Year End Message
This is my final blog post of 2025, and I want to reflect on a few important things we will be carrying with us into 2026.
Cary remains the best of the best, our employees, our financial position, our strong business climate, and the recognition we continue to receive through award after award. You’ll hear much more about this in the 2026 State of Cary, so stay tuned.
That success is possible because in Cary, being the best never depends on one person. It depends on all of us. We will not only move beyond Stegall’s tenure, but we will also grow stronger together.
As many of us began to learn toward the end of 2025, Stegall’s actions and decisions became increasingly unwise, less transparent, and hurtful to many of the people who worked most closely with him. I am grateful to those who came forward to help confirm and expand upon what I, and others, learned, much of it through what appear to be anonymous public records requests.
At this point, we are not aware of anything strictly illegal that Stegall did. However, two significant matters will be carried into 2026: the review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, and the Council’s own internal investigation being conducted by Womble Bond Dickinson.
While Womble’s work has only just begun, the State Auditor is already in possession of what may be hundreds of thousands of records. I don’t know how long their review will take or when their report will be released, but I continue to welcome and support their partnership in getting to the full truth of what occurred under Stegall’s “leadership.” Both investigations will help make us stronger as we move forward. In my experience, reviews of this scope are unprecedented in modern North Carolina local government, and I hope the resulting updates to our policies, procedures, and practices will serve as a model for others so that something like this never happens again.
Regarding policies and practices, at my direction the Council began a public discussion of ours during the December work session. We must do more, and we must do so openly. That is why, on November 20, I made a motion to live-stream all remote meetings. I appreciate the unanimous support of my Council colleagues, and I believe this change is already having a positive impact. Many people are watching, and that transparency matters.
Another positive we are carrying into 2026 is Interim Town Manager Russ Overton, who has truly hit the ground running. Russ brings much-needed stability, sound judgment, and a strong commitment to transparency. He has instituted a practice of meeting only with small groups of Council members, no one-on-one meetings as occurred in the past, to ensure everyone stays informed. He is also joined by at least one other staff member in these meetings, so discussions are properly documented and shared. This added “light” is both welcome and necessary.
That same level of transparency will extend to our upcoming budget process. Expect more budget discussions to take place in live-stream meetings that are open to the public.
At our December 15 emergency meeting, I promised to keep you, our citizens, updated, and I intend to keep that promise. If you don’t like where we’re heading, tell us. Attend a Council meeting or send us an email. We want to hear from you.
This month also marks the launch of our 2026 Biennial Citizens Satisfaction Survey. For the first time, it includes questions specifically about trust. If you are one of the 400 Cary residents selected to participate, please take the call. The survey takes about 20 minutes, and we know your time is valuable. We have conducted this survey every two years since 1998, something no other government can claim, and we carefully review and act on the results. All past survey results are available on our website at www.carync.gov .
Finally, for the first time in more than 10 years, we will also be conducting an employee survey. I greatly appreciate Russ’s leadership on this effort. The Council requested such a survey for years, and it never happened. Given everything our employees have experienced during this Town Hall transition, it is imperative that we hear from them and continue to support them. Our employees are a vital part of what makes Cary the best of the best.
Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items
Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary?
Yes.
Cary was a victim of fraud. While safeguards exist to prevent this type of incident, they were not followed in this case. Through the combined efforts of the Cary Police Department, the FBI, and the bank, the funds were successfully recovered. Specific details regarding how the recovery was accomplished cannot be disclosed.
Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
The town entered into a contractual agreement with Stegall in 2016. That agreement provided for six months of severance unless he committed a criminal act, a provision that is common in employment contracts nationwide. While his actions were clearly harmful, there is no indication that he committed a crime.
Under the terms of the contract, the severance obligation applied whether he resigned or was terminated. Had the town refused to honor the agreement, Stegall could have pursued legal action and likely would have still been entitled to severance, resulting in additional costs to taxpayers. Prolonged litigation also carried the risk of further harm, including the potential for lies, or public disparagement of the town and its employees.
At this time, there is no evidence that his conduct was technically illegal, though the investigation is ongoing and may provide additional clarity.
