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Legislative Update, Cary #2 Real Estate Market in US, Oktoberfest, and Wiesbaden Visitors

NC Legislative Update

Monday I received a legislative update from the Executive Director of the NC Metro Mayors:

“On last week’s special Coalition call, we provided a wrap-up of last week’s General Assembly session, which took place from September 22 to 24. During their three days of meetings, legislators considered a variety of topics, including criminal justice, regulatory reform, and specific appropriations. Below is a brief overview of the issues discussed and some of the bills that were passed.

Mini Budget

As negotiations on a comprehensive budget plan remain stalled, legislative leaders introduced their second proposal to provide additional funding for state programs.HB 358 Continuing Budget Operations IIincludes funding for a variety of programs, including $65 million in state relief funds to communities damaged by Tropical Storm Chantal in July, as well as continuing relief monies for those communities recovering from Hurricane Helene. The bill also allocated funds to support various economic development projects.

The following issues are not addressed in this bill. These two items, while a fraction of what was included in each chamber’s comprehensive appropriations proposals, represent areas of significant disagreement between House and Senate leadership.

Funding for the proposed UNC-Duke Children’s Hospital in Apex.
Additional funding to support future gaps in Medicaid funding as a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed by Congress earlier this year.

Regulatory Reform

Lawmakers compiled various regulatory reform provisions from bills that did not become law, along with a few new ones, into HB 926 Regulatory Reform Act of 2025, which was considered this week. The wide-ranging bill includes provisions related to on-site wastewater facilities and civil actions to recover for a trespass. The bill comprises more than 30 sections spanning over 25 pages, with 10 sections of particular interest to local governments in general. We refer you to the September 26 email from the NCLM Government Affairs team, which summarizes all of these provisions.

Criminal Justice

Legislators introduced HB 307 Iryna’s Law, to address numerous criminal justice issues that were both borne out by the situation related to the individual charged in the case, as well as other items of interest to legislative leadership. Many of the items included in HB 307 were supported by Governor Josh Stein and reflected in his recent public statements. The bill contains procedural changes on topics such as pretrial release, aggravating sentencing factors, and involuntary commitment, as well as a study of mental health and the criminal justice system, and additional assistant district attorney positions in Mecklenburg County. The bill also includes a provision that would open the opportunity for consideration of other methods of execution if the current method, lethal injection, is deemed unconstitutional. Additionally, it clarifies the statutory language related to medical professionals’ participation in the execution process, addressing a long-standing dispute between the state and medical providers.

The bill passed the Senate by a 28-8 vote and the House by a vote of 81-31. It now proceeds to the Governor for his consideration. If the Governor vetoes the bill, both chambers would likely have the votes to override it, as the Senate had two Republican members absent, which would bring their total to the required threshold.

Also, while seven bills remain on the list of those vetoed by Governor Stein, none were considered for an override vote during last week’s session. They remain eligible for consideration through the end of the biennium next year.

Notwithstanding any emergency issues requiring their earlier return, legislators will be back in Raleigh October 20 through 23 for their next monthly session.”

Cary #2 Real Estate Market in US

WalletHub recently named Cary as the second-best real estate market in the US. Here is what the Triangle Business Journal said about that ranking:

“One of the hottest towns for growth in North Carolina is getting national status.

Cary has been named the second-best real estate market in the U.S. due, in large part, to its relatively low cost of living. The town was also highlighted in a recent study from WalletHub for its relatively low home energy costs, phone service costs and home maintenance costs.

But housing affordability remains an issue.

“It can be a bit pricey to buy a house to begin with, as Cary ranks 96th for housing affordability — but that’s still in the cheapest third of the 300 cities in our study,” WalletHub noted. “In addition, once people buy a house in Cary, the value is forecasted to rise by 0.1% per year” — the 45th-highest increase among the 300 cities studied.

The study also found that Cary had the second-lowest foreclosure rate.

The median sales price for a single-family home in Cary in August was $690,000, according to Doorify MLS, down 8 percent year-over-year.

Durham ranked No. 4 in the study and Raleigh came in at No. 13. The only other North Carolina city in the top 30 was Charlotte, which ranked No. 12.

To determine the best local real estate markets in the U.S., WalletHub compared 300 cities of varying sizes across 17 key indicators of housing-market attractiveness and economic strength. The data set ranged from median home-price appreciation to job growth. …”

I am proud that Cary is once again being recognized nationally as one of the best.

Manager One-On-One

Monday, the manager and I met for our weekly one-on-one. Topics included speeding enforcement at West Cary Middle School, holidays, the convenience center, potential future bonds, and the SAS Championship.

Oktoberfest

Friday evening I joined council members Smith and Craig for the 11^th Triangle Oktoberfest opening ceremony at Booth Amphitheater. This tradition has become an opportunity for all surrounding communities to come together to share great food, music, and fellowship. It is sponsored by the Cary and Apex Rotary Clubs and benefits charitable organizations like the Miracle League of the Triangle.

The opening ceremony includes remarks from Rotary representatives, sponsors, and the mayors of Cary and Apex. Then I usually tap the keg. This year I passed that honor to long time council member Jack Smith, who was born in Germany, and is serving his 36^th and last year as council member.

After the opening I visited and had my picture made with several people including Mayor Gilbert of Apex.

Special guests at this year’s event included a delegation from Wiesbaden, Germany. It is my hope that Wiesbaden and Cary will be sister cities soon.

Wiesbaden Delegation Visits

Sunday morning, I, along with council members Smith and Craig, joined members of Cary Sister Cities and visitors from Wiesbaden, Germany for brunch at the Mayton Inn. The Wiesbaden visitors spent Saturday touring Cary, visiting Oktoberfest, and attending a soccer match at WakeMed. Their Sunday itinerary included shopping in Fenton with entertainment and meals at Sports and Social. Monday they will visit Fire Station #2 and Wake STEM Early College before heading home.

After our brunch we exchanged gifts. Part of my gift was a letter from Wiesbaden mayor Gert-Uwe Mande:

“Dear Mayor Weinbrecht,

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your kind invitation to visit Cary, which I extend also on behalf of the Magistrate of Wiesbaden.

The three distinguished representatives from our Committee on Education, Culture, and Twin Cities – Mr. Martin Woltschell, Mr. Christian Diers, and Mr. Thomas Schwarze – are very much looking forward to their stay in Cary. They will be delighted to engage with your community, and it is a wonderful opportunity for them to learn more about your city and its citizens.

I hear they are particularly excited about participating in the Oktoberfest festivities. I am sure it will be fascinating for them to experience such as a deeply rooted German tradition with an American twist.

Please convey my warmest regards to everyone involved in making this visit possible. I am confident that our representatives will return with great memories and valuable insights, and I look forward to hearing about their experiences.

With kind regards from Wiesbaden

Gert-Uwe Mende”

I thoroughly enjoyed talking with the visitors from Wiesbaden and we have a lot we can gain from each other. I look forward to the beginning of a partnership that hopefully will last for generations.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

October is a month that truly reflects the richness of our community. Across many cultures and traditions, this is a time for reflection, remembrance, and celebration. From honoring history and heritage, to gathering with loved ones, to enjoying the lighter side of the season, October brings a wide variety of holidays that highlight the diversity of Cary.

What makes our town so special is how each of us can celebrate in ways that are meaningful to our families while also appreciating the traditions of our neighbors. These moments remind us that Cary’s strength lies in our ability to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate both what we share and what makes us unique.

As we move through this month, I encourage you to take time to connect—with your family, your neighbors, and your community. May October be a season of discovery, celebration, and unity for us all.

Jennifer Bryson Robinson

Mayor Pro-Tem

Cary Honored with Anthemion Award

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Capital Area Preservation (CAP) Anthemion Awards Dinner, where the Town was honored for its collaborative work to preserve, repurpose, and adaptively reuse the historic Ivey-Ellington House.

White Oak Foundation Tour

Councilmember Sarika Bansal met with Charles R. Tyner for a tour of The White Oak Foundation, Inc., a beacon of hope and stability for countless families. With a mission spanning foreclosure prevention, community education, food security, scholarships, and crisis assistance, White Oak transforms lives and strengthens communities. Continued donor support ensures their impact will endure, bringing greater economic stability and brighter futures across the region.

Exploring Innovation in the AI Era

Councilmember Lori Bush participated in the Public Sector Executive Accelerator on Innovation in the AI Era. The program provided an open exchange of ideas and solutions, discussions of emerging opportunities and challenges, and valuable peer learning with leaders navigating AI’s evolving role in government.

Cary’s Fleet Excellence Recognized

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson, and Council joined Fleet Division Manager Brandon Pasinski and the Fleet Division to celebrate Cary’s leadership in municipal fleet operations, recognized by Pasinski’s selection as both North Carolina State and National Fleet Manager of the Year.

Commitment to Aging Advocacy

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined Michelle Barrett, Program Manager for Seniors and Aging, along with incoming Senior Advisory Board Chair Erin Nortenen and Vice Chair Ron Brigham, at the NC Coalition on Aging Annual Luncheon. The gathering brought together advocates, policymakers, and leaders statewide to celebrate accomplishments and set future priorities, reaffirming Cary’s commitment to supporting older adults through collaborative, statewide efforts.

Farm to Fork Support Good Hope Farm

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmembers Lori Bush and Michelle Craig joined the community for the annual “Farm to Fork” event on Friday, September 26. The experience featured locally sourced food and drinks with a gourmet buffet, live music, and curated beer and cider. Proceeds support Good Hope Farm’s mission of connecting the community to local food, supporting new and beginning farmers, and preserving Cary’s agricultural legacy.

Community Fun at Hangout Bar & Grill

Mayor Reads Duck for President

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht served as a Mystery Reader at Adams Elementary on Friday afternoon, reading Duck for President to two third-grade classes.

Try Transit Week at Cary High School

Councilmember Michelle Craig and GoCary staff connected with students at Cary High School during their lunch to wrap up Try Transit Week. With a bus stop near campus, this was an opportunity to share the ease of taking the bus for free with more than 200 stop options. They can get to jobs, recreation, shopping, and so much more.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

SAS Media Day is one of those events that shows off Cary at its best. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate this week, and it was canceled.

Next week we welcome the SAS Championship, one of the highlights of Cary’s sports calendar. SAS week shines a national spotlight on Cary and reinforces our reputation as a premier sports destination. We’re grateful for the partnership that makes these events possible and look forward to another successful tournament.

Sean

Follow up on Weston Rezoning 24-REZ-14

During the public hearing for the Weston rezoning case (24-REZ-14) last week, there was discussion regarding the study that was recently done for the Weston PDD. Specifically, based on various inquiries, staff brought a proposal to Council in December 2021 to initiate and fund a bicycle, pedestrian, and transportation study for Weston. Council appropriated $150K for a study to evaluate needs and make recommendations regarding how to achieve a better multi-modal environment in the future.

The study was completed in November 2024. In addition to recommendations regarding mobility, the study also makes some preliminary land use recommendations for future development and redevelopment. In response to the study, at the Council’s annual retreat in February 2025, staff suggested the idea of creating a Special Planning Area (SPA) for Weston in the Cary Community

Plan. Council was receptive to pursuing this concept. Staff is working on procedural options for this process and anticipate sharing these options with Council in 2026.

In the interim though, the Weston Mobility and Land Use Study is simply a study and has not been adopted at this time. Thus, the study does not serve to regulate rezonings or other development proposals in Weston. In response to inquiries from citizens, we have added a link to the study on the project’s webpage.

Crime Statistics

Statistically, overall crime in Cary is down this year compared to last year. Violent crime is certainly down, but we are very concerned about the number of gun related incidents and increased gun related activity. Overall crime in Cary is driven by property crimes, particularly larceny from auto, auto theft, and shoplifting. Although larceny from motor vehicle incidents (vehicle burglaries) are down about 15%, the number of vehicles broken into has skyrocketed.

We report crime data to the State and FBI through their Incident-Based Reporting (IBR) system.

These numbers are the resource used for cross city/town comparisons. To understand how these are counted: if five cars are broken into at Bass Pro Shop, it is counted as one incident, even though there are five victims. That is one reason we internally track victimization (the number of vehicles) as well.

AMI Updates

I’m pleased to share progress on our meter replacement program, and the significant progress that has been made this year. Our focus on Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and replacing aging smart meters is vital for ensuring we generate the revenue needed to sustain our essential utility

services for Cary, Morrisville, RDU, and Wake RTP.

Meter Program and AMI Updates:

Revenue Impact: Our smart water meters generate approximately $90M annually for Cary’s water and sewer utility services.
Meter Population: Cary’s total smart meter population is approximately 75,000 meters.
Replacement Progress: Meter replacements of aging first generation mechanical meters are actively underway and will continue through the end of this calendar year until completed.
Zero-Read Reduction: Meters with no registered usage, often called zero-reads have decreased to fewer than 450 and continue to decline. This is a significant improvement from around 3,600 zero-reads referenced earlier in the year when failures were more common due to colder weather combined with failing meters at the end of service life.
Aging Meter Replacement Timeline: We remain on track to complete all remaining first-generation model #SRII (mechanical meter) replacements by the end of 2025.
Tower Gateway Base Station Upgrades: We’ve replaced 14 tower gateway base stations with modern equipment, which improves the overall performance of automated meter reading.
Progress to Date: By the end of 2025, we will have replaced 28,436 meters over the last three years, as follows:
- 1,500 large commercial meters replaced 22,249 residential meters already replaced
- 4,687 residential meters remaining to replace
- 28,436 total meters replaced by end of 2025

While we’ve made substantial progress, we remain committed to a proactive, asset management-driven approach. This ensures that future meter replacements are done at sustainable intervals, helping us to maintain long-term efficiency and performance.

Koka Booth Amphitheater Parking Strategy and Revenue Optimization 2025

Koka Booth Amphitheatre (KBA) is a 7,000-capacity outdoor venue owned by the Town of Cary, hosting more than 120 events annually and welcoming over 330,000 attendees each year. The Town contracts with ASM Global to manage the facility, including operations, marketing, and event booking. KBA manages 2,143 parking spaces across several lots, serving staff, ADA patrons, VIPs, and general attendees.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre routinely charges for parking depending on the size of the event, type of rental, and goals associated for the event. Parking fees are tiered based on lot location and the nature of the event. Parking revenues are commonly leveraged per event, per group, to meet goals of each stakeholder involved. Currently staff believe the fees associated with parking satisfy most stakeholder groups, maximizing a balance between revenue / ability to secure artists and events /cost / staff time / etc. Staff regularly assess, often on a case-by-case basis, these factors and how they fit into our overall budget strategy for KBA.

Parking Space Allocation:

Category	Space	Fee (if applicable)
Staff	60 max	Free with credential
ADA	96	Free with hang tag
VIP	82	Free with credential
Premiere	181	$25
Preferred	200	$20
General (lots at 9000 & 11000 Regency Lakeview)	1524	Usually Free, sometimes $5-$15 depending on event.
Total	2143	–

Types of Events at Koka Booth:

In general, KBA is a performance rental venue. KBA works with rental groups to determine parking based on the size and scale of the event. KBA typically requires traffic control when an event draws 2,000 attendees or more. To pay for traffic control to manage the event size, the rental organizer often elects to charge for parking.

Charging for parking is a tool KBA routinely uses to control traffic flow in and around the venue. Once a decision is made to charge for parking at an event, additional staffing is required to manage parking passes/charge for parking passes at all entry points.

Type of Event	Examples of Event	Parking Considerations
Rentals – Free Parking	Josh Cellars Jazz Series Triangle Wind Ensemble’s Koka Kids concerts Charity events (i.e. Triangle LUNGe Forward 5K, LLS Light the Night, Unleashed Pet Expo)
Rentals – Paid Parking + Traffic Control	Hub Sub Diwali Triangle Oktoberfest Night Nation Run	$10 General/ $20 Preferred $5 General/$15 Preferred $15 Event Parking
National Touring Acts	An Evening w/ John Legend Billy Strings Maren Morris	$25 Premier/$20 Preferred Sharing ancillary revenues such as parking is standard among show deals featuring national acts. Because of the limited number of premium seats, the venue depends on revenue from parking and other ancillary sources to remain competitive in attracting national touring acts.
NC Symphony Partnership		$25 Preferred
Chinese Lantern Festival		Paid parking ($10 car) is limited to the parking lot within easy walking distance to the venue.

Chinese Lantern Festival

The Chinese Lantern Festival (CLF) runs for approximately 58 nights each season. On most nights, cars are charged $10 to park in the closest lots. This rate reflects both the duration of the event and what the market will bear. Unlike concerts, which typically last 3–4 hours, the average CLF

attendees spend about one hour at the event, allowing for higher turnover of spaces. As a result, the per-night revenue generated per space is comparable to concerts.

Parking is not charged on select low-attendance nights, when the cost of staffing and traffic control would outweigh the benefit.

The chart below shows our three-year average for paid parking at CLF is $154,017 in revenue to $48,486 in costs, which gives us a cost of 31 cents to collect each dollar. Making CLF, as it is across the board, a financial win for Cary. CLF covers both its own costs and assists in supporting

the entire venue financially.

