Purpose of this Blog
It is my hope that this blog will provide insight not only into who I am meeting with on behalf of the Town, but also the topics we discuss. I believe strongly in open and transparent government. This blog is one of several initiatives I implemented when I became mayor in 2007 to make the governmental process more accessible to our citizens.
This blog is written with sincerity, honesty, and a commitment to accuracy so our constituents can better understand the work we do. After all, we work for them!
How Cary Government Works
Cary’s government, like most cities in North Carolina and most mid-sized cities in the U.S., uses a council–manager form of government. This system works a lot like a company, but for local government. Residents elect a council and a mayor, who set policy by passing laws, approving the budget, and guiding the town’s overall priorities. The council then hires a professional manager to run the town’s day-to-day operations.
Think of it like a company: the council acts like a board of directors, making policy and representing the public, while the city manager acts like a CEO, overseeing all departments, such as finance, public works, police, and fire, and managing town staff. The mayor leads council meetings, represents the town publicly, and has limited executive authority. While the council and mayor make policy decisions and receive regular reports, they usually see only high-level summaries rather than the detailed inner workings of each department.
In short, just as a board hires a CEO to run a company, Cary’s council hires a manager to run the town, ensuring professional management while elected officials focus on big-picture decisions and community priorities.
You can find additional information about how Cary’s government works on the town’s website here.
Nest Nominated for Best Playground Again
The Downtown Cary’s Park Nest Playground was nominated for the best playground in the country for the second consecutive year. The following is the press release:
Cary, NC — The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated again in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground, its second consecutive year on the national list. The nature-inspired play space earned the top-ranking last year and continues to draw families and visitors from across the Triangle.
“We’re thrilled to see The Nest at Downtown Cary Park nominated again for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Public Playground,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Since opening, The Nest has become a favorite gathering place where children explore, families connect, and visitors experience the creativity and care our staff and community bring to spaces like this. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating this incredible space by voting each day and sharing the opportunity with others.”
Voting is open through noon on April 6. Supporters can vote once per day at the USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards website. No registration or email is required.
“As Downtown Cary Park enters another year of welcoming visitors from across the region, we’re proud to see The Nest recognized again on a national stage,” said Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis. “This nomination reflects the creativity and care that went into designing a space where children of all ages can explore and play.”
Nestled within Downtown Cary Park, The Nest is a biophilic, nature-inspired play space designed to spark imagination and exploration. Key features include:
- Two unique play areas for different age groups
- A signature 20-foot climbing structure modeled after two cardinals – North Carolina’s state bird – by playground design-build company Earthscape
- Slides, large acorns, and fallen logs to encourage imaginative and active play
- A seasonal splash pad that provides a place to cool off during warmer months
Designed by award-winning firms OJB Landscape Architecture and urban design firm Machado Silvetti and constructed by Balfour Beatty, Downtown Cary Park reflects Cary’s commitment to innovative public spaces that enhance quality of life and strengthen the local economy.
Since opening in 2023, the seven-acre park has become a hub for recreation, events, family play, and community connection. It has hosted millions of visitors and thousands of events and has emerged as a national model for modern public spaces, with recognitions including:
- 2025 American Architecture Award – Parks and Gardens, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, The European Center for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and Metropolitan Arts Press
- 2025 Innovation by Design Award – Best Urban Design Project, Fast Company
- 2025 Awards for Excellence Finalist, ULI Americas
- 2024 Voters’ Choice Award – Best Park, WRAL
- 2024 Gold Award, National Association of Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence
- 2024 Grand Award, Landscape Contractors Association Excellence in Landscape Awards
- 2024 Space Award – Top Municipal Project, Triangle Business Journal
According to the Incentis Group, the Park is generating $5 million in direct economic impact and has contributed to more than $800 million in property value increases. It has supported the creation of more than 80 full-time jobs and is projected to add $3.5 million annually in property and sales tax revenue by 2028.
The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top attractions and destinations across the country, selected by a panel of experts and voted on by the public. To learn more about the awards, visit 10best.usatoday.com.
Make sure you vote every day until April 6th!
Raleigh-Cary #3 for Women Owned Businesses
A recent study from CoworkingCafe found that women-owned businesses make up nearly 23% of all firms in the United States, and the Raleigh metro area stands out as one of the best places for them to thrive.
According to the report, Raleigh-Cary ranks as the third-best metro area in the country for women-owned businesses. In this region, these businesses account for more than 25% of all firms, placing it sixth nationwide by that measure alone. The area also scored highly in key factors such as earning potential, workforce participation, and a well-educated female talent pool.
World University Games Regional Stakeholders Meeting
On Tuesday, I met with more than 20 stakeholders to discuss plans for the World University Games (WUG), which are scheduled to take place in the region for three weeks in July 2029. Competitions are expected to be held across Greensboro, Durham, Raleigh, and Cary. The event is projected to generate over 3,000 hours of national and international television coverage, reaching millions of viewers worldwide.
An estimated 10,000 athletes, coaches, administrators, media representatives, VIPs, and fans are anticipated to attend, providing a significant economic boost to the area.
Cary has tentatively agreed to host competitions at WakeMed Soccer Park and Cary Tennis Park, with additional training activities planned at USA Baseball and the Triangle Aquatic Center (TAC). However, no formal commitments have been finalized at this time.
Stakeholders, particularly elected officials, expressed a strong interest in understanding the overall scope of the commitment and the associated financial requirements, especially given current fiscal constraints. Any financial contributions would likely need to be distributed over multiple years.
The North Carolina Legislature has already made financial commitments. Federal funding will also be necessary, and securing those resources will require leadership from our congressional delegation.
World Rugby Nations Cup Coming to Cary!
