The town manager and I met briefly for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included new council seating chart, naming of a park, and agenda items for the quarterly.
Cary Veterans Day Observance
Tuesday was Veterans Day, and I was honored to have just a small part in honoring these heroes and their families. Joining me from council was our only veteran, Jack Smith, and council members Craig, Bansal, and Bryson-Robinson. My role was reading a proclamation recognizing this day:
WHEREAS Veterans Day began as Armistice Day to commemorate peace at the end of World War I.
WHEREAS peace was declared at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. November 11 has become a day to celebrate the service of all United States military veterans.
WHEREAS, on June 1, 1954, Congress declared that Armistice Day should be Veterans Day to honor all who had served in all wars to preserve world peace.
WHEREAS residents of Cary and throughout the United States are able to live in freedom because of the contributions and sacrifices of the brave men and women who served and continue to serve.
WHEREAS, in Cary the Veterans Freedom Park is dedicated as a gathering place to honor these men and women, and to pay tribute to them and their families.
WHEREAS today we honor the service of all of those who throughout our country’s history in the Air Force, the Army, the Coast Guard, the Marines, the Navy, Space Force, and the National Guard have served in times of war and peace.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby designate November 11, 2025, as an Observance of Veterans Day in Cary, and I urge all citizens to participate in honoring our country’s service men and women for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
PROCLAIMED this 11th day of November 2025.
Our featured speaker was Ron Brigham, a Marine Corps Veteran who came from a long line of relatives who served.
Dorcas Breakfast
Thursday morning I attended the annual Dorcas Breakfast and fundraiser. This year they announced the rebranding to include Western Wake Crisis Ministry. The new brand will be called NeighborUp. However, the store in Cary will still be called Dorcas and be part of NeighborUp.
The event included three incredible testimonials followed by awards. The community award this year went to Apex. Congratulations to Mayor Gilbert and his town.
Council Staff Quarterly
Thursday the council held its last quarterly meeting of the year to review the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. Topics included updates on development, environmental initiatives, the budget, capital projects, finance, the convenience center, and intergovernmental. Here are some of the points made:
Development patterns remain consistent with Imagine Cary.
Projects are clustered in large developments, very small projects, and downtown.
Two rezonings approved in FY 2026 Q1. Yates Store Road with 67 detached homes and 25 townhomes. Lewter Shop Road with 14 detached homes.
In FY 2026 Q1 there were 22 rezoning requests, 8 pre-application meetings, and 2 submitted.
Only 7% of rezoning requests were ultimately approved.
In the last five years, only 12% of rezoning cases were approved.
The five-year average of permits issued is 163 per quarter. This quarter it was 105.
The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton was approved and permit issued. It will be 7 stories with 186 rooms.
Duke health has 2 primary care and several specialty clinics. It is building an ambulatory surgical care facility. It has a 95-bed hospital under review.
150 East Cedar Street has Lawrence Barbeque which opened in September.
Median at Hunter and Chatham has 220 apartments. Residents have started moving in. It will also have retail, a fitness studio, a juice bar, and a future restaurant. It has a parking deck with public spaces.
Meridian Cary at Harrison and Chatham will open early next year. It will have a parking deck with 223 public spaces.
Lloyd’s restaurant at Chatham and Academy is under construction. It should open early next year.
Downtown Cary Park has had over 1 million visitors with the #1 best public playground. Economic impact so far: $800 million increase in property value. $100 million in new household income. $3 million in annual tax and fee revenue. Over $18 million in annual economic activity.
In FY 2026 Q1 there were over 400 participants in Sustainability activities.
Cary is changing out police department fleet with propane bi-fuel conversion kits. 25 Dodge Durangos completed with 5 more to go.
Cary has 18% of its fleet running with alternative fuel: 2% battery electric, 9% hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and 7% propane bi-fuel.
Cary had the first electric firetruck in the southeast with the Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper.
Cary is portrayed as a national leader in sustainable public safety.
Cary celebrated 42 years as a Tree City USA community.