While it was difficult to pay a significant sum to someone whose actions caused substantial harm, honoring the contract was necessary and represented the most responsible course of action to protect the town’s legal and financial interests.
Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
The mayor and council serve as members of a policy-making board. We are not full-time employees, nor do we maintain offices at Town Hall, and we do not oversee day-to-day operations. Those responsibilities rest with the town manager. This structure is known as the council-manager form of government and is used by most municipalities in North Carolina.
As a result, the manager was able to conceal his actions from the policy board, and I was unaware of his inappropriate conduct until public records requests were submitted this fall. When I first learned of the tuition expense in October, I immediately questioned the town manager about it. At that time, he defended the expenditure, and I was not aware of the full scope of the spending. Notably, he then cancelled nearly all my one-on-one meetings for the following month and a half, until the council placed him on leave.
After a second public records request was released, I went back and looked at the first one and learned that the total amount spent on tuition exceeded $25,000. I then sent an email expressing my concerns and cc’d the council. Shortly thereafter, several staff members, who requested anonymity, provided additional information, including concerns regarding land purchases and misrepresentations about the fund balance.
At that point, I contacted our auditor, Cherry Bekaert, to report what I had learned. This led to Sean’s formal review, which began on November 18 and concluded on November 20, when the council called for his resignation.
Here is my timeline of events for everything I recall:
- September 1: First record request from A. Williams
- September 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council
- Council Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for two council members.
- Staff Related Records Folder: emails and receipts for Stegall and four other staff members
- Council emails, expenses, and reimbursements for all council members including me
- Staff emails, expenses, and reimbursements including Stegall
- Public records can be found here.
- October 12: Public Records request for texts by A. Williams for all receipts, per diems, reimbursements, etc.
- None found and presented
- October 13: I questioned Stegall about tuition at one-on-one meeting
- Stegall cancels all but two weekly one-on-one meetings with me after that
- October 30: A link to records for A. Williams released to council, Part 2 (text requests)
- November 5: I verify land purchase next to Cary Elementary with Wake County Real estate records
- November 13: Council Quarterly, Stegall says fund balance never was below policy which was a false statement
- November 14: I called auditor Cherry Bekaert and tell them about what I have heard
- November 14: I send email to Stegall and council:
“I reviewed this spreadsheet and looked back at previous information for A. Williams.
Based on my observations we have spent over $25,000 on tuition, which concerns me. I expressed this concern to Sean in our one-on-one a few weeks ago.
What is the projected final total for these costs? I am worried that it looks like gifts and favors especially since this is not an option for town employees. I think as a council we need to understand how it gets approved and paid. It is also troubling to me now since we are in the middle of an audit.
We should discuss this at the policy and procedure work session set for December. Thanks”
- Beginning early November: Several staff approached me anonymously about their concerns:
- Stegall lying about fund balance policyStegall elaborate spending including hotel receiptsSpending Tuition on a council member when staff doesn’t get the same benefit.Land purchase next to Cary Elementary using money budgeted for “smart” improvements to parking decks. Land to be used for affordable housing, a Guardian ad litem project, or open space. Only two council members were aware.Old library site to be used for affordable housing.
- Millions of dollars in contracts with friends (a company named G&H) with little or no outcomes (no other details provided to date)
- November 15: I prepared to convince my colleagues to remove Stegall
- November 18: Council began annual review of Stegall
- November 20: Due to my concerns about transparency, I made a motion in our regularly scheduled meeting that all council meetings, remote and in chambers, should be televised, which was passed unanimously
- November 20: In a Closed Session meeting Sean asked to resign and is put on leave
- Week of November 24: Council member pays back tuition
- December 4: New Council members sworn in
- December 11: First meeting with new council members
- December 13: Stegall resigns
- December 15: Special Meeting to announce Stegall’s resignation
When did you learn about the land purchase next to Cary Elementary?
I learned in early November that two parcels of land adjacent to Cary Elementary had been purchased. I later verified the transactions in July 2024 using the Wake County Real Estate website.
Stegall had authority for up to $1 million in discretionary spending. Because the two parcels were acquired through separate contracts, each individual purchase did not exceed that threshold, allowing staff to execute the agreements without bringing them before the Town Council for approval. Although the parcels are adjacent and likely intended for a single future project, one that would ultimately require Council approval, they were treated as separate transactions.