2022-2023	2023-2024	2024-2025	3-year Avg
$127,200	$144,880	$189,970	$154,017	Revenue
$(33,848)	$(42,671)	$(63,937)	$(46,819)	Staffing Cost
$ –	$ –	$(5,000)	$(1,667)	Lot Rental
$93,352	$102,209	$121,033	$105,531	Net Revenue

Parking Financial Overview (For Fiscal Year 2025)

Collecting parking fees is a revenue source but comes with an operational expense. In 2024 parking operations resulted in a net positive margin of $135,343. In general, for every dollar generated, it costs Cary 65 cents to collect it due to staffing and infrastructure needs for parking management.

Parking fees collected for events help offset some of KBA’s operational expenses, as non-profits often receive waivers and steep discounts on rent and other fees.

Gross Revenues

Paid General Parking	$41,690
Preferred/Premiere Parking	$299,775
Labor Billed to Show Promoters	$58,871
Total Gross Revenue	$400,336

Expenses

Parking Staff Wages	$123,462
Overflow Lot Rental (8000 Regency)	$20,000
Show Promoter Revenue Share	$80,031
Safety Equipment	$10,000
Signage	$10,000
Equipment Rental	$21,500
Total Gross Expenses	$264,993

Strategic Considerations

When determining whether to charge for parking, there are a variety of factors at play. Those include:

Staffing Capacity: Additional staff is required to manage payment collection at all entry points across the venue’s 120+ annual event nights.
Infrastructure Needs: Expanding Wi-Fi coverage and installing payment hardware are essential to enable electronic transactions in the outer parking lots. Additionally, shuttle service to and from the most distant lots may be needed if those areas become paid access.
Event Attendance Impact: Introducing parking fees could reduce attendance at smaller or free events hosted by local businesses, nonprofits, and charities, who may also seek a share of parking revenue or struggle with the added expense.
Distance Optics: The furthest lot is 1,960 feet from the gate—comparable to the walk between the Cary Depot and the Cary Arts Center. Charging for remote lots without adequate infrastructure, such as shuttle service or pay stations, could create negative public perception.
Spillover Parking Risks: Monetizing all on-site parking could lead patrons to park in nearby private business lots or on residential streets, potentially creating tension. Future solutions may require formal agreements and payment to utilize offsite parking areas.
Operational Complexity: Expanding paid parking requires careful balancing of revenue goals with considerations of fairness, logistical feasibility, and the potential impact on the venue’s public image.

Avalon Cary Demolition Permits

The developer of Avalon submitted demolition permits for the structures on the majority of the proposed development site on Wednesday and began erecting chain link fencing around these areas on Thursday. Although a development plan has not been approved for the site, the developer is allowed by ordinance and statute to request demolition of structures on their property.

Avalon is a proposed mixed-use building located on a 3.4-acre site downtown that is bounded by Walnut Street, S. Walker Street, and Byrum Street. The site is an assemblage of 13 existing lots with detached homes and duplexes. The proposed project is permitted by existing Town Center MXD zoning and is currently in its second round of development plan review.

Academy Street Crosswalks Updates

As part of continued improvements to the downtown mobility network, a Pedestrian In-Road Warning System was installed Thursday evening on Academy Street at the mid-block crossing near the GoCary stop and Academy Pavilion. This upgrade provides drivers with clear visual warnings through in-road light pucks and roadside LED-enhanced signs, both activated by pedestrian push buttons.

Downtown Regional Wetland Nears Completion

For years, homes along Parkthrough Street experienced flooding during heavy rains. A regional wetland, nearing completion at 206 South Harrison Avenue, was designed collaboratively with private developers and built through a public-private partnership to address this issue. Unlike typical stormwater devices that serve only a single development, this wetland will manage runoff from First Baptist Church, Meridian Cary, the new South Academy Street parking deck, and the surrounding neighborhood. When complete, it filters stormwater, reduces runoff, and direct flows into the downstream pipe network instead of behind homes. Planted with native species and supported with interpretive signage, the wetland will also serve as a “living classroom,” highlighting environmental benefits while supporting local wildlife. The wetland will be maintained by Cary.

Water Emergency Response Plans Updated

As part of the American Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, all U.S. water systems were required to develop Emergency Response Plans, certified with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2020 and updated every five years. At the same time, the NC Division of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) established a similar requirement for Source Water Resiliency and Response Plans. In September, Cary completed its five-year updates to both plans and submitted certifications to the regulatory agencies. The process allowed staff to review response procedures, confirm mutual aid options, and incorporate lessons learned since 2020. These updates strengthen Cary’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to any incident impacting the water system.

Regional Wastewater Collaboration Study

Cary, Apex, and Holly Springs have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to fund a study to explore regional wastewater solutions for the three communities. This collaboration follows the release of the Regional Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Concept Plan for the U.S. Hwy 421 Corridor by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) in May 2024. The plan, issued in accordance with Session Law 2023-134, recommends that Holly Springs consider partnering with Cary and Apex to address wastewater capacity challenges.

As part of the study, consultants will evaluate strategies for conveying and treating wastewater from Holly Springs at both the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF) and the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF).

Bridge Repair Projects on Lochmere Drive and Weston Parkway

Repairs of the Lochmere Drive bridge will begin today, work is expected to take about one week. Once complete, crews will begin bridge repairs on Weston Parkway over the Black Creek Greenway. This project will extend through winter and require two 20-day closures in each direction. Two-way traffic will be maintained during closures. The work, funded through the Powell Bill and Vehicle License fees via the Capital Reserve Fund, includes concrete and joint repairs along with new asphalt surfaces.

Cary Adopts 100% Biodegradable Matting

In response to a resident concern about wildlife safety, Cary implemented new standards requiring all erosion control matting on construction and rehabilitation projects be 100% biodegradable. This change prohibits the use of plastic netting and synthetic stitching, which do not break down naturally and can contribute to microplastic pollution and wildlife entrapment. Biodegradable alternatives, including straw, jute, or coir matting with natural fiber stitching, offer the same level of erosion protection while aligning with Cary’s sustainability goals.

Downtown Cary Park Showcases Smart City Infrastructure

On Tuesday, over 45 technology leaders came together for a special dinner meeting at Downtown Cary Park co-hosted by Society for Information Management (SIM) Research Triangle Park (RTP) Chapter and the Triangle Technology Executives Council (TTEC). The evening showcased how Cary is transforming public spaces with state-of-the-art smart city infrastructure. Attendees had the chance to tour the park with Cary’s IT team, gaining firsthand insight into how sensors, networks, and analytics are solving operational challenges and enhancing visitor experiences.

Billy Lee Awarded APWA Stormwater Professional of the Year

Stormwater Operations Manager Billy Lee was honored with the H. Rooney Malcolm Stormwater Professional of the Year Award at the 2025 American Public Works Association (APWA) NC Stormwater Management Division Conference. This award is the division’s highest recognition, celebrating professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, service, and dedication to the field. Billy accepted the award before an audience of nearly 400 stormwater leaders from across North Carolina. The entire Stormwater Division attended the conference to connect with peers, share best practices, and highlight Cary’s leadership in stormwater management.

American Dance Festival: Made in NC

Downtown Cary Park partnered with the American Dance Festival (ADF) to present the Made in NC Celebration on September 19 to highlight 919 Day. Nearly 900 guests attended to experience four ADF-commissioned world premieres by NC based choreographers, showcasing both extraordinary artistry and local creativity. In the days leading up to the performance, choreographers taught masterclasses at the Arts Center giving residents the chance to learn from artists working at the highest level. The program reflected both global perspectives and local roots underscoring Cary’s commitment to cultural diversity, creativity, and community connection.

Summer Vibes in the Park Music Series

Summer Vibes in the Park is a three-part music series that brings residents and visitors together for live music, food, and family fun. The series wrapped up last week at Ritter Park, following earlier shows at Davis Drive Park and Jack Smith Park. Across the three events held from July through September, an estimated 350 people attended.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, October 6
5:15 p.m.

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

Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, October 7
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, October 8
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 large construction trucks parking in neighborhoods.
A complaint about e-bikes on greenways: “… it is a huge mistake what the Town of Cary decided to do, such as to allow electric power vehicles on the greenways.”
A message from McAdams World Changers and Warriors: “The wild beast was captured as was the false prophet”. Wow! I am not sure if I am being referred to as the wild beast or the false prophet. Since the Bible is being referenced, how about Matthew 7:1-5, which states, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For with the judgment, you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you”.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Barkitecture Pre Pawty, SAS Championship Pro-Am activities, Folds of Honor at the SAS Championship, Diwali, and the SAS Championship.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 12^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.

Candidate Forum, Cary Fleet Manager #1, Council Meeting, Adams Elementary Mystery Reader, and Hangout Bar and Grill

Cary Chamber Candidate Forum

I attended the Cary Chamber Forum for candidates that are running for Cary Town Council Wednesday morning. There were about 100 in attendance. In addition to their openings and closings, the candidates took turns answering questions which, IMHO, were softball questions. The good news is that all the candidates are intelligent and will represent the council well.

Cary Fleet Team

I met with the Cary’s fleet team before the council meeting on Thursday. They are responsible for maintaining all the vehicles in Cary’s fleet. Their manager, Brandon Pasinski, was recently awarded the 2025 APWA Professional Manager of the Year out of thousands of managers across the country. We are so very proud of Brandon and the entire fleet team for all they do to keep our fleet running smoothly regardless of the conditions.

Council Meeting

The last regularly scheduled meeting of September was held Thursday night. The agenda included five consent items, three public hearings, and no discussion items.

The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included the USA Baseball National Training Complex Coleman Field Renovation Bid award, consent for relocation of graves of the Barbee-Hopson Family Cemetery, the 25-A-07 annexation at Wesley Manor, adoption of the Wake County Emergency Operations Plan and Mutual Aid Agreement, and the 2025 Opioid Litigation settlements.

The first public hearing was a rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14 in Weston. There were several speakers against this proposal citing many concerns related to transition. The second public hearing was the Fairbanks Road Rezoning 25-REZ-09 which would allow two single family homes instead of the one currently located on the site. The last public hearing was for a rezoning on Bandelier Lane 25-REZ-01 which would allow one detached dwelling and associated accessory uses. All three of the rezoning proposals will next go to the Planning and Zoning Board for their review and recommendation and return to council in a few months for a decision.

Adams Elementary

I was a Mystery Reader at Adams Elementary Friday afternoon. I read a book called “Duck for President” to two classes of third graders. It was a lot of fun reading this book for the first time. Afterwards, I answered questions for about fifteen minutes. Then we all gathered for a group picture. I hope they invite me back in the future.

Hangout Bar & Grill

I joined the end of the summer block party and provided remarks at the Hangout Bar & Grill in MacGregor Village on Saturday night. This bar was previously Back Then Bar and Grill until it started with new ownership in August. The bar is known for live entertainment, dart rooms, pool, and good food. People were having a blast. If you are looking for a sense of place this may be the place for you.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Well, it’s official — we’ve made it through a full rotation of Council messages for the Out & About Newsletter! I love that this newsletter gives us a chance to highlight the events and activities we’ve attended in the community, while also sharing additional updates and reflections that I post on my blog.

I also want to encourage you, our readers, to let us know what you’d like to learn more about in the Town. As a reminder — if it’s a burning house, call 911. If it’s a burning question, call 311.

Join me below to see how your Town Council has been out and about!

Harold Weinbrecht

Mayor

Divan Cultural Center Visit

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended a meet-and-greet event at the Divan Cultural Center. The Divan Cultural Center is a Cary-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and community through dialogue, educational programs, and events that promote friendship and tolerance.

Triangle Community Coalition Coffee Chat

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Carissa Kohn-Johnson and Jack Smith, together with Town leadership staff, hosted the Triangle Community Coalition Coffee Chat. The Triangle Community Coalition (TCC) is a non-partisan 501(c)(4) organization serving the Research Triangle region that advocates for land use policies balancing economic growth, environmental protection, development, community needs, and private property rights.

Scam Jam at Cary Senior Center

Councilmember Lori Bush introduced North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall at the Cary Senior Center for the “Scam Jam” event. Secretary Marshall, joined by representatives from the NC Department of Justice and the NC Department of Insurance, provided education and resources to help seniors and community members avoid fraudulent schemes and protect themselves from scams.

Cary High School Athletics Hall of Fame Luncheon

Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Jack Smith attended the Cary High School Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony, joining fellow attendees in celebrating the induction of four distinguished honorees into the Hall of Fame.

10^th Annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat Racing

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith joined the opening ceremonies of Asia Fest with Dragon Boat Racing at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, with the Mayor also participating in the race. Asia Fest draws nearly 10,000 visitors each year to enjoy cultural exhibits, performances, international cuisine, and the signature dragon boat races in celebration of Asian culture and diversity.

Transit Table at Cary High School

Councilmember Michelle Craig and GoCary staff connected with students, staff, families, and community members at a varsity football game at Cary High School in preparation for Try Transit Week. They shared the many benefits of transit for students like free rides, independence, and safe and convenient travel. Thanks to Officer Ross, Cary High’s School Resource Officer, who took a moment before the game to pose for a picture with the table attendees.

Fall Festival at Cary Farmers Market

Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Carissa Kohn-Johnson volunteered at the Farmers Fall Festival which was held at the Downtown Cary Park. Councilmember Kohn-Johnson served as a judge for the pie-eating contest, and Councilmember Craig assisted vendors with load out after the festival ended. This annual festival celebrated the harvest season, bringing together local farmers and artisans during the first crisp days of fall. The event featured live music on the main stage, a children’s village, interactive games and exhibits, local food, art, and crafts, and the popular midday pie-eating contest.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

It’s been a full week, and I’ve appreciated returning to the office after some time away.

It was an honor to give the welcome remarks at the Public Sector Executive Accelerator: Innovation in the AI Era Summit Thursday. Being part of a conversation about how local governments can approach emerging technologies with thoughtfulness was a reminder of the role Cary continues to play in shaping what’s possible.

Tomorrow, weather dependent, Academy Street will be closed between Chatham Street and Dry Avenue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Public Safety Day, highlighting the essential work of our first responders.

As always, I am grateful for the role Council plays in fostering both innovation and education in ways that strengthen the community.

Sean

2025 Asset Management Report

The 2025 Annual Asset Management Report is now available. This report provides a dashboard view of the current state of Cary’s linear assets and verifies that key performance targets are achieved. Over the last year, Cary maintained focus on Geographic Information System (GIS) improvements and buried linear infrastructure, while continuing work on risk-based capital planning.

Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

Cary has been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the FY 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). This is the highest honor in state and local government financial reporting, and this is the 40th year Cary has earned this prestigious award. The GFOA promotes the highest levels of professionalism, transparency, and accountability in government accounting and financial reporting across the United States and Canada. This recognition reflects Cary’s dedication to outstanding financial management.

Anthemion Award

On Tuesday evening, Cary was honored with a Capital Area Preservation (CAP) Anthemion Award for the relocation and rehabilitation of the historic Ivey-Ellington House at 310 South Academy Street. Councilmember Michelle Craig joined staff to celebrate this recognition of excellence in historic preservation. This prestigious award highlights Cary’s collaborative effort to carefully preserve and adaptively reuse the 1870s Gothic Revival cottage, ensuring this downtown property continues to serve the community in a meaningful way for years to come. You can experience this Cary treasure first-hand during free guided tours offered every Wednesday from noon to 2 p.m.

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Maintains National Accreditation

Last Wednesday, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources was recognized at the National Recreation and Park Association’s Best of the Best Ceremony in Florida, where it received National Reaccreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Cary has maintained this accreditation since 2003. CAPRA is the only national accreditation body for park and recreation agencies, setting rigorous standards that define quality and best practices. Achieving it requires detailed self-assessment and on-site evaluation against 151 standards covering facilities, programs, staffing, training, and operations. In addition to the recognition, Community Center Program and Operations Coordinator Austin Howe presented a session, Empowering Your Team: Turning “That’s Not My Job” Into “I’ve Got This”. For residents, accreditation is a trusted mark of quality, ensuring PRCR delivers effective, innovative, and high-value programs and services.

2025 Veterans Benefits Live

Last week, the Herbert C. Young Community Center hosted the Veterans Benefits Live: VA in My Town event. Nearly 900 veterans received one-on-one assistance with VA claims, updates on benefits, and access to resources from the Department of Veterans Affairs and partner organizations. The event’s success was made possible through the efforts of staff, American Legion Post 67, VA administrators, Veteran Service Officers, and volunteers who dedicated long hours to supporting those who served.

10^th Annual Asia Fest Triangle Area Dragon Boat Race

Last Saturday, Asian Focus NC hosted the 10th annual Asia Fest at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, drawing an estimated 8,000 visitors. The festival featured cultural performances, pan-Asian foods, a health fair, and Dragon Boat Races on Symphony Lake. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht offered welcoming remarks alongside Councilmembers Jack Smith, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Sarika Bansal, as well as state and county dignitaries. Cary’s combined Police and Fire Department team, “Team Cobra Kai,” earned the title of Grand Champion by winning the Pan Am Dragon Boat Race with a time of 1 minute and 18 seconds showcasing the team’s skill, determination, and community spirit.

