Author: haroldweinbrechttownofcaryorg

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 1^st, 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 9^th 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 21^st, 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.

Tea for the Soul

Tuesday, I participated in a program called “Tea for the Soul” at WakeMed Raleigh with elected officials from Wake Forest, and Raleigh. We were also joined by the Executive Director of the Regional Transportation Authority. The “Tea for the Soul” program is run by the spiritual care chaplain. It involves visiting ICU healthcare workers and offering hot tea, sweets, snacks, and a moment to relax. I was honored just to meet these frontline workers that are the difference between life and death every day. We visited three ICU sections at WakeMed Raleigh and had our picture made at the last one. WakeMed does over 400 of these at all their facilities every year. I look forward to participating in another one soon. Words can’t express what all these frontline workers mean to our community.

Annual CAP Dinner

Tuesday night I joined council members Smith, Craig, and Bansal for the CAP (Citizens Assisting Police) Appreciation Dinner. This is put on every year by the police department for the more than 120 CAP members. I provided remarks along with the police chief and other officers. I also invited Council member Jack Smith to make a few remarks since this was his last official act as a 36-year council member. I, along with many others, will miss Jack.

First Responders Breakfast

Wednesday morning, I joined council members Craig and Bansal at the Cary Chamber’s First Responders Breakfast. The keynote speaker was NC Highway Patrol Colonel Freddy Johnson. There were hundreds of firefighters, police officers, EMS, and other first responders in attendance.

Cary is blessed with exceptional fire and police departments, and our gratitude for these everyday heroes runs deep. Thank you to every first responder who bravely moves toward danger so the rest of us can stay safe.

Council Sworn In

A reception was held Thursday evening in the lobby outside the council chambers for newly elected council members Bella Huang and Brittany Richards, and re-elected council member Carissa Kohn-Johnson. There were about a hundred people in attendance.

Before the regularly scheduled council meeting, we gathered in the council chambers for pictures.

The meeting included the swearing-in of the council members and their remarks. The council then elected Lori Bush as the Mayor Pro-Tem. I announced my council liaison appointments and other committees before adjourning. The entire meeting lasted about 25 minutes.

Rotary Peace Pole Dedication

Friday, I joined council members Kohn-Johnson, Craig, Richards, and Huang in the dedication of Cary’s first Peace Pole sponsored by the Cary Rotary.

Peace Poles carry the message of peace, “May Peace Prevail on Earth”, in several languages from around the world. Peace Poles are recognized as the most prominent international symbol and monument dedicated to peace on earth. Peace Poles have been planted on every continent in over 200,000 communities by friends and supporters working in unison to uplift the consciousness of humankind.

The dedication event included comments by Rotarians, me, NC Senator Adcock, and NC Representative Cervania. Afterwards I was given the honor of unveiling the pole. This was followed by various groups taking their picture with the pole including council members.

I do hope this Peace Pole acts as beacons of hope, inspiring people to come together and work towards a more peaceful world rejecting divisiveness. 

Cary Tree Lighting

Saturday night the entire council joined me in a brief ceremony to officially light the town Christmas Tree in Downtown Cary Park. Lauren Johnson of WTVD was the emcee, introduced me, and I made a few remarks before introducing the council. To light the tree, I invited my 3-year-old grandson, Brady, to help. It was a special time for me, and I hope everyone had a great time. Enjoy the holidays!

Manager’s Weekly Report

Council,

I had the pleasure of celebrating our first responders at the Cary Chamber breakfast on Wednesday, always a meaningful reminder of the courage and care behind their service. What a special night with Council last night, and congratulations again to Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards.  Holiday activities in downtown Cary are also picking up, with the Tree Lighting at Downtown Cary Park this Saturday. To make room for the festivities and the expected crowds, Academy Street will be closed from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. It’s shaping up to be a bright and busy weekend in Cary, and I hope you get a chance to enjoy a little of it. 

Russ

Deputy Town Manager

December 9 Work Session – Policies

The following policies may be discussed at the Council Work Session on Tuesday, December 9. Links to the policies are provided below for your review and familiarization with the content in advance.

• Policy 143: Rules of Procedure for the Cary Town Council
• Policy 150: Boards and Commissions General Rules of Order
• Policy 164: Ethics Policy for Town Council
• Policy 181: Conflicts of Interest and Gift Policy for Federal Procurement

Q1 Report

The Quarterly Report for July through September is available online. This quarter’s highlights include FY 2026 first-quarter financial results; the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, which drew 55,000 visitors downtown; a $400,000 donation from the Shane Pegram Family Foundation to renovate the Davis Drive Park playground; Cary’s new FEMA flood rating, which may lower flood insurance costs for some residents; and Cary’s first Scam Jam and Senior Home Fair.

ICCP ENGAGE and MOVE Chapter Updates

After many months of meaningful conversation, idea sharing, and community engagement, the draft Cary Bike Plan is now available for review.

Cary is also seeking community feedback on proposed updates to the Imagine Cary Community Plan (ICCP). These updates focus on the ENGAGE and MOVE chapters and reflect recent planning efforts and Council direction.

The ENGAGE chapter update incorporates the new Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources (PRCR) System Plan, which was approved by Council in December 2024. The plan will move forward for formal adoption as part of this comprehensive plan amendment process.

The MOVE chapter update integrates recommendations from the draft Cary Bike Plan and incorporates Vision Zero principles following Council’s April 2025 resolution adopting a Vision Zero strategy.

Community feedback is currently being collected on the proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment and the Cary Bike Plan. Staff anticipates bringing the amendments to Council for consideration in early 2026.

Fire Gets Recommended for Reaccreditation

The Fire Department wrapped up a peer team visit on November 20 as part of its application for reaccreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. Four team members from fire departments across the country toured facilities and spoke to personnel from Fire and several other departments and partner agencies to verify and validate Fire’s documents and processes supporting its pursuit of continuous improvement. The team recommended reaccreditation, and if the commission approves it at its hearings in the spring, it will be the Cary Fire Department’s sixth accreditation since 1999.

Higgins Greenway Mid-Block Crossing Improvements

Higgins Greenway Phase III crosses Griffis Street at a mid-block location. Narron Contracting and Public Works staff worked together to install and program new signage and push-button-activated, solar-powered lights that alert drivers when pedestrians are using the crosswalk. This upgrade is designed to enhance and improve the crossing for both greenway users and drivers.

Western Parkway Bridge Repair Update

As of November 19, the Weston Parkway bridges over the Black Creek Greenway have reopened to two-way, two-lane traffic. Improvements were performed to protect the structural components from water infiltration and extend the service life of the concrete. Restoration work, including final pavement markings, will continue over the next several weeks, weather permitting.

Paramount Pump Station Construction Update

Wastewater flows were transferred from the old Paramount Pump Station to the new station this week, marking the completion of 16 months of construction. Located along Paramount Parkway, the new facility increases pumping capacity to 1 million gallons per day, supporting planned development including the Wake Tech RTP campus, TownePlace Suites Marriott, and Perimeter Park Tracts 4 and 6. The original station, acquired from Morrisville during the 2006 utility merger, sat within the 100-year floodplain. The new station provides both capacity upgrades and improved resiliency by being located outside the 500-year floodplain. Replacing aging infrastructure strengthens system reliability, reduces the risk of wastewater spills, and supports future growth. After several weeks of smooth operation, the old pump station will be demolished and the site restored to a natural state.

Annual Water Main Replacement Project Begins Construction

The Annual Water Main Replacement Project is beginning downtown. J.F. Wilkerson Construction Co. was awarded the contract at the August 28 Council meeting and will begin mobilizing on December 8. Residents in affected areas have been notified. The project will replace approximately 5,000 feet of existing water main, and the aging sewer infrastructure along Shirley Drive will be upgraded before the street is resurfaced. Work on Shirley Drive will not begin before January 12.

This project complements recent improvements on Griffis Street, Harrison Avenue, and Kildaire Farm Road by upsizing and completing a loop of water main on Shirley Drive. Increasing the pipe size from 8 to 12 inches will strengthen system resiliency and support the growing demands of nearby redevelopment. Additional work includes new water main installations on Tanglewood Drive, Logan Circle, and Carnoustie Circle, along with new connections on Sarazen Meadow Way and Crabtree Crossing Parkway. The full project is expected to be completed within 12 months.

Cary Hosts Connected Vehicle Summit

In November, Cary partnered with Applied Information and Temple, Inc. to host a Connected Vehicle Summit at Downtown Cary Park. The event brought together about 40 participants from industry, municipal, and state transportation agencies to learn about Cary’s Connected Vehicle (CV) program and discuss the future of CV technology nationwide.

Cary’s CV program is among the most advanced in the country, integrating features that support drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, school zones, emergency response, transit, and railroad crossings. Presentations highlighted how this technology enhances mobility efficiency for our citizens and previewed the next generation of CV advancements.

The day concluded with demonstration rides around downtown, giving attendees a firsthand look at the program in action. The rides showcased the full range of CV features as well as the growing potential of autonomous vehicle technology.

Tree Lighting Ceremony Walkthrough

Staff braved a heavy mist at Downtown Cary Park this morning for a run-through of tomorrow’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, ensuring a smooth production for visitors to the event and those watching online. As the new Cary Town Council flips the switch at 6 p.m., viewers can tune in to Cary TV on Spectrum cable channel 11 or online at carync.tv, Facebook, and YouTube. A view of the festivities will also be featured on the World Christmas Webcam for those watching around the globe.

Cary Citizen Celebrates 101^st Birthday

Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett attended the 101st birthday celebration of Cary resident Ruth “Jeanne” Marmarose on Thursday at Brookdale Assisted Living Center. During the event, Michelle presented Ms. Marmarose with a letter of recognition from Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. Jeanne has led an extraordinary life marked by service, love, and family. A proud member of the Nurse Corps during World War II, she served her country with compassion and courage. She later married her college sweetheart, Frank Marmarose, a Navy dentist, and together they built a beautiful family. Cary is proud to honor Jeanne’s remarkable journey and the legacy she continues to inspire in our community.

Growing the Future of Regenerative Agriculture in NC

As Good Hope Farm marks its tenth year as a regenerative agriculture education site, it welcomed students from UNC’s new Environment, Energy & Ecology program for their senior capstone research this semester. Using the site as a living classroom, the students explored the region’s agricultural history and examined how regenerative practices can support local food systems and environmental sustainability. Their hands-on work included tours, volunteer activities, interviews, and community engagement, culminating in the presentation of their final project this week to project sponsor and Environmental Outreach Program Coordinator Sarah Justice.

The students’ research highlighted Indigenous farming practices and the contributions of African American agricultural history to modern techniques.

10^th Annual NC Chinese Lantern Festival

The 10th Annual North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival returned to Koka Booth Amphitheatre this month. The festival is open through January, featuring all-new lantern displays, cultural performances, menu items, and merchandise. At the media preview on November 14, Mayor Weinbrecht opened the festival with the ceremonial “flipping of the switch,” joined by Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith, as well as NC Representative Ya Liu and members of Cary’s citizen boards and commissions. Opening weekend drew 11,764 visitors, an increase from 9,408 last year, marking a strong start to the season.

ACC Soccer Championships

Over the past two weeks, WakeMed Soccer Park hosted six soccer matches as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships. Fans from across the country came to experience Cary and one of the nation’s top soccer landmarks. With Stanford claiming the women’s title and Southern Methodist University (SMU) capturing the men’s championship, the event was a fantastic lead-in to the NCAA Men’s College Cup coming to Cary this December.

Old North State Storytelling Festival

The North Carolina Storytellers Guild returned to The Cary Theater November 7 – 8 for its annual Storytelling Festival. The event featured three sold-out performances totaling 465 patrons, along with a special sensory-friendly show. While attendees traveled from across the state, 64% of those in the audience were Cary residents. Audiences enjoyed homespun stories that were both humorous and heartfelt, making it a memorable event for all who attended.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, December 8
5:15 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, December 8
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Tuesday, December 9
5:30 p.m.

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, December 9
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, December 10
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Work Session
Thursday, December 11
5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting
Thursday, December 11
6:30 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.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint EBikes on greenways.
• Several requests for interviews.
• A complaint about Wake County Public Schools.
• Thanks for my leadership during the ICE raids.
• A complaint about the Weston rezoning proposal.
• Thanks for my leadership in being transparent.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Leadership Cary event, two council work sessions, the only regularly scheduled council meeting of December, a staff member’s retirement party, the Cary Police Winter Wonderland event, Wreaths Across America, and the Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 14^th, 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.