Stegall directed staff to purchase the parcels separately, which was technically legal. However, the purchases were not disclosed to the full Council. This appears to have been done to avoid public discussion and to accommodate the preferences of a small subset of Council members. The land acquisition is one example of how Sean operated in secrecy and in ways that benefited individual Council members rather than the Council as a whole.
The first parcel, measuring 0.58 acres, was assessed at $149,064 but purchased by the town for $379,000. The second parcel, approximately 1 acre, was assessed at $248,292 and purchased for $686,000. Combined, the total cost of the two purchases exceeded $1 million. The money came from a budgeted item for smart technology for our parking deck.
What changes have you made and will you make?
At the November 20 council meeting, I made a motion, approved by the council, to ensure that all council meetings are streamed and televised. I viewed this as an essential first step toward greater transparency.
Second, the council has eliminated one-on-one meetings. Going forward, informational update meetings with the town manager will include two council members and the mayor, along with three additional staff members. These are referred to as “3 x 4” meetings.
Additional changes will also be implemented in how the budget is reviewed.
Finally, the internal review being conducted by Womble, Bond, and Dickinson is expected to lead to further procedural changes.
Why did you say downtown trolleys were returned when they were not?
Unfortunately, this is very misleading story by the News and Observer. I am surprised that this is what I am being asked to address when there are more pressing issues facing our town.
In the blog post they reference from October 29, 2023, you will see a single statement about trolleys is listed under the work session notes. At that time, I was simply relaying information that staff had presented to the council.
Regarding the trolleys, here are the facts as I understand them. The town manager sent a staff member to accept delivery of the trolleys. That individual was not qualified to determine whether the trolleys met ADA compliance requirements. As a result, the town was placed in a difficult position when we later attempted to return them and the seller refused.
Subsequent negotiations were discussed in closed session, and state statute prohibits disclosure of those discussions. That is why no further details appeared on my blog. In the meantime, the trolleys were stored while the town attempted to resolve the matter.
Ultimately, the trolleys were sold to another community that was aware they were not ADA compliant and chose to purchase them anyway. The sale price was close to the depreciated value. While the town did incur a loss, it could have been significantly worse.
The fundamental error was the manager’s decision to send an unqualified individual to accept the trolleys. Council relies on management to exercise sound judgment and make informed decisions on behalf of the town.
Do you have conflicts of interest?
No.
In North Carolina, an elected official has a conflict of interest (COI) when their personal financial or familial interests clash with their public duties, generally meaning they can’t participate in decisions benefiting themselves or close relations, with specific laws like G.S. 14-234.3 targeting nonprofit board roles, and G.S. Chapter 138A setting broader ethical standards for state officials, requiring disclosure, recusal, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, especially in contracts or quasi-judicial matters like zoning.
The N&O had a story 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 didn’t break the law and didn’t provide them with more information about the town manager’s leave until he resigned. What was their intention? Not sure. I am guessing character assassination. But it made people question my integrity. Unfortunately, the N&O seems to be focused on creating misinformation rather than telling the facts. …
Here are the facts:
I own a consulting firm, Weinbrecht Consulting LLC. I have an hourly contract with WithersRavenel to provide Government Relations consulting, with a focus on asset management. I do not do any work for the Town of Cary with WithersRavenel.
My consulting income from WithersRavenel was $24,404 in 2023 and $23,694 in 2024. In 2025, I expect to earn less than $20,000, although I have not yet finalized my financial summary for the year.
Most of my work involves participating in calls with staff from across the country to discuss how to effectively communicate asset management needs to elected officials. In the past two weeks alone, these calls have included participants from Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington state.
Another component of my role is traveling nationally to give presentations, often alongside a past national president of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and occasionally assisting with WithersRavenel’s conference booth. The purpose of the booth is to gather sales leads. In the evenings, the marketing team typically hosts those leads at dinner.
At the ICMA conference referenced by the News & Observer, I was working at the booth to help gather sales leads. On the day in question, there were not enough prospective clients available to fill a dinner table that had been reserved. The marketing team asked me to reach out to Cary representatives to see if they would be interested in attending, which I did. That was the extent of my involvement.