Assistant Fire Chief Shares Expertise

On Tuesday, Assistant Fire Chief Matt Jacoby served as a course instructor at the Chief Fire Officers Executive Development program held in Kernersville, NC. Fire department accreditation is an international recognition of a department’s commitment to continuous self-improvement, validated through peer review. Chief Jacoby shared his expertise on the Center for Public Safety Excellence international accreditation model and credentialing program. Chief Jacoby has been Fire’s accreditation manager as well as a chair of the North Carolina Accreditation Support Consortium and a mentor for fire departments seeking accreditation.

Cary Senior Center Hosts Senior Home Fair

On Wednesday, the Senior Center welcomed over 80 older adults to the Senior Home Fair. Attendees heard from Dan Sargent, CEO of community partner Preserving Home, who shared common home repair issues impacting aging adults. Senior Planner Maika Arnold provided an overview of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), while Wake County staff presented valuable information on property tax relief programs. The North Carolina Department of Justice delivered a timely presentation on avoiding home repair scams, an especially important topic for older homeowners. The event connected seniors with resources and experts to support aging independently at home furthering the goals of the Cary Housing Plan.

Transitions LifeCare Open House

On Thursday, Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett and Policy and Program Analyst Mary Lederle visited nonprofit partner Transitions LifeCare to tour their Cary facility and recognize 10 years of their Transitions Kids program. Transitions LifeCare provides palliative care and advanced illness support to seriously and terminally ill low-income residents of all ages and their families, whose care would otherwise not be covered under insurance. This year, Cary awarded $27,000 of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to support this program.

NC Coalition on Aging Annual Luncheon

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett, along with incoming Senior Advisory Board chair Erin Nortenen and incoming vice chair Ron Brigham, at the NC Coalition on Aging’s Annual Luncheon on Friday. The event brought together aging advocates, policymakers, and community leaders from across North Carolina to celebrate recent accomplishments and discuss future priorities in aging policy. The luncheon served as a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships and reaffirm Cary’s commitment to supporting older adults through collaborative, statewide efforts.

New Sidewalk Construction on SE Cary Parkway

Construction will begin on a new sidewalk along the south side of SE Cary Parkway, from south of Tryon Road to Lochmere Drive next week, weather dependent. The project fills an approximate 1,800-foot gap in the pedestrian network, providing a connection from surrounding neighborhoods to nearby shopping, greenway trails, and Kids Together Park. The project will also enhance pedestrian features at the SE Cary Parkway and Lochmere Drive intersection, with upgraded pedestrian signals, curb ramps, and crosswalks. The project is supported by funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is anticipated to be complete by Winter 2026.

Important Dates

There are no meetings scheduled for next week.

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

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

Complaints about a redevelopment rezoning proposal in Weston, 24-REZ-14.
A complaint about a neighbor with an “unsightly yard”.
A complaint that Cary is changing rules to not allow e-bikes (not true).
A complaint about enforcement of “motorized scooters/bicycles”.
A request to charge citizens more for using credit cards to pay utility bills.
A complaint that the pedestrian death on Maynard was because profit and development outweighed pedestrian safety (not true and very insulting).
A complaint about not receiving public records.
A complaint about the rundown building at Tryon and Jones Franklin.
A request to hand out information in the downtown park.
A complaint about the Downtown Cary Park’s dog park creating unbearable noise.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, SAS Championship Media Day, and Oktoberfest.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 5^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.

Divan Center, Wake County Mayors, CAMPO, Jack Smith, and Asia Fest

Divan Center Event

Monday afternoon I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, and council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, Craig, and Bansal at the Divan Center in Cary. While their members are mostly Turkish, they are open to anyone. Here is how they describe themselves:

“Divan is a 501 (c) (3) charitable, cultural non-profit non-governmental organization dedicated to addressing the social, spiritual, cultural, and educational needs of the people living in North Carolina.

Through dialogue Divan enables people of diverse cultures to create a foundation of understanding which nurtures friendship, respect, and charity.

Divan was founded in 2003 and supported by individuals who are affiliated with Hizmet social movement.

At Divan, we consider dialogue as a key philosophy to settle differences and move forward as a community. To achieve this ideal, Divan Center organizes and promotes activities including diversity awareness seminars, cultural festivals, dialogue dinners, community service, art performances, and cultural trips where people from different backgrounds can meet and find common ground.

Everyone is welcome at Divan!”

Organizations that promote togetherness rather than divisiveness are what makes Cary one of the greatest places to live in the US. It is only through recognition, respect, and mutual understanding that a community can reach its full potential.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday evening I joined mayors from Garner, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Zebulon for a Wake County Mayors Association meeting on Dix campus in Raleigh. We met and had dinner in All Faiths Chapel. Then we toured the new Gipson Play Plaza. Since opening in June, this is the second most visited destination in North Carolina behind Wrightsville beach. The park cost close to $75 million and was partly funded with over $20 million from Raleigh philanthropists. According to their staff, this 18-acre park has seen over 10,000 visitors in just one weekend day.

Wake County is blessed with municipalities with great parks. BTW, Raleigh Gipson Play Plaza staff collaborates with Cary Downtown Park staff on several issues.

CAMPO

Wednesday afternoon I attended a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Executive Board. The agenda included a joint public hearing with GoTriangle Board of Trustees, 3 consent agenda items, 1 public hearing, and 2 discussion items.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved and included minutes; the recommended performance measures and targets for TAM and State of Good Repair and sign the resolution; and authorizing the Executive Director to sign and execute the Mobility Management Program Funding Agreement.

The public hearing was on the SPOT (Strategic Transportation Prioritization) 8 draft project submittal list. After the public hearing the board unanimously approved the project lists for submittal to NCDOT’s prioritization process and direct staff to maximize coordination with Division Engineers which may result in alternate projects being submitted with Chair approval. One interesting note was that our division (Division 5), which covers 7 counties, only had $73 million available for selected projects.

The discussion items were for information only and included an update on the 2055 MTP/CTP (Metropolitan Transportation Plan/Comprehensive Transportation Plan), and the Federal Functional Classification Changes which began in February as a statewide review and update of the Federal Functional Classifications.

Dragon Boat Practice

Friday night I joined the Cary Sister Cities team in practicing for the Dragon Boat races held Saturday. In the practice we learned commands, how to position your body, how to hold the paddle, and how to row as a team. This was the second time I have participated Dragon Boat races.

Asia Fest

Saturday I participated in the opening events of Asia Fest by reading a proclamation. To make it more fun I had the audience do the “whereas” parts. The following was the proclamation:

“CELEBRATING ASIA FEST 2025 IN CARY, NC

WHEREAS, the cultural tapestry of North Carolina is enriched by the vibrant and

diverse contributions of the Asian community, who bring a rich array of traditions, languages, and innovation that invigorate our society and enhance our communities; and

WHEREAS, Asian Focus NC has exemplified dedication to fostering an inclusive

environment by celebrating and promoting appreciation for the unique heritage and accomplishments of Asian individuals and communities across North Carolina; and

WHEREAS, the mission of Asian Focus NC is to build bridges among diverse

communities, encourage collaboration, and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and talents that lead to mutual understanding and shared prosperity for all residents of Cary and of our state; and

WHEREAS, through initiatives such as educational programs, cultural events, and

advocacy, Asian Focus NC empowers individuals and organizations within our community, enriching lives through the promotion of unity, equality, and respect for all cultures; and

WHEREAS, our commitment to the values of diversity and inclusion is stronger

and more meaningful through the collaborative endeavors and contributions of Asian Focus NC, exemplifying the spirit of togetherness and progress that defines Cary and the great State of North Carolina;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby celebrate the ongoing support and recognition of Asian Focus NC as a vital partner in advancing cultural understanding and community enrichment in Cary, North Carolina.

PROCLAIMED this 20th day of September 2025.”

After the opening ceremony, many pictures, and meet-n-greets I changed clothes to participate in the Dragon Boat VIP dragon boat race. Cary police and fire department members were divided into two teams with VIPs on each boat. I was joined by Morrisville mayor Cawley in my boat. The race was fun and competitive, and we were lucky to finish ahead of the other boat. It was a lot of fun, and I committed to participating again next year.

Speech about Jack Smith

Jack Smith is serving his 36^th and final year as a council member. He was honored last week at the Cary Chamber Awards Ceremony. Town manager Sean Stegall gave the following speech about Jack:

“Good evening.

This evening, we gather to recognize a remarkable individual, a man whose name has become synonymous with service, integrity, and community here in Cary. For 36 years, Jack Smith has represented our town on the Cary Town Council. To serve in elected office for more than three decades is, by itself, a rare achievement. But what makes Jack’s career truly exceptional is not just its length—it is the way in which he carried out his duties, always with the people of Cary at the center of his work.

One of the foremost scholars of local government, John Nalbandian, once wrote: “Bridging is what local officials do. They bring together competing values, competing interests, and competing visions—and in doing so, they build community.” That is precisely what Jack Smith has done for 36 years. He has been a bridge-builder—between long-time residents and newcomers, between neighborhoods and businesses, and between Cary’s proud traditions and its future as one of the dynamic, most vibrant communities in the country.

Think for a moment about the Cary of 36 years ago. Our town was much smaller, quieter, still more rural in many places, with fewer neighborhoods and less traffic. Since then, Cary has grown into one of the most desirable places to live in America—recognized for its excellent schools, safe streets, thriving businesses, and remarkable quality of life. That transformation did not happen by chance. It happened because leaders like Jack Smith worked tirelessly to guide growth while preserving the character and values that make Cary unique.

Jack was there to wrestle with the difficult questions—how do we welcome new families and businesses while protecting our neighborhoods? How do we expand infrastructure while keeping Cary’s charm intact? How do we preserve green spaces while embracing progress? These are the challenges that defined Cary’s evolution, and Jack helped us navigate them with wisdom, patience, and balance.

Public service is demanding. It asks for time, for sacrifice, and for a willingness to place the needs of others above one’s own. Jack met that challenge with tireless energy. He was the council member who returned calls late at night, who met with residents on weekends, and who wore out more than one pair of shoes walking Cary’s neighborhoods to better understand the needs of his constituents.

If you ever called him about an issue—whether it was as large as a rezoning or as small as a pothole—you knew two things would happen. First, he would follow through. And second, you would hear a story. Because Jack understood that local government is about people, not just policies. He used stories to connect, to teach, and to remind us that even the most routine matters affect the lives of neighbors and friends.

That gift for storytelling became one of his hallmarks. A resident could ask about road repairs, and before long they would be hearing about how that same street once connected to a farm, or how a neighbor organized a block party there years ago. What might have been a dry, technical answer instead became a glimpse into Cary’s living history—offered with humor, perspective, and heart.

Jack’s storytelling was more than entertainment. It was a way of helping us remember where we’ve come from, and why the choices we make matter for Cary’s future. He reminded us that behind every road project, every development, every ordinance—there are people, families, and neighborhoods that give Cary its character. Through his words, Jack helped us see not just issues, but stories of community.

Jack’s influence was not confined to council chambers. For years, he was a constant presence with the Cary Chamber of Commerce events.

But his involvement went deeper than attendance. Jack believed that Cary’s business community and its neighborhoods were inseparable—that the prosperity of one supported the vitality of the other. He worked with the Chamber to ensure that growth in Cary was balanced, thoughtful, and community-minded.

At Chamber events, Jack was more than a council member—he was an ambassador. And, true to form, he used stories to make people feel at home. A new business owner might have expected a polite handshake, but instead they received a history lesson about downtown revitalization, or a story about the importance of diversity and his beloved Sister Cities. He made every entrepreneur, resident and Town staff member feel they were part of something larger—the ongoing story of Cary, always growing, always striving, always connected. That is leadership rooted in both vision and humanity and vulnerability.

And now, there is a park in Cary that bears his name. Few honors are as fitting. A park is where families gather, where children play, and where a community comes to life. To have his name permanently associated with such a place is not just a tribute—it is a reflection of his life’s work. Just as a park strengthens bonds and creates belonging, Jack devoted his career to building bridges, nurturing relationships, and ensuring that Cary would always feel like home.

When children play there, when families gather for picnics, when neighbors meet for a walk—they will see his name. They may not know every policy he debated or every vote he cast, but they will know this: Jack Smith gave his life’s work to Cary, and the park will stand as a lasting reminder of that devotion.

The true measure of a leader is not found in titles or accolades, but in the trust they earn and the lives they touch. For 36 years, Jack embodied integrity. He approached decisions with honesty, he met disagreement with respect, and he placed the interests of Cary’s residents above all else. His courage was not only in standing firm when necessary, but also in listening deeply, seeking compromise, and valuing every perspective. Much more than a Councilmember, Jack has been one of Cary’s Trustees.

And while Cary has transformed dramatically over his years of service, Jack ensured that what makes Cary special—our sense of community—remained strong. He was a steady presence through growth and change, always reminding us that progress means little if it comes at the expense of connection.

Closing with Nalbandian’s Wisdom and Award Presentation
On behalf of the Town of Cary, we express our profound gratitude. Thank you, Jack, for 36 years of tireless service. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Cary’s residents. Thank you for your presence at the Cary Chamber of Commerce, where you reminded us that progress is a shared effort. Thank you for your stories, which gave meaning to our work and reminded us that government, at its best, is personal.

And finally, thank you for your legacy—one that will live on in the park that bears your name, in the businesses you supported, in the neighborhoods you walked, and in the countless lives you touched.

Let me return to John Nalbandian’s words: “Bridging is what local officials do… and in doing so, they build community.” For 36 years, Jack Smith has been that bridge for Cary. His example will continue to guide us, not only as leaders, but as neighbors who care for one another.

It is therefore my great honor, on behalf of the Cary Chamber of Commerce and this entire community, to present to Jack Smith the Legacy of Service Award. This award represents our highest gratitude—not only for the length of his service, but for the values he brought to that service: integrity, compassion, vision, and the ability to bridge differences for the common good.

Jack, this Legacy of Service Award is a symbol of all you have given to Cary, and all you will continue to inspire in us. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your extraordinary service.”

We are so very blessed to have had Jack serve Cary for all these years. Thank you, Jack!

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Hello Cary! I moved to Cary a decade ago with my family, and there is truly no other place I can call home. While I love District D, I also believe every part of Cary is equally special, and I encourage everyone to explore and enjoy the unique places that make our Town so beautiful.

With 25 percent of Cary residents born outside the United States, our community is wonderfully diverse — and it’s this diversity that makes us strong.

One truly magical moment for me this season was meeting the members of Cary’s Woman’s Club as they celebrated their 90th anniversary — a wonderful milestone for a group that has contributed so much to our community.

Be sure to check out our Town calendar to stay up to date and make plans to join in the fun.

Two celebrations I want to highlight:

10th Asian Fest and Dragon Boat Festival — September 20 at Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Diwali Celebration — September 29 at Downtown Cary Park with vibrant performances, a live DJ, and delicious food

Join me in enjoying the newsletter below to see where your Town Council has been out and about in the community — and I hope to see you at one of our events soon!

Sarika Bansal

District D Council Member

Meridian East Ribbon Cutting

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Lori Bush attended the ribbon cutting for Meridian East Chatham. This multi-family residential and mixed-use commercial development is located at the corner of Chatham Street and the future Hunter Street extension in Downtown Cary.

District C Community Meeting

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Councilmembers Lori Bush, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith participated in the District C Community Meeting at Middle Creek Community Center. Councilmember Jack Smith welcomed attendees, followed by Mayor Weinbrecht who shared an updated State of Cary. Staff provided updates on public safety, senior services, and finances. The evening concluded with a Q&A session with Council.

BikeWalk NC Summit

Councilmember Lori Bush attended the annual BikeWalk NC Summit in Hickory, NC, the state’s premier forum for advancing sustainable transportation and active mobility. Bringing together policymakers, planners, engineers, and advocates, the summit provides a unique opportunity to examine best practices, explore pressing policy issues, and collaborate on strategies that enhance safety, accessibility, and connectivity, while working to shape the future of transportation and community development in our state.

Fenton Hotel Brand Reveal

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht spoke at the reveal of The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton, a seven-story, 186-room property set to open in fall 2027. Council members Jack Smith, Michelle Craig, and Sarika Bansal joined the celebration, marking this exciting new addition to Fenton.

Chamber Annual Banquet

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht provided welcome remarks at the Cary Chamber’s Annual Banquet, an event organized by the Chamber of Commerce to recognize board members and celebrate community accomplishments. Councilmember Jack Smith was presented with the Legacy of Service Award in honor of his lasting contributions to Cary. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson were also in attendance.

Sister Cities Students Presentation

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented letters of recognition to two Cary students selected for the 2025 Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit. The students visited Town Hall to share their experiences at the summit. Each student received a $1,000 scholarship from the Cary Sister Cities Association and the Cary Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program.