All-Hands Staff Meeting

I joined Deputy Town Manager Russ Overton on Monday afternoon for an all-hands meeting with Town of Cary staff. We announced that the town manager had been put on administrative leave. And while I would have liked to have provided more information, statutes prohibited me from discussing it.

Cary is blessed to have one of the best staff in the nation including strong leadership on all levels.

We will share more news when we are able.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

I met with the Cary Tennis Classic Board on Monday night. Our topics included a recap of this year and planning for next year, a Chamber After Hours event, potential facility upgrades, and future event dates. BTW, the 2026 Cary Tennis Classic will be from June 28^th through July 5^th.

Downtown Park Economic Impact

Tuesday I was presented with a recently completed draft study on the impact of Downtown Cary Park. Incentis Group was contracted to do the study and completed projections through 2028. The analysis focuses on the area within a half-mile radius of the park, which has seen significant economic benefit from the park. The study finds that the park and surrounding areas will generate over $18 million in annual economic activity, and $3.6 million per year in new revenue by 2028.

Thanksgiving

I am grateful that I was able to spend Thanksgiving with my wife, both daughters, son-in-law and my grandchildren. I thoroughly enjoyed being with them and I hope everyone was able to spend time with someone they love.

Council Out and About

Pack 216 Visit with Mayor Weinbrecht

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht spoke and participated in a meeting with Pack 216, a Cary-based Cub Scout Pack. Den 12 consists of fourth grade students working on their Webelo requirements. 

Veterans Day Event

Councilmember Jack Smith emceed the event at Cary’s Veterans Freedom Park, where Mayor Harold Weinbrecht read the proclamation. Additional Councilmembers in attendance included Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig.

Councilmember Smith also attended and spoke at the American Legion Post 67 Veterans Event.

Beyond the Storm: Supporting Community Disaster Resilience and Long-Term Recovery

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht provided welcoming remarks at Beyond the Storm: Supporting Community Disaster Resilience and Long-Term Recovery, a statewide convention hosted by Verizon’s Responsible Business Team in Cary, N.C. The event gathered public officials, emergency management leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to discuss strengthening North Carolina’s disaster preparedness, response, and recovery systems. More than 60 volunteers assembled 300 disaster-relief kits in one hour, demonstrating the strength of coordinated community action.

Chinese Lantern Festival Event

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht also offered welcoming remarks at the Chinese Lantern Festival media event, kicking off this year’s festival. He was joined by Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith as they flipped the switch to illuminate the lantern displays.

Parkside Town Commons Holiday Event

Councilmember Sarika Bansal provided welcome remarks and flipped the light switch to kick off the holiday season at Parkside Town Commons.

Cub Scout Pack 201 Visit with Councilmember Bush

Councilmember Lori Bush engaged and answered questions with Cub Scout Pack 201, a group of 25 Scouts (boys and girls in K-5) with their parents in attendance, to learn about the importance of the democratic process, why voting matters, and what it means to serve in an elected role.  

Receptions in Honor of Outgoing Councilmembers

Mayor Weinbrecht recognized Councilmember Jack Smith at a reception held in his honor and presented him with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. He also recognized Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson at a reception celebrating her service and announced the creation of the Bryson Nature Preserve. Various Councilmembers attended both events.

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

• In my 22 years of being an elected official the holidays unfortunately have brought out the worst in people. Here are some of the things that were said to me this holiday week: “you are playing pretend like children”, “you are a fool”, “you are fear mongering”, “you are caught in this immature idealistic woke brainwashing”, “you are narcissistic”, you are “delusional”, and you are a “weak foolish man”.
• A complaint about light pollution from a neighbor.
• A question about home appreciation.
• A request to help with health literacy.
• Thanks for helping with a long-term RV parking problem.
• Invitations to many holiday events.
• A complaint about E-Bikes on greenways.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a WakeMed event, the CAP (Citizens Assisting Police) dinner, the First Responders breakfast, the Council’s Organizational meeting, the Cary Rotary Peace Pole Dedication, the Victorian Christmas event at Page Walker, the Cary Tree Lighting, and a Neurodiversity in a Religious Setting talk.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, December 7^th, 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.

Cary #4 in Nation for Remote Work

I was notified Monday that Cary is the 4^th best municipality in America for Remote Workers according to CoWorkingCafe. Their rankings included a review of 215 cities where a dozen measures were considered which included coworking space, cost of living, median income, average rent, and share of remote workers.

Council Meeting Prep

Monday, I contacted council members to hear about questions or concerns on the upcoming agenda. Since the agenda was light there weren’t any questions and the meeting with the staff later in the day was brief.

Hometown Spirit Award

Monday afternoon I joined council members in recognizing three incredible community leaders who were nominated for the Hometown Spirit Award: Matthew Gronke, Nancy Haywood, and Carla Michaels. The committee to decide the winner is made up mostly of previous winners so I had no idea who the winner would be. Here were the comments I made about each:

Matthew Gronke:

Our first finalist, Matthew Gronke, has called Cary home since 1992 — and he’s spent those years making a lasting difference in our community.

As founder of the Cary Free Bicycle Project, Matthew has given away more than 250 bicycles to local residents — free of charge. His work helps people get where they need to go, stay active, and enjoy the simple joy of riding.

You’ll find Matthew at community events like the Cary Children’s Festival and Carolina Cares Christmas, sharing bikes with families in need and spreading smiles wherever he goes.

He also serves as treasurer and board member of Triangle Off-Road Cyclists, helping maintain our local trails. At Laurel Park Elementary, he’s the Vice President of Fundraising for the PTA — and yes, he even puts on the “Lucky the Penguin” mascot suit to cheer on the kids!

Many children also know him as “Bluey,” as he volunteers in costume for local nonprofits and library events. Whether advocating for better bike infrastructure or volunteering his time, Matthew leads with energy, creativity, and heart — showing us all what it means to build a more connected and caring Cary.

Nancy Haywood:

Our next finalist, Nancy Haywood, who was born and raised in Cary shines brightly as a true example of “service above self.”
Nancy is a devoted member of the Cary-Kildaire Rotary Club, and she sponsors the Interact Club at Cary High School, mentoring students in leadership and volunteerism. She gives countless hours to projects that strengthen our community.

Nancy’s generosity extends across Cary — from helping local nonprofits like Mama Edna’s Thrift Shop and the Habitat ReStore, to connecting volunteers and ensuring that families in need receive support.

She’s organized food drives, helped families in transition, and rallied others to lend a hand — often with her own family and students by her side. Her energy, kindness, and compassion make her a constant source of light for so many.

Nancy’s work reminds us that community spirit begins with seeing a need — and taking action. Her leadership and heart go into everything she does.

Carla Michaels:

Our final finalist, Carla Michaels, is a lifelong Cary resident whose roots here run deep — generations deep. Her ancestors helped shape this town, and today she honors their legacy by preserving and sharing Cary’s rich history.

Carla is a board member of the Friends of the Page-Walker and a dedicated volunteer with Upchurch and Allied Families, spending countless hours uncovering, documenting, and telling the stories of Cary’s early residents.

She leads historic walking tours — sometimes dressed as an early 1900s schoolteacher — and she’s been featured in town projects like CARY at 150. Her enthusiasm brings history to life for everyone who meets her.

Carla is also a strong advocate for historic preservation, working to protect landmarks like the Nancy Jones House and Ivey-Ellington House, and to honor veterans and overlooked historical figures. Through her leadership in the Daughters of the American Revolution, she promotes education, patriotism, and community service.

With warmth, generosity, and grace, Carla connects Cary’s past to its present — and ensures its story continues to inspire future generations.

While I would have loved for all three to be picked, there was only one award. This year’s Hometown Spirit Award winner was Carla Michaels. CONGRATULATIONS CARLA! What a great lady.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday night the Wake County Mayors Association held their last meeting of the year in Morrisville. In attendance were the mayors of Apex, Cary, Garner, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest and Wendell. Mayor Gray of Wendell was elected to be President of the Association and Mayor Gupton of Garner was elected to be Vice President and Treasurer. For me it was sad to say goodbye to longtime mayor and friend Vivian Jones of Wake Forest. She did a great job in her 24 years as mayor.

ICE Raid in Raleigh and Cary

On Tuesday ICE agents, based in Charlotte, made raids in the Raleigh – Cary metro area. From information I obtained there were three arrests in Cary and fifteen overall. People on both sides of the immigration issue were upset and complained to me. I issued the following statement.

“This is a sad and difficult time in Cary, where more than a quarter of our citizens are from other countries and have chosen to bring their talents, ideas, and hard work to make this community the amazing place it is today.

Over the last 24 hours, I have gotten reports of federal agents moving throughout Cary — at homes, schools, hospitals, restaurants, and construction sites. Their activities were neither coordinated with nor conducted by the Cary Police Department, a department of caring professionals who do what it takes every day to help keep Cary one of the safest cities in America.

Regardless of one’s stance on immigration, I think we can all agree that the tactics used in these operations instill fear in our community and erode trust between our citizens and the government put in place to protect, support, and serve them.

As Mayor, my heart breaks for all those impacted by these actions, and I look forward to doing what I can to help us heal.”

Of course, I was pounded with nasty emails after the statement was issued including statements that said I was brainwashed and “woke”.

First National Bank Opening

Tuesday, I attended the opening of a new First National Brank branch in Cary next to Morrisville. There were about fifty people in attendance including NC representatives, Mayor Cawley of Morrisville, and council members from Morrisville and Cary. In case you haven’t been in a bank in a while, like me, they look much different with kiosks able to handle most of your transactions.

The ceremony included comments from bank executives, Cary and Morrisville chamber presidents, and Mayor Cawley and me.

Cary Matters Taping with New Council Members

Tuesday evening, I had the opportunity to do a Cary Matters taping with newly elected council members Brittany Richards and Bella Huang. The purpose of the episodes was to allow the public to get to know them better. Questions included:

• Tell us about your background.
• What was your first interaction with the town?
• What excites you about being a councilmember?
• What is your passion?

The episodes will air in December after they have been sworn into office.

Council Review of Attorney, Clerk, and Manager

Tuesday night the council held a closed session to perform its annual review of employees: the Town Clerk, Town Attorney, and Town Manager. After three hours in closed session the council adjourned. After the regular meeting on Thursday the council spent another three to four hours in closed session on this matter.

CAMPO

I participated in a meeting with the CAMPO (Capital Metropolitan Planning Organization) Executive Board on Wednesday afternoon. The meeting had five consent items, two public hearings, and three discussion items.

The consent items were approved unanimously and included minutes, TY 2026 Wake Transit Administrative items, CFA Community Funding Area) Program Management Plan update, 2025 updated Public Transportation Agency Safety Performance Measures and Targets, and Safety Performance Measure Targets 2026.

The first discussion item was an update on the 2055 MTP/CTP (Metropolitan Transportation Plan). This was approved pending air quality conformity. The second discussion item was an amendment to the FY 2026-2035 TIP (Transportation Improvement Program) which was also approved unanimously.

Jack’s and Jennifer’s Farewell Celebrations

Wednesday night I had the honor of being the emcee at Jack Smith’s farewell event. He served 36 years on the Cary council. Dozens of people were in attendance including all three living Cary Mayors: Glen Lang, Ernie McCalister, and me. My remarks were mostly stories and a high-level review of all his accomplishments. Of course, there was no way I could begin to cover all that he has done as a council member. After my remarks I presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to Jack. This is North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, awarded by the Governor to individuals who have made significant contributions to the state through exemplary service.

Jack was a wealth of knowledge that will be deeply missed. He is a good friend, and I will miss working with him.

Thursday night I emceed the farewell celebration for Jennifer Byson Robinson which was also attended by dozens of people. Like Jack, she was a friend that I have known for a long time. She served 26 years with passion and dedication working for the town on the local, regional, and national levels.

In preparing remarks for her event, I came up with four pages of bullet points realizing there was no way to cover all that she had done. So, I kept my remarks brief and then presented a sign naming the 217 acres in west Cary to the Bryson Nature Reserve saying, “a beautiful park for a beautiful person”. Jennifer was so gracious in her remarks and acknowledged her family. She is probably one of the few people who gave birth to two children while in office.

Jennifer is a good friend. I will miss her passion and serving with her on council.

Words cannot possible capture what Jack and Jennifer have meant to this town and to me. I wish them the best in the next chapter of their lives and hope they stay involved.

Council Meeting

The town council held its last regular scheduled meeting in November on Thursday night. This was also the last meeting for Jack Smith and Jennifer Bryson Robinson. The agenda included two presentations, two consent items, and two discussion items.

The first presentation was the Capital Area Preservation Anthemion Award for the relocation and rehabilitation of the historic Ivey-Ellington House. The second award was recognition of Cary’s stormwater team for receiving an NC APWA award.