Cary diverts 48% from landfill with yard waste, food, and recycling. We even recycled shredded textiles in police and fire uniforms.
Priorities for flooding structures included property acquisitions and upsizing stormwater infrastructure.
Adaptive stormwater approach began in 2018 with improvements to infrastructure and measuring and monitoring.
Cary’s Count Me In, Cary! received an award in Sustainability and Resiliency.
Cary received the 2025 SFEA Green Initiative Gold Award for composting at the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival.
One of Cary’s public works managers received the national award for Manager of the Year.
One of Cary’s engineers received the Stormwater Professional of the Year award.
182 capital projects were completed and closed by the end of FY 2025, June 30th.
$46.9 million was returned to the General Fund Balance and the General Capital Reserve Fund Balance.
Citizens and businesses are encouraged throughout the fiscal year to share their budget priorities with the council and staff.
FY 2027, beginning on July 1, 2026 has several deadlines: November 26 Capital requests are due; January 16 operating requests are due; January 30 department profile updates and draft performance measures are due.
Downtown Regional Wetland project was completed at 206 South Harrison. It was designed and constructed through public/private partnership with Meridian Cary.
Twin Lakes Dams Rehabilitation is underway and is expected to be completed by summer of 2026.
The High House Road at Bond Park Traffic Signal and pedestrian island is expected to begin in the spring of 2026. The cost is well over $1 million.
McCrimmon Parkway Pedestrian Improvements is expected to begin construction in 2027 with a project budget of $1.25 million funded by Cary. It will include a traffic signal, signalized crosswalk, and rectangular rapidly flashing beacon midblock crosswalk.
Sidewalks have been constructed on Weldon Ridge, West Lake Road, and Pittard Sears Road.
Sidewalks are being constructed on Southwest Cary Parkway, Penny Road, Optimist Farm Road, and Norwell Boulevard.
The pedestrian bridge and sidewalk gap along Cary Parkway over Black Creek is being installed and should be completed by the end of the year.
The Cedar Street Parking deck should be completed by the winter of 2026.
The Academy Street Parking deck should be completed by the winter of 2026.
A water main replacement project will begin on Shirley Drive starting January 11, 2026.
A Holly Springs Regional Utility Study should be completed by summer of next year to determine capacity by adding Holly Springs to the partnership with Apex and Cary.
Sales tax revenue remains relatively flat.
The consumer price index continues to rise with inflationary impacts on goods and services.
Property tax revenue is 59% of revenue and sales tax is 21%.
Cary Convenience Center is in the rail right-of-way, and we will need to move/change the facility. We are moving forward with RFQ to secure a design firm.
House Bill 926 limits local governments authority to regulate the display of the American flag or the North Carolina flag unless there is a safety concern.
The Legislature has passed a bill so that Cary will no longer be able to require a one-year waiting period for rezonings that fail.
House bill 926 will not allow Cary to prescribe asphalt designs for each of our roadway cross-sections.
Verizon Event: Beyond the Storm
Friday morning I provided welcoming remarks at a Verizon event about disaster readiness and recovery called Beyond the Storm. Here are my remarks:
Welcome to Cary and thank you for taking the time to join this important conversation on disaster readiness and recovery. We are grateful to Verizon for hosting and creating space for this dialogue; events like this remind us that preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, and collaboration is our greatest resource. I’d especially like to acknowledge Verizon’s Chief Responsible Business Officer, Donna Epps, for her leadership. Today’s gathering brings together emergency responders, nonprofits, educators, local officials, business leaders, and residents — all working toward the same goal: keeping people safe and communities strong. Cary is proud to host a summit centered on cooperation, planning, and caring for one another — values at the heart of this community.