It is disappointing that the News & Observer attempted to imply otherwise. This kind of misleading characterization does little to serve readers and may help explain the outlet’s declining readership.
Cary One of the Best Places to Visit
According to South Living Cary is one of the best places to visit:
“Cary (once a small suburb of Raleigh) has blossomed into a coveted destination in its own right. Named one of our South’s Best Cities on the Rise, it’s home to dozens of wonderful local restaurants, great shopping, unique stays, and a thriving art and culture scene. Cary is making the case that there has never been a better time to do a little further digging into the state’s famed Research Triangle. Read on for the best things to do when visiting.”
You can find the entire article here.
Cary’s Ginny Johnson is a Master Clerk
Tuesday the council received information from our clerk, Ginny Johnson, that she had achieved the highest certification available from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), Master Municipal Clerk (MMC).
IIMC grants the MMC designation only to those Municipal Clerks who complete demanding education requirements; and who have a record of significant contributions to their local government, their community and state. The program has an extensive and rigorous educational component and a professional and social contribution component. The MMC applicant must demonstrate that they have actively pursued education and professional activities. Based on information available on their website, only 14% of clerks reach this level. Congratulations to our Master Municipal Clerk, Ginny Johnson!
Media Interviews
I was scheduled to meet with three media outlets this week to answer questions related to the former town manager. Since one of them was unable to meet we decided to postpone until after Christmas.
Council Out and About
Friends of the Page-Walker Holiday Party
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the annual Friends of Page-Walker Holiday Party, which brings together the organization’s board of directors and volunteers to celebrate the holidays together. Earlier in the month, Councilmember Craig also joined Friends of Page-Walker volunteers in decorating the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center for the holiday season.
Altitude Trampoline Park Opening
Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards attended the grand opening of Altitude Trampoline Park in Cary. The event welcomed a new recreational destination for families and youth, highlighting Cary’s continued growth and support for local business development.
Rotary Peace Pole Dedication
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered remarks at the Rotary Peace Pole Dedication, emphasizing unity, peace, and global goodwill. Councilmembers Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards were also in attendance to support the event, Rotary Club, and its commitment to community values.
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht provided remarks at the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Cary Downtown Park. He was joined by Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards in celebrating the start of the holiday season at this event.
Wreaths Across America
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered remarks at the Wreaths Across America ceremony honoring veterans and their families. The event served as a solemn moment of remembrance and gratitude for those who served and sacrificed for the nation.
Cary Christmas Parade
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Brittany Richards participated in the Cary Christmas Parade. The annual parade brought the community together to celebrate the holidays with local organizations, schools, and families.
Wake County Mayors Association Holiday Event
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Wake County Mayors’ Association Holiday Event, joined by Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Sarika Bansal.
Annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting
Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush delivered remarks at the annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting and was joined on stage by Councilmember Brittany Richards. Together, they marked the third night of Hanukkah with blessings and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah, while Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig attended in support of the celebration.
Cary Sister Cities Association Holiday Party
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush, and Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Sister Cities Holiday Party. The event celebrated international partnerships and cultural exchange while recognizing the volunteers who strengthen Cary’s global connections.
Governor Stein’s Menorah Lighting
Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush attended Governor Stein’s Menorah Lighting at the Governor’s Mansion on Sunday, December 14th to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah. It was an honor to join friends, families, and community leaders in marking this special tradition of light, hope, and unity.
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
- Several citizens thanking me for the work I am doing and encouraging me.
- A complaint about construction vehicles in Wynwood South.
- Congratulations to the town for the Cary Tennis Park receiving the Racquet Sport Industry 2025 Municipality of the Year.
- A complaint from a resident about the Grove at Cary Park about the landlord.
- A complaint that I was “snarky” for providing an answer to the question about getting money back from the fraud incident. (see above)
- A complaint that I am the “ultimate owner of this whole mess” and should resign. (A couple of things: (1) there are seven of us with equal authority. (2) I was the one that brought the information to the entire council which led to the resignation.)
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, media interviews, and writing my annual address.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 4, 2026. 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 