete. This west Cary development is in a prime location for this type of product type. They have signed 3 leases so far and have consistent activity from brokers showing the buildings.
  • The planning for the Cary Chamber Intercity visit is underway. After several meetings with our planning committee, we have focused our attention Minneapolis and St. Paul. The spring trip dates we are focused on are Sunday May 3rd – Wednesday May 6th. The programming days of the trip are May 4th and 5th, with allotting the 3rd and 6th for travel.

Citizens’ Police Academy Graduation

Wednesday night I had the joy of attending the 50th graduation class ceremony of the Cary Police Academy. This group of citizens spent three hours for nine weeks learning everything there is to know about our police department. They now have the option of becoming part of the CAP team (Citizens Assisting Police).

I joined Chief Sult in providing remarks before we joined officers in handing out certificates and having pictures made with each of the graduates.

Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board

Thursday night I attended a meeting of the HRID (Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board). The agenda included a presentation and assessment of the Cary Senior Center, the election of a Vice Chair, and the discussion and approval of their annual work plan.

Annual Veterans Luncheon

Friday, I had the honor of attending the annual Veterans Luncheon at Prestonwood which was sponsored by the Town of Cary. It was a capacity crowd of veterans and their families. Our emcee was Jack Smith, the Cary council’s only veteran.

I, along with Smith and council member Bansal, greeted veterans as they arrived and provided them with a pin.

In a special moment, I was able to meet and have my picture made with the only World War II veteran in the audience. He was 99 years old.

Next week we will hold a Veterans Day Observance ceremony at the Veterans Freedom Park on North Harrison Avenue.

Cub Scout Pack 216 Den 12 Community Meeting

Sunday evening, I had the joy of visiting with Cub Scout Pack 216. We talked about the difference between majority and plurality forms of elections. Then I answered questions for about half an hour. We had a wonderful time. Before I left, they presented me with bags of popcorn which they have been selling to raise money. What a treat! Then we had our picture made. It was a great way to finish the weekend, and I hope they invite me back in the future.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

It’s been an exciting week in Cary! Congratulations to Brittany Richards and Bella Huang on their wins in Districts A and C, respectively, and to Carissa Johnson on her re-election to the At-Large seat. I look forward to working with them in the future.

I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Councilmember Jack Smith and Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson for their many years of service and dedication to Cary. Our town is a wonderful place to live because of your unwavering commitment and leadership. Thank you for your service.

This past week, our staff and I organized a meeting with parents of Panther Creek High School students to discuss their concerns about pedestrian safety. It was a very productive and engaging conversation. Parents shared valuable feedback and thoughtful suggestions that will help guide our next steps. Listening to their perspectives provided a deeper understanding of the challenges students face, and I truly appreciate everyone’s time and input as we work together toward safer routes to school.

Sarika Bansal

District D Council Member

Carpenter Village State of Cary Presentation

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the State of Cary to residents of the Carpenter Village community. Following the presentation, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Lori Bush and Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined him to answer questions and engage with attendees.

Panther Creek High School Crosswalk Discussion

Councilmember Sarika Bansal participated in a community meeting held by the Town of Cary in partnership with Panther Creek High School to discuss requests for a crosswalk and pedestrian signal to support student safety.

A Cause for Celebration

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended Arise Collective’s A Cause for Celebration 2025; the organization’s annual fundraising event held on October 30 at The Palm venue in Cary. The evening highlighted powerful stories of second chances and honored community leadership during the 6th Annual Hope Awards. Honorees included Wheels4Hope as Angel of Hope, Tanisha “Chef T” Carter as Beacon of Hope, and First Lady Anna Stein as Champion of Hope.

2025 Taste of China Festival

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered welcome remarks at the 2025 Taste of China – Chinese Food and Culture Festival, hosted by the Chinese American Friendship Association of North Carolina. Councilmember Sarika Bansal was also in attendance. The event featured traditional performances, Chinese cuisine, and cultural exhibits, celebrating Chinese culture with families and community members.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

I want to begin by congratulating Heather Whelehan and Jimmy Simpson for stepping into expanded roles with the Town – Heather as our Planning and Community Development Director and Jimmy as our Interim Public Works Director. Jimmy has nearly 20 years of experience in Cary Public Works, while Heather has more than 15 years in several states working in the planning and community field. I am proud of them and look forward to the ideas and energy they’ll bring to their new responsibilities.

On Thursday, I had the privilege of representing Cary at the Salesforce State and Local Government Summit in Atlanta, where I joined a panel on Reimagining Constituent and Employee Experiences to Build Trust and Drive Outcomes. Speaking with peers from across the country reaffirmed the value of Cary’s approach, where culture guides innovation and technology support staff in doing their best work. I am left grateful for the reminder that Cary’s strength continues to come from its people and the culture we’ve built together.

Please note that Town Hall and most staffed facilities will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day, and there will not be a Town Manager’s Weekly Report on Friday, Nov. 14, following our Quarterly Meeting next Thursday. I look forward to seeing you all there.

Quarterly Economic Development Report

Cary Chamber of Commerce President Mark Lawson submitted a summary of economic development activity between Aug. 1 and October 28.

Loose Leaf Collection Begins

Public Works leaf collection crews began the annual Loose Leaf Collection on November 3, working across town to keep streets clean and clear. Citizens can view the interactive map on the Loose Leaf Collection page for real-time updates, schedules, and helpful tips.