We know that no single group can do this work alone; it takes coordination, trust, and a willingness to show up for one another. Public–private partnerships are essential, and Verizon is a strong example of how corporate partners can help foster resilience. Cary benefits from partnerships across Wake County and beyond — with schools, businesses, and volunteers — all committed to keeping our residents informed, supported, and resilient. Our community continues to invest in stormwater systems, data-driven planning, and public outreach to reduce risk, but resilience is about more than infrastructure. It’s also about people — the neighbor who checks in, the volunteer who rebuilds, and the student who learns how to prepare.
As you participate today, I encourage you to connect, learn, and leave with at least one new partnership or idea that strengthens your community’s readiness. Resilience isn’t built in the aftermath of a storm; it’s built every day, in moments like this, when we share our expertise and align our efforts. Thank you for your service and for helping ensure that when challenges come, North Carolina stands ready. On behalf of the Town of Cary, welcome once again, and I wish you a productive and inspiring summit.
A big thank you to Verizon for holding this event and helping us prepare for the future.
Chinese Lantern Festival Preview
Friday night I had the honor of providing welcoming remarks for the VIP pre-opening of the Chinese Lantern festival. Elected officials, advisory board members, and others were invited to this event which featured food, entertainment, and of course the Chinese lanterns. After my remarks we counted down and flipped the switch marking the beginning of the festival which will last until the second week in January. This year almost all lanterns were new, and the kid’s features were expanded. This is a must see during the holidays! To learn more about the Chinese Lantern Festival see my remarks below:
Good evening, everyone, and welcome to another spectacular night at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival here in Cary. It’s wonderful to see so many of you gathered to celebrate one of our most beloved traditions. This year is especially meaningful, as we mark the 10th anniversary of the festival — a decade of color, craftsmanship, culture, and shared joy.
One of the most exciting features this year is the debut of the “Snake on the Lake,” a stunning new creation stretching 164 feet long and standing 20 feet high. It takes the place of the familiar dragon and brings a fresh sense of wonder to Symphony Lake. You’ll also see other remarkable installations throughout the festival grounds, including a 38-foot-tall entry display and the towering 59-foot Fantasy Forest that continues to be a guest favorite.
Behind these displays is an enormous effort. This year, around 45 trucks delivered the lanterns and materials, all originally shipped from China at the beginning of September. And we are fortunate to have more than 50 artisans onsite — about 15 more than in previous years — whose craftsmanship and creativity make this festival possible. Their dedication is reflected in every lantern you’ll see tonight.
As we celebrate this milestone year, I want to thank our partners at Tianyu (Tea an you), our Town of Cary staff, and all of you who return year after year to support this event. This festival brings families, neighbors, and visitors together, reminding us how powerful public art can be in building community.
On behalf of the Town of Cary, thank you for being here. I hope you have a magical and memorable evening at this year’s Chinese Lantern Festival. Enjoy the lights, the creativity, and the spirit that makes Cary such a special place.
Let’s flip the lights on – Help me countdown from 10!
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
As we turn our attention to the busy holiday season, I would like to extend my gratitude to our outgoing Councilmembers Jack Smith and Jennifer Bryson Robinson. My history with these two goes back to my time as a first-year Councilmember in 1999. Jack was a seasoned Councilmember of 10 years, while Jennifer and I were sworn in on the same night. I hope that others have fond memories of Cary past and join us as we celebrate the contributions of these two next week:
November 19, 5:30 p.m. – Jack Smith at McGregor Downs Country Club
November 20, 4:30 p.m. – Jennifer Bryson Robinson at the Gathering House, Downtown Cary Park
While we honor and recognize the past, we also look forward to the future as we welcome Bella Huang and Brittany Richards. The new Councilmembers, along with returning member Carissa Kohn-Johnson, will be sworn in on Dec. 4 at Cary Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.
See you there!
Harold Weinbrecht
Cary Mayor
Hacking Hysteria Project Showcase
Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Hacking Hysteria Showcase, where Wake STEM Early College 11th grade students presented interdisciplinary projects exploring how fear and stress responses influence the body and political messaging.
Rise and Shine Event with Ted Abernathy
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Jack Smith attended Rise and Shine with Ted Abernathy, hosted by the Cary Chamber of Commerce at Prestonwood Country Club. Attendees learned about the current economic state and future trends.