Troop 200

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson had a great conversation with Troop 200, who are working toward their Communication Badge.

Taiwan Acrobatic Troupe Show

Councilmember Michelle Craig presented a letter on behalf of the Mayor and Council to organizers of the NC Taiwanese Cultural Arts event celebrating Taiwan’s National Day. The program featured a performance by the Taiwan Acrobatic Troupe.

Cary Woman’s Club 90^th Anniversary

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented a proclamation recognizing the Cary Woman’s Club during its 90th Anniversary celebration. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Sarika Bansal also attended. The program featured reflections on the club’s history and its many contributions to Cary’s civic life.

Town Manager’s Report

Russ’ Message

Council,

It was good seeing many of you at the annual Triangle Community Coalition (TCC) meeting. I thought we had a productive meeting this week. I always love when Council, staff, and the development community of Cary get together, listen, and chat about ideas. Thank you to the TCC for hosting this event.

Enjoy your weekend.

Russ Overton

Deputy Town Manager

Walnut Street Gravel Lot Closing

The gravel lot on Walnut Street next to the Library Parking Deck will be temporarily closed Sept. 22 until Sept. 24 for necessary maintenance in preparation for an upgrade in January. The lot will be closed for several weeks in January as it gets refreshed per a development agreement adopted by Council in June.

Southern Water Utility Roundtable

Last week, Utilities staff attended the Southern Water Utility Roundtable in Charlotte. The event, held by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), brought together utility leaders from across the southeast to discuss key challenges like PFAS, regulatory changes, compliance, and disaster response. The discussions were an opportunity to build relationships and share innovative ideas, solutions, and strategies to strengthen the region’s water sector.

BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival

The 8th annual BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival was held last weekend at The Cary Theater, drawing nearly 1,400 attendees and filmmakers from the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This year’s event featured 24 short films in competition, two independent features, and a live screenplay reading. Attendees enjoyed in-depth Q&As with filmmakers, industry workshops, and networking at the Opening Night Film & Party and Filmmaker Happy Hours. The festival concluded with an Awards Brunch recognizing five filmmakers and one screenwriter, followed by screenings of the award-winning films.

Electric Fire Truck at Cary Rotary Club Meeting

The Cary Central Rotary Club welcomed Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar, Fire Chief Mike Cooper, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Parker, and Engineer Justin Chamblee for a presentation on the first electric fire truck on the East Coast. The Pierce Volterra electric pumper, housed at Fire Station 9 on Walnut Street, combines reliability, performance, and environmental benefits. The near-zero-emissions dual powertrain seamlessly transitions between battery-powered operation and diesel backup when needed and is significantly quieter, allowing firefighters to communicate on scene without shouting over an engine. Rotary Club members enjoyed learning about and experiencing this public safety investment.

Community Connections at the Cary Senior Center

As part of the new Community Connections educational series at the Senior Center, Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett led a first of its kind class The Changing Landscape of Aging: Trends, Growth, and Community Services on Wednesday. This kickoff session explored the shifting demographics of aging, highlighting the rapid growth of the senior population and their evolving needs. Participants learned how Cary is responding with innovative programs, partnerships, and age-friendly initiatives. Future sessions in the Community Connections series will feature educational presentations from other departments, including Fire, Police, 911, and 311, offering older adults direct access to the information and services that matter most to them.

Scam Jam Equips Seniors with Tools to Fight Fraud

This morning, the Senior Center hosted Scam Jam, an educational event focused on helping older adults recognize and protect themselves from scams and fraud. Councilmember Lori Bush opened the program by introducing North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, who shared valuable insights into current scam trends and how seniors can safeguard their personal information. The event also featured presentations from representatives of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office and the Department of Insurance. Each speaker offered clear, actionable advice on avoiding common scams and highlighted resources available to victims.

Important Dates

Town Council Meeting (Regular)
Thursday, September 25
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

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 that Cary should be more about “the Carying Place Gala” rather than the Pagemore Hotel unveiling.
A question about a future sidewalk in MacGregor Downs.
A complaint about solicitation going into the Cary Regional Library.
A complaint about a neighbors yards having rats and snakes.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, the Cary Chamber Candidate Forum, a Council meeting, a mystery reader at an elementary school, and the dunk tank at Public Safety Day.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, September 28^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.

Speaking at Symposium, District C Meeting, Fenton Hotel Unveiling, Cary Chamber Annual Banquet, Sister Cities Presentation, Council Work Session, Council Meeting, and Cary Woman’s Club 90th Anniversary

Central Catawba River Basin Symposium

Monday I was a joint speaker at the Central Catawba River Basin Symposium in Gastonia. I was joined by one of the engineers from WithersRavenel. Our topic was focused on the success story of Downtown Cary Park, its water features, how those features helped with flooding issues, and the park’s impact on the local economy. My focus was on the history of the park, the vision, and our downtown. The engineer focused on the details about flooding and the water features. We had about 100 in the audience. BTW, the trip was not paid for with taxpayer dollars.

Council Prep

Monday I contacted council members to hear of concerns about the upcoming agenda. Three council members expressed concern about phasing of the 22-REZ-20 Alston Yards rezoning request. The applicant asked for that proposal to be tabled later in the week.

I met with staff later in the day to go over the meeting items. Since it was short agenda the meeting with staff was brief.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

Monday night I participated in a meeting of the Cary Tennis Classic Board. We spent a lot of time reflecting on our visit to the US Open before getting down to business. Next year’s Cary Tennis Classic will be June 28^th through July 5^th. We are looking to have community events at next year’s tournament including abilities, wheelchair, kids’ day, adult red ball and triples, and the WWTA Charity Classic.

District C Community Meeting

Tuesday night I joined Council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, and Smith for a community meeting in District C.

I gave a high-level ten-minute version of the State of Cary. This was followed by topics of interest from the fire chief, police chief, and Senior Program Manager. Next was the Assistant Town Manager who gave a development and financial update. Then the council members held a Q&A for about twenty minutes.

Fenton Hotel Brand Reveal

Wednesday morning, I joined council members Smith, Craig, and Bansal and the brand name unveiling of the new boutique hotel in Fenton. The hotel, named Pagemore, will be a 7 story, 186 room hotel that will open in the fall of 2027. It’s designed to be a hub for Cary’s social scene, bringing together food, culture, and experience. Included will be a signature Eastern Mediterranean restaurant called Barouk, a coffee shop, and a lobby bar. It will have venues for up to 200 guests, including a ballroom, culinary studio, and an outdoor event lawn. Mainsail Lodging and Development with Ross Hotel Partners will develop and operate the Pagemore.

The reveal event included several speakers and videos of what the new hotel will look like. Speakers included the President and founder of Mainsail, the Managing Director of Hines, me, the Wake County Commissioner Chair, the President and CEO of Visit Raleigh, the Cary Chamber President, the VP of Mainsail Operations, and the VP of Hospitality for Mainsail.

After remarks everyone walked to the hotel site for photo ops behind the Pagemore sign. Instead of a ribbon cutting, there was a countdown with special guests sending up streamers. This will be a unique hotel designed to reflect Cary to visitors and be a designation for locals.

Cary Chamber Annual Banquet

Wednesday I attended the Cary Chamber Annual Banquet.

Council member Jack Smith was honored with a Legacy of Service award for his 36 years on the Cary Town Council.

The keynote speaker was Ed Rapp who is a retired Caterpillar Group President. His talk with very inspiring as he touched on his life and his ongoing 10-year battle with ALS. The focus of his talk is that we should all be working on our work-life balance.

The Business of the Year award went to Cary Towne Bank, and the Citizen of the Year award went to Barry Mitsch. Congratulations!

Sister Cities Students Presentation

Thursday afternoon I met with two students from Cary that were selected to attend the 2025 Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit earlier this summer in Washington DC. Cary Sister Cities Association and the Cary Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program granted them a $1,000 scholarship. At this presentation I presented letters of acknowledgment followed by pictures.

Council Work Session

Thursday evening the council held a work session to discuss Cricket, Artificial Intelligence & Data Governance, and an update on the Sales Tax.

In the Cricket discussion it was pointed out that pickup cricket was being played at Mills Park next to the Community Center site that was voted down at the last election. We were told that there are parties interested in creating a cricket field using little or no tax dollars. The council unanimously passed a motion to do RFP to see what kind of offers we get to build a cricket pitch.

Some of the takeaways from the AI discussion include:

Core AI definitions:
- Generative AI: It doesn’t just analyze; it creates something new like meeting minutes.
- Agentic AI: They are goal driven actors not just assistance. For example, automating the permitting application process.
- Predictive AI: This is focused on what will happen. For example, flood predictions.
- Autonomous AI: Operates independently in the real world. For example, self-driving vehicles.
- Conversational AI: Provides human-like dialogue experiences. For example, the town’s virtual assistant for 311.
Cary is building an AI & Data Program that connects the pieces:
- AI & Data Strategy (In Development): Brings AI, Data Governance, and Data Management together into one integrated strategy, rooted in Cary’s values and centered on serving citizens.
- AI Policy (Drafted): Establishes guardrails and ethical standards for AI use.
- Data Governance Policy (In Development) Provides the rules, roles, and oversight needed to ensure data is trusted, secure, and used responsibly.
- Data Management Program (In Development): Focuses on the day-to-day quality, organization, and accessibility of data, ensuring information is reliable and ready for AI and analytics.
On October 23^rd the council will have a discussion on AI and Data Governance policy. This will be followed by facilitated data workshops in the winter.

The update on sales tax, which is 20% of our revenue, showed a FT2025 growth rate of 0.94% which is below budget by $391,779. The FY2026, which began on July 1, should be close to flat.

Council Meeting

Thursday night the council held its first meeting of September. The agenda included four consent items, no public hearings and one discussion item. The discussion item for at Alston Commons was tabled at the beginning of the meeting so that the applicant to address concerns of phasing.

There was one speaker for the Public Speaks Out portion of the meeting. The consent items were approved unanimously and the council meeting adjourned in about ten minutes.

About a dozen scouts were in the audience to earn merit badges for Communication. Since the council meeting was short, six of seven council members, including me, talked with the scouts for about half an hour. I am glad that our youth are being exposed to local government.

Cary Woman’s Club 90^th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, council member Craig, and council member Bansal in the 90^th anniversary celebration of the Cary Woman’s Club. I was one of three speakers recognizing this milestone. Here is the proclamation I read:

“RECOGNIZING THE 90^th ANNIVERSARY OF THE CARY WOMAN’S CLUB

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club is commemorating its 90th anniversary on September 14, 2025. In 1935, the Cary Woman’s Club was organized and received its charter in the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. With the 90th Anniversary Celebration, we continue the mission to promote civic, cultural, social and educational advancement of Cary and to provide service to our community.

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club’s primary goal in 1935 was support of public education, it provided volunteers and funds to staff the Cary High School library for students during the school year and the community in the summer. In 1960, the Cary Woman’s Club played a major role in the establishment of the Cary Public Library.

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club, during World War II, volunteered daily in the Red Cross Sewing Room, planted trees in Hillcrest Cemetery honoring military veterans and continued the club’s environmental mission over the 90 years by planting a variety of street trees which contributed to Cary’s tree canopy.

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club formed a Girl Scout Troop in 1938. In the 1940s the Cary Woman’s Club led the support of art activities by having student art exhibits and fostered the exchange of art between Cary Elementary School and the African American School, now Kingswood Elementary. In addition, the Club co-sponsored the first and second Annual Cary Art Exhibition and founded the Cary Arts Guild in the 1960’s. Also, the Club organized the senior citizens XYZ Club in 1970, and the Friends of Hemlock Bluffs in 2001.

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club during the last 25 years has awarded $120,000 in Scholarships and $101,850 in Grants to our community.

WHEREAS, the Cary Woman’s Club has two members, Dorothy Schmelzeis and Lillian Smith, with 50 plus years of service and leadership

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby recognize the 90th anniversary of the Cary Woman’s Club and I encourage our citizens to join me in thanking the Cary Woman’s Club for their continued efforts and many contributions to the civic, cultural, educational and social betterment of Cary.

PROCLAIMED this 14^th day of September 2025.”

We are so grateful for all the Cary Woman’s Club has done over the years and look forward to celebrating their centennial in a decade.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Last week, Cary felt even more like home after returning from vacation. Whether I was out on the greenways catching up with old friends or simply sharing a smile with folks downtown, being surrounded by our caring neighbors reminded me why this community means so much.
I had the privilege to attend The Carying Place Gala, a celebration of hope that resonates deeply for me. The room was full of warmth and determination, with families sharing stories of how The Carying Place has helped them learn new life skills, open doors to independent living, and build a brighter future together. Moments like that make me grateful not just to witness Cary’s spirit, but to be part of shaping it. Each connection, each conversation, and every act of kindness continues to prove how compassion and progress always walk side by side here.

Thank you for letting me share these moments with you and for being part of our town’s story. There’s so much more ahead, and I’m excited to walk this path together.

Lori Bush

At-Large Council Member

Turner Creek Elementary Visit

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht visited Turner Creek Elementary, speaking with second-grade students about local government and the importance of citizenship in the community.

Ribbon Cutting at Art Swarm

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht participated in the ribbon cutting for Art Swarm and the opening of the Fine Arts League of Cary’s new location at the Waldo House. Instead of a traditional ribbon cutting, attendees collaborated on a community painting. The event showcased the creativity and energy of artists, some internationally known—who contribute to Cary’s thriving cultural scene.

Cary Environmental Symposium

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson delivered kickoff remarks at the Cary Environmental Symposium, joined by Councilmembers Lori Bush and Carissa Kohn-Johnson. The event featured a panel discussion on waste reduction, composting, and building resilient communities, highlighting Cary’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Heart of Cary Association Meeting

Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig attended the Heart of Cary Association’s September member meeting at the Cary Chamber of Commerce, connecting with community members and sharing updates. This month’s meeting featured Katherine Loflin and her newly released book, Hidden History of Cary.

Meeting with Hindu Swayamsevak Sang USA

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson met with representatives of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA, who shared about their volunteer work in the community. Council members also received symbolic red bracelets signifying good luck, protection, and connection.

New Business Spotlight – The New York Butcher Shoppe

Councilmember Michelle Craig and Jack Smith welcomed The New York Butcher Shoppe to Cary, celebrating the addition of this new small business to the community.

The Carying Place Gala – A Night in Hollywood

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended The Carying Place Gala. The event, themed A Night in Hollywood, raised funds to support families on their journey out of homelessness and toward stability.

Rock Your World Festival

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended Rock Your World, a free community music festival that raised funds for several nonprofit organizations, including Hope for Haiti Foundation, Musical Empowerment, NC Leap, and US Veterans Corp.

Minor League Cricket – Coin Toss Ceremony

Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the coin toss at the Minor League Cricket match between the Morrisville Raptors and the Baltimore Royals at Church Street Park. The Raptors represent North and South Carolina in the nation’s premier domestic T20 league.

Town Manager’s Report

Russ’ Message

Council,

I enjoyed seeing you all at the various events this week and hope you have a great weekend.

Russ

District C Community Meeting

On Tuesday evening, staff attended the District C Community Meeting at Middle Creek Community Center. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht opened the meeting delivering an updated State of Cary and was followed by Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry, who gave a development and budget update. Fire Chief Mike Cooper, Police Chief Terry Sult, and Program Manager for Seniors and Aging Michelle Barrett also attended to provide updates. Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Carisa Kohn-Johnson, and District C Representative Jack Smith wrapped up the meeting with a Q&A session.

Fenton Development Unveils New Hotel

On Wednesday, Fenton Development revealed the name and branding identity for Cary’s newest hotel, The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton, a seven-story, 186-room property set to open in fall 2027. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith, Michelle Craig, and Sarika Bansal attended the unveiling ceremony, along with Deputy Town Manager Russ Overton and Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry. The marketing team from the hotel spent the Tuesday touring Cary’s facilities, including the Downtown Cary Park, the Cary Theater, and the Page-Walker Arts and History Center researching topics for a promotional video highlighting what guests of the hotel might enjoy downtown.

Chamber Annual Banquet

On Wednesday evening, staff attended the Chamber’s Annual Banquet at Prestonwood Country Club. The event recognized incoming and outgoing Board Members and celebrated community accomplishments through a series of awards. This year, Town Manager Sean Stegall delivered remarks and presented Councilmember Jack Smith with the Legacy of Service Award in honor of his lasting contributions to our community.

Area Wide Optimization Award

This week, the NC Division of Water Resources recognized the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) with the Area-Wide Optimization (AWOP) Award for the 14th consecutive year, maintaining the facility’s Gold Star Status. This award recognizes facilities with outstanding turbidity removal and those that consistently surpass federal and state drinking water standards. The CAWTF is one of only 20 facilities in the state to receive this designation. Meeting the requirements for this award is one of the many ways staff at the CAWTF work to ensure that high quality drinking water is delivered to citizens.