The first consent item was to remove the Ferrell Road Annexation from the meeting agenda which was approved unanimously. The second consent item was 25-A-08 which called for a Public Hearing for the annexation which is on Jones Franklin Road.

The first discussion item was the official renaming of the Earnest Jones property in Chatham County to the Bryson Nature Preserve. This was a no-brainer especially since we presented it to her at her farewell event.

The second discussion item was added to the agenda by me so that all council meetings, whether remote or not, will be streamed or televised. After discussion this was approved. A follow motion was also approved to investigate streaming all boards and commissions meeting. This also included asking board members if they are OK serving on boards if they are streamed.

After the regular agenda council went into closed session which lasted for several hours.

Waverly Tree Lighting

Friday night I joined Jack Smith in welcoming the crowd to Waverly Place for the Tree Lighting. After a little banter we introduced Santa who performed a countdown and lit the tree with magic dust. The crowd was entertained by the Embers. What a great way to start the holiday season.

Fenton Tree Lighting

Saturday night I was at Fenton for their tree lighting. The event was “Light the Square” with Abby Leigh from WQDR as the emcee. She invited me up, I gave welcome remarks and wished everyone season’s greetings. After my remarks there were several professional style performances before Santa came on stage. Santa did a countdown, flipped the switch, and the holiday season officially started at Fenton. This was their fourth year for this event, and I have been privileged to be a part of all of them.

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 need for a stoplight on Green Level Church Road (while I wish we could make those decisions; it is the decision of NCDOT).
• Best wishes for the holiday season.
• Complaints that I wasn’t protecting people from ICE. Here is some of the blame I received: I was assisting “these bullies who are here only to kidnap and terrorize”, I was “standing aside for ICE is the same as supporting them”, we are not “protecting our community”, we are not protecting our community from “illegal, unconstitutional onslaught”, my silence was “unacceptable”.
• Two complaints about the statement I made on the ICE raid. That I was “caught up in this immature idealistic work brainwashing” and that I was “turning a blind eye to those who cheat the system”.
• A complaint that the statement I made about ICE was like when “people say they are keeping gun violence victims in our thoughts and prayers”.
• A complaint about not being set up an Angel Tree.
• Thank you for the Hometown Spirit Award ceremony.
• A complaint about RV long-term parking.
• Thank you for volunteer recommendations.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, and Thanksgiving. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and is able to spend time with the ones they love.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 30^th, 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.

Manager One-On-One

The town manager and I met briefly for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included new council seating chart, naming of a park, and agenda items for the quarterly.

Cary Veterans Day Observance

Tuesday was Veterans Day, and I was honored to have just a small part in honoring these heroes and their families. Joining me from council was our only veteran, Jack Smith, and council members Craig, Bansal, and Bryson-Robinson. My role was reading a proclamation recognizing this day:

DESIGNATING NOVEMBER 11, 2025 AS THE

OBSERVANCE OF VETERANS DAY IN CARY

WHEREAS Veterans Day began as Armistice Day to commemorate peace at the end of World War I.

WHEREAS peace was declared at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. November 11 has become a day to celebrate the service of all United States military veterans.

WHEREAS, on June 1, 1954, Congress declared that Armistice Day should be Veterans Day to honor all who had served in all wars to preserve world peace.

WHEREAS residents of Cary and throughout the United States are able to live in freedom because of the contributions and sacrifices of the brave men and women who served and continue to serve.

WHEREAS, in Cary the Veterans Freedom Park is dedicated as a gathering place to honor these men and women, and to pay tribute to them and their families.

WHEREAS today we honor the service of all of those who throughout our country’s history in the Air Force, the Army, the Coast Guard, the Marines, the Navy, Space Force, and the National Guard have served in times of war and peace.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby designate November 11, 2025, as an Observance of Veterans Day in Cary, and I urge all citizens to participate in honoring our country’s service men and women for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

PROCLAIMED this 11^th day of November 2025.

Our featured speaker was Ron Brigham, a Marine Corps Veteran who came from a long line of relatives who served.

Dorcas Breakfast

Thursday morning I attended the annual Dorcas Breakfast and fundraiser. This year they announced the rebranding to include Western Wake Crisis Ministry. The new brand will be called NeighborUp. However, the store in Cary will still be called Dorcas and be part of NeighborUp.

The event included three incredible testimonials followed by awards. The community award this year went to Apex. Congratulations to Mayor Gilbert and his town.

Council Staff Quarterly

Thursday the council held its last quarterly meeting of the year to review the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. Topics included updates on development, environmental initiatives, the budget, capital projects, finance, the convenience center, and intergovernmental. Here are some of the points made:

• Development patterns remain consistent with Imagine Cary.
• Projects are clustered in large developments, very small projects, and downtown.
• Two rezonings approved in FY 2026 Q1. Yates Store Road with 67 detached homes and 25 townhomes. Lewter Shop Road with 14 detached homes.
• In FY 2026 Q1 there were 22 rezoning requests, 8 pre-application meetings, and 2 submitted.
• Only 7% of rezoning requests were ultimately approved.
• In the last five years, only 12% of rezoning cases were approved.
• The five-year average of permits issued is 163 per quarter. This quarter it was 105.
• The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton was approved and permit issued. It will be 7 stories with 186 rooms.
• Duke health has 2 primary care and several specialty clinics. It is building an ambulatory surgical care facility. It has a 95-bed hospital under review.
• 150 East Cedar Street has Lawrence Barbeque which opened in September.
• Median at Hunter and Chatham has 220 apartments. Residents have started moving in. It will also have retail, a fitness studio, a juice bar, and a future restaurant. It has a parking deck with public spaces.
• Meridian Cary at Harrison and Chatham will open early next year. It will have a parking deck with 223 public spaces.
• Lloyd’s restaurant at Chatham and Academy is under construction. It should open early next year.
• Downtown Cary Park has had over 1 million visitors with the #1 best public playground. Economic impact so far: $800 million increase in property value. $100 million in new household income. $3 million in annual tax and fee revenue. Over $18 million in annual economic activity.
• In FY 2026 Q1 there were over 400 participants in Sustainability activities.
• Cary is changing out police department fleet with propane bi-fuel conversion kits. 25 Dodge Durangos completed with 5 more to go.
• Cary has 18% of its fleet running with alternative fuel: 2% battery electric, 9% hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and 7% propane bi-fuel.
• Cary had the first electric firetruck in the southeast with the Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper.
• Cary is portrayed as a national leader in sustainable public safety.
• Cary celebrated 42 years as a Tree City USA community.
• Cary diverts 48% from landfill with yard waste, food, and recycling. We even recycled shredded textiles in police and fire uniforms.
• Priorities for flooding structures included property acquisitions and upsizing stormwater infrastructure.
• Adaptive stormwater approach began in 2018 with improvements to infrastructure and measuring and monitoring.
• Cary’s Count Me In, Cary! received an award in Sustainability and Resiliency.
• Cary received the 2025 SFEA Green Initiative Gold Award for composting at the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival.
• One of Cary’s public works managers received the national award for Manager of the Year.
• One of Cary’s engineers received the Stormwater Professional of the Year award.
• 182 capital projects were completed and closed by the end of FY 2025, June 30^th.
• $46.9 million was returned to the General Fund Balance and the General Capital Reserve Fund Balance.
• Citizens and businesses are encouraged throughout the fiscal year to share their budget priorities with the council and staff.
• FY 2027, beginning on July 1, 2026 has several deadlines: November 26 Capital requests are due; January 16 operating requests are due; January 30 department profile updates and draft performance measures are due.
• Downtown Regional Wetland project was completed at 206 South Harrison. It was designed and constructed through public/private partnership with Meridian Cary.
• Twin Lakes Dams Rehabilitation is underway and is expected to be completed by summer of 2026.
• The High House Road at Bond Park Traffic Signal and pedestrian island is expected to begin in the spring of 2026. The cost is well over $1 million.
• McCrimmon Parkway Pedestrian Improvements is expected to begin construction in 2027 with a project budget of $1.25 million funded by Cary. It will include a traffic signal, signalized crosswalk, and rectangular rapidly flashing beacon midblock crosswalk.
• Sidewalks have been constructed on Weldon Ridge, West Lake Road, and Pittard Sears Road.
• Sidewalks are being constructed on Southwest Cary Parkway, Penny Road, Optimist Farm Road, and Norwell Boulevard.
• The pedestrian bridge and sidewalk gap along Cary Parkway over Black Creek is being installed and should be completed by the end of the year.
• The Cedar Street Parking deck should be completed by the winter of 2026.
• The Academy Street Parking deck should be completed by the winter of 2026.
• A water main replacement project will begin on Shirley Drive starting January 11, 2026.
• A Holly Springs Regional Utility Study should be completed by summer of next year to determine capacity by adding Holly Springs to the partnership with Apex and Cary.
• Sales tax revenue remains relatively flat.
• The consumer price index continues to rise with inflationary impacts on goods and services.
• Property tax revenue is 59% of revenue and sales tax is 21%.
• Cary Convenience Center is in the rail right-of-way, and we will need to move/change the facility. We are moving forward with RFQ to secure a design firm.
• House Bill 926 limits local governments authority to regulate the display of the American flag or the North Carolina flag unless there is a safety concern.
• The Legislature has passed a bill so that Cary will no longer be able to require a one-year waiting period for rezonings that fail.
• House bill 926 will not allow Cary to prescribe asphalt designs for each of our roadway cross-sections.

Verizon Event: Beyond the Storm

Friday morning I provided welcoming remarks at a Verizon event about disaster readiness and recovery called Beyond the Storm. Here are my remarks:

Welcome to Cary and thank you for taking the time to join this important conversation on disaster readiness and recovery. We are grateful to Verizon for hosting and creating space for this dialogue; events like this remind us that preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, and collaboration is our greatest resource. I’d especially like to acknowledge Verizon’s Chief Responsible Business Officer, Donna Epps, for her leadership. Today’s gathering brings together emergency responders, nonprofits, educators, local officials, business leaders, and residents — all working toward the same goal: keeping people safe and communities strong. Cary is proud to host a summit centered on cooperation, planning, and caring for one another — values at the heart of this community.

We know that no single group can do this work alone; it takes coordination, trust, and a willingness to show up for one another. Public–private partnerships are essential, and Verizon is a strong example of how corporate partners can help foster resilience. Cary benefits from partnerships across Wake County and beyond — with schools, businesses, and volunteers — all committed to keeping our residents informed, supported, and resilient. Our community continues to invest in stormwater systems, data-driven planning, and public outreach to reduce risk, but resilience is about more than infrastructure. It’s also about people — the neighbor who checks in, the volunteer who rebuilds, and the student who learns how to prepare.

As you participate today, I encourage you to connect, learn, and leave with at least one new partnership or idea that strengthens your community’s readiness. Resilience isn’t built in the aftermath of a storm; it’s built every day, in moments like this, when we share our expertise and align our efforts. Thank you for your service and for helping ensure that when challenges come, North Carolina stands ready. On behalf of the Town of Cary, welcome once again, and I wish you a productive and inspiring summit.

A big thank you to Verizon for holding this event and helping us prepare for the future.

Chinese Lantern Festival Preview

Friday night I had the honor of providing welcoming remarks for the VIP pre-opening of the Chinese Lantern festival. Elected officials, advisory board members, and others were invited to this event which featured food, entertainment, and of course the Chinese lanterns. After my remarks we counted down and flipped the switch marking the beginning of the festival which will last until the second week in January. This year almost all lanterns were new, and the kid’s features were expanded. This is a must see during the holidays! To learn more about the Chinese Lantern Festival see my remarks below:

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to another spectacular night at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival here in Cary. It’s wonderful to see so many of you gathered to celebrate one of our most beloved traditions. This year is especially meaningful, as we mark the 10th anniversary of the festival — a decade of color, craftsmanship, culture, and shared joy.

One of the most exciting features this year is the debut of the “Snake on the Lake,” a stunning new creation stretching 164 feet long and standing 20 feet high. It takes the place of the familiar dragon and brings a fresh sense of wonder to Symphony Lake. You’ll also see other remarkable installations throughout the festival grounds, including a 38-foot-tall entry display and the towering 59-foot Fantasy Forest that continues to be a guest favorite.

Behind these displays is an enormous effort. This year, around 45 trucks delivered the lanterns and materials, all originally shipped from China at the beginning of September. And we are fortunate to have more than 50 artisans onsite — about 15 more than in previous years — whose craftsmanship and creativity make this festival possible. Their dedication is reflected in every lantern you’ll see tonight.