Citizens Assisting Police Graduation
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Citizens Assisting Police Graduation, Town of Cary Police Department Program.
Cary Veterans Luncheon
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Jack Smith attended the Town of Cary Veterans Luncheon at Prestonwood County Club.
Visit to Nancy Jones House
Councilmember Michelle Craig, accompanied by members of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), toured the Nancy Jones House.
Western Wake Children’s Business Fair
Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Western Wake Children’s Business Fair where they met with young entrepreneurs.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
Thanks for having the Women’s ACC Championship at WakeMed Soccer Park.
A complaint about Public Works’ schedule for pickup of leaves.
Interest in serving on a town board.
A complaint about taxes (we have had the lowest tax rate of all twelve municipalities in Wake County for the last 18 years.
A question about a comment on my blog last week.
Thanks for flying the American Flag on Academy Street.
A question about completing Higgins Greenway.
Several requests to attend events.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Hometown Spirit Award reception, Wake County Mayors Association, First National Bank opening on Davis Drive, Cary Matters taping, Council review of Attorney, Clerk, and Manager, CAMPO, Jack Smith’s farewell event, Jennifer Bryson Robinson’s farewell event, Waverly Place tree lighting, and Fenton tree lighting.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 23rd, 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.
I was provided photos of my proclamation for the Walter Hines Page DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Chapter’s 100th anniversary in London. The proclamation was warmly received by the Chapter and the President General of DAR.
A wreath was laid at the Walter Hines Page Memorial in Westminster Abbey. HRH Princess Anne and the American Ambassador attended the wreath laying ceremony along with many members from DAR from around the world. The Town of Cary was recognized for the proclamation at several of the events celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Chapter.
NC Senator Adcock’s Legislative Update
A summary of legislative actions was sent to me from NC Senator Adcock. Here is her summary:
“I wish there was better news to share in this newsletter.
State budget impasse
North Carolina has been without a new 2-year state budget for more than 120 days beyond the start of the July 1 fiscal year. This has not caused a state government shutdown because of a 2016 NC law that established an automatic continuing resolution (CR). Whenever a new budget isn’t passed on time, this CR kicks in and the state continues to function using the previous year’s certified budget. It’s not uncommon for the budget deadline to be missed by days or weeks, and running state government for a short period on an “old” budget typically isn’t a big deal. But operating on an old budget for 2 years is a problem. In 2019, the Republican-controlled legislature’s budget was vetoed by Democratic Governor Cooper, and that veto held. That 2019 stand-off was the result of partisan disagreements about spending and policy. This year is very different.
As a reminder, it takes a simple majority to pass a budget bill (26 votes in the Senate; 61 in the House). The current budget stalemate is between Republican leaders who hold 30 of 50 Senate seats and 71 of 120 House seats. They have the votes needed to pass any budget they create yet have (thus far) been unable or unwilling to resolve their differences and agree on a budget.
In real life terms, the lack of a new budget means that public school teachers and state employees’ paychecks haven’t kept pace with inflation at the same time they’re paying higher prices for gas and groceries and beginning Jan 1 will pay higher monthly premiums for State Health Plan insurance coverage. Without a new budget with meaningful raises, teachers and state employees will have less take-home pay in 2026 than they do right now. Failure to pass a budget also means delays in NCDOT highway projects, university campus capital improvements, and public safety investments. These are just a few examples of what’s at stake without a new budget.