Sewer Inspection Update

Cary maintains more than 1,000 miles of sewer mains and performs annual inspections as part of a proactive maintenance routine. This week, contractors performed Cary’s first official laser profiling inspections on the Lynn’s Branch Interceptor in Lochmere, in addition to the traditional video inspections. Laser profiling uses a rotating laser to capture precise measurements of pipe diameter, ovality, and surface condition, creating a 3D profile of the sewer. These inspections help Cary prioritize maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement needs, ensuring cost-effective investments and reducing the risk of unexpected system failures.

Crescent Green Intersection Improvements

Staff installed new traffic signs and pavement markings at the intersection of Crescent Green Drive and Crescent Commons Drive. These improvements include a more intuitive pavement marking design and vegetation removal to improve sight lines. The new traffic signs, including stop signs and one-way indications, employ the principles of the Safe System Approach used for Vision Zero designs, seeking to reduce conflict by more clearly separating users in space and time.

Important Dates

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, September 17
6:00 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, September 18
6:00 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, September 17
6:15 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.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 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 e-bikes and scooters in Cary.
Concern about a data center in New Hill (this is in Apex’s jurisdiction).
Suggestions about what to do with the Cary Town Center site (this is private property, and we have no authority to do anything except make sure it is not a danger to the public).
A complaint about loud noises on highway 55 near the Fieldstone community.
A complaint about rezoning 25-REZ-05 (council will receive a staff report when there is a public hearing).
A request to have a First Night on New Years Eve (great idea except it would be a significant expense).
A complaint about “walking conditions” going to Horton’s Creek Elementary.
A request for a sidewalk in MacGregor Downs.
A request to have a public memorial service for Charlie Kirk because “Cary had services for George Floyd” (not true, but there were public events).
A complaint about the May Quarterly meetings not being ready.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Divan Center event, a Mayors Association meeting, a CAMPO executive board meeting, and the 10^th annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat races.

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

Turner Creek Elementary, Art Swarm, CTC Reception, Religious Leader, Citizen Concerns About Downtown Park, Raksha Banhan, and Cary #28 in North America for Green Fleet

Turner Creek Virtual Visit

Tuesday I had the joy of having a virtual meeting with three third grade classes from Turner Creek Elementary. They are learning the difference between state and local government and the responsibilities of leaders, including mayors. I spent about ten minutes talking about municipal governments, how they function, and how our authority comes from the legislature. Then I answered several questions from each classroom. As always, it was a lot of fun, and I hope they invite me to participate in a future meeting.

Manager One-On-One

Later Tuesday I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one meeting. Our topics of discussion included the remaining 2019 bond funding options, BANS (Bond Anticipation Notes), council races, and future bond projects.

Art Swarm

Wednesday afternoon I participated in an event that celebrated the beginning of Art Swarm and the new location of FALC (Fine Arts League of Cary).

Art Swarm was a five-day event of art exhibits shared by artists, some of which were internationally known. It showcased artist energy and imagination that thrive here in Cary.

The event was held at the new location of FALC, the Waldo house on Park Street next to the Mayton and adjacent to the Downtown Park.

After greeting people for several minutes, I made a few welcoming remarks to the few dozen in attendance. Rather than cutting a ribbon, FALC decided to do a community painting instead. I was given the honor of making the first paint mark on a canvass that everyone in attendance participated in creating.

I hope this event is one of many and creates an art scene in our downtown.

Cary Tennis Classic Community Appreciation Reception

Wednesday night I participated in a reception for supporters of the Cary Tennis Classic, which is a professional tennis tournament held at Cary Tennis Park every year.

Tennis is growing in popularity, in Cary and all over the United States. The US had over 25.7 million players in 2024 which is the fifth consecutive year of growth.

The Cary Tennis Park has been recognized nationally for its excellence and hosts recreational players, tournaments, college players and tournaments, and professional tournaments every year creating millions in economic benefit.

This event was to bring sponsors and supporters together to engage and talk about this tournament and growing tennis in Cary.

We were so very blessed that this reception was hosted by Rey’s restaurant, who supplied us with food and the venue for the event. In case you didn’t know, Rey’s is one of the finest dining restaurants in Cary and is known for its New Orleans-inspired steakhouse cuisine, including high-quality steaks, seafood, and classic desserts.

Meeting with Religious Leaders

Thursday afternoon I met with two leaders from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints representing the Raleigh, North Carolina Stake. They talked about how they were involved in the community and wanted to know more ways to help in our community. We are so blessed to live in an area where people want to help our community get better.

Citizen Concerns About Downtown Park

Later Thursday I met with two individuals complaining about the Downtown Park Dog Park. One of them stated that he and his wife were suffering physically and emotionally from the barking. He stated that the town did not consider his health and safety when designing the park. The second individual said the dog barking was keeping his children awake at night.

Staff have been working with these individuals and agreed to work with them in the future. Recently the council reduced the dog park hours, but these individuals said that would make it worse since there will be more dogs concentrated in a shorter amount of time.

The only comment I will make is that safety is always the highest concern. While some may not agree with our decisions, safety is always considered.

Raksha Banhan Ceremony

Thursday evening, I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, Council member Bansal, Council member Kohn-Johnson, Council member Craig, and Fire Chief Cooper at the Page-Walker for the Raksha Banhan ceremony by members of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS).

Raksha Banhan involves a sister tying a sacred thread bracelet called a rakhi onto her brother’s right wrist, symbolizing love, protection, and a promise of support from the brother to the sister. This ritual, rooted in ancient stories and traditions, occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana and extends beyond siblings to other community members, and the brother traditionally gives his sister a gift in return for her prayers and blessings.

The ceremony included introductions, the history of Raksha Banhan, the tying of the bracelets, and then a reception. The HSS members said that our bracelets were for good luck and protection as well as feeling a loving connection to others.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Hi everyone! I hope you’re having a great week. Like many of you, my family is adapting to a new and busy schedule for the start of the school year. I recently visited East Cary Magnet Middle School with my youngest child for orientation, and I walked the schedule with my 10th grader at Cary High. Once again, I started this school year working at Briarcliff Elementary. As a parent and teacher, I absolutely love seeing students, school staff, and families coming together with excitement for what’s ahead. Moments like these remind me of how deeply connected Cary is through our schools, neighborhoods, and businesses, and the relationships that we all share.

I’m also looking forward to the many opportunities this season brings to gather as a community. From arts and cultural events to enjoying time in our parks and greenways, there are countless ways to connect with neighbors. I continue to be in awe of how our community comes together to help one another and celebrate what makes Cary so special.

As a quick reminder, the District C Community Meeting is coming up soon — Tuesday, September 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Middle Creek Community Center. I encourage everyone in District C to attend if possible. It’s a valuable opportunity to hear updates, ask questions, and stay engaged in shaping the future of our community. Your voices and perspectives matter, and these meetings are a great way to be involved.

Thank you for all you do to make Cary such a welcoming place. I look forward to connecting with many of you at events and in the community in the weeks ahead. In addition to festivals, you may see me at one of the school events to which I’m personally connected. If you do, come over and say hi. I’ve made it out to several other schools in Cary in the last couple of years. Please reach out if you’d like me to visit one of your school events or plan a field trip to Town Hall and the Page-Walker Arts and History Center. I love making new connections.

Michelle Craig

District B Council Member

Joint Meeting with Holly Springs Council

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson provided welcoming remarks at the Joint Meeting between the Holly Springs and Cary Councils. Other Cary Councilmembers in attendance included Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson. In addition to elected officials, leadership staff from both municipalities also participated.

Hidden History Book Launch and Author Reception

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Hidden History Book Launch and Author Reception. Cary’s own Dr. Katherine Loflin was celebrated by friends and community leaders for her latest book, “Hidden History of Cary.”

International Leadership Foundation and NC Asian American Coalition Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson attended the International Leadership Foundation and NC Asian American Coalition’s Young Entrepreneurship Award Ceremony. The winning team, led by a local student, was recognized for their innovative pitch of a 3D-printed “Bluebird Nest” house design.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

We have a full week ahead with the District C Information meeting on Tuesday, the Chamber’s Annual Banquet on Wednesday, and a Work Session followed by the Council Meeting on Thursday. Thank you for your continued leadership, and I hope you enjoy your weekend.

Sean

August 28 Work Session – Open Space

At the council work session on August 28^th questions were asked about existing funding for watershed protection. Funding for watershed protection is calculated based on consumption. Detailed information about that funding can be found here.

PFAs Settlement Payment Begins

In 2024, Cary joined with water utilities around the country in submitting class action claims against 3M, DuPont, Tyco, and BASF for their roles in polluting American water supplies with PFAS compounds. These compounds are known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment. Recently, Cary received the first payment from these claims, approximately $1.3 million dollars from 3M’s settlement. Over the next ten years, Cary is expected to receive over $7 million dollars in settlement payments from the four companies. Cary has been treating its drinking water for PFAS since 2018, and these funds will partially offset the cost of this treatment.

Clermont, Florida Visits to Observe 311 and Smart Cities Initiatives

Staff from Clermont, Florida visited Cary this week after reading The Top of the Arc to learn more about 311 and smart cities initiatives. Their visit included a tour of Downtown Cary Park, where they were able to see firsthand how Cary is leveraging sensor technology to enhance community experiences, plus hands-on shadowing in 311, and conversations with staff on the adaptive approach to 311 operations and service delivery. This peer-to-peer exchange reflects the growing recognition of Cary’s leadership in innovation and strengthens relationships with other communities.

Cary Parkway and Norwell Boulevard Traffic Signal Update

A new traffic signal at Cary Parkway and Norwell Boulevard has been successfully activated, marking Cary’s 229th maintained signal and the first to feature fully radar-based detection on all vehicle approaches. Above ground radar sensors replaced traditional in-pavement loops, offering greater reliability, lower maintenance costs, and faster installation with less traffic disruption. The signal also includes GPS-based Emergency Vehicle Preemption (EVP) allowing first responders to communicate with the system to temporarily adjust signal timing reducing response times. Additional features include Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) push buttons, full integration with Cary’s connected vehicle platform, and a new sidewalk constructed along the south side of Cary Parkway. By combining radar detection, connected vehicle communication, and pedestrian infrastructure, this project advances commitments to smart mobility and multimodal accessibility.

North Carolina Transportation Summit

This week, staff attended the annual North Carolina Transportation Summit in downtown Raleigh. The event kicked off with a welcome from Governor Josh Stein and remarks from USDOT Deputy Secretary of Transportation Steven Bradbury, City of Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell, NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins, and several state transportation and commerce leaders.

The devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene and the extraordinary response to restore western North Carolina’s infrastructure were central themes at the conference. Presenters shared progress on transportation repairs, stories of perseverance, and lessons for future disaster response. Sessions also covered Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transportation, community engagement, financing strategies, innovative solutions, mindful mobility, DMV updates, and the smart vehicle revolution.

Cary Recognized as Top Green Fleet

Cary has been ranked #28 in the Top 50 Green Fleets in North America by the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). This recognition reflects Cary’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in municipal operations. Through the use of cleaner fuels, advanced technologies, and strategic fleet management practices, Cary continues to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining reliable services for the community.

Environmental Symposium

Hosted in collaboration with our nonprofit partners Trees for the Triangle, the 3rd annual Cary Environmental Symposium kicked off this week. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson opened the event highlighting our longstanding commitment as leaders in the preservation and protection of natural resources and shared about the recent addition of the Enrich Chapter to the Imagine Cary Community Plan. Councilmembers Lori Bush and Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined community members for a panel discussion on soil health with representatives from Good Hope Farm, McGill Environmental commercial composters, Toward Zero Waste, and The ReCollective. Staff at the Cary It Green booth shared information on composting, Harvest Fest, and tree species selection.

Growing Forestry Education for Staff

With 80% of Cary’s urban forest canopy residing on privately owned land, staff is innovating strategies for tree care education and outreach. This week, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources (PRCR) staff completed a training series led by Cary’s Urban Forester Leslie Moorman and Public Works Urban Forestry Expediter Kelly Blair. The series covered topics such as simple pruning, proper planting, and tree health indicators. Increased tactical trainings like these empower staff to provide in-depth citizen education and support the Urban Forest Master Plan goals.

Important Dates

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

Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, September 8
6:00 p.m.

Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, September 8
6:30 p.m.

District C Information Meeting
Tuesday, September 9
5:30 p.m.

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

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

Town Council Meeting Work Session
Thursday, September 11
5 p.m.

Town Council Meeting Regular
Thursday, September 11
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

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 request to list projects available for philanthropic funding.
A complaint about construction work in Carpenter Village.
A complaint about a Lazy Daze postcard arriving after the event (we are working to find out how the post office messed this up).
A complaint about school reassignment (the Wake County School Board has this authority, and nothing is final until November).
A complaint about softball field registration.
A complaint that taxes are going up and “the road in front of the house and school behind the house have not changed in the last 20 years” (Flat revenues – 1% growth; inflation – much in double digits, related to fire, police, water, sewer, parks, and neighborhood streets are the main reasons).
A complaint that trash bins are too large.
A complaint that the Barkyard in Downtown Cary Park is “one of the leading point sources of noise pollution in all of Cary”, like that of I40 and some areas in RDU.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a talk about Downtown Cary Park in Gastonia, a District C Community Meeting, the Cary Chamber Annual Banquet, an event with Sister Cities Students, a Council Work Session, a Council Regular Meeting, and the Cary Woman’s Club 90^th Anniversary Celebration.

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

US Open Trip, Council Work Session, and Council Meeting

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one meeting. Our topics of discussion included the budget, debt, providing information to council candidates and council, Diwali, and council – staff relationships.

Cary Tennis Classic Board in New York

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday I joined most of the members of the Cary Tennis Classic board in a trip to the US Open in New York. We were treated to great tennis and even access to the President’s box. It was a great time, especially if you are a tennis fanatic like me.

Council Work Session

On Thursday evening the council held a work session to review the meeting schedule, discuss the residential lighting, receive an update on the open space plan, and hear announcements from the town manager.

In the residential lighting discussion, the staff talked about issues between residents and the issues between residential and commercial lighting. They plan to bring a proposal that would measure maximum illumination values at the property line. A potential ordinance could be crafted similar to ordinances already in place by other municipalities.

The staff is currently working on the Cary Open Space Plan. The plan defines open space as both public and private lands with shared responsibilities and opportunities and will strengthen and support existing Cary plans and additional efforts. The staff presented existing open space at developed parks, significant sites, cultural landscapes, green corridors, lowlands and uplands. Five goals and thirteen objectives were presented to develop interconnected network through Cary. The five goals of the plan are:

Protect open spaces for future generations
Support health connected ecosystems
Manage open spaces for ecological health and resilience
Grow nature-based experiences
Continue to support the role that open space plays in Cary’s unique sense of place

The plan will be finalized in the coming months, and council will vote on the plan in 2026.

The manager presented an update on sales tax in his segment of the meeting. Sales tax makes up 20% of the town’s revenue:

May Sales Tax Receipts are down 0.1% Year over Year
April Sales Tax Receipts were up from last year
May Sales Tax Receipts are down 2.02% Month over Month
FY2025 growth rate of 1.1% over FY2024 = $571,619
($370,115) below FY2025 budget at this point

All signs point to our revenue being basically flat again for this fiscal year.

Council Meeting

Thursday night the council held its last regularly scheduled meeting of August. The agenda included a recognition of a gift, eight consent items, six public hearings, and one discussion item.

The Shane Pegram Family Foundation reached out to Cary staff earlier this year regarding adonation focused on playground renovation. The Pegrams are long-time Cary residents with an interest in using their foundation to support inclusivity at the playgrounds they visit and love. Davis Drive Park’s playground renovation planning was already in progress as part of Cary’s larger routine capital maintenance efforts. After discussing this location with the foundation, it was determined that the Davis Drive Park playground, due to its size, topography, and position on staff’s maintenance plan, aligns well with the donor’s desire to provide an inclusive play experience for all abilities. The $400,000 donation from the Shane Pegram Family Foundation fully funds the Davis Drive Park playground renovation and will bring accessibility amenities to this much-loved playground. The council approved this unanimously. We are so blessed to have this philanthropic gift. I just wish there was more of it in Cary.

All consent items were approved unanimously. An item on Cary Policy changes was pulled by Mayor Pro-Tem Robinson to help describe why policies were changed. The council also gave direction that further explanation should be given regarding these types of changes. Other consent items included an annexation at 227 and 309 Barbee Road, a rezoning to allow fourteen single family homes at 227 and 309 Barbee Road, a technical correction in rezoning for 200 Glendon Way, a bid rejection because of cost for the Optimist Farm Road Water Main Extension and Holly Springs Interconnection Project, an agreement with Verizon Wireless to maintain its equipment on the Ridgeview Water Tank, and a $4 million bid award for the water main replacement project including pavement replacement on Kildaire Farm Road.

The first two public hearings were for the annexation and rezoning proposal for 606 and 694 Pittard Sears Road. This drew complaints from nearby residents that the density and lot size didn’t fit with surrounding properties. These proposals will come back to council in a few months after a review and recommendation from the Planning and Zoning board.