As we celebrate this milestone year, I want to thank our partners at
Tianyu (Tea an you), our Town of Cary staff, and all of you who return year after year to support this event. This festival brings families, neighbors, and visitors together, reminding us how powerful public art can be in building community.

On behalf of the Town of Cary, thank you for being here. I hope you have a magical and memorable evening at this year’s Chinese Lantern Festival. Enjoy the lights, the creativity, and the spirit that makes Cary such a special place.

Let’s flip the lights on – Help me countdown from 10!

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

As we turn our attention to the busy holiday season, I would like to extend my gratitude to our outgoing Councilmembers Jack Smith and Jennifer Bryson Robinson. My history with these two goes back to my time as a first-year Councilmember in 1999. Jack was a seasoned Councilmember of 10 years, while Jennifer and I were sworn in on the same night. I hope that others have fond memories of Cary past and join us as we celebrate the contributions of these two next week:

November 19, 5:30 p.m. – Jack Smith at McGregor Downs Country Club

November 20, 4:30 p.m. – Jennifer Bryson Robinson at the Gathering House, Downtown Cary Park

Additional details are available at carync.gov/calendar.

While we honor and recognize the past, we also look forward to the future as we welcome Bella Huang and Brittany Richards. The new Councilmembers, along with returning member Carissa Kohn-Johnson, will be sworn in on Dec. 4 at Cary Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.

See you there!

Harold Weinbrecht

Cary Mayor

Hacking Hysteria Project Showcase

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Hacking Hysteria Showcase, where Wake STEM Early College 11th grade students presented interdisciplinary projects exploring how fear and stress responses influence the body and political messaging.

Rise and Shine Event with Ted Abernathy

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Jack Smith attended Rise and Shine with Ted Abernathy, hosted by the Cary Chamber of Commerce at Prestonwood Country Club. Attendees learned about the current economic state and future trends.

Citizens Assisting Police Graduation

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Citizens Assisting Police Graduation, Town of Cary Police Department Program.

Cary Veterans Luncheon

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Jack Smith attended the Town of Cary Veterans Luncheon at Prestonwood County Club.

Visit to Nancy Jones House

Councilmember Michelle Craig, accompanied by members of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), toured the Nancy Jones House.

Western Wake Children’s Business Fair

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Western Wake Children’s Business Fair where they met with young entrepreneurs.

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

• Thanks for having the Women’s ACC Championship at WakeMed Soccer Park.
• A complaint about Public Works’ schedule for pickup of leaves.
• Interest in serving on a town board.
• A complaint about taxes (we have had the lowest tax rate of all twelve municipalities in Wake County for the last 18 years.
• A question about a comment on my blog last week.
• Thanks for flying the American Flag on Academy Street.
• A question about completing Higgins Greenway.
• Several requests to attend events.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Hometown Spirit Award reception, Wake County Mayors Association, First National Bank opening on Davis Drive, Cary Matters taping, Council review of Attorney, Clerk, and Manager, CAMPO, Jack Smith’s farewell event, Jennifer Bryson Robinson’s farewell event, Waverly Place tree lighting, and Fenton tree lighting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 23^rd, 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.

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 100^th 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 17^th 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:

Month	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025
Jan	257.971	261.582	281.148	299.17	311.08	320.32
Feb	258.678	263.014	283.716	300.84	312.041	320.775
Mar	258.115	264.877	287.504	301.836	313.224	321.105
Apr	256.389	267.054	289.109	303.363	314.133	321.489
May	256.394	269.195	292.296	304.127	315.012	321.75
Jun	257.797	271.696	296.311	305.109	315.933	321.98
Jul	259.101	273.003	296.276	306.016	316.734	323.048
Aug	259.918	273.567	296.171	307.026	317.241	323.976
Sep	260.28	274.31	296.808	307.789	317.693
Oct	260.388	276.589	298.012	308.352	318.301
Nov	260.229	277.948	297.711	309.26	319.014
Dec	260.474	278.802	296.797	310.149	319.811

• Annual Inflation Rates

Year	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug
2025	3	2.8	2.4	2.3	2.4	2.7	2.7	2.9

• 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 50^th 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 4^th. 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 4^th.

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 16^th, 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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TIME TO VOTE: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4^TH!!!

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TST in Cary Through 2029

Monday Cary issued a press release announcing that TST (The Soccer Tournament) will return to Cary through 2029:

CARY, N.C. — The Town of Cary and The Soccer Tournament (TST) today announced a new long-term agreement that will keep the world’s premier 7v7 soccer festival at WakeMed Soccer Park through 2029.The partnership is supported by a grant from the NC Department of Commerce Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, recognizing TST’s impact in attracting visitors, driving local spending, and showcasing North Carolina on the global stage. The fund will reimburse eligible in-state expenses up to $6.8 million over the duration of the agreement.

“What makes Cary special is our people,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Our staff, our volunteers, and our citizens always show up and take pride in making visitors feel welcome. The State’s investment is a recognition of that and how amazing our facilities are. We’re proud to keep hosting The Soccer Tournament and to continue sharing this experience with our community and the world for years to come.”

Now entering its fourth year in Cary, TST has continued to expand its global reach and influence. The 2025 event doubled the size of the women’s tournament to 16 teams and achieved a record attendance of 51,730. Nearly 2,000 players representing 34 countries competed across the men’s and women’s fields. Notable past participants include Carli Lloyd, Sergio Agüero, Heather O’Reilly, Luis Nani, Hope Solo, JJ Watt, Steve Nash, Ali Krieger, and Pat McAfee, alongside entries from world-renowned clubs such as Atlético de Madrid, Inter Milan, Club América, Borussia Dortmund, West Ham United, and Wrexham AFC.

“The Town of Cary and its residents have played a major role in TST becoming the preeminent small-sided soccer festival in the world,” said TST CEO Jon Mugar. “Our number one goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience to fans and participants, further cementing TST as a worldwide destination. This support will go a long way toward ensuring we are able to continue to deliver on that.”

“We love hosting the event in Cary and I can’t wait to see everyone back at TST next year!” said NBA superstar and TST co-owner Chris Paul.

An estimated 31,657 fans traveled to Cary from outside Wake County, including visitors from all 50 states, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Fans raved about their experience at TST 2025, which featured a larger festival footprint with club activations, international food, and two live broadcasts of ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show.”In post-event surveys, 80% of attendees called TST the best soccer event they had attended in the past year, and 87% said they would recommend it to friends and family.

According to the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, TST has generated $23.9 million in total economic impact for Cary and Wake County since 2024.

The 2025 tournament generated more than $14.7 million in direct economic impact, including over $547,000 in local tax revenue. Nearly 20,000 room nights were utilized from out-of-county visiting fans, driving $3.8 million in local lodging and transportation spending.

TST has been held at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary since its inception in 2023. The 158-acre park is known for its top-tier fields, natural setting, and long history of hosting championship soccer at every level, including the upcoming NCAA Division I Men’s College Cup in December and a doubleheader of both the men’s and women’s soccer championships in 2026.

This year also marked the debut of The Cary Cup, the first youth tournament to use TST’s signature 7v7 format and Target Score Time™. More than 130 boys’ and girls’ teams from nearly 60 clubs across the country competed, with championship matches played on TST’s stadium fields at WakeMed Soccer Park. As part of the agreement, The Cary Cup will return each year alongside the main tournament. Teams interested in competing in the 2026 edition of The Cary Cup can find more information at carync.gov/thecarycup.

To celebrate the new four-year partnership, TST and The Town of Cary will host a Kickoff Party at Sports & Social in Fenton on November 18, featuring giveaways, special announcements, and a live watch party for the USA vs. Uruguay soccer match.

Details for TST 2026, including dates, participants, and expanded fan experiences, will be unveiled in the coming months.

TST remains open to all teams, from global legends to local hopefuls. Applications to enter a team for TST 2026 are now open at tst7v7.com.

…

About The Tournament

Founded in 2014, The Tournament is owned by Jon Mugar and Chris Paul. Its flagship property, The Basketball Tournament (TBT), has crowned 12 champions, awarded more than $15 million in prizes, and introduced innovations such as the Elam Ending®. In 2023, The Tournament launched its second property – The Soccer Tournament (TST) which has become the preeminent small-sided soccer festival in the world. For more information on The Tournament and its properties, visit TheTournament.com.”

This is not only great entertainment but a huge economic boost for our region. I am proud that Cary will host TST through 2029. This is a must-see event so get your tickets now!

Manager One-On-One

The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included an issue with fireworks, traffic studies, and budget related revenues and cost sharing.

State of Cary at Carpenter Village

I presented the State of Cary address at Carpenter Village on Tuesday night. There were approximately three dozen in attendance. Afterwards I answered questions along with Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson and council members Kohn-Johnson and Bush.

Joint MPO Transportation Meeting

I joined members of the Capital Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board (CAMPO) and members of Triangle West Wednesday morning in a joint MPO meeting. Topics of discussion included the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the CAMPO and Triangle West Joint Strategic Rail Infrastructure Study.

The 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan has three areas of shared investments that include:

• Transit & Rail
• Healthy, Safe, Resilient Mobility
• Complete Corridors/Managed Motorways

The two MPOs previously decided to prioritize investments in the following for incremental progress while larger programmatic investments are pursued:

• Grade Crossing Eliminations
• Advancing Station Work (including NEPA and Engineering Studies)
• Protective Land Purchases for a Regional Maintenance Facility and layover yards
• Interlockings and Sidings
• Ridership Studies
• Investments in the NC-Line from Burlington to Selma

Projects will be submitted to the state based on these priorities. Triangle West has already approved the project list, and CAMPO will vote on it in November.

The meeting concluded after about an hour and a half.

5^th Annual Taste of China Festival

Saturday, I joined council member Bansal and several state and local officials at the Taste of China festival at Downtown Cary Park. I, along with others, were given an opportunity to address the attendees. Here are the notes I spoke from:

“Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to Cary Downtown Park.
We are honored to host this year’s Taste of China celebration—an opportunity to experience the flavor and tradition of Chinese culture right here in the heart of Cary.

Today is more than just great food, art, and performances. It is a celebration of community. Events like this remind us how fortunate we are to live in a town where diversity is embraced, and where traditions from around the world are shared and enjoyed by neighbors and friends.

Thank you to the organizers, performers, vendors, volunteers, and community partners who worked so hard to bring this event to life. Your dedication helps make Cary a place where everyone feels welcome and included.

To all joining us today—whether you grew up with these traditions or are experiencing them for the first time—I hope you leave with full hearts, full stomachs, and a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture.

On behalf of the Town of Cary—welcome, thank you for being here, and enjoy the Taste of China!”

I am proud that Cary is a diverse community with almost 1/4^th of our residents born outside the U.S.

NCDOT Information

At the last Wake County Mayors Association meeting information was provided by a representative from NCDOT. Here are some of the interesting points made about NCDOT maintained roads:

• NC has 80,591 road miles and 167,270 lane miles. More state-owned roads than any state except Texas.
• NCDOT Division 5 (Wake, Durham, Franklin, Vance, Warren, Person, and Granville has 6,757 road miles and 14,945 lane miles. More than 14 states.
• Wake County has 2,757 road miles and 6,229 lane miles. More than Vermont, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and New Jersey.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

This week has been such a wonderful reminder of how our community “shows up” for one another. On Tuesday, I attended the District B Community Meeting at The Cary Theater, and I was thrilled to see so many neighbors come out to listen, learn, ask questions, and make their voices heard. That same energy carried into Thursday night’s Council Meeting, where residents came out to speak during Public Speaks Out. It’s inspiring to witness how deeply our community members care about shaping Cary’s future together.

On Wednesday morning, I joined the Cary Chamber’s Eye Opener Breakfast, where Dr. Katherine Loflin shared her deep knowledge of Cary’s history. As the Council Liaison for the Historic Preservation Commission and the Friends of Page-Walker (Cary’s historical society), I never want to miss one of her talks. She has such a gift for bringing Cary’s story to life. (In fact, my son and I even went to one of her recent events at the Barnabas Jones property near Jack Smith Park.) 

Perhaps the highlight of my week was Cary High School’s Homecoming. There’s nothing quite like seeing the streets lined with families and friends, alumni, and students cheering on the oldest public high school in North Carolina. From the parade to the homecoming football game, the marching band, and crowning the winners from the homecoming court, it was a day full of pride and community spirit.

I can’t say enough about how much I love our town. Cary is full of people who care deeply for one another and love to celebrate together. On that note, I want to mention another way we can show up for each other. Food insecurity is growing, and local food banks and Dorcas Ministries need our help to keep their shelves stocked. Please consider making a donation if you are able: (https://dorcasnc.org/donate/)

And if you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out: (https://foodbankcenc.org/food-finder/). Several friends have shared how these programs were lifelines for their families, and no one should ever feel alone in seeking support.