Medicaid reimbursement cuts
Another casualty of the collapse of negotiations between House and Senate leaders is the Medicaid “rebase” (the amount needed in a new fiscal year to keep Medicaid services at the same level as the previous fiscal year). The $819M rebase request by the NC Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) would normally be included in a new budget. Without that vehicle, the legislature passed a small spending bill (aka “mini budget”) at the end of July that included $500M for the rebase, leaving a $319M shortfall. DHHS alerted legislators that without additional rebase funding it would have to cut provider reimbursements and programs to stay within its budgeted funds. With no end in sight for the budget impasse and no agreement between Republican leaders on a separate spending bill despite multiple opportunities to do so, DHHS announced in September that these cuts would go into effect October 1. The resultant across-the-board reimbursement cuts to hospitals and individual providers ranging from 3%-10% (with hospitals in the latter category), plus DHHS staff layoffs and several program eliminations, are intended to meet the agency’s fiduciary responsibility to operate with the funds it actually has. DHHS cannot operate on the hope that the needed funds could come next January or April—6-9 months into the fiscal year. The adversarial relationship between House and Senate leaders that is being played out in the press and social media makes pushing DHHS’ hard decisions into next year a bad bet.
I’ve lost count of the number of appeals I’ve had from hospitals, primary care and specialty physicians; occupational, speech-language, and other therapists; and home care providers to end the stalemate and pass a spending bill to fund the remainder of the rebase so reimbursement cuts can be reversed. They are worried about their ability to keep their doors open and continue to care for their Medicaid patients. The most heartbreaking stories are from the family members of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for whom home or facility care—paid for by Medicaid—is absolutely vital to their survival. Because of the power dynamic of the legislature, the power to fix this situation is in the hands of Speaker Hall and Senator Berger.
Federal government shutdown halts SNAP benefits
On October 10, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) informed states there would not be enough funds for November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits if the government shutdown continued. On October 24, the USDA sent a second state notification that it would not use roughly $6 B in contingency funds to cover the shortfall. On October 27, the USDA publicly announced that no SNAP benefits would be issued on November 1. North Carolina’s monthly SNAP allotment is $230-$250 M per month.
NC DHHS announced at the end of October that its funds for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will be exhausted after early November.
Unlike in Virginia and North Dakota where the governors have pledged to appropriate state funds to fill the gap, North Carolina’s governor cannot appropriate money, only the legislature can do this. North Carolina has $3.6 B in a “rainy day fund” and $3.2 B in “unreserved cash balance” according to the state controller. The House and Senate are adjourned until Nov 17. While Governor Stein could call the legislature into a special session before that time, legislators would not be compelled to pass a funding bill for this purpose.
On October 28, NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced a lawsuit against the federal government, asking courts to force the USDA to use its contingency reserve to keep SNAP operating amid the shutdown.
More than 600,000 NC households—1.4 M children and adults—receive SNAP benefits. Four in five participating families have a child, senior or adult with a disability. More than 80% of SNAP recipients are employed; more than 580,000 are children.
BREAKING NEWS—On October 31, 2 federal judges ordered the Trump administration to use contingency funds to fund SNAP during the shutdown. Both rulings gave the administration until today, Monday, Nov 3 to say how it would pay for SNAP. It wasn’t clear how quickly benefit cards could be reloaded and both decisions are likely to be appealed.
Meanwhile, the food crisis is real and while it may not directly affect you or your family, it likely impacts someone you know and care about. Here are 2 options for helping those in our community who are food insecure:
Dorcas Ministries: Check here for a list of most needed food items. Drop off your donations at either of these pantry locations:
Apex Pantry—1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 408 (Flex 540 Office Space). Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–4 PM. For large food drives, please call ahead to arrange drop-off. 24/7 donation box available outside the front doors.
Cary Pantry—193 High House Road (Dorcas Plaza). Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–3 PM. Pull around the right side of the building—blue donation bins are under the awning. To get a receipt or drop off a large number of items from a food drive, enter through the double doors and alert the volunteers who are happy to help unload. Financial contributions are also appreciated.
Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina: In addition to partnerships with local farmers, retailers, and manufacturers, the Food Bank network welcomes donations from community members—including factory-sealed, nonperishable products and beverages, refrigerated or frozen items and produce, and other non-food essentials such as hygiene items, cleaning items, or paper products. Food safety regulations require donated items to be sealed and have all ingredients listed. You can also make a financial contribution here.