The third public hearing was for the annexation of an assemblage of properties on Yates Store Road. This had no speakers and will pair up with the rezoning request going through the process. It will come back to council with the rezoning request for a vote in the future.

The fourth and fifth public hearings were for the annexation and rezoning proposal on White Oak Road with 4.33 acres. This proposes detached dwellings at a maximum density of 1.5 dwelling units per acre. This will come back to council in a few months for a vote.

The sixth public hearing was for the extension of the 2019 bond orders. In 2019, Cary voters approved $225 million in general obligation bonds to fund long-term projects that benefit both current and future residents. To date, the full amount has not been borrowed due to factors such as project costs and potential tax impacts. The authority to borrow the remaining funds is set to expire in October 2026. Following discussion, the Council approved a three-year extension, allowing but not requiring the Town to borrow the remaining $100 million as originally authorized. Of that amount, $78 million is planned for transportation projects and $22 million for parks. Some transportation projects are already underway and have been funded with cash, meaning the Town will reimburse itself once the bonds are issued. Issuing bonds at the end of projects helps minimize the impact on taxes.

The discussion item was for the use of General Obligation Bond Anticipation Notes. General Obligation (GO) bonds are typically issued for the full cost of a project. If bonds are sold at the beginning of a project, the Town starts paying interest on funds that may not be used immediately. To avoid unnecessary interest costs, it’s more efficient to wait until the end of a project to sell the bonds. In the meantime, projects can be funded using cash or through Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) short-term, low-interest loans. BANs carry lower interest rates than GO bonds, helping to reduce borrowing costs and keep taxes low. The Council unanimously approved the issuance of $50 million in BANs.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Hello, Cary friends and neighbors! As one of your at-large representatives, I’m thrilled to connect with you and offer a look at what your Council has been up to this week in our vibrant town. For nearly 30 years, I’ve watched Cary grow from a place of promise into a thriving community that still feels like home. It’s this unique blend of progress and heart that makes our town so special, and it’s a privilege to be part of the team shaping its next chapter.

Cary’s strength isn’t built at Town Hall alone — it’s a collective effort. It comes from neighbors, staff, and leaders who share a vision for an inclusive, innovative, and connected community. Every conversation I have with you, whether at a community event or one of my many walks with my dog, reinforces the trust you’ve placed in us.

In this newsletter, we aim to pull back the curtain on how your Town Council is working for you. Below, you’ll find a few highlights from the past week, showcasing how we’ve been engaging with our community, celebrating milestones, and tackling important issues. I invite you to read on, get involved, and help us continue to build a community we can all be proud to call home.

Carissa Kohn-Johnson

At-Large Council Member

Courtyards at West Cary

Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended a neighborhood meeting at the Courtyards at West Cary to hear community priorities and share town updates.

Milkshakes With the Mayor

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht joined residents at Glenaire for the Milkshakes with the Mayor event, a casual gathering to connect, answer questions, and enjoy a sweet treat together.

Fly Away Home

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson, serving as the Public Art Advisory Board council liaison, participated in the Fly Away Home sculpture trimming, celebrating the ongoing care and creativity behind Cary’s public art.

GRCVB Awards Ceremony

Councilmember Jack Smith attended the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (GRCVB) Meeting at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater, where Cary received the Thad Eure Jr. Memorial Award for Downtown Cary Park, recognized for its innovative design and national acclaim.

Town Crier Reception

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmember Jack Smith attended a reception at The Mayton Inn to welcome Town Crier John Webster and his wife, Mary. Hosted by Cary’s Sister Cities Executive Board, the event highlighted the Town’s ongoing commitment to strengthening international friendships and cultural exchange.

Women’s Equality Day

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Women’s Equality Day celebration, joining local leaders to mark the historic significance of the day and highlight ongoing efforts toward gender equity.

Vibha DreamMile

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson participated in the Vibha DreamMile event at Bond Park, while Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the medal ceremony to present awards. The annual fundraiser supports Vibha’s vision of ensuring high-quality public education for every child.

Lazy Daze Opening Ceremony

Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Michelle Craig took part in the opening ceremonies of the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, celebrating Cary’s largest annual cultural event with artists, performers, and thousands of visitors. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Sarika Bansal joined the festivities throughout the weekend.

Pakistan Independence Day

Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Pakistan Independence Day Celebration in Preston Village.

Old Wake Rivalry Game

Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmember Craig cheered on Cary High School at the Old Wake Rivalry Game against Apex. The historic football matchup, dating back to 1925, marked its centennial year. Go Imps!

Council Members’ Schedule

Throughout the year, the Mayor and Council participate in various events, ceremonies, and activities. To see where Councilmembers will be this week, view the official schedule here.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

Thank you for your thoughtful engagement during last night’s work session on residential lighting, open space planning, and sales tax revenue. Your continued leadership and collaborative approach to these important community issues strengthen our ability to navigate both opportunities and challenges together.
As we discussed, our sales tax performance shows a mixed picture – while we’re seeing positive year-over-year growth of 1.1% for FY 2025 totaling $571,619, we remain $370,115 below our budgeted projections at this point. The sales tax trends data offers additional context for our ongoing financial discussions, and I look forward to our continued work together as we monitor these patterns and plan accordingly.
A quick reminder, Town Hall and most staffed facilities will be closed on Monday for the Labor Day holiday. Enjoy your weekend.

Sean

Council Joint Meeting with Holly Springs August 26^th

Slides presented at the joint meeting can be found here.

Shading the Future Grant Award

This week, Cary accepted a $25,000 grant award from the Duke Energy Foundation to support the ‘Shading the Future: Trees for Energy Savings and Community Resiliency’ pilot initiative. This effort is designed to enhance the community’s climate resiliency through the strategic planting of 200 trees in targeted areas with lower urban tree canopy coverage and higher average surface temperature. By leveraging existing community partnerships, staff will inform and engage citizens in areas of consideration throughout the pilot.

Cary’s New Vision Zero Webpage

This week staff published a new Cary webpage dedicated to sharing information about Town Council’s recent adoption of Vision Zero. Available at www.carync.gov/visionzero, the webpage highlights Cary’s on-going efforts to improve multimodal infrastructure, and how existing programs support the principles of Vision Zero. Staff will continue to integrate Vision Zero concepts into existing programs while progressing towards a unifying definition of the goals and priorities for a Vision Zero strategy that aligns with Cary’s values, policies, and actions.

Changes to Aquastar Usage Alerts

Aquastar, our long-time wireless water meter system, no longer has the capability to send usage text messages to customers. However, text message was the only one communication method to receive this usage information. Customers still have an option to receive usage alerts by email. Customers can access the online portal at carync.gov/digipay to view account details and modify or create usage alerts.

Annual Water System Performance Report

Cary has issued its annual wastewater report, which summarizes the outstanding performance of its collection and treatment system that supports Cary, Morrisville, Wake RTP, and RDU Airport. The report provides quick facts, descriptions of our treatment facilities, system metrics, and tips to keep the system working smoothly and the environment free from sewer spills. In FY 2025 Cary had no reportable sewer overflows, an outstanding achievement. Visit carync.gov/wastewaterreport to view the report online.

Old Apex Water Main Construction Update

Construction of the new 24-inch water main along Old Apex Rd. has steadily progressed through the summer. More than half of the roughly 8,000 linear feet of new water main has been installed. Earlier this week, a new traffic pattern was installed at the intersection of Old Apex Rd. and W. Chatham St. This traffic shift is expected to remain in place for two months to allow for the safe installation of a water main across W. Chatham St. The installation will occur by trenchless methods allowing two-way traffic to be maintained on both Old Apex Rd. and W. Chatham St. The project remains on track for completion in fall 2026.

Black Creek Greenway Update: Phase One Opens Today

Progress continues on the Black Creek Greenway Renovation project. Phase One (W. Dynasty Dr. to Livingstone Dr.) is complete and opens today, just in time for the Labor Day holiday. Phase Two (Livingstone Dr. to just north of Weston Pkwy) will begin after Labor Day. This section of the greenway will close for construction, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026.

Staff Presents at Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference

On Wednesday, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Parker presented on first responder vehicle options at the Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference in Winston-Salem. Chief Parker shared Cary’s implementation of idle-reduction technology (IRT) across Fire’s fleet vehicles. He emphasized its benefits, including lower fuel costs, reduced emissions, and decreased environmental impact, all without compromising emergency readiness.

Urban Water Consortium Quarterly Meeting

The Urban Water Consortium (UWC) represents a unique collaboration of twelve of the largest water utilities across North Carolina partnering with the academic community to advance water research priorities. Cary has been a founding member since UWC’s inception in 1985 and benefits from contributing to this long-standing forum to learn and share among water managers from the most populated areas of the state. The Urban Water Consortium held its quarterly meeting on Tuesday at Orange Water & Sewer Authority. The meeting included an in-depth discussion of emerging water contaminants and a tour of the water treatment facility.

Centennial Football Celebration: Cary HS vs. Apex HS

On Saturday, Cary, National Amateur Sports, and the Wake County Public School System partnered to host the historic 100th anniversary football game between Cary High School and Apex High School at WakeMed Soccer Park. The celebration drew more than 2,200 fans and alumni from both communities, with Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Councilmember Michelle Craig, and Apex Mayor Jacques Gilbert in attendance. The event gave student athletes a memorable opportunity to compete in a premier stadium environment, complete with amenities far beyond those of their traditional home fields.

Lazy Daze 2025 Recap

Lazy Daze 2025 welcomed an estimated 55,000 attendees to Downtown Cary, energized by perfect weather and a weekend full of art, music, and community spirit. The festival kicked off with Demo Daze, featuring 11 live artist demonstrations and hands-on activities for all ages. New this year was the Inclusive Artist Market, spotlighting artists with disabilities, alongside returning favorites like the Kid Collectors Market, Chalk Walk, and Kid Daze. Entertainment included performances from Squonk, four live stages, and 25 diverse food trucks, while the Hype Daze initiative connected festivalgoers with downtown businesses offering themed specials. With support from over 300 volunteers and Town departments, Lazy Daze 2025 was a major success as Cary looks ahead to its 50th anniversary celebration in 2026.

CaryLIVE with Squirrel Nut Zippers

CaryLIVE! with the Squirrel Nut Zippers drew its largest audience yet on Saturday evening, with over 4,000 people gathering in Downtown Cary just down the street from Lazy Daze. Many festivalgoers stuck around to enjoy the free concert, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere. The night was made even more special with a mini reunion as founding member Katharine Whalen opened the show with her Jazz Squad and later joined the Squirrel Nut Zippers on stage for a few songs. With record attendance, unforgettable performances, and the perfect continuation of a day filled with community celebration, this CaryLIVE! concert was a tremendous success.

Important Dates

Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, September 2
6:00 p.m.

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, September 3
12:00 p.m.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting
Wednesday, September 3
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

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 finding parking in the library deck during Lazy Daze.
A thank-you for supporting Cary at the Cary-Apex 100-year anniversary football game.
A complaint that the USTA and Western Wake are taking tennis courts at “peak times”.
A compliment about Lazy Daze and the Downtown Cary Park.
A complaint about the median placement on North Harrison at Montibello Drive.
A complaint about the dog park at the Downtown Cary Park.
A complaint that Cary needs to get a YMCA discount for Marigold Apartments (we don’t have that authority).

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a virtual visit to Turner Creek Elementary, a Human Relations Inclusion Diversity Advisory Board meeting, a ribbon cutting for Art Swarm, an appreciation reception for the Cary Tennis Classic sponsors, a Triangle Community Coalition Coffee Chat, a North Carolina Metro Mayors meeting, and the Rock Your Word event at Fenton.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, September 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 Housing Prices Soars, Audit, Wake County Mayors, Milkshake with the Mayor, CAMPO, EAB, Dinner with the Town Crier, Lazy Daze, 100 Year Anniversary of Cary/Apex Football

Cary Housing Continues to Soar

According to a recent article, Redfin calculates that the medium home price in Cary has risen 18.2% over the last year. More details can be found here.

Audit Inquiry

Monday I was interviewed by a Cherry Bekaert accounting firm representative as part of our annual audit. They asked questions about potential fraud, misuse of funds, etc. Of course, I had no knowledge of any misuse of taxpayer dollars. In all my years of being involved as an elected official in Cary government the staff has done an amazing job with the town’s finances.

Manager One-On-One

Monday evening I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. Our topics of discussion included council-staff relationships, the evolution of the downtown park, bonds, and reviewing the social district expansion.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday night I participated in a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association which was held in Apex. In attendance were mayors from Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Holly Springs, Morrisville, and Rolesville. Most of our discussions were about what was going on in each municipality and the upcoming municipal elections.

Milkshake With the Mayor

Tuesday afternoon I visited Glenaire for “Milkshake with the Mayor”. There were about fifty in attendance. For more than an hour, I visited each table and talked to residents about issues they were interested in. It was a lot of fun, and a great way to have several one-on-one conversations. I was impressed with the knowledge base Glenaire residents have on so many complex issues.

CAMPO

Wednesday I participated in a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (CAMPO) Executive Board. This board has over thirty members comprised of over elected officials from member governments, as well as stakeholders from other agencies. CAMPO is the federally mandated agency responsible for continuous and comprehensive transportation planning in the greater Raleigh area. Its primary functions include developing long-range transportation plans, programming transportation projects into a short-range plan, and coordinating with local governments and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to meet the region’s transportation needs. This includes planning for all transportation modes, such as roadways, transit, and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure, and conducting studies on regional transportation issues.

This month’s agenda had four consent items, three public hearings, and four discussion items.

The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included minutes, a Unified Planning Work Program Amendment, record retention and schedules, and a sub-allocation award for the Raleigh Urbanized Area funding partners.

All three public hearings were held without speakers and were approved unanimously. The first public hearing was the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Amendment #2 & Air Quality Conformity Determination Report. CAMPO is required to demonstrate conformity between the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for air quality. This is a required step for the development of an Air Quality Conformity Determination analysis and report. This is also required for updates and changes to the MTP and/or the TIP.

The second public hearing was the FY 2026-2035 TIP. CAMPO staff update the TIP every two years. This is a draft TIP completed to meet the federal requirement stating that the TIP and State’s Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) must be identical. This had implications for Cary. In this draft the Trinity Road bridge project will be in the first decade of FY2026-FY2035, and the Chatham/Maynard bridge project will follow in the next decade.

The last public hearing was for the Locally Administered Projects Program (LAPP) FY2027 Target Modal Mix. This determines the percentage funding mix of roads, bike/ped, and transit.

Under discussion the board received information on the Federal Functional Classification Changes, the 8^th update for SPOT (State’s Prioritization for transportation), and an update for 2055 MTP/CTP (Metropolitan Transportation Plan/Comprehensive Transportation Plan). In one other discussion item the board endorsed the North Harnett Transit Study Recommendations for use in the Metropolitan Transportation Plan.

EAB Discussion

Thursday afternoon I met with staff members to go over the Environmental Advisory Board applications. After discussing the qualification of several applicants and the goals for the board, we decided on candidates that we will recommend to the rest of the council.

Lazy Daze Dinner with the Websters

Thursday night I joined members of Sister Cities in a dinner to welcome our town crier and his wife, John and Mary Webster, for Lazy Daze. John and Mary are from our sister city in Markham, Canada, and John has been our town crier for over 25 years. We are blessed to have had his friendship and participation all these years. John presented a proclamation and a gift from Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti.

Lazy Daze

Saturday I participated in the opening ceremony for the 49^th Lazy Daze Arts and Craft festival in Cary which is the premiere event of its kind in the southeasts. This year there were 250 artists from 19 states. Dan Pike welcomed the crowd and introduced the Cary High School Band which played our national anthem. This was followed by the Town Crier who read a proclamation on my behalf. Then I provided welcoming remarks including recognition of the Lazy Daze founder, Jerry Miller, who passed away earlier this year. Thankfully, his daughter was there with us.

The weather was perfect for both days with temperatures in the upper 70s and lower 80s for both days. IMHO, it was another great success.

Cary vs Apex Football 100-year anniversary

Saturday night I joined council member Craig for the 100^th anniversary of the Cary and Apex football rivalry. As part of the pregame Apex Mayor Gilbert and I met at midfield for the coin toss which was performed by Wake County Schoolboard member Swanson who represents both Cary and Apex. The game was a tough fought battle that was closer than the score. In the end the mighty Imps from Cary prevailed by a score of 25 to 10. Congratulations to all those who “bleed green”.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

As the longest-serving elected official in our town’s history, representing District C since 1989, I’m honored to share a few reflections with you this week. Nearing the end of my service on Council, I take great pride in having played a role in Cary’s thoughtful growth, strong community spirit, and dedication to environmental stewardship.
Cary continues to thrive because of your involvement and dedication. Our success has always been built on collaboration — neighbors, staff, and elected officials working together toward a shared vision. I’m proud to serve alongside you and grateful for the trust you place in me.
This newsletter is one of the many ways we aim to keep you connected to what’s happening in Cary. Below, you’ll find updates on recent events and opportunities to engage with your town government. I encourage you to take a few minutes to read through and stay involved — your participation is what makes Cary such a vibrant and welcoming community.

