Cary Tennis Park #1 Municipal Facility in US
Cary Tennis Park was named Municipal Facility of the Year by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) magazine. Here is the press release from the town:
CARY, N.C. – Cary Tennis Park has been named Municipal Facility of the Year by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) magazine, marking the second time the world’s leading tennis and racquet sports publication has honored the venue with this distinction.
“Cary Tennis Park means a great deal to our community,” said Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “For more than 20 years, it has been a place where people of all ages can play, train to compete, see rising stars, or watch some of the best players in the world. That kind of place doesn’t happen by accident, and this national award is a testament to the dedication of our staff and volunteers who bring life to this facility each day.”
Developed at the direction of Cary’s Town Council and shaped by extensive public input, Cary Tennis Park opened in 2002 following a comprehensive master planning process aimed at creating a premier, centralized tennis facility for the region. Built in partnership with Green Hope High School, the project represented a $6 million investment and quickly became one of the largest and most innovative public tennis complexes in the Southeast.
“We try to make the park a place people enjoy coming to, and that takes a lot of hands behind the scenes. This honor really belongs to them,” said John Collins, director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources. “They’re the ones setting up courts, greeting players, solving problems, and keeping the park welcoming. I’m grateful for their work and glad to see it recognized.”
Today, the 24-acre park welcomes more than 300,000 visitors annually, hosts 20+ sanctioned tournaments, and serves as a year-round hub for athletes of all ages and skill levels, making about $3 million in total economic impact throughout the community each year. The complex features 25 lighted outdoor courts, seven covered courts, four permanent pickleball courts, scenic pedestrian bridges, and a wide range of tennis programs, lessons, leagues, and community events.
This year’s RSI Champions of Tennis awards also honored longtime Cary resident and Western Wake Tennis Association Executive Director Laura Weygandt as the magazine’s Grassroots Champion of the Year. Weygandt was recognized for her impact on players of all abilities through more than a decade of volunteer work, her leadership in United States Tennis Association (USTA) Southern, and her advocacy for adaptive tennis through organizations like Wheel Serve NC.
Cary Tennis Park continues to expand its reputation on the professional circuit as well. In 2024, the Cary Tennis Classic advanced from an ATP Challenger Tour 75 to a Challenger Tour 100 event, and Cary added a Women’s Professional WTT Tour 100 event. The tennis park also welcomed the debut of the Pro Pickleball Association’s (PPA) North Carolina Cup, part of its national PPA Tour, bringing top-ranked athletes and national broadcast attention to the venue.
In 2019, the complex received the USTA Featured Facility Award and was previously honored in 2006 with both the USTA Outstanding Facility Award and RSI’s Municipal Facility of the Year. Cary Tennis Park is managed by Cary’s Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources department, which was named the USTA North Carolina Outstanding Parks & Recreation Department in 2023.
For more information, visit carync.gov/tennis.
Cary is blessed to have such an amazing facility. Even if you don’t like tennis, it provides millions of dollars in economic benefits each year. Congratulations to the PRCR (Parks Recreation Cultural Resources) staff and to the Cary Tennis Park staff headed up by Sean Ferreira.
Cary Clerk Receives Evergreen Excellence Award
Ginny Johnson, Cary’s Town Clerk, received Evergreen Excellence Award from the Central Pines Regional Council. The Evergreen Excellence Award recognizes a leader whose professionalism, integrity, and dedication have strengthened both their community and its relationships with neighboring municipalities. Johnson’s work ensures seamless community events, promotes inclusivity and transparent communication, and reinforces Cary’s reputation as a collaborative regional partner. Her consistent engagement with regional stakeholders has built trust, transparency, and strong intergovernmental cooperation.
Staff – Council Briefings
In the past Cary Council members received staff updates from the manager. This has now been changed to having two council members, the mayor, and four senior staff members including the Deputy Manager. This will provide consistent and timely information to all council members. I attended all three of these meetings this week. This week I participated in three meetings of this nature where staff provided updates.