Holiday Decorating Begins

Public Works crews will begin installing holiday decorations throughout the Downtown Business Improvement District on November 12, with all decorating scheduled for completion by November 28. The display footprint will mirror last year’s, featuring festive light displays and decorations across downtown. Visitors can explore the online map to find their favorite decorations and learn more about Cary’s seasonal events.

Hunter Street Opens

The extension of Hunter Street from E. Chatham Street to E. Cedar Street opened this week. Constructed through the development agreement with Meridian East Chatham, the 0.10-mile segment enhances connectivity within the downtown corridor and adds new pedestrian facilities and on-street parking.

Norwell Boulevard Sidewalk Substantially Complete

Construction of the new sidewalk along Norwell Boulevard, from Bexley Bluff Lane to Weston Parkway, is substantially complete. The project closes a key gap in the pedestrian network and includes ADA-compliant curb ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. Funded through federal transit funding provided by the Locally Administered Project Program (LAPP), the project improves connections to nearby transit facilities, strengthening Cary’s multimodal network and ensuring transit riders can complete their journeys.

Environmental Defense Fund Case Study

Cary welcomed the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) on Wednesday to conduct interviews with staff and gather footage for a national case study on municipal sustainability, innovation, and fleet electrification. The visit stemmed from a pitch developed by Cary’s Marketing team, who also coordinated the production.

The report will feature the Pierce Volterra electric fire truck and highlight Cary’s long-term planning and cross-departmental collaboration as a model for other local governments. The visit’s success reflects the teamwork of staff from the Town Manager’s Office, Fire Department, and Public Works.

Chamber Intercity Planning Trip

This week, Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry and Assistant Director of Administrative Services Brittany Edwards joined representatives from the Cary Chamber of Commerce for a 2026 InterCity Trip planning visit to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The trip, scheduled for May 3 – 6, 2026, will include new development, redevelopment, and public-private partnership information.

MCNC Community Day

Chief Information Officer (CIO) Nicole Coughlin represented Cary on the Not Your Average Women in Tech panel at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina (MCNC) Community Day, joining an inspiring group of women leading innovation across NC. The panel featured voices from both public and private sectors. The discussion explored how women are shaping the future of technology through AI, quantum computing, and digital transformation. Nicole highlighted how Cary’s people-first approach and focus on innovation, collaboration, and responsible technology adoption are defining what it means to lead in the digital age.

Veterans Day Luncheon at Prestonwood

On Friday, Cary hosted 350 veterans at the annual Veterans Day Luncheon at Prestonwood Country Club. This cherished tradition brings the community together each year to recognize and thank those who have served our country.

Councilmember Jack Smith, a veteran himself, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for an afternoon of remembrance and gratitude. Keynote speaker Amy Dozier shared her family’s story of service and sacrifice in honor of her husband, Sgt. Jonathan Kilian Dozier, who was killed in action in Iraq. Her remarks offered a moving reminder of the cost of freedom and the resilience of military families.

Cary was proud to partner with American Legion Cary Post 67, whose presentation of the colors added a powerful sense of tradition to the ceremony. The Veterans Day Luncheon continues to reflect Cary’s deep appreciation for the courage, service, and sacrifice of those who have served.

CAP Team Graduation

On November 5, the Police Department graduated 14 students from its Citizens Police Academy (CPA). The CPA is a 10-week, free program offered to Cary residents for a close-up view of the Police Department. The course is a prerequisite for citizens interested in becoming members of the Police Department’s Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) team.

GoCary Outreach at the Cary Senior Center

This week, Transit Public Outreach Specialist Fabian Rodriguez and Transportation Program Coordinator Sheri Legans led an educational session at the Senior Center as part of the Community Connections series. The presentation included a walkthrough of the GoCary app and an overview of two newly launched routes, helping participants learn how to confidently use local transit services. The session reflects Cary’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and community engagement for older adults.

Taste of China Festival

On Saturday, the Chinese-American Friendship Association hosted the 3rd annual Taste of China Food & Culture Festival at Downtown Cary Park, welcoming an estimated 10,000 visitors. The event celebrated Chinese culture through food, art, and performances, with more than 40 food vendors along Academy Street and 30 artisan booths throughout the park. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht offered welcoming remarks and was joined by Councilmember Sarika Bansal and several state dignitaries.

Important Dates

Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, November 10
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, November 12
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Quarterly)
Thursday, November 13
1:00 p.m.

Councilmember Jack Smith’s Farewell Celebration
Wednesday, November 19
5:00 p.m.

Cary Council Results

An election for three of seven council seats was held on Tuesday, November 4th. They included District A, District C, and an At-Large seat. Here are the results of the election:

At-Large

Carissa Johnson            22,184     65.00%

Marjorie K. Eastman    11,878     34.8%

District A

Brittany Richards          5,756       59.19%

Jennifer Robinson         3,956       40.68%

District C

Bella Huang                  7,116        64.80%

Renee Miller                 3,864        35.02%

Council members will be sworn in on Thursday, December 4th.

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 about the lack of a traffic signal at McCrimmon Parkway and Channing Park Circle.
  • A complaint about jaywalking on Walnut Street at Cary High School.
  • A complaint about Cary discontinuing shredding events.
  • A question about serving on the Economic Development Committee.
  • Several invitations to events.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Cary’s Veterans Day Observation, the Dorcas Breakfast including branding, a council-staff quarterly, and the Chinese Lantern Festival.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 16th, 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.