World Rugby, in partnership with USA Rugby and TEG Rugby Live, has announced that the World Rugby Nations Cup will be held in Cary this summer. The USA Eagles are set to face Spain on the evening of Saturday, July 18, at First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
So how did this exciting matchup land in Cary? You can thank the 2029 World University Games!
State of Cary to Cary 101 Kickoff
Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of sharing a brief version of the State of Cary at the kickoff of the Cary 101 class. I was followed by Interim Manager Overton and later by Finance Director Branch.
Cary 101 gives residents the opportunity to learn how municipal government works, the services it provides, and how they can get involved. Participants enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at local government structure, culture, and decision-making. Through discussion and hands-on activities, they gain a deeper understanding of the scope and complexity of town planning and operations.
This year, more than 80 people applied for just 25 spots, demonstrating strong community interest in engaging with local government.
Council Out and About
As we enter April, we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month by recognizing the incredible spirit of service that defines our town. Whether you are mentoring students, working to better our natural and shared spaces, or supporting the many vital nonprofits that call our community home, your tireless commitment makes a lasting impact. Your willingness to share your time and expertise strengthens the very fabric of Cary and enhances the lives of your neighbors every single day. Thank you!
In that same spirit of community involvement, we invite you to share your perspective by attending our Budget Open House on April 7, 2026. Cary’s FY27 budget is currently being developed, and your input is essential to the process. Please join us at the Cary Senior Center Ballroom any time between 3 and 7 p.m. to learn how the Town’s budget works and share your priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. This is a casual, drop-in event with no RSVP required. If you cannot attend in person, you can always share your feedback at carync.gov/budgetinput or find more details at carync.gov/openhouse.
Carissa Kohn-Johnson
Council At-Large
State of Cary – Templeton
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered his State of Cary address at Templeton Retirement Living, highlighting key initiatives and future priorities. Councilmember Bella Huang attended and joined residents for a question-and-answer session following the presentation, engaging in discussion and addressing community interests while emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and ongoing efforts to support Cary’s continued growth.
CERT Training
Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush joined residents in a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class to build preparedness skills and better understand emergency response. The training covered disaster readiness, basic protocols, and how volunteers support neighborhood safety, helping strengthen community resilience and improving the town’s ability to respond effectively during crises.
Cary Arbor Day
Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Bella Huang participated in Cary’s Arbor Day celebration. Craig read the official proclamation and shared remarks highlighting the importance of trees. The event recognized environmental stewardship and encouraged the community to support conservation efforts that enhance Cary’s natural beauty and sustainability for future generations.
ElevateGov AI
Mayor Pro Tem Lori Bush participated in ElevateGov AI, a civic innovation program by Elevate Cities and the U.S. Roundtable supporting leaders advancing responsible, transparent, ethical AI adoption. The initiative highlights city-led efforts building public trust and delivering long-term community benefits nationwide, with participation from cities like Denver and Chicago.
World Down Syndrome Day
Councilmember Sarika Bansal visited GiGi’s Playhouse in honor of World Down Syndrome Day. She met with program participants and their families, learning about services offered and celebrating the day’s significance. The visit highlighted community support, inclusion, and awareness for individuals with Down syndrome and those who benefit from the organization’s programs.
Congresswoman Ross
Councilmember Sarika Bansal met with Congresswoman Deborah Ross to discuss bus service in District D and increasing investment in affordable housing. Their conversation focused on expanding transit access, addressing affordable housing needs, and exploring opportunities for collaboration to better serve residents and support our community.
GFS Global Indian Visa Application Center
Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended an event at the VFS Global Indian Visa Application Center in Raleigh to understand the needs of Indian Americans in the Research Triangle region. She learned about current challenges and opportunities, engaging with community members to strengthen connections and support inclusive local initiatives.
Q&A on Manager’s Resignation and Other Items
The situation left by the former town manager has been aptly described by one of our new council members as an oil spill, and that comparison is quite fitting. Like any spill, new issues may arise as the investigation and cleanup progress. While the former town manager’s actions were clearly unethical, I am not aware of any illegal conduct at this time. However, three important efforts are ongoing: a review and report by the North Carolina State Auditor, a criminal investigation led by the NC State Bureau of Investigation at the request of the Wake County District Attorney, and an internal investigation by Womble Bond Dickinson on behalf of the Council. From the information available to me, the impact of the former town manager’s actions was limited due to the town’s consistently strong financial position.
The following questions were addressed on my January 4th, January 11th, and January 18th blog:
- WithersRavenel Contract
- Was the $1.3 million in fraud returned to Cary? Yes …
- Why didn’t you know about the town manager’s behavior?
- When did you learn about the land purchase to Cary Elementary?
- Do you have conflicts of interest?
- Why did you give push back to a council member that wanted to move forward with changes now?
- How could you not know all the things the former manager was doing?
- Did I know the book “Top of the Arc” cost the town $150,000?
- Why did you pay the town manager’s severance?
- What changes have you made and will you make?
The town’s webpage on the Town Manager Transition can be found here. Public Records Requests and answers can be found on the 311 portal here.
Mayor’s Mailbox
- A complaint about spending in general, especially on the electric fire truck.
- Requests to fund affordable housing and Habitat (We do fund affordable housing, and Habitat didn’t ask for any funding).
- Requests to attend several events.
- Requests from several students.
- A complaint about a potential DHS facility.
- Complaints about the rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14 in Weston.
- Thanks for the State of Cary address.
- A thank you statement: “I truly enjoy the way of life in Cary and you, Mayor, as the custodian, have preserved and allowed the town to prosper.” (Thank you!)
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a budget open house, a State of Cary at Searstone, a TST taping, a NC Metro Mayors meeting, a Founders Day rehearsal, a State of Cary at the Courtyards at West Cary, and a Founders Day walking tour.
Harold's Blog 