New Congressional maps
During the legislature’s brief return in mid-October, the Senate redrew 2 of the state’s 14 congressional districts to guarantee that the previously highly competitive District 1 would elect a Republican in the 2026 midterm election. This is not my opinion or conjecture; this is what Senator Ralph Hise (R-Ashe) stated for the record when he introduced the bill on the Senate floor. To accomplish this, 6 entire coastal counties and part of one more were moved from the third district to the first, while 4 agricultural counties were shifted from the first district to the third. One of those 4 counties (Greene) is where current Democratic Congressman Don Davis lives, moving him into the congressional district represented by Republican Congressman Greg Murphy. This unprecedented mid-cycle redistricting was hotly debated and then passed the Senate along party lines. The House followed suit 2 days later. Governor Stein cannot veto redistricting bills. More details and analysis can be found in these WUNC and John Locke Foundation stories.
Latest on RDU land development
In its exploration of options for 136 acres of airport property near Aviation Parkway and I-40, the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and developer Pacific Elm Properties held 3 public workshops in August, September and October. They are now working together on a term sheet and development agreement before project design begins. Additional details and an FAQ at www.rdu.com/recreation.
Raleigh Union Bus Station Facility
Also known as RUS Bus, GoTriangle’s newly-opened transit hub is located in the Warehouse District, strategically located adjacent to Raleigh Union Station train facility. RUS Bus was designed to serve the ever-growing Triangle region with high-quality public transportation offerings and as the new hub for GoTriangle. Highlights include 5 bays for passengers and 2 layover bays; waiting areas; passenger amenities and public restrooms; bike parking and bike racks and lockers; accommodations for future GoRaleigh Bus Rapid Transit; roadway improvements; and GoTriangle bus service improvements. Learn more at Raleigh Union Bus Station Facility.
A ray of HOPE
Every fall since 1980, I’ve attended the NC Nurses Association convention. I learn a lot from the many continuing education sessions, but what I enjoy most is the opportunity to make new friends and reconnect with longtime colleagues from across the state. This year’s meeting was in Winston Salem and included an extra-special treat that lifted everyone’s spirits (especially mine).
Thanks to Senator Adcock for all she does for Cary and for keeping us informed.
Manager One-On-One
The town manager and I met briefly for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included different scenarios of how staff feel after an election.
A Quote from Me Used in a Campaign Posting
I was made aware Monday, the day before the election, of a Facebook post using a quote from me. It was somewhat out of context, so I think it is important to understand the quote and the context. The recording was in April before the council began detailed discussions about the budget and the potential for a tax increase. Keep in mind the budget was approved in late June. A budget briefing exercise was presented to the Economic Development Committee members. The following is a dialog between me and board member Eastman during the meeting:
MAYOR: “…I had a conversation with a lady two days ago: ‘What happens when I can’t afford to pay my taxes anymore? What’s the answer to that? I have lived here 30 something years. What happens when I can’t afford to pay my taxes?’
EASTMAN: “She’s gonna sell”
MAYOR: “Yeah”
EASTMAN: “and move away and someone else is gonna come and buy.”
After that discussion over the next several weeks the council did a deep dive into the budget, put $85 million in capital projects on hold, and decided to increase the tax rate by 1.5 cents rather than cut police, fire, or public works which make up 80% of our expenses. With that tax rate we still have the lowest tax rate of all 12 municipalities in Wake County for the 17th consecutive year.
It is also important to understand that no one has to be taxed out of their home. The equity gained in the last revaluation can be realized at any time and that would pay increases in taxes for years. For example, my home increased in value by $200,000 and my taxes went up by $2000. Realizing that equity now I can pay the increase in taxes for decades.
Town Manager’s Post to Employees About the Election
The town manager contacted all employees the day after the election with this posting:
“Team Cary,
Good morning.
I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your work leading up to and during yesterday’s election. Whether you directly supported election operations or ensured that our community continued receiving exceptional service, your professionalism made a difference.