Jack Smith

District C Council Member

GoCary at Cary High School

Councilmember Michelle Craig joined staff last Tuesday at Cary High School’s first IMPressions Freshman Camp sessions, where GoCary hosted an information booth to introduce incoming students to routes and services.

Cary Fire Department Graduation

On Friday, Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Cary Fire Department’s graduation ceremony. They joined family, friends, and colleagues in honoring 20 new recruits for their hard work, dedication, and accomplishments as they enter the fire service family.

Meeting with County Meath

On Saturday, August 16, Councilmember Jack Smith met with Meath County Councilmember Brian Fitzgerald to discuss upcoming Sister Cities activities between Cary and Meath. As part of the visit, Brian received an autographed copy of Town Manager Sean Stegall’s recently published book, The Top of the Arc.

India Independence Day Celebration

On Sunday, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the India Independence Day Celebration hosted by Hindi Vikas Mandal at the Hindu Society of North Carolina in Morrisville. The event featured a flag-hoisting ceremony, cultural performances highlighting India’s heritage, and an informal community lunch, bringing families together in the spirit of freedom and unity.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

As a reminder, Lazy Daze takes place tomorrow and Sunday. Town Hall closed at noon today to allow staff to prepare for the two-day festival. I continue to be amazed at the creativity and energy our staff pour into making Lazy Daze a success.

On Tuesday evening, I will join you for our joint dinner with the Holly Springs Council and staff. This dinner is an important opportunity to connect and deepen relationships while discussing the utility and sewer needs of Holly Springs and the potential role Cary might play in supporting them in the future.

As always, thank you for the way you show up for these moments. The work we do together creates conditions for excellence not only in Cary, but in the region.

Wake County Approves Green Level West Road Renaming

This week, the Wake County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to rename a portion of Green Level West Road to High House Road, between NC 55 and Green Level Church Road, as was previously approved by Council on June 12. Staff will begin the process of notifying property owners along the corridor by mail early next week and coordinating street sign replacement. For more information on the renaming process, visit the street renaming projects website.

Cary-Morrisville Traffic Signal Agreement Adopted

Cary and Morrisville have renewed an agreement to incorporate all traffic signals in Morrisville into Cary’s Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS). Under this agreement, Morrisville will fully reimburse Cary for the direct costs of operating and maintaining its signals. By managing a larger, more coordinated network, the ATMS improves traffic flow across town boundaries, reduces congestion, and enhances overall system efficiency. In addition, Cary will have a greater role in planning Morrisville’s transportation network as they update their Comprehensive Transportation Plan, which will include traffic signals and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) infrastructure.

Draft Open Space Plan

Staff is seeking feedback on the draft Open Space Plan now through Sept. 28 and will be available to answer questions at a Lazy Daze booth this weekend.

Staff Recognized at National APWA Conference

This week, staff attended the American Public Works Association’s (APWA) annual Public Works Expo in Chicago. Fleet Manager Brandon Pasinski was named APWA’s Professional Fleet Manager of the Year, a national honor recognizing his leadership in advancing Cary’s award-winning green fleet through innovations such as renewable propane conversions for police vehicles, optimizing the motor pool with the addition of electric vehicles, and initiating Cary’s first Fleet Technician Intern Program. Urban Forester Leslie Moorman also presented on Cary’s tree care program, sharing how decentralized responsibility and shared resources across departments foster flexibility and resilience in municipal tree management. Her talk sparked conversation among urban forestry professionals nationwide about new ways to strengthen local tree programs.

Downtown Cary Park Honored at GRCVB Annual Meeting

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources (PRCR) was honored this week at the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (GRCVB) annual meeting with the 37th Thad Eure Jr. Memorial Award. Named for well-respected local leader, Thad Eure, this award recognizes individuals and organizations that embody the ideals of hospitality and service that were hallmarks of his life. This award is the GRCVB’s highest accolade for contributions to our hospitality landscape and honors the work that Cary and the PRCR Department have accomplished with the development and opening of Downtown Cary Park. Assistant Director of PRCR Dana Kennedy, Downtown Cary Park General Manager Joy Ennis, and Downtown Cary Park Assistant General Manager Sarah Preston attended to accept the award along with Councilmember Jack Smith.

Cary Appears Again in Southern Living

Marketing Strategy Team Efforts Pay Off, Highlighting Town’s Regional Strength

Cary earned another major national spotlight this week with a feature in Southern Living. The piece also was picked up by Yahoo Life and AOL, in total reaching more than 418 million online readers and generating nearly $4 million in PR value for Cary. The story echoed the team’s pitch, saying “Cary is making the case that there has never been a better time to do a little further digging into the state’s famed Research Triangle.”

Tree Removal at Depot

The Cary Depot was temporarily closed last Friday after Cary’s Urban Forestry Expeditor Kelly Blair identified a large tree near the south platform as an immediate fall risk. The tree posed a threat to nearby railroad tracks and bus shelters. Transit staff enacted the GoCary Emergency Operations Plan, rerouting bus service to Town Hall Campus while the tree was removed. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of Transit, Urban Forestry, 311, Public Works, and Police, the disruption was minimal and normal operations resumed within a few hours.

Downtown Pedestrian Crossing Enhancements

As part of continued improvements to the downtown mobility network an enhanced pedestrian crossing was recently installed at the intersection of South Harrison Avenue and West Park Street. This upgrade provides clearer visual warnings for drivers with new yield line markings and signs in advance of the crosswalk along with pedestrian activated LED-enhanced signs at the crosswalk.

Wake Technical Advisory Committee Meeting

On Wednesday, Cary hosted the Wake Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) at WakeMed Soccer Park, welcoming staff from neighboring municipalities for a quarterly discussion on solid waste and landfill operations. Stadium and Facilities Operations Manager David Crotts opened the meeting by highlighting the venue’s top-tier operations and events. Through the South Wake Landfill Interlocal Agreement, staff actively participate in these regional conversations to shape long-term waste management strategies and strengthen Cary’s solid waste services.

Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility Future Planning

This week marks another successful year of operation at the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF). Over the last 32 years, it has grown from a 12 million gallon per day capacity to 56 million gallons per day and it currently provides high-quality drinking water to over 300,000 people. To celebrate the anniversary, the facility kicked off a new master planning project this week. The project will take a deep dive into the treatment processes and anticipated water demands, which will be used to create a measured plan for incremental expansion, ensuring the facility can meet the drinking water needs of our citizens for the next 30 years and beyond.

Important Dates

Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, August 25
6:30 p.m.

Cary and Holly Springs Joint Meeting
Tuesday, August 26
5:30 p.m.

Cultural Arts Committee
Wednesday, August 27
6:00 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Thursday, August 28
5:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Regular)
Thursday, August 28
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.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 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 the median placement on North Harrison and Montebello Drive.
A complaint about old homes being torn down and large homes replacing them in the downtown area.
A complaint about programming of tennis courts.
A request for support for the Carying Place.
A complaint about the downtown park dog park.
Requests for statements of support.
A request to expand recycling.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a trip to New York, a work session, and a council meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, August 31^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.

Cary vs Apex Football Taping, Cary Tennis Classic Board, and a Cary Council Candidate Meeting

Cary – Apex Football Taping

The video I made with Apex Mayor Gilbert and football players from Apex and Cary promoting the August 23^rd football game at WakeMed Soccer Park can now be viewed here. I look forward to seeing you at the game!

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager for our weekly meeting. Topics of discussion included asset management, a state audit, South Hills development, the potential for future bonds, the multi-modal transportation center, and questions I have been receiving about future recreational facilities.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

Monday night I met with the Cary Tennis Classic Board. This was our first meeting since the professional tournament in July. Most of the time was spent reviewing data from the tournament and talking about next year’s tournament which will be held June 28^th through July 5^th. We also discussed the Community Appreciation Reception which will be held on September 3^rd. Our next board meeting will be on September 8^th.

Town Hall Selfie

Tuesday I participated in the town hall Selfie. Organized by ELGL, City Hall Selfie Day is a celebration of public service showcasing pride in local government institutions.

Every year since 2016, government employees, elected officials, members of the media, and community members participate in the event across the United States and around the world. You can find out more here.

Cary Council Candidate Meeting

Thursday I met with a non-interim candidate for Cary Council. This was the last of four I have met with. I am impressed with the candidates running for Cary Council.

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Welcome to this week’s edition of Council Out & About! Serving our community means being part of conversations that shape Cary’s future and celebrating the connections that make our Town special. This past week was a wonderful example — from thoughtful discussions at Searstone and the Chamber Leadership Dinner to rolling up our sleeves for the Cary High School cleanup.

I’m especially excited about the momentum we’re seeing around regional transportation planning, including the FAST 2.0 transit study shared at the RTA Brunch. These efforts to connect our communities and improve mobility will have a lasting impact on how we live, work, and move throughout the Triangle. I hope you enjoy reading about all the ways your Council has been out and about this week!

Jennifer Bryson Robinson

Mayor Pro-Tem

District A Representative

Visit to Searstone

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the State of Cary to residents at Searstone Retirement Community. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson joined the Mayor to answer audience questions on topics including development, housing, and transit.

Chamber Leadership Dinner

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht addressed business leaders at the Chamber Leadership Dinner. The evening included networking with state and federal representatives, hearing from nonprofit organizations, and connecting with members of Cary’s business community. In addition to the Mayor, attendees also included Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Jack Smith, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Michelle Craig.

Cary Matters Taping

Councilmember Lori Bush invited Town Manager Sean Stegall to tape an upcoming episode of Cary Matters focused on the theme of “Public Good.” The episode will be released in September.

Taping for Centennial of “Old Wake Rivalry”

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht joined the Cary High School football team to record a video promoting the centennial anniversary of the “Old Wake Rivalry” between Cary and Apex. The teams will meet at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Aug. 23, at 7:30 p.m. The rivalry began in 1925, marking 100 years of competition.

Watch the video.

RTA Transportation Brunch

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Michelle Craig attended the annual summer meeting of the Triangle’s regional transportation leaders. The event featured the release of the FAST 2.0 transit study — a nearly $1 million NCDOT initiative to advance an interconnected regional BRT system, including links to RTP and RDU — and an update on construction of the first Wake BRT corridor along Raleigh’s New Bern Avenue. Held in partnership with the I-40 Regional Partnership, the brunch brought together a large group of regional and community leaders.

Cary High School Cleanup

Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined the Cary Rotary Club, Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings, members of the Interact Club, Cary High School students, and community volunteers — coordinated by Nancy Haywood — to landscape and clean up the Cary High School campus.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar shared information about the importance of Cary’s adaptive approach to stormwater and Council’s investment in stormwater infrastructure.

I thought you would like to know that some parts of Cary have received nearly 13 inches of rain since last Wednesday, including an intensity of approximately 7 inches per hour during a portion of the event last night. While that amount and intensity could have created significant disruption, the impacts to Cary’s infrastructure have been minimal. This outcome reflects the success of Cary’s approach to stormwater management, where proactive monitoring, targeted drainage improvements, smart technology, and early action work together to mitigate flooding. This event reinforces that preparedness is not a one-time effort but an ongoing responsibility, one that preserves Cary today while building resilience for tomorrow.

Sean

22-REZ-21 Middleton Avenue Townhouses Rezoning Withdrawn

Bi-Right Development Likely

On July 16, 22-REZ-21 Middleton Avenue Rezoning, located in Town Council District B, was withdrawn at the request of the applicant. The applicant will likely choose to develop the subject property through a by-right development plan; the extension of Middleton Avenue will be required with development of the site. The existing zoning, TC HDR Mid-rise, allows a number of uses, including townhouses, although at a lower density than was requested by the now withdrawn application.

City Hall Selfie Day

On Tuesday, Cary joined local governments nationwide in celebrating the 10th annual City Hall Selfie Day, an event created by the Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) network to showcase the people who make local government work. Despite the rain, staff from nearly every department participated, snapping selfies at Town Hall, in the field, and at other key locations across Cary. The day was also a great way to connect on Chatter, with employees sharing photos and engagement throughout the day. The festivities even caught the attention of the media, with coverage highlighting Cary alongside the City of Durham.

NC Courage Visits Fire Station 1

On Wednesday, NC Courage players visited Fire Station 1 for a special video collaboration ahead of their upcoming Local Heroes Day on Sept. 13 at WakeMed Soccer Park. They explored the trucks and equipment, tried on firefighting gear, and even put the firefighters’ soccer skills to the test. The visit highlighted the strong partnership between Cary and the NC Courage and celebrated the connections that make Cary a special place to live, work, and play.

Cary Teen Council Cares for Community Gardens

This summer, 19 Cary Teen Council members contributed 148 hours at seven urban agriculture sites through the Teen Climate Ambassador Environmental Outreach Program. Along with learning about ecology, they worked in the Fire Station Gardens and McCrimmon Community Garden, harvesting produce for Cary’s first responders and donating extra vegetables to Dorcas Ministries Food Pantry, helping neighbors facing food insecurity. These teens are growing skills, serving the community, and building a greener, more resilient Cary.

New Children’s Sensory Garden Opens at the Page-Walker

A kid-friendly sensory garden has opened at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, designed to engage young children through plants that invite sight, touch, smell, and sound. Featuring custom pavers with sensory prompts, select plantings, and handcrafted copper wind chimes by Lazy Daze artists, the garden invites exploration. It’s the third specialty garden at the center, joining the Anne B. Kratzer Educational Gardens and the Pollinator Garden. The project was supported by a Cary Art Daze grant from the Friends of Page-Walker, SiteOne Landscape Supply, and guidance from local recreation and gardening experts.

Wellington Ridge Installs New Dog Waste Bins

Wellington Ridge recently used a Neighborhood Improvement Grant to install dog waste bins throughout the community, promoting cleanliness and responsible pet ownership. With its proximity to the Piney Plains Greenway, the bins will benefit both residents and visiting dog walkers. Residents came together to install the bins themselves, showcasing strong community spirit.

Important Dates

Athletic Committee
Monday, August 18
6:00 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, August 20
6:15 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, August 21
6:00 p.m.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting
25-REZ-12 Trenton Residential Rezoning
Wednesday, September 3
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.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 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 from a Cary Town Band member about parking at the Cary Arts Center.
A complaint about smoking on greenways.
A complaint about changes to GoCary’s Door to Door service (changes are due to new federal requirements).
A complaint that the SK8 park “has fallen into serious disrepair”.
A concern from a Green Level High School student about potential shootings like at “Marjory Stoneman Douglas” (the school resource officer will respond).
A complaint that the new Cary Out & About doesn’t allow opting out.
A complaint about NC DMV on Maynard.
Several invitations to events.
A complaint that Cary should do something about a U-Turn regardless of a DOT requirement for a U-turn on Harrison: “Safety should always be a priority, and in this case, sadly, it is not”, “I don’t think Cary residents are being represented fairly”, “I am very disappointed and disillusioned”, “documented concerns I’ve sent obviously mean nothing, and the issue of safety of our neighborhood is being disregarded.”

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with the town’s auditor, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a “Milkshakes at Glenaire” event, a CAMPO executive board meeting, a dinner meeting with Cary’s Sister Cities and our Town Crier, and the Lazy Daze opening ceremony.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, August 24^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.

Raleigh-Cary #1 for Job Opportunities and Earning Potential, TAC History, HRID Meeting, State of Cary Searstone, Cary Chamber Leadership dinner, Cary vs Apex Football taping, and the RTA Transportation Brunch

Raleigh-Cary #1 for Job Opportunities and Earning Potential

This week I was notified that Checkr ranked the Raleigh-Cary metro as the best place in the country for Job Opportunities and Earning Potential. Here is an excerpt from what they said:

“… Raleigh, NC tops this year’s list, cementing its status as a modern economic powerhouse. Thanks to a strong tech and biotech presence, proximity to top-tier universities, and consistent population growth, Raleigh offers a robust mix of high-wage opportunities and affordable living. …”

Some of the criteria included the unemployment rate, labor force growth, labor force size, percentage of jobs open, real per capita personal income, 10-year income growth, and percentage of households earning more than $200,000.

TAC History and Impact Interview

Monday afternoon I was interviewed as part of a book about the history of TAC (Triangle Aquatic Center). I gave thoughts from the town’s perspective that included discussing the history of the town’s need for an indoor pool, the aquatic bonds that passed and failed, the town’s decision to not to get involved in public aquatics, and how TAC has been a tremendous benefit for the town.

Cary Council Candidate Meeting

Monday evening I interviewed a candidate for a district seat on the Cary Town Council. We discussed their interest, business, and hopes for the future. I have now talked to three of the four non-incumbents running for council.

HRID Meeting

Tuesday evening I participated in a meeting of the Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board. The topics included the Hometown Spirit Award, a discussion with the Police Department, advisory board demographics, and board recruitment demographics. The meeting lasted two hours and fifteen minutes.