Take care,

Michelle Craig

District B Council Member

Grand Opening of Cary Acclaim at Cary Pointe

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Lori Bush attended the ribbon cutting at Acclaim, the new active adult community in Cary. Open since April, new residents are moving in daily and becoming part of the vibrant District D community.

District B Community Meeting

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson hosted the District B Community Meeting at The Cary Theater. The meeting included presentations on the State of Cary, Town Financials, Downtown Development, Aging Resources, and Public Safety. Following the presentations, the Mayor and Councilmembers answered questions from the audience.

Eye Opener Breakfast

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Chamber Eye Opener Breakfast, where Katherine Loflin spoke about Cary’s Missing Landmarks and her new book, Hidden History.

Islamic Center Visit

Councilmember Sarika Bansal spent time with Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam at the Islamic Center of Morrisville, engaging with residents and community leaders.

Courtyards at West Cary Diwali Party

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the Courtyards at West Cary Diwali Party, where attendees celebrated the holiday and shared in the spirit of community and togetherness.

Trunk or Treat

Councilmember Sarika Bansal stopped by the Mills Park Elementary School Trunk or Treat to celebrate with students and parents and enjoy the creative costumes and decorated trunks.

Laasya School of Dance 30^th Anniversary

Councilmember Sarika Bansal read a letter of congratulations at the Laasya School of Dance 30th Anniversary celebration, recognizing the school’s longstanding contributions to Cary’s arts and cultural community.

Bhojan with Baba (Dine with Saibaba)

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended “Bhojan with Baba” (Dine with Saibaba), a special community event at the Sri Shirdi Saibaba Mandir of NC celebrating faith, service, and community spirit.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

This week, I joined Councilmember Bansal at Panther Creek High School for a community meeting to facilitate conversations with nearby residents and parents about traffic concerns around the school. About thirty community members attended and offered thoughtful input on improving traffic flow along NCDOT’s McCrimmon Parkway. 

Wishing you all a safe and Happy Halloween. 

Sean

New Veterans Day Flag Displays

In honor of Veterans Day, American flags have been proudly displayed along Academy Street and at Veterans Freedom Park. Flag banners were installed using existing brackets along Academy Street, while removable flagpoles were added at Veterans Freedom Park for the display. The flags will remain in place through early next week. To learn more about Cary’s Veterans Day Observance, click here.

Organizational Development Partners with Wake Tech

This week, Organizational Development (OD) wrapped up a series of classes delivered through a new partnership with Wake Tech Community College (WTCC). For the first time, professional instructors brought handpicked courses directly to staff, with a mix of on-site and virtual classes such as Confidence in Public Speaking and Big Data & Business Analytics. A total of 55 participants were enrolled in the four offerings. This initiative reflects Cary’s commitment to investing in our greatest resource – our people. This partnership created meaningful opportunities for employees to learn, grow, and strengthen the skills they use to serve our community. Building on this success, a new set of offerings is being planned for spring.

NVIDIA GTC in Washington D.C.

CIO, Nicole Coughlin represented Cary at NVIDIA’s GTC Conference in Washington, D.C., participating in a session on Leadership Strategies to Transform Public Services. The conversation explored how AI and data-driven decision-making are reshaping local government, improving operational efficiency, and advancing digital twin initiatives that help cities better model, predict, and plan for the future.

Regionalization Study Kickoff

On Wednesday, Apex and Holly Springs joined Cary to officially kick off a regional wastewater study exploring long-term solutions for all three communities. Each municipality shared project updates, and consultants from HDR and Jacobs led a discussion on project scope, success factors, and desired outcomes. The session took place at the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF), one of the sites under evaluation and currently undergoing an expansion master plan. The study is planned to wrap up in spring 2026.

Cary and Apex Tour UNC Cooling Tower

On Wednesday, Cary and Apex Utilities staff toured one of the large, chilled water plants at UNC Chapel Hill to learn more about how UNC staff have optimized their processes to use reclaimed water for their chilled water production. Reclaimed water is used on the UNC Chapel Hill campus as makeup water within the cooling towers in place of potable water to conserve water. Staff learned how proper management and optimization of the treatment processes improves water quality and prevents scaling in cooling tower applications for chilled water production.

Halloween Recap

During the month of October, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources hosted a series of fall and Halloween events across town. On October 24, the Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park drew 1,300 attendees for lakeside festivities featuring live music, food vendors, and floating jack-o’-lanterns. That same evening, the Theater’s 10th annual Zombiepalooza attracted thousands to Downtown Cary Park’s Great Lawn Pavilion for its popular costume contest and short film festival.

The celebration continued with Teen Council’s Haunted Walk at Bond Park’s Challenge Course, which drew nearly 1,000 visitors through themed areas such as Twisted Circus and Haunted Graveyard. On October 25, Downtown Cary Park’s Pumpkin Carve welcomed more than 2,000 participants who created 515 jack-o’-lanterns, while sustainability efforts converted 880 pounds of pumpkin waste into compost. The event concluded with a Halloween movie double feature drawing more than 1,000 attendees. Across town, ACCESS Cary’s Moonlight Mayhem at the Senior Center offered games, crafts, and dancing.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, November 3
5:15 p.m.

Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, November 3
6:30 p.m.

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, November 5
12:00 p.m.

Economic Development Committee
Wednesday, November 5
5:15 p.m.

Cary Candidate Filing

Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18^th. Here are the candidates for Cary Council (Incumbents are denoted with I):

• At-Large: Carissa Johnson (I), Marjorie Eastman
• District A: Jennifer Robinson (I), Brittany Richards
• District C: Renee Miller, Bella Huang

Elections are on November 4^th.

To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.

You can see the League of Women Voters Forum here.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.

Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint about trash on soccer fields on High House.
• A complaint about abandoned vehicles in the Brickyard at Highway 55 and Mahal Avenue.
• A complaint about a malfunctioning railroad crossing at Highway 54 and Highway 55.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, an Economic Development meeting, a HRID (Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity) Advisory Board meeting, and the annual Veterans Day luncheon.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 9^th, 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.

Cary #13 in America for Safest Cities to Trick-Or-Treat

Monday I received information that Cary was one of the safest cities to trick-or-treat in America according to SafeHome.org. This study ranks 161 U.S. cities according to their relative safety for children and families participating in trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Cary was ranked 13^th. The analysis integrates crime, traffic safety, and public safety resources into a composite Safety Index, ensuring that comparisons are made on a standardized basis across cities of varying size.

Council Meeting Prep

I contacted each of the council members on Monday to hear of any concerns about the upcoming agenda. Council members expressed concerns with the Alston Commons rezoning proposal.

Later in the day I met with staff to discuss the agenda items. At that time, we were not aware of any major public concerns with agenda items.

Manager One-On-One

The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. Some of the topics we talked about included crosswalks, the accident at Panther Creek High School, the campaign season, and complaints from the individual who lives across from the Downtown Cary Park’s dog park

Wake County Mayors

I attended a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association on Monday night. Attending were the mayors of Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Zebulon.

A representative from NCDOT Division 5 (mostly Wake County) gave a presentation. I hope to provide some of that information in a future post. One interesting note was about monies spent for the recovery of Hurricane Helene. The money spent will not prevent or delay future projects but instead will be taken from highway maintenance.

Council District B Community Meeting

A community meeting for District B was held Tuesday night in the Cary theater. Council member Craig gave opening remarks, I gave a brief presentation on the State of Cary, and staff provided other information and updates related to the district and the town overall. Then council member Craig and I were joined by council members Bush and Kohn-Johnson to address questions from the audience. After about thirty minutes of questions, we adjourned and continued to answer questions for another thirty minutes. There were about three dozen people in attendance.

Town of Conover

Wednesday night I had the pleasure of meeting with the Mayor of Conover NC, a few of their council members, the city manager, and several staff members. They were here mostly to see Downtown Cary Park. We had a great conversation and shared stories of issues we have in common. They were a great group and Conover is well represented. Before they left I had my picture made with the mayor, council, and manager.

Council Work Session

Council held a work session on Thursday evening to discuss the council schedule, get an update on utility payment and meter reading, and transportation system requirements.

There were two council calendar entries of note, a quarterly meeting will be held on November 13 and the swearing in of council members will be on December 4.

The first topic was on Cary’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure. Key Points in this discussion:

• Cary’s first-generation smart meters have surpassed their intended life span of ten years.
• Supply chain disruptions delayed meter replacement efforts.
• Full replacement of all first-generation smart meters (28,436) is planned by the end of 2025.
• All 14 base stations have already been replaced to improve performance.
• The original meters were SRII meters which were first generation and lasted about ten years.
• The new meters are IPERL meters, have no moving parts, and should last twenty years.

The second topic of discussion was about cumulative effects of development projects on traffic. Key takeaways from this discussion include:

• Review of approved zoning cases over the past three years shows no cases would have triggered a cumulative Traffic Analysis Report (TAR) analysis.
• Zoning conditions are voluntary and must be offered by the applicant.
• Practices of neighboring municipalities may offer potential TAR changes depending on the Council’s desired goals.

After much discussion on what triggers a traffic study and what neighboring municipalities are doing, the staff agreed to discuss with developers and provide additional information in the future.

Council Meeting

The last regularly scheduled council meeting of October was held on Thursday night. The agenda included three presentations, four consent items, two public hearings, and two discussion items. One item for discussion, 22-REZ-20 Alston Commons PDP, was tabled indefinitely at the request of the applicant when the agenda was adopted. It was questionable as to whether the Alston Commons PDP proposal had enough support for approval.

Presentations included a proclamation recognizing Diwali to the SV temple, a proclamation recognizing Cyber Security Awareness month, and a proclamation recognizing the 66^th Cary High School band day on November 1^st.

The first public hearing was a rezoning proposal 25-REZ-08 on Green Level Church Road for up to six single family homes on 3.31 acres. Speakers complained about traffic and stormwater that would come with the development. This will go to Planning and Zoning Board for their review and recommendation and will be returned to council in a few months for a final decision.

The second public hearing was for an annexation 25-A-07 on the corner of Bayoak Drive and High House Road. The owner’s intention is to develop residential detached dwellings. There were no speakers, and this was approved unanimously by council.

The discussion item was for Data Governance Strategy Policy and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Review. After discussion and questions the council unanimously adopted Policy Statement 188: Data Governance Strategy and Policy Statement 189: Artificial Intelligence. AI continues to evolve rapidly as will these policies.

After a close session the council meeting concluded after about three hours.

Dorcas Rebrand

Dorcas has recently merged with Western Wake Crisis Ministries. As a result, they are launching their rebrand at their annual fundraising breakfast on November 13^th. I was asked to be part of a short video that will also include Apex Mayor Gilbert and Morrisville Mayor Cawley. I was interviewed for my part on Friday morning with questions focusing on being a good neighbor.

Legislative Update

The following is this week’s legislative update was provided by Checkmate Government Relations:

“Tensions between legislative leaders resurfaced this week as discussions around the state budget and major policy items once again stalled.

Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon returned four bills to the House that were ruled ineligible under the chambers’ agreed-upon rules for the October session:

• SB 378 – Align Medicaid Eligibility with Federal Law
• SB 405 – Healthcare Investment Act
• SB 599 – State/Teacher Pay & Local LEO Bonus
• HB 491 – Medicaid Rebase Funding

The Senate argues the House violated procedural rules by sending bills over not permitted under the current adjournment resolution, while the House continued advancing its preferred versions. The dispute underscores the ongoing rift between legislative leadership, leaving major issues such as state employee pay raises, Medicaid funding, and the overall budget unresolved.

You can read the full press release from Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger here.

Still, not all was lost this week. Lawmakers enacted SB 449 (SL 2025-97) Continuing Budget Operations Part IV., which includes several positive changes, such as waiving State Health Plan local government surcharges and clarifying criminal history background check requirements, two issues created under prior legislation this session.”

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

This week reminded me of how many ways our community comes together to celebrate, serve, and support one another. I was honored to join Governor Josh Stein and community members at the SV Temple for the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month, a celebration that beautifully reflects Cary’s spirit of unity and inclusion.

I also had the opportunity to connect with inspiring mothers and daughters at the National Charity League event, where service and leadership go hand in hand, and at the Equality NC Gala, which honored decades of advocacy for a more equitable North Carolina.

The week ended close to home at the Advisory Volunteer Event in Downtown Cary Park, where we recognized the dedicated residents who lend their time and expertise to Cary’s boards and commissions. Their contributions help shape the thoughtful, community-driven decisions that make Cary such a special place to live. Thank you to everyone who continues to invest their time, energy, and heart in making Cary stronger together.