Election Results
Yesterday was Election Day for three of our seven Cary Town Council seats. Based on the unofficial results from last night, Cary voters have chosen:
At-Large: Carissa Kohn-Johnson (re-elected)
District A: Brittany Richards
District C: Bella Huang (open seat)
The official canvass—the formal certification of results—is scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025. Results remain unofficial until that process is complete.
What Happens Next
Until then, Town operations continue as usual. Our purpose—to serve Cary with excellence, integrity, and care—remains the same. Following certification, staff will begin working with our Council to support onboarding and orientation for new members and to ensure a seamless transition as we continue advancing our shared priorities.
Continuing Leadership: Carissa Kohn-Johnson
We are pleased to congratulate Carissa Kohn-Johnson on her re-election as Cary’s At-Large Council Member. Since joining the Council in 2021, Carissa has been a thoughtful, engaged, and collaborative leader whose work reflects both her deep love for Cary and her dedication to equitable, sustainable growth.
Carissa has lived in Cary for nearly three decades and brings experience from her professional background in technology and public advocacy. Her leadership has focused on expanding access to affordable and safe housing, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring that Cary’s policies reflect the needs of all residents.
She continues to champion pragmatic solutions and inclusive engagement—values that align deeply with our organizational culture and with the vision that guides the Cary Way.
Welcoming New Council Member Brittany Richards
We are pleased to welcome Brittany Richards, who will represent District A. Brittany brings fresh energy and a community-centered vision for Cary. With a background in higher education and nonprofit work, she has been active in advocating for environmental protection, community engagement, and government accessibility.
Her priorities include:
Protecting Cary’s tree canopy and ensuring our natural spaces remain a defining strength of the town.
Supporting quality services for residents of all ages, including responsive customer service and vibrant community programming.
Expanding housing affordability so that public servants, seniors, and others earning below the median area income can continue to live and thrive in Cary.
Brittany’s commitment to thoughtful growth, equity, and sustainability aligns strongly with our values as an organization, and I look forward to working with her in the months ahead.
Welcoming New Council Member Bella Huang
We are also excited to welcome Bella Huang, who will represent District C. Bella is a long-time Cary resident and community advocate with experience in urban planning and sustainability. She has been active in civic and volunteer efforts focused on youth engagement, cultural inclusion, and environmental stewardship.
Her priorities include:
Making District C more bikeable and walkable by connecting greenways and sidewalks.
Exploring solar on town facilities (via sponsorships and grants) and add more public EV chargers.
Expanding programs like “My Tree, Our Tree,” grow composting alongside the community farm, and improve bus service coverage.
Bella is passionate about maintaining Cary’s small-town feel as we grow, while ensuring that every resident—regardless of background—feels a true sense of belonging. Her thoughtful approach and enthusiasm for collaboration will be a welcome addition to the Council team and our shared work.
Honoring Council Members Jennifer Robinson and Jack Smith
This election also marks the conclusion of service for two long-standing Cary leaders: Jennifer Robinson and Jack Smith.
Jennifer has served our community for more than two decades in District A, representing Cary regionally and nationally with vision and grace. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing technology, sustainability, and intergovernmental collaboration. She has championed innovation, data-driven decision-making, and inclusive public service that will leave a lasting legacy. She has served on the boards of so many regional and state agencies that I could not begin to list them all. She is known throughout the state and nation for expertise in local government.
Jack’s service in District C spans nearly 36 years, making him one of Cary’s longest-serving elected officials. His thoughtful leadership, deep understanding of Cary’s history, and unwavering focus on what’s best for the community have guided countless decisions that shaped our growth and identity. His wisdom and steady presence will be deeply missed, and his influence will continue to be felt across generations.
We are profoundly grateful to both Jennifer and Jack for their decades of partnership, integrity, and devotion to the people of Cary. On a personal note, they are two of the seven council members that allowed me to come to this wonderful community and organization; for that I will forever be grateful.