Council Meeting Prep
Monday I contacted each council member to hear of any concerns related to the upcoming agenda on Thursday. I walked through each agenda item with the two new council members. Later in the day I met with staff to go over the agenda items.
Leadership Cary
Tuesday I spoke to several dozen business leaders at the Cary Chamber as part of their Leadership Cary class. I talked about my role as mayor and answered several questions. Businesses ARE the backbone of our community, and I was encouraged by the number of business leaders attending.
Council Work Session – Policies and Procedures
The first work session with the two newest council members was held Tuesday evening. I spent the first few minutes talking about trust and understanding the council.
My comments were based on a presentation I have given around the country with past national president of the American Public Works Association. The talk, called “Are You Listening” helps public work managers, other staff, and elected officials understand how to trust each other and work better together. These talks are part of my role as a Government Relations consultant with a local engineering firm.
After my brief talk the council reviewed and commented on policies and procedures:
Policy 143: Rules of Procedure for the Cary Town Council
Policy 150: Rules of Order for Boards and Commissions
Policy 152: Public Records Policy
Policy 164: Ethics Policy for Town Council
Policy 181: Conflicts of Interest and Gift Policy
There weren’t a lot of discussion points among council members, so the work session lasted about forty-five minutes. This was followed by a three-hour closed session.
Council Work Session – South Hills Service District
Thursday evening the council held their second work session of the week. The topics were calendar review for early next year, a proposed South Hills Service District, the Biennial Survey, and a sales tax update.
A municipal service district is a defined area within a municipality or county where an additional property tax is charged to provide extras services. Extra services could include maintenance, revitalization, environmental improvements, and more. While most of the property owners within South Hills are in favor, a few are not. A proposal for a plan will be brought to council for a vote in January. Then there will be notifications and public hearings.
The biennial survey will begin on January 12 and run through February. Cary has been doing this survey every two years since 1998. While some of the questions will be new, many will remain the same so that comparisons can be made.
In the sales tax update, encouraging news was presented. August sales tax receipts are up 2.13%, September up 6.64%, and October up 10.05% over the last year. While this is early in the fiscal year, which began on July 1st, it is much better than the 1% we budgeted.
Council Meeting
The last regularly scheduled council meeting of the year was held Thursday night. The agenda included speakers at Public Speaks Out, consent agenda, one public hearing, and one discussion item.
Public Speaks Out speakers mostly bashed the town and its council for not providing information about the manager’s suspension. Two of the speakers were candidates who were defeated in the last election. We are not allowed to talk about the town manager’s leave according to state statutes. Doing so would break the law and could put the town at legal risk. I applaud council colleagues who choose to stay silent and protect the town. It is like being in a fight with both hands behind your back and not being allowed to talk. The truth will come out one day and I, for one, will be glad.
The four items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously and included 2026 advisory board meeting schedule, the White Oak Church Road Annexation 25-A-04, the White Oak Church Road rezoning 25-REZ-07, and the Fairbanks Road Rezoning 25-REZ-09.
The public hearing was an annexation request by the owner of the property at 2220 Jones Franklin Road due to poor well water quality. After the public hearing the council unanimously approved.
The discussion item was to authorize $40,000 to evaluate options for the future of the Citizen’s Convenience Center. The center must be moved since part of it is on the North Carolina Railroad right-of-way and they want that back within a year. This was also approved unanimously.
Karen Gray’s Retirement
Friday afternoon I had the joy of attending the retirement ceremony for Karen Gray who has worked in the town clerk’s office and town attorney’s office for decades. What a wonderful lady who helped so many of us over the years. And of course, her personality made her a friend to many people including myself. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her over the years and to be her friend. I wish her the best in her retirement.
Wreaths Across America
Saturday I was honored to participate in the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Hillcrest Cemetery. The event was attended by over a hundred people including Cary High School JROTC who I joined in a picture. As part of the ceremony, I provided remarks which included the following:
“Good afternoon! It is an honor to join you today for the Wreaths Across America ceremony, an annual tradition that brings us together in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. Each year, this moment calls us to pause and recognize the extraordinary men and women who answered the call to serve our nation with courage, integrity, and selfless devotion.