Carissa Kohn-Johnson

All Hands Meeting

Councilmember Jack Smith participated in the Town’s internal All Hands meeting, where staff honored him as the longest-serving councilmember. His decades of experience continue to provide valuable insight and leadership.

Habitat for Humanity Anniversary Event

Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the 40th Anniversary celebration of Habitat for Humanity of Wake County. Habitat’s work has empowered families for decades by building homes, stability, and hope. With one in four Wake County residents housing cost-burdened, their mission is more vital than ever.

Celebration at SV Temple

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month by Governor Josh Stein at the SV Temple. The event honored the cultural significance of Diwali and celebrated community unity.

Furniture Store Grand Opening

Councilmember Jack Smith attended the grand opening of Bob’s Discount Furniture in Cary. The company, originally founded in the Northeast, is expanding its presence into North Carolina with this opening.

Groundbreaking for Lucy Daniels Center Expansion

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the groundbreaking of the expanded Lucy Daniels Center for Early Childhood. The expansion will triple the number of children served annually, providing essential mental health services to over 1,500 children. The Center has supported families across the Triangle for 35 years.

National Charity League Event

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended a National Charity League event. The organization empowers mothers and daughters through leadership and service, contributing nearly three million volunteer hours annually to over 6,000 charities nationwide.

Equality NC Gala

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Equality NC Gala. Equality North Carolina is the nation’s oldest statewide LGBTQ advocacy organization, working to build a safer and more equitable future for all.

Advisory Volunteer Event

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith attended the Advisory Volunteer Event at Downtown Cary Park. The event recognized the service of outgoing, current, and incoming advisory board volunteers as part of the Jazz’d Up Sundays concert series.

Grand Opening of Local Spa

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the grand opening of Aura Bliss Spa, supporting a new local business in our community.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar and I had the opportunity to present at the UNC School of Government this week on building trust through equitable engagements, specifically how Cary works to move beyond individual preferences toward a shared sense of responsibility. The session offered a chance to reflect on the partnership between elected officials, staff, and citizens that defines our community. Danna’s thoughtful remarks on Count Me In, Cary! captured the depth of her leadership.

The questions and dialogue reminded us that Cary’s success is rooted not in a single program or policy, but in the culture of learning and collaboration that Council has made possible. I left feeling deeply grateful for the partnership of colleagues like Danna, for the hospitality of UNC’s faculty, and for the continued opportunity to represent Cary among those who serve with purpose.

On a personal note, I am off today spending time with my daughter who is home on fall break.

Sean

Early Voting

Additional Early Voting sites will open on October 25. Wake County voters can vote at Herb Young Community Center, and Chatham County voters can vote at New Hope Baptist Church in Apex. This is in addition to the Wake County Board of Elections and the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, which opened last week.

Early Voting ends November 1, and Election Day is November 4. You can vote early at any Early Voting location in the county where you live, but on Election Day, you must vote at your assigned polling place.

Weston Parkway Bridge Maintenance

Beginning October 27, the westbound lanes of Weston Parkway will close for bridge maintenance over Black Creek through early December, weather dependent. To maintain two-way traffic, westbound vehicles will be shifted to an eastbound lane. Turning movements at Verizon Driveway and Winstead Drive will be limited to right-in and right-out only, with detours available via Norwell Boulevard and Old Reedy Creek Road. Drivers should anticipate changes in traffic patterns and possible delays.

GoCary Service Changes

On November 1, GoCary will launch two new routes with connections to Raleigh and Apex. Route 2 will connect downtown Cary, NC State University Centennial Biomedical Campus (CBC), and the NC State Fairgrounds. Route 9 will replace the Apex-Cary Express with a local route offering all-day service between downtown Cary and downtown Apex. In addition to the new routes, schedule changes to existing routes and systemwide accessibility improvements will expand access, enhance mobility, and strengthen regional connections.

Moldovan Delegation Visits Cary

On Thursday, Assistant Town Managers Danna Widmar, Shelley Curran, and Scot Berry, along with Town Attorney Lisa Glover, Chief Strategy Officer Susan Moran, Marketing & Creative Manager Kristy Buchanan, and Marketing Strategist Sean Maroney, welcomed a delegation from Moldova hosted by the NC Department of Secretary of State.

The group included mayors, local government division directors, and a county commissioner who were interested in Cary’s public-private partnerships, organizational structure, and stormwater management. They were highly impressed by the Imagine Cary Community Plan’s long-range vision and the walking tour of the Downtown Cary Park. Here’s what the group’s district council president shared online.

EDF Cities Initiative and SSDN Meeting

Cary welcomed 40 local and regional leaders to Bond Park Community Center on Tuesday for a joint meeting of the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Cities Initiative and the Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN). NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Secretary D. Reid Wilson, and representatives of Duke Energy and the Sierra Club, led thoughtful discussions on North Carolina’s Carbon Plan, non-residential solar and battery storage opportunities, and the challenges facing communities in advancing climate and energy goals. Cary showcased the Pierce Volterra electric fire truck, inspiring other municipal leaders to explore similar innovations.

WWWRF Forcemain Repair Training

This week, local contractors joined staff to participate in a steel pipe repair training session focused on repair methods for the 54-inch steel effluent force main. This style pipe has been in service since 2014, and transports treated wastewater 11.5 miles from the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWWRF) to the Cape Fear River. Participants were trained in the latest repair techniques and materials to ensure readiness and collaboration in the event of an emergency.

Harvest Fest Recap

Harvest Fest welcomed a record 1,500 guests to Good Hope Farm last Saturday, reflecting growing community interest in Cary’s agricultural and environmental initiatives. The event showcased strong partnerships with organizations such as Future Farmers of America, NC Forest Service, NC Bluebird Society, Piedmont Fibershed, Farmer Food Share, NC Conservation Network, and others that help advance Cary’s sustainability and local food goals. Participants enjoyed engaging environmental education, children’s activities, and farm tours connecting them to the people and programs that keep Cary rooted in environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.

Mummy and Son Ball

On October 21, the annual Mummy and Son Ball brought Halloween magic to life as mummies and sons gathered for an evening of spooky fun and laughter. The event featured a variety of carnival games, a Halloween costume contest, and the “Not So Scary” Halloween tale of the Giant Whistling Frog said to live in the mysterious woods of Ritter Park. To end the night on a sweet note, families roasted “ghosts” over the fire for delicious s’mores.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting Cancelled

The Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting for 25-REZ-13 & 611 E. Chatham has been cancelled at the applicants request.

For more information visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting page.

Important Dates

Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, October 27
6:30 p.m.

Cary Candidate Filing

Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18^th. Here are the candidates for Cary Council (Incumbents are denoted with I):

• At-Large: Carissa Johnson (I), Marjorie Eastman
• District A: Jennifer Robinson (I), Brittany Richards
• District C: Renee Miller, Bella Huang

Elections are on November 4^th.

To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.

Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Agreeing with me that “blame and hurt is the culture today”.
• A complaint about the Weston rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14.
• Several complaints about Eastman’s mailer which used a logo very similar to Cary’s logo.
• A complaint debris on Jones Franklin Road, tree limbs down on West Chatham, and buckling pavement on Meeting Street.
• Thanks for the police officer’s help in a hit and run case.
• A request to not pick up leaves to help wildlife.
• A complaint that I didn’t respond to an email “You silence is deafening. Hope your children and grandchildren are not listening. You have allowed a very vile old man to take your humanity and your dignity. …” (Wow! This was after he agreed with me that blame and hurt is the culture of today. I didn’t know he was waiting for a response. I certainly will.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a State of Cary address at Carpenter Village, a joint meeting of the Capital Area MPO and Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization, and the 5^th Annual Taste of China Festival.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 2^nd, 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.

Manager One-On-One

The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. The two main topics we discussed were stormwater issues at Twin Lakes and a complaint about trucks parked in front of houses. BTW, vehicles allowed to park in front of your house include cars, trucks, and work vehicles. To prevent that parking would require a ban town-wide of on-street parking.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

The Cary Tennis Classic Board met on Monday night. We mostly discussed new abilities tennis events. We also talked about the video board at the Cary Tennis Park which will have video with audio for the 2026 tournament. Sponsors will be able to have their advertisements run year-round. The 2026 tournament is scheduled for June 28^th through July 5^th.

CAMPO

The CAMPO Executive Board held its monthly meeting on Wednesday afternoon at their offices in Cary’s Fenton. The agenda included three consent items, one public hearing, and four discussion items.

The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included minutes, the adoption of the Federal Functional Classification changes, and authorizing the Executive Director to sign the final Local Funding Agreement with NCDOT Division of Aviation.

The public hearing was on the Community Funding Area Program Management Plan. The Community Funding Area Program (CFAP) was initiated to support the goals of the Wake Transit Plan. The program provides an opportunity for the 10 smaller towns and the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in Wake County, which would otherwise have limited funding options, to create or accelerate local transit services and programs. CFAP provides an opportunity for the 11 eligible applicants to participate in a competitive grant process to receive match funding for planning, capital, operating, or combined capital/operating transit projects. Funding matches are required to ensure that projects include local funding to support continued transit investment. The purpose of the agenda item was to hold a public hearing.

The three discussion items were just for information purposes only. Presentations were made on amendment one to FY 2026-2035 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Safety Performance Measure Targets for 2026, and an update for the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

Cary Matters Taping

Thursday afternoon I taped a version of Cary Matters with longtime council member Jack Smith. He is his 36^th and final year and this episode was dedicated to him. In this episode I asked the following questions:

• You’ve seen big challenges and big wins over the years. Is there a particular moment or decision that stands out to you as especially meaningful for our community?
• That balance – between growth and preserving Cary’s character – has really been a constant theme. As you look back on your time on Council, how do you hope it will be remembered?
• We’ve spent a lot of this conversation looking back, and these lessons from our history are so important as Cary continues to learn and evolve. But looking forward – as Cary continues to grow and change – what do you think will be most critical to focus on in the years ahead?

Make sure to watch the episode to hear his final thoughts as Cary’s longest serving council member.

Advisory Board Appreciation Event

I joined council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, Craig, and Smith at the Advisory Board Volunteer appreciation event in Downtown Cary Park on Sunday afternoon.

I started the program by recognizing outgoing advisory board members and then council members. Our advisory board members are residents who give their time, ideas, and perspective throughout the year to help shape the future of Cary. Their service is one of the reasons why Cary remains one of the greatest places to live, work, and play in America. Cary is blessed to have so many citizens willing to sacrifice their time to make Cary a better place. Thank you!

In my concluding remarks I introduced the entertainment, Catching Some Rays: The Music of Ray Charles, featuring the Noel Freidline Quartet and vocalist Maria Howell.

Mayors Diwali Dance Big International News

The Bollywood dance performed on October 11^th at Koka Booth Amphitheater by Morrisville Mayor and me along with council members, and a dozen staff members from Cary and Morrisville was big news internationally. Media outlets include Hinustan (equivalent to CNN I am told), NewIndiaAbroad, NDTV, NewsXWorld, Times of India, and others. Comments made included:

“As Diwali celebrations commence worldwide, the North Carolina expatriate community recently hosted an event to share the festive spirit. A memorable moment occurred when Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley joined performers on stage, delighting the audience by dancing to popular Bollywood songs.

The now viral video shows both Weinbrecht and Cawley dancing to Salman Khan’s hit song, Chunari Chunari, at the event organized by Hum Sab, an NGO dedicated to sharing the social and cultural traditions of India with residents of the North Carolina Triangle area and beyond.”

“A now viral video of Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley dancing to Bollywood songs has taken social media by storm.

The Celebrity Segment, introduced a few years ago, has grown into a crowd favorite. Local leaders rehearse for weeks, donning colorful costumes sponsored by community businesses, and showcasing the joy of shared cultural connection through music and dance. This year, it featured the two mayors, along with other council members and performers from Taal Harmony Dance Group.”

“Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley delighted the crowd by dancing to iconic Bollywood songs like Chunari Chunari and Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai at a Diwali event.”

“There are few things that exemplify the spirit of togetherness as well as people coming together through music and dance. This could not have been more evident than the Diwali celebration in North Carolina, where Mayor Harold Weinbrecht of Cary, and Mayor TJ Cawley of Morrisville danced on stage to the cheers of the crowd, even dancing to Salman Khan’s popular track ‘Chunari Chunari’.”

Accident at Panther Creek High School

Tuesday morning a student at Panther Creek High School was unfortunately hit by a car driven by another student. Prayers were answered and the student will be OK.