Professionalism and Next Steps
In today’s politically charged environment, the Cary staff stood out once again. I am very proud of our ability to remain politically neutral in our official roles and avoiding any political activity while on duty or using Town resources. This is the mark of not only adherence to the law, but to our cultural values and democratic values of serving whomever the voters have chosen with the best of our capabilities. If residents or media ask about election results, please direct them to the Wake County Board of Elections or to our official Town of Cary communications channels.
Thank you for the pride, professionalism, and compassion you bring to your work every day. No matter who is elected, Cary’s greatest strength will always be its people—you.
In service to you,
Sean
Four Wake County Mayors Lose Elections
Four out of five Wake County Mayors lost their re-election bids. All of them were Republican. These include long-time mayor Vivan Jones from Wake Forest, Mayor Mayefskie from Holly Springs, Mayor Massengill from Fuquay Varina, and Mayor York from Zebulon. Mayor Curran made the following comments about the election in an email to the outgoing mayors:
“Sean/Blake
I hope you guys are doing well. I will miss you, and very much appreciative for all the work you guys have done for your communities and the Mayor’s Association. I have always thought Holly Springs and Fuquay were in a good place and don’t fully understand all that is going on. I hope non-political Mayors is not a thing of the past, but it looks that way. Many of you I never knew the letter beside your name, because that is not what we should be about. Enough of that. As for the Mayor’s Association meeting, has any information been shared with the town managers yet? I don’t recall seeing any communications. Let me know if I can help with transition. Vivian and Glenn, I will miss you as well.”
As a result of this election, I will now be the longest serving mayor in Wake County.
Ted Abernathy on the Economy
Wednesday morning Ted Abernathy gave an update on the economy at a Cary Chamber breakfast. Here are some of the takeaways from that talk:
According to the US economic policy, uncertainty index uncertainty has skyrocketed.
Most people believe that the pace of change will surge.
US economic outlook:
Real Gross Domestic Product 2.0% in 2026 was 2.9% in 2023.
Total US Employment 0.8% in 2026 was 2.2% in 2023.
Real Disposable Personal Income 1.2% in 2026 was 5.1% in 2023.
Consumer Price Index 2.5% in 2026 was 4.1% in 2023.
Growth is steady but it is projected to remain around 2%.
NC remains one of the strongest states in real GDP.
Raleigh metro has a 11.6% change in real GDP per capita from 2019 to 2024.
Unemployment remains low, but has been rising in 2025, and job creation has slowed.
Cary has the lowest unemployment rate in the region at 3.3%.
Employees are staying in their jobs, especially Gen Z and Millennials.
NC biggest employment gain in the last year was in education & health services, professional & technical services, and construction. There has been a significant loss in manufacturing.
The projected job growth in Raleigh metro is 11.4% in the next 10 years, which is the highest in the state along with Wilmington.
Cary employment is at 98,833 which is down from 98,994 in 2024.
Two thirds of the economy is consumer consumption.
NC is among the national leaders at 6.1% growth in personal consumption expenditures.
The average hourly earnings increased by 3.8% last year, which is the lowest since the recession.
Some of the biggest consumer price index changes have been in natural gas at 11.7%, motor vehicle repairs at 7.7%, hospital services at 5.5%, meat/fish/eggs at 5.2%, and electricity at 5.1%.
The average annual cost of a family health insurance plan is $26,993.
The US has had the highest tariffs since the 1940s.
Because of tariffs the average tax for a US household increased $1300 in 2025.
Businesses are absorbing the majority of tariff costs, but that is about to change.
Candy prices increased by over 10% in 2025.
In 2025, Americans are expected to spend $157 billion on their pets, 62% more than 2019.
Last year, consumer spending grew by almost 3%. That fell to 1.4% in the second quarter of this year and is expected to remain tepid.
The top 10% of earners now drives about half of spending, up from 36% three decades ago.
The loan delinquency rate for commercial properties rose to nearly 7.5% in October, compared with 6.0% a year ago. Office delinquencies hit another all-time high at almost 11.8%. The other big climb was in multifamily delinquencies which passed