As we stand among these headstones, each adorned with a wreath placed with care, we are reminded that behind every name is a story. A life lived in service to something greater than oneself. These are stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and love of country. Today, we gather not only as members of the Cary community, but as Americans united in our promise to remember.
Wreaths Across America teaches us an important mission: to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach future generations the value of freedom. May today’s ceremony strengthens our commitment to that mission and inspire us to carry these values forward. Through our actions, our service, and our support for veterans, service members, and their families.
Thank you for being here today and for helping to ensure that these heroes are never forgotten. Your presence is a powerful reminder that remembrance endures, and gratitude lives on in this community.”
After my remarks I thanked the veterans attending and placed a wreath on one of the hundreds of veterans in the cemetery.
Cary Jaycees Parade
Saturday afternoon I had the joy of being part of the Cary Christmas parade. I was in vintage 1960’s Olds with my wife, retired Cary Planner Debra Grannon and her husband Bob. The parade lasted about an hour and forty-five minutes. Based on my estimation, I believe the attendance has doubled in the last ten years and increased significantly in the last five. While we are no longer allowed to throw out candy, for safety reasons, we did have volunteers from Cary Teen Council passing it out. As is my tradition, I wore a black top hat, waved, and said Merry Christmas to all I saw. I was warmly greeted by those in attendance even with a “We love you mayor!”.
Thanks to the Jaycees, the Cary Fire and Police departments for making this a safe and wonderful event.
Manager’s Weekly Report
Council,
This week began with an opportunity to welcome Councilmembers Bella Huang and Brittany Richards to our Directors’ Meeting, where we shared insights about our roles and responsibilities. This was a great introduction and truly valuable for building strong working relationships that will serve us well going forward. Your leadership was evident throughout the week—from special events to board meetings, work sessions, and our regular meetings and I’m grateful for the time and thoughtful discussion you brought to each. As we head into the weekend, I’m excited about the parade and looking forward to seeing you there tomorrow.
Assistant Town Manager
Dana Widmar
November 13 Quarterly Meeting Question About Dragonflies
This question came up at our Quarterly Meeting, regarding the new wetlands downtown, and it’s true: one mature dragonfly can eat up to 100 mosquitoes a day, making them a helpful part of Cary’s balanced outdoor ecosystems. Cary’s landscape and wetland plantings are selected with multiple benefits in mind. Along with being drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and visually appealing, many plants are chosen because they provide habitat for beneficial species, like dragonflies.
Plants such as pickerelweed, swamp milkweed, water lilies, and black-eyed Susans help create the right environment for dragonflies to thrive. In some parks and wetland areas, staff have intentionally planted around ponds with this benefit in mind, while also tracking dragonfly species to better understand the success of these habitats.
These same plants also support pollinators. Staff regularly shares this “layered” approach to plant selection through classes, social media, and event materials, highlighting how small, thoughtful decisions contribute to keeping Cary’s parks and public spaces healthy, enjoyable, and well cared for.
Intersection Upgrades
Two intersections in western Cary and one downtown were recently converted from two-way stops to all-way stops: Preston Village Way at Walcott Way, Park York Lane at Fryar Creek Drive, and South West Street at West Park Street. Each conversion followed a citizen request and staff assessment confirming that an all-way stop would improve mobility for both pedestrians and drivers. The new stop signs are equipped with LEDs that flash continuously to draw attention to the change and will be replaced with static signs in approximately three months.
Heart of the Holidays
Heart of the Holidays kicked off in Downtown Cary Park with Photos with Santa, drawing more than 1,400 visitors for games and holiday treats served by Teen Council. For the first time, Santa also made a special visit to the Neighborhood Park on Carpenter Fire Station Road. Throughout downtown, families enjoyed seasonal activities along South Academy Street, including curling, snowball fights, and a holiday market. The celebration featured 105 Gifting Trees, the 15th Annual Gingerbread House Competition, and Victorian Christmas at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, which welcomed 450 guests for carolers, crafts, and historic décor. The evening concluded with more than 5,000 people gathering alongside Mayor Weinbrecht and Council to light the Downtown Cary Park Christmas tree.