State of Cary Searstone

Wednesday afternoon I gave the latest version of the State of Cary address to about 100 attendees at Searstone. After the address I was joined by Mayor Pro-Tem Robinson for a Q&A which lasted about 15 minutes. It was a very pleasant and informed group. I look forward to presenting again in the future.

Council Out and About

The Cary Council launched its Council Out and About this week which will remove council activities from the staff weekly report. The following is my message for the original report:

Welcome to the first edition of Cary Council Out & About! As your Mayor, I’m proud to serve alongside a Council that values being present, listening, and learning from the community we represent. Whether we’re meeting students at the Public Service Academy, exploring how artificial intelligence can help local governments innovate, or cheering on our first responders at a charity basketball game, each moment helps strengthen the community bonds we share.

If you’re a regular reader of my weekly blog, you know I post the Town Manager’s Weekly Report with operational updates. Now, Council has a newsletter of its own, which will be shared on social media and sent to recipients of Town news releases. To receive it straight to your inbox, sign up for newsletters at carync.gov.

What I’m excited about this week: Cary’s brand-new electric fire truck — the first of its kind on the East Coast! It’s a powerful step forward in sustainability and safety, and a great example of how we’re investing in innovation and our future.

Each week a council member will be providing a message.

Since the items in this Council Out and About were in my last blog, I will not be listing them this time.

Cary Chamber Leadership Dinner

Wednesday night I attended the Cary Chamber Leadership Dinner. This is an opportunity to thank all the leaders, elected and business, for helping make Cary great. In attendance were Congresswoman Ross, state senators, state house members, county commissioners, county school board members, dozens of business leaders, Mayor Pro-Tem Robinson, council member Smith, council member Johnson, council member Craig, and council member Bansal. In my brief remarks I thanked all for their roles, their leadership, and their belief in Cary.

Cary – Apex Football Taping

Thursday afternoon I did a taping promoting the August 23^rd football game between Cary and Apex. The taping included trash talk, mean poses, and a bet between Mayor Gilbert and I with the loser hosting dinner. Hope to see you at the on the 23^rd at WakeMed Soccer Park!

RTA Transportation Brunch

Friday morning, I attended the RTA (Regional Transportation Alliance) Transportation Brunch. RTA is a private-public partnership focused on accelerating transportation priorities in the region. It’s a business-led coalition within the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, focusing on transportation and infrastructure within the Triangle region. It advocates for projects like the completion of I-540, regional BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) networks, and the RDU runway expansion.

At this meeting the focus was on how Bus On Shoulder service, BRT, and other means of transport would come to a hub called the Exchange. This hub would be located over I-40 in the median area of Airport Boulevard. It would be accessed by a new transit road in the median of I-40. It would also provide access to the RDU airport via autonomous vehicles. A panel that included the Raleigh mayor, a NCDOT Division Engineer, a Fujifilm representative, the CEO of RDU, the CEO of Research Triangle Foundation, the RTA Sustainability and Environmental Chair, the RTA Executive Director, the President and CEO of GoTriangle, and the RTA chair discussed this plan. One interesting comment from one of the panelists, when asked what he thought about the idea, said it was like asking him what he thought of the vehicles in a Ferrari showroom.

While I think this is a fantastic idea and something we should be moving forward with, the costs will be staggering. It will take the hundreds of millions already collected in the ½ cent sales tax for transit and more. If this region wants to remain one of the best areas of the country, we must figure out a way to make this happen sooner than later. As it was stated, I-40 is already a “sea of parking”. In addition, it is imperative that we connect the triangle.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

This week marked the official publication of The Top of the Arc—and candidly, saying that still feels surreal. I’m not sure it ever won’t. But I didn’t want to let this moment pass without saying thank you. Thank you for walking this path with me, and more importantly, for encouraging me to share Cary’s story in a way that reflects what’s best about its people. That includes each of you, Council. None of this happens without your leadership, your belief in staff, and your steady focus on the community.

As I begin my 10th year as Cary’s Manager, I’m incredibly grateful to be in this role, at this moment. And while the weight of what’s ahead is real, I’m excited to see what Cary’s next chapter brings.

In appreciation,

Sean

311 Communications Specialists Earns Advanced PIO

Last week, 311 Communication Specialist Rebecca Pearce completed the Advanced Public Information Officer (PIO) course through FEMA’s National Disaster & Emergency Management University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The course is designed to strengthen crisis communication skills and prepare public service communicators for real-world emergencies. It also provided an opportunity to build relationships with communicators from across the country, including peers from local and state agencies, providing connections to strengthen regional coordination and response during future emergencies. Rebecca has served in multiple emergency communications roles, including serving in Cary’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during signature events and emergency activations and in the Buncombe County EOC during Hurricane Helene.

Neighborhood Stormwater Improvement

Cary partnered with several residents along Pleasants Avenue through the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program (NIGP) to install new stormwater mitigation features that help protect local waterways and improve neighborhood resilience. This project supports Cary’s environmental goals by reducing runoff, filtering pollutants, and helping prevent localized flooding during heavy rains. Located in a residential area with aging infrastructure, the improvements demonstrate how community-driven efforts can address long-term challenges with sustainable, low-impact design. By supporting localized stormwater improvements, the NIGP empowers residents to take an active role in protecting the environment and strengthening their communities.

SCWRF Biosolids Dryer Facility Upgrade

The South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) recently replaced the drum in the thermal biosolids dryer facility after its twenty years of continual service. Following months of planning and coordination between Utilities Engineers and SCWRF staff, the project was completed in just two weeks, including testing and start-up with representatives from the manufacturer, Andritz. During the shut-down, SCWRF staff also replaced the shaker and recycle bucket elevator in the thermal biosolids dryer facility.

Important Dates

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, August 12
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, August 13
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.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 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 request to light the pickleball courts at Ed Yerha Park.
Questions about passenger rail, commuter rail, and Bus Rapid Transit.
A complaint about the Ferrell Road Rezoning request 25-REZ-04 (This has not been scheduled for a public hearing so there isn’t a staff report. All I know is that the request is for 230 single family homes.)
Several requests to attend events.
A concern about the “disproportionate increase in the number of apartment complexes”.
Thank you for the stormwater planners, designers, construction, and maintenance teams for managing stormwater. “They are the true unsung heroes keeping us all safe during these heavy rain events.”.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, Diwali dance practice, and a legislative update.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, August 17^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.

Diwali Dance Rehearsal, and General Assembly Update

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. Our topics of discussion included the Downtown Cary Park and council candidates.

Diwali Dance Rehearsal

Tuesday I participated in the dance rehearsal for the Celebrity Diwali dance that will be held in October at Booth Amphitheater. I have been a part of this dance for several years. This time five of seven council members will be participating.

General Assembly Update

Checkmate Government Relations provided the summary of legislative actions this week:

Veto Overrides

On Tuesday lawmakers reconvened to override several bills that Governor Stein had recently vetoed. Once bills are vetoed by the Governor, the legislation goes back to the chamber of origin and requires a three-fifths vote to override the veto. If overridden in the original chamber the legislation, then moves to the other chamber for the required three-fifths vote. If both chambers override the veto, the legislation becomes law. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Senate and House both voted to override 8 bills. In the Senate, there are 30 Republicans which provides the caucus with a supermajority. However, in the House the Republican Caucus needed at least one Democrat to vote with them to override a veto. On each vote, House Republicans were successful in getting multiple Democrat votes. The bills that the chambers voted to override include:

HB 193, Firearm Law Revisions which allows certain employees at non-public schools to carry a firearm or stun gun on school property.
HB 318, The Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act requires law enforcement to notify ICE when a suspect is subject to an immigration detainer and modifies the eligibility for the release.
HB 402, Limit Rules with Substantial Financial Costs establishes a higher scrutiny for rules that will impose higher financial costs, requiring the General Assembly approval.
HB 549, Clarify Powers of State Auditor would amend the powers of the State Auditor, remove some audit requirements, and exempt the office from certain statutes.
HB 805, Prevent Sexual Exploitation of Women and Minors would define two sexes in the state, prohibit state funds for gender-transition procedures in correctional facilities, allow students to be excused from certain classroom discussions, and allow parental access to library books.
SB 254, Charter School Changes which increases the authority of the Charter Schools Review Board to operate more independently.
SB 266, The Power Bill Reduction Act eliminates the interim goal for a 70% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2030.
SB 416, Personal Privacy Protection Act which prohibits agencies from collecting, disclosing, or releasing information about nonprofit organizations.

There are still several vetoed bills outstanding that the House expects to take up by the end of the year.

Mini Budget

As greater budget discussions have been delayed, the House and Senate passed a small spending package in House Bill 125, Continuing Budget Operations. The current spending package allocates $2.3 billion over two years for high-priority needs, including:

$800 million for state construction projects
$600 million to adjust Medicaid funding to account for changes in enrollment, enrollment mix, service and capitation costs, federal match rates, the implementation of the Children and Families Specialty Plan, and management contracts.
$118 million for JetZero from the Department of Commerce
$142 million for the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program for statewide agricultural disasters in 2024.
$200 million for state employee retirement, health care, and DMV needs across the State

Adjournment Resolution

The General Assembly passed an official adjournment resolution for the 2025 legislative session. The resolution sets July 31, 2025, as the date of adjournment and establishes a schedule of monthly reconvening dates stretching into April 2026. On each of these designated dates, the legislature is authorized to consider only a narrow set of topics, including veto overrides, gubernatorial appointments, litigation-related legislation, and changes to election laws. The resolution also permits limited business such as adopting conference reports, handling impeachment proceedings, and passing disaster recovery or budget-related bills, as long as strict deadlines for drafting and introduction are met. Additionally, it allows leadership to authorize committee meetings during interims to review budget matters or prepare reports.

The dates for the General Assembly to reconvene each month are included below:

August 26-28
September 22-25
October 21
November 18
December 16
January 13
February 10
March 10
April 7

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,

I’m pleased to share the first edition of the Town Manager’s Weekly Report with you today. This update reflects the direction given at the May 22 Work Session to divide the Council Weekly into two separate communications, each intended to serve a clearer purpose.

This report has been designed to highlight operational updates, including staff accomplishments, key projects, follow-up items from meetings, and insightful correspondence. The aim is to provide you with relevant and timely information to support your leadership and decision-making.

The first Council Out & About, celebrating your engagement in the community, will arrive Wednesday, August 6.

Looking forward to evolving this together.

Harvard Fellow Speaks on AI

This week marked a meaningful step forward in Cary’s organization-wide exploration of artificial intelligence. Through multiple sessions, including a foundation-setting conversation with all staff, a policy discussion with directors and Council, and a brainstorming session with the AI Curious group, participants explored how this technology might enhance the way Cary serves the community with excellence, intention, and a human touch. What stood out most was not just the topic, but how Council and staff engaged with thoughtful questions, openness, and a shared Cary mindset of “let’s see how this can help us do what we already care about.” This approach reflects a commitment to leaning into the future not for innovation’s sake, but to shape it in alignment with Cary’s values. Special thanks to Harvard Global Civic Innovation Fellow David Graham for leading each of these sessions. His facilitation created space for honest dialogue and helped connect the potential of AI to the priorities that guide Cary’s work every day.

Growing Community Partnerships and a Greener Future

Through Cary’s Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program (NIGP), the Lochmere Homeowners Association transformed a large grassy common area into a vibrant Piedmont prairie ecosystem. The project supports Cary’s sustainability goals by replacing invasive plants with native species, improving soil health, supporting pollinators, and reducing erosion between Swift Creek’s feeder creeks and Kildaire Farm Road. Visible from a major greenway and public sidewalk, the prairie demonstrates the environmental and visual benefits of native landscaping and shows how communities can create beauty while protecting and enhancing the natural environment. The NIGP empowers passionate residents to make meaningful improvements that benefit both the community and the ecosystem.

Higgins Greenway Phase III Opening

Phase III of the Higgins Greenway is now substantially complete. This new section connects Union Street to Kildaire Farm Road, extending a key link in Cary’s growing greenway network. A few final touches remain, including upgraded pedestrian crossing signage at Griffis Street and landscaping that will be added once temperatures cool. Temporary closures may occur as this work is completed over the next few months. An official ribbon-cutting is planned for this fall to celebrate improved pedestrian and bicycle access to Cary Elementary, the Cary Regional Library, and Downtown Cary Park.

GoCary Visits GiGi’s Playhouse

This week, Transit and Specialized Recreation and Inclusion Program staff visited GiGi’s Playhouse. The group discussed how GoCary’s fare-free transit service can be used to travel to GiGi’s, Downtown Cary, and other destinations across town including parks, the Senior Center, and shopping areas. Staff also highlighted upcoming Parks and Recreation programs, including the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, and encouraged participants to explore new ways to connect with the community.

Honoring Our K9 Heros

On Tuesday, the Police Department’s command staff recognized two exceptional K9 officers for their dedicated service to the community. K9 Lemm began service in January 2018 as a dual-purpose K9 alongside handler Corporal Justin Platz. Lemm served faithfully until passing away from health complications in November 2023. K9 Nitro joined the Police Department in August 2021 as an explosive detection K9 with handler Matt Berl. Nitro retired in January 2025 and is now enjoying a well-earned retirement. More than trusted partners in the field, Lemm and Nitro were beloved members of the Cary Police Department family. We are grateful for their service and the lasting legacy they leave behind. Thank you, Lemm and Nitro, your paw prints will always be part of this community.

Important Dates

Parks, Recreation, & Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Monday, August 4
5:15 p.m.

Information Services Advisory BoardMonday, August 4
6:00 p.m.

Zoning Board of Adjustment
Monday, August 4
6:30 p.m.

Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, August 5
6:00 p.m.

Senior Advisory Board
Wednesday, August 6
12:00 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.

Cary Mayor Rumors for 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 concern about the “no turn” signal into Waverly for Chick fil A.
A request to work with the town on an app to reserve tennis courts.
A request for money from the town for a pollinator garden.
A complaint about potholes on Kildaire (this is a state-maintained street).
A complaint about the number of apartments and rentals in Cary.
A request to have adequate roads, schools, and other infrastructure before development (Cary used to have these – Adequate Public Facilities Ordinances, but the courts struck them down).
A complaint that older parts of Cary do not get enough investment.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting about the TAC swimming facility’s history, a meeting with a council candidate, a Human Relations, Inclusion, & Diversity Advisory Board meeting, a State of Cary address at Searstone, the Cary Chamber Leadership dinner, and a NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, August 10^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.

NC Legislative Update

Mini Budget

Regulatory Reform

Criminal Justice

Cary #2 Real Estate Market in US

Manager One-On-One

Oktoberfest

Wiesbaden Delegation Visits

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Cary Honored with Anthemion Award

White Oak Foundation Tour

Exploring Innovation in the AI Era

Cary’s Fleet Excellence Recognized

Commitment to Aging Advocacy

Farm to Fork Support Good Hope Farm

Community Fun at Hangout Bar & Grill

Mayor Reads Duck for President

Try Transit Week at Cary High School

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Follow up on Weston Rezoning 24-REZ-14

Crime Statistics

AMI Updates

Koka Booth Amphitheater Parking Strategy and Revenue Optimization 2025

Parking Space Allocation:

Types of Events at Koka Booth:

Chinese Lantern Festival

Parking Financial Overview (For Fiscal Year 2025)

Strategic Considerations

Avalon Cary Demolition Permits

Academy Street Crosswalks Updates

Downtown Regional Wetland Nears Completion

Water Emergency Response Plans Updated

Regional Wastewater Collaboration Study

Bridge Repair Projects on Lochmere Drive and Weston Parkway

Cary Adopts 100% Biodegradable Matting

Downtown Cary Park Showcases Smart City Infrastructure

Billy Lee Awarded APWA Stormwater Professional of the Year

American Dance Festival: Made in NC

Summer Vibes in the Park Music Series

Important Dates

Cary Candidate Filing

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Mayor’s Mailbox

Next Week

Cary Chamber Candidate Forum

Cary Fleet Team

Council Meeting

Adams Elementary

Hangout Bar & Grill

Council Out and About

Message From Mayor and Council

Divan Cultural Center Visit

Triangle Community Coalition Coffee Chat

Scam Jam at Cary Senior Center

Cary High School Athletics Hall of Fame Luncheon

10th Annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat Racing

Transit Table at Cary High School

Fall Festival at Cary Farmers Market

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

2025 Asset Management Report

Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

Anthemion Award

Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Maintains National Accreditation

2025 Veterans Benefits Live

10th Annual Asia Fest Triangle Area Dragon Boat Race

Assistant Fire Chief Shares Expertise

Cary Senior Center Hosts Senior Home Fair

Transitions LifeCare Open House

NC Coalition on Aging Annual Luncheon

New Sidewalk Construction on SE Cary Parkway

Important Dates

Cary Candidate Filing

Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027

Mayor’s Mailbox

Next Week

Divan Center Event

Wake County Mayors Association

10^th Annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat Racing

10^th Annual Asia Fest Triangle Area Dragon Boat Race

Cary Woman’s Club 90^th Anniversary

Cary Woman’s Club 90^th Anniversary Celebration