Sadly, there are some people who are quick to blame and resort to hurtful statements like “It’s shameful that someone has to get hurt for action to be considered (re: student hit by car in front of Panther Creek HS). Do better, do good.”

The street where the student was struck is a NCDOT maintained road. In addition, NCDOT decides whether crosswalks are installed based on criteria they set. Here are portions of the staff’s response when I asked for information about this accident and the person’s statements:

“…You are correct, the incident at Pather Creek HS yesterday was on the portion of McCrimmon Parkway owned by NCDOT. Transportation staff have been working with NCDOT for intersection and crosswalk improvements along the school’s frontage and the new townhome community, Channing Park. …

Mr. ___ in his email below, has requested a crosswalk at the intersection of McCrimmon Parkway and Bluff Oaks Drive within the Amberly subdivision. …

The crosswalk requested by Mr. ___ has been added to our potential crosswalk list and would be considered a new, uncontrolled crosswalk. Staff … have scored the location to determine if it meets the requirements for a crosswalk. The score is based on several factors and was considered a mid-to-low priority compared to all existing uncontrolled crosswalks in Cary. …”

I removed the parts of the email with the person’s name and information not pertinent to where the accident occurred. Again, the scoring is for NCDOT and that sets the priority.

Council member Bansal, who represents District D which includes that area posted the following:

“Sharing information on a 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤/ 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥. While these are great and much-needed improvements, driver attentiveness will continue to be essential to avoid any future incidents.

I was also made aware of a 𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 —sharing his personal experience and highlighting the daily challenges faced by students walking to school. While 𝐈 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 and concern expressed, 𝐈 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 “𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧” 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭.

𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐃𝐎𝐓-𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝. Despite that, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 $𝟏.𝟐 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. It’s important that we share accurate information as we work together toward keeping Cary a place where we can continue to call home.

1) we will be sharing some dates for information session very soon

2) I will be happy to speak to you directly if you have any questions or concerns. My email is sarika.bansal@carync.gov ”

Being a father and grandfather, I can tell you that it is very hurtful to imply that a child’s injury is due to my negligence. Unfortunately, blame and hurt is the culture today.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

What a joy it’s been to celebrate community this month here in Cary! From milestone moments to cultural festivals, I hope you’ve had a chance to join some of the events happening about town.

We kicked things off with the Cary Senior Center’s 25th Anniversary – it was a truly heartwarming celebration of a place that has meant so much to so many. You could feel the love in the room as friends reminisced, laughed, and shared stories about how the center has brought people together over the years.

And then there was Hum Sub Diwali! What an unforgettable evening! Taking part in the Celebrity Dance with my fellow Councilmembers and our staff (including folks from Morrisville!) was an absolute blast. The music, the lights, the crowd’s excitement, it all captured Cary’s spirit of celebration and togetherness perfectly. Moments like these make me so grateful to be part of such a vibrant, caring community.

Lori Bush

At-Large Council Member

Barkitecture Pre-Pawty

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Barkitecture Pre-Pawty at Downtown Cary Park. Triangle Barkitecture is a one-of-a-kind pet architecture and design competition that raises funds for local foster and pet rescue organizations across the Triangle. Architects, engineers, designers, and other creative minds collaborate to build custom pet structures, which are auctioned at the event – with 100% of proceeds benefiting pets in need.

SAS Championship Women’s Day Conference

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson provided remarks at the SAS Championship Women’s Day Conference, part of the annual SAS Championship Tournament. This year marks the 12th Annual Women’s Day, held under the theme “Power in Progress.”

Cary Elementary Walk & Roll School Event

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Elementary Walk & Roll to School event, which began at Frantz Square in Downtown Cary Park. The Walk & Roll program is part of a nationwide initiative that encourages students, families, and communities to walk or bike to school together.

25^th Anniversary Celebration for the Cary Senior Center

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson provided remarks at the 25th Anniversary Celebration for the Cary Senior Center. Also in attendance were Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, and Michelle Craig. The celebration marked 25 years since the Cary Senior Center opened in Bond Park, recognizing its long-standing role as a hub for programming, community connection, and lifelong learning.

Folds of Honor Event

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmember Jack Smith attended the Folds of Honor event as part of the SAS Championship Tournament. The program celebrated another remarkable year of the tournament and highlighted the inspiring partnership with Folds of Honor – an organization that embodies service, sacrifice, and hope.

Hum Sub Diwali at Koka Booth Amphitheater

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Opening Ceremony of Hum Sub Diwali at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Later that evening, Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, and Michelle Craig participated in the Celebrity Dance performance at the event. Hum Sub Diwali is one of Cary’s largest and most celebrated cultural festivals, organized by the nonprofit Hum Sub, Inc., which promotes Indian heritage and cultural awareness throughout the Triangle.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

This week we held a special All Hands meeting with staff. After a few updates, we spent time with Councilmember Jack Smith, who – as you all know – will retire at the end of this term after 36 years of service.

Jack was, as always, honest and he reflected on what it means to serve with heart. He told staff, “Be adaptive. Be flexible. Be yourself. But never lose your compassion… we work for the people of Cary… never forget the folks we support.” You could feel the room lean in when he said it.

The conversation was a meaningful glimpse into the history and values that have carried this organization forward. Staff walked away grateful to Jack for his example, and to Council for the culture you’ve helped create, one where service is both personal and proud.

Sean Stegall

Old Apex Waterline Reinforcement Project

Old Apex Road Between Maynard Road and High House Road will be closed October 24 – November 2.

Construction crews have steadily progressed on the new 24-inch water main along Old Apex Road since March. Later this month, the contractor plans to cross the intersection of Maynard Road and Old Apex Road. To connect the new line to Cary’s system, crews will close the northeast side of Old Apex Road from October 24 to November 2, weather permitting. Message boards are in place to alert travelers of the closure, and detour routes will direct drivers along Maynard Road and West Chatham Street.

Crosswalk Installation on Walker Street

As part of ongoing improvements to the downtown mobility network, a new mid-block crossing was installed on Walker Street near Fairview Road and the Barkyard at Downtown Cary Park (DCP). The high-visibility crosswalk includes push-button-activated flashing signs to alert drivers and enhance access to DCP.

Public Works Snow Rodeo

Public Works held its annual Snow Rodeo today, a hands-on training event that brings together over 300 team members to prepare for winter weather. The event includes equipment testing, safety training, and route familiarization, as well as preparations for leaf collection season, which begins November 3.

Public Safety Partners Visit Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility

Utility and Public Safety staff hosted a tour of the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) for representatives from Chatham County Emergency Management, North Chatham Fire Department, Moncure Fire Department, Apex Utilities, Apex Fire, and Apex Police. The tour showcased the facility’s operations and emphasized the importance of protecting the Jordan Lake water supply. It also helped clarify each agency’s role in responding to potential emergencies that could impact the lake or the CAWTF intake.

Cary, Apex, Holly Springs Wastewater Technologies Visit

Utilities staff from Cary, Apex, and Holly Springs traveled together to Atlanta, GA, to tour three water reclamation facilities using Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technologies. The team explored MBR systems as one of the leading options for expanding the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF).

Mary Collins Award for Resilience and Sustainability

Cary received the 2025 Marvin Collins Award for Resilience and Sustainability from the NC Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) for Count Me In, Cary! Stewardship Strategies for a Sustainable Future. The community-driven initiative helped shape Cary’s Sustainability and Climate Action Strategy and engaged more than 100,000 residents through online and in-person events.

IT Showcases Initiatives at All Things Open Conference

Staff from Information Technology showcased innovative Downtown Cary Park (DCP) initiatives at RIoT’s Demo Night, held alongside the Connected Triangle Summit during the All Things Open Conference, which attracted more than 5,000 attendees to the Raleigh Convention Center. The team demonstrated how smart sensors and connected infrastructure enhance sustainability and elevate the visitor experience in the Park. Chief Information Officer Nicole Coughlin led a featured session, AI in Local Government: Big AI, Small AI, and Everything Between, highlighting how local governments can use AI to improve services while addressing the human side of technology adoption.

Barktoberfest

Barktoberfest wrapped up October 12, concluding a monthlong celebration of Cary’s four-legged friends. Dog lovers took part in puppy yoga, pet portrait painting, dog-themed trivia, pet performances, and outdoor movie nights at the Cary Arts Center and Downtown Cary Park (DCP). The festivities culminated with the Barkitecture event and the introduction of the first class of DCP Bark Rangers, regular Barkyard visitors recognized for good behavior and for welcoming new friends. Each received an official bandana, badge, and photo display at the Barkyard. A similar recognition has been extended to the top dog visitors at Jack Smith and Godbold Park dog parks.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – November 5

The following neighborhood meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 5, at 6:30 p.m.

• 25-REZ-13 607 & 611 E. Chatham

For more information and to register visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting page.

Important Dates

District B Community Meeting
Tuesday, October 21
5:30 p.m.

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, October 22
6:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Thursday, October 23
5:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Regular)
Thursday, October 23
6:30 p.m.

Cary Candidate Filing

Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18^th. Here are the candidates for Cary Council (Incumbents are denoted with I):

• At-Large: Carissa Johnson (I), Marjorie Eastman
• District A: Jennifer Robinson (I), Brittany Richards
• District C: Renee Miller, Bella Huang

Elections are on November 4^th.

To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.

Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint about a drainage issue at Twin Lakes.
• A complaint about a rezoning proposal 25-REZ-12 at Trenton Road and Reedy Creek (council has not seen a staff report on this yet).
• A complaint about speeding on Dynasty Drive.
• Thank you for building Higgins Greenway.
• A complaint about a neighbor parking a trailer in the driveway, not mowing grass, and leaving trash cans in the street.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a Council District B Committee meeting, a meeting with the Town of Conover, a meeting with the Deputy Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, a council work session, the last regularly scheduled council meeting in October, and an interview with Dorcas Rebrand.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 26^th, 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.

New Legislation Harms Cary’s Authority

Monday I received information about new state legislation that took effect. On September 25^th the Legislature passed H926. The Governor neither signed nor vetoed this bill, so by law it became effective 10 days after the legislative action. Three provisions are noteworthy for the potential impacts they may have on Cary.

• Local governments may not require a waiting period for refiling of rezoning requests or development approvals after a request is denied by the local government or withdrawn by the applicant. This provision became effective immediately (today, October 6).  Cary’s LDO requires a one-year waiting period for new rezoning applications if an application is denied or withdrawn, with council having the option to waive the waiting period for good cause shown. Cary will no longer be able to enforce that provision of the LDO. 
• Local governments are prohibited from regulating the size, number, location, or height of the flags of the United States of America or the State of North Carolina, except in limited circumstances where public health, safety, and welfare concerns justify enforcing such regulations on a particular piece of property.  This provision also became effective immediately and was applicable retroactively to any pending enforcement actions.     
• Local governments may not establish pavement design standards for public or private streets more stringent than NCDOT’s minimum standards.  This provision becomes effective January 1, 2026; staff will evaluate its impact this fall.

Municipalities continue to lose authority to manage their towns. This legislation will have a significant impact on our rezoning cases since developers will have no wait time if an application fails. This will discourage them from working with residents and council to create a positive application. In addition, we dumb down our requirements for local streets. This is disappointing to say the least.

Barkitecture Pre Pawty

Monday evening, I attended a Barkitecture Pre Pawty. The Triangle Barkitecture is a one-of-a-kind pet architecture and design competition to raise money for pets in need by supporting local foster and pet rescue organizations right here in the Triangle. Local architects, engineers, designers, and creative minds all over the Triangle compete to create the best custom pet architecture that is then auctioned off at an event with 100% of those profits going to pets in need. This year it was held in Downtown Cary Park on Saturday.

This Pre Pawty was a networking event for those architects, engineers, and designers participating. Barkitecture made a twenty-minute presentation for the group. I spent a little more than an hour talking to various participants.

SAS Pairing Party

Tuesday evening, I joined council member Smith, the Cary Town Manager, and the former Cary Chamber President at the SAS Pairing Party. This is an event that SAS holds for participants in the SAS Championship Pro-Am and is held in building C on the SAS Campus. It was a big mingle and meet event. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay an hour.

SAS Pro-Am

I participated in the SAS Championship Pro-Am on Wednesday and Thursday along with council member Smith, the Cary Town Manager, and the former Cary Chamber President. We played with Cameron Percy of Australia (who now lives in Wakefield) on Wednesday, and Shane Bertsch of Colorado on Thursday. Both were excellent golfers and very personable. We all had a great time.

SAS Championship Cary Taping

On Thursday morning I did a taping for the Golf Channel. They spent a few minutes setting me up for filming from my chest upwards. The following was my script:

Hello from Cary, North Carolina, where we’re proud to once again host the 25^th annual SAS Championship here at beautiful Prestonwood Country Club.