Holiday “Light Seeing” with the GoCary Downtown Loop
Two nights remain for GoCary’s special Downtown Loop “light-seeing” service; Tuesday, December 16, and Tuesday, December 23. This free, no-reservation service invites the community to enjoy twinkling lights, festive decorations, and other Heart of the Holidays activities. The Downtown Loop will follow its regular route, beginning at the Town Hall parking deck at 6 p.m. and running continuously until 8 p.m., with each loop taking about 25 minutes. Parking is available at Town Hall, and riders may board at the bus stop outside the parking deck or at any of the 13 Downtown Loop stops.
Cary Named Global Industry Champion in SAS Hackathon
Cary was selected as the Global Industry Champion in the Internet of Things (IoT) category at the 2025 SAS Hackathon for a project that analyzed traffic patterns, population and employment density, existing Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and zoning data to identify optimal locations for future EV charging stations. The data-driven model, developed by team members Cayla Denning, Naeem Toomer, and Sara Caliendo, will help inform smarter planning, advance sustainability goals, and enhance mobility for residents and visitors. Learn more about the award-winning project here.
Community Cyber Safety Outreach at Laurel Park Elementary
The Information Technology (IT) Security team was invited by the Laurel Park Elementary PTA and principal to participate in the school’s annual science fair. IT Security Manager Erik Chapman delivered a 30-minute cyber safety presentation for approximately 40 parents, fifth-grade students, and staff. The presentation prompted a thoughtful discussion among the group. Principal Lovett shared appreciation for the partnership and invited the team to return for future sessions.
Important Dates
Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, December 17
6:00 p.m.
Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, December 17
6:15 p.m.
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.
Statement and Comments on Town Manager and News Stories
At the time of writing this I am still unable to talk about the town manager’s leave. The statement I issued at the work session on December 9th still holds:
“Tonight marks our first televised and streamed council work session. Moving forward, all work sessions, quarterly meetings, and retreats will be accessible for public viewing. I introduced this proposal at our November meeting, and it was unanimously approved by the council.
Transparency and accountability are extremely important to me, which is why making all of our meetings publicly available is essential. This step is especially critical in light of recent events.
A public records request submitted several weeks ago produced receipts, emails, and other documents that revealed certain key information had not been shared with me or the full council, and that decisions were made without council approval.
While I would like to provide more details about the manager’s leave, state law currently prevents me from doing so. However, as soon as we are legally permitted to share additional information, we will.”
It is my hope that we will be able to provide information soon.
There was a news story this past week about the town manager’s spending at an ICMA (International City/County Management Association) conference in Austin, Texas in 2023. In the story it talks about my presence there as if I was representing the town. Not true. Why did they add this to the story? Who knows. I am guessing they are angry because I won’t break the law and provide more information about the town manager’s leave. What was their intention? Not sure. But it made people question my integrity. And now the truth about me behind the misleading news story about my presence at this conference …
I work part time (average about five hours a week) as a Government Relations consultant with an engineering firm based in the area. I am not allowed to work on any issues related to Cary. Part of my job is to go around the country and give talks with past national President of the APWA (American Public Works Association) and sometimes help with the company’s booth. The purpose of those booths is to gather sales leads. In the evening the marketing people host those leads at dinner. At this conference there were not enough leads to fill the table that was reserved. They asked if I would contact the Cary people to see if they would attend. And that was what I did. Shame on the media outlet for trying to imply there was more going on.
Mayor’s Mailbox
- Several complaints about lack of information on Manager’s leave.
- A complaint about water service being cut off.
- A complaint about a neighbor’s “light pollution”.
- A video that included Cary’s Mayton Inn.
- Several thank you messages about my commitment, dedication, and courage.
- A complaint about a site plan approval.
- A complaint about leaving the soccer facility after a College Cup match.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Wake County Mayors Holiday event, Hanukkah Menorah Lighting, Sister Cities Holiday Party, and a Holiday walking tour event.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 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.
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