This great tournament is just one of many national and international amateur, collegiate, and professional sporting events we host in Cary at our world-class venues. They’re helping make Cary and the surrounding Triangle, rank among the top sports and visitor destinations in the nation.

Please accept my personal invitation to come visit and see why Cary is consistently named one of the best places to live, work, and play in America.

Having done this many times before, I was able to do this in one take. It took longer to set up than it did to do the taping.

Folds of Honor at SAS Championship

Friday morning, I was given the privilege of speaking at the opening ceremony for the 25^th SAS Championship and the 2^nd Folds of Honor. My comments didn’t come near to recognizing the importance of our veterans and their families.

Since 2007, Folds of Honor has provided life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military. They have expanded their mission to include families of first responders. They say, “On our watch, those who protect our freedoms and our families will know they are not forgotten.” Bless them for all the great work they are doing for those that have sacrificed so much.

Diwali

Saturday morning, I participated in the opening ceremony of Cary Diwali held at the Koka Booth amphitheater. I was joined by council members Craig, Bansal, and Kohn-Johnson.

Other dignitaries included Congresswoman Ross, the Morrisville Mayor, Morrisville council members, and an Apex council member.

I provided a few remarks before reading a proclamation recognizing the 25^th year of the event:

“DESIGNATING OCTOBER 11, 2025 AS THE

SILVER JUBILEE DIWALI CELEBRATION

IN CARY, NORTH CAROLINA

WHEREAS, Diwali, an Indian cultural holiday celebrating light and the victory of good over evil, is a festive occasion in many regions of India and is looked upon as the beginning of the New Year.

WHEREAS, Diwali celebrates Indian customs and traditions, and is a time when communities join together to observe and enjoy Indian cultural heritage.

WHEREAS, the theme of Hum Sub Diwali 2025 is “Yaadein-Ek Shana Safar: 25 Glorious Years of Culture, Community, and Celebration.”

WHEREAS, Hum Sub Diwali recognizes the quarter-century partnership of Hum Sub, Inc. and Cary in celebrating Indian culture.

WHEREAS, Hum Sub Diwali at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a daylong cultural immersion into the Indian subcontinent filled with entertainment, shopping, sumptuous food and breathtaking fireworks.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby proclaim October 11, 2025 as the Twenty-Fifth Annual Diwali Celebration in Cary, marking the silver jubilee event for Hum Sub, and I urge all the citizens of Cary to join in the festivities during this special time.

PROCLAIMED this 11^th day of October 2025.”

Cary’s Diwali event is one of the biggest of its kind in the southeast and I am proud to be a part of it.

Diwali Dance with Cary and Morrisville Team

I along with Mayor Cawley from Morrisville, Cary Council members Bush, Craig, Bansal, several Cary staff members, and Morrisville staff members have been practicing dances for Diwali weekly since July. Needless to say, we spent hours and hours learning all the dances. Saturday night was our performance and the group was amazing. Special thanks to Taal Harmony School and our instructors Rohini and Irina for all the hours they spent helping and teaching us. If you weren’t there made sure to search for the video. It is a must see.

SAS Championship Final

The SAS Championship was held at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary for the 25^th consecutive year which is one of the longest on the senior tour. Over the years it has brought the best players from around the world to compete here, which in turn has given Cary international exposure and created millions in economic benefit. We are so grateful to SAS and the Senior Tour for continuing to support this tournament.

Congratulations to this year’s winner Alex Čejka. Čejka was born in Czechoslovakia, lives in Munich, and is a West German citizen.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Last week, I had the honor of hosting a delegation from Wiesbaden, Germany, as part of Cary’s long-standing Sister Cities partnership. Welcoming our friends from Wiesbaden was a wonderful reminder of how meaningful these international exchanges can be – not only in strengthening ties between our communities, but in giving us the chance to see Cary through our visitors’ eyes.

As we toured some of Cary’s most recognizable places – Downtown Park, the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, and our greenways – I found myself rediscovering them in new ways. Our guests noticed details we often overlook: the care given to public spaces, the diversity of our neighborhoods, and the welcoming spirit that defines our town.

Their perspective reminded me that Cary’s reputation for quality of life, thoughtful planning, and community pride is not something to take for granted – it’s something we continue to build together every day.

I’m deeply grateful to our Sister Cities partners for their warmth, curiosity, and friendship. Their visit strengthened the bond between our two communities and reaffirmed that, though we live an ocean apart, we share the same values of connection, culture, and community.

Jack Smith

District C Council Member

SAS Media Day Tournament at Prestonwood

Councilmember Jack Smith provided welcoming remarks at the SAS Media Day Tournament held at Prestonwood Country Club. The event served as one of the first celebrations leading up to this year’s SAS Championship, marking the beginning of tournament week festivities.

NC Affordable Housing Conference

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the North Carolina Affordable Housing Conference, which brought together housing professionals, advocates, developers, and policymakers from across the state. The conference focused on strategies and partnerships to address the pressing challenges and opportunities surrounding affordable housing in North Carolina.

2025 State of the County

Councilmember Lori Bush attended the 2025 State of the County event, which celebrated a year of passionate, proactive, and purposeful work across Wake County. Chair Susan Evans highlighted accomplishments in housing, transit, planning, libraries, public safety, education, and economic development, while also calling on residents to support the needs of foster youth – through fostering, donating, or raising awareness.

Triangle Oktoberfest

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith and Michelle Craig attended the opening ceremonies of the Triangle Oktoberfest at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. The annual event celebrates German culture, food, and music while supporting local charities through its proceeds.

German Sister Cities Visit

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith and Michelle Craig welcomed a delegation from Wiesbaden, Germany, as part of Cary’s Sister Cities exchange program. The visit strengthened cultural ties and continued the long-standing friendship between the two communities.

Kids Together Walk, Run, and Roll

Councilmembers Lori Bush and Michelle Craig joined families and community members at the Kids Together Walk, Run, and Roll event at Marla Dorrel Park. The annual celebration promotes inclusion and accessibility by honoring every child’s right to play – whether walking, running, or rolling on wheels of all kinds.

Fall Litter Sweep

Councilmember Michelle Craig joined volunteers at East Cary Middle School for Cary’s Fall Litter Sweep on October 4. In partnership with Wake County’s Big Sweep, 53 volunteers spent 106 hours removing about 340 pounds of litter from the community. Part of Cary’s Spruce Program, the event helps protect water quality and promotes a cleaner, greener future.

Friends of the Page-Walker Ice Cream Social

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended an ice cream social hosted by the Friends of Page-Walker, Cary’s historical society, in appreciation of their volunteers. During the event, the group also introduced a new app launching soon that will offer self-guided history tours of downtown.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

This year’s SAS Championship Pro Am was bittersweet this week as the Mayor and I, along with Cary Chamber President Emeritus Howard Johnson, played our final tournament with our friend and Cary’s longest serving Councilmember, Jack Smith.

The hours with Jack were truly amazing – and not because of the golf. Jack literally spent nearly the entire time sharing his appreciation for having served Cary citizens and his gratitude for all the Town staff who helped him help others. It was an inspiring reminder of just how much we rely on each other for our successes.

Also inspiring this week was the Cary Senior Center reaching its milestone birthday of 25 years. Congratulations to the staff, citizens, and elected officials who worked tirelessly to make the center a reality so long ago and my deep appreciation to those who keep this important work going every day.

Have a great weekend.

Sean

Harrison Avenue Tank Rehabilitation Project Begins

Construction on the Harrison Avenue Elevated Water Storage Tank Rehabilitation Project began this week with the blasting and priming of the tank’s interior. The tank will receive all new coatings, first on the interior and then the exterior of the tank. In advance of the exterior work, installation of the containment system has begun and is expected to be in place next week, weather permitting. This rehabilitation project is expected to be completed by spring.

Fall Litter Sweep

Cary’s Fall Litter Sweep took place on October 4, hosted in partnership with Wake County’s Big Sweep. Fifty-three volunteers worked a collective 106 hours removing an estimated 340 pounds of litter from multiple sites around town. Councilmember Michelle Craig attended and helped canvas the East Cary Middle School site. Part of Cary’s Spruce Program, the event helps protect water quality in the region and provides community members with impactful opportunities to join in growing a greener future.

Cary Sparks Student Interest in Electric Vehicles at NC State

On Monday, Cary participated in NC State University’s National Drive Electric Week Ride & Drive event on Centennial Campus. The event drew strong interest from students eager to learn more about electric vehicles and clean mobility options.  Energy Manager Sara Caliendo showcased a Tesla Model 3 from the green fleet and highlighted Cary’s sustainability efforts. Attendees also explored a variety of electric mobility options including cars, e-bikes, and e-scooters, underscoring the growing momentum around cleaner transportation solutions.

SAS Women’s Day

As part of Cary’s partnership with the SAS Championship, 30 staff members from various departments, along with Councilmember Jennifer Bryson Robinson, joined women from across the Triangle for an inspiring event focused on Power and Progress – You Don’t Have to Have it All Figured Out to Lead. This gathering provided an opportunity for participants to share their unique stories, connect with one another, and embrace progress over perfection.

Sidewalk Construction Begins Next Week

Weather permitting, construction of a new sidewalk along the north side of Penny Road from Kildaire Farm Road to Magnolia Wood Drive will begin the week of October 13. This project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), was selected to move forward because it will close an existing sidewalk gap, improving connectivity between neighborhoods, schools, and nearby commercial areas. Construction is anticipated to be complete by spring 2026.

Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Fall Tennis Invitational

The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) hosted its second Annual Fall Tennis Invitational from Oct. 2 – 4 at the Tennis Park. This men’s and women’s individual tournament featured top conference players competing in singles and doubles play, with winners earning automatic qualification for the NCAA Division I Singles and Doubles Championships in November. The event brought collegiate athletes, coaches, and fans from across the region to Cary, highlighting the continued commitment to supporting competitive athletics and providing high-quality facilities for local and visiting players.

Great American Cross Country Festival

For the 17th consecutive year, the Great American Cross Country Festival returned to WakeMed Soccer Park on October 3 and 4, bringing together top talent from 17 states and Washington, D.C. The event featured high school, middle school, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), and community races on Friday, with 467 athletes competing in front of approximately 2,600 spectators. Saturday showcased over 10 JV and Varsity races, drawing 3,494 runners and more than 4,100 spectators. As one of the largest cross-country events in the region, the festival continues to highlight Cary’s role as a premier destination for youth and collegiate athletics.

Bands, Bites, and Boats Recap

Last Friday, Bond Park wrapped up its final Bands, Bites, and Boats of the season. Guests enjoyed cuisine from local food trucks, sampled brews from nearby breweries, and relaxed by the waterfront while taking in a spectacular lineup of live performances. This popular concert series typically draws 500 – 800 attendees for an evening of entertainment, food, and fun with family and friends. The monthly series runs from April through October and will return next spring.

Applause! Cary Youth Theatre Presents Shakespeare Live! As You Like It

On October 5, Applause! Cary Youth Theatre presented Shakespeare Live!, a free theatre-in-the-park performance of As You Like It at Downtown Cary Park. Twelve teen performers presented Shakespeare’s classic comedy of mischief and mistaken identity to a crowd of 160 audience members. Lucky patrons at the Arts Center’s Mini Art Fest on Saturday, Oct. 4 got a sneak peak of the performance as the teens performed an iconic wrestling match scene from the show on the steps of the Arts Center.

Important Dates

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, October 14
6:00 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, October 15
6:15 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, October 16
6:00 p.m.

Cary Candidate Filing

Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18^th. Here are the candidates for Cary Council (Incumbents are denoted with I):

• At-Large: Carissa Johnson (I), Marjorie Eastman
• District A: Jennifer Robinson (I), Brittany Richards
• District C: Renee Miller, Bella Huang

Elections are on November 4^th.

To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.

As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.

In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.

Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Invitations to several events.
• A complaint about trucks with company logos parking in a neighborhood.
• A complaint about a “large truck” parked in front of a house.
• A complaint about “a broken pipe, erosion, and roots of trees” that we are not giving attention to.
• A complaint about property taxes in Cary (We have the lowest in Wake County for the 17^th consecutive year).
• An email campaign of several emails to not collect leaves so that butterflies, salamanders and fireflies would be protected. (None of the emails left addresses so I can only assume they don’t live in Cary).
• A request from a high school student to assist with public health.
• A complaint about an encampment on a walkway at swift creek and crescent green.
• A request for assistance with parking and transportation for a 2026 Cary Garden Tour.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, a CAMPO Executive Board meeting, a Cary Matters taping, and an advisory board appreciation event.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 19^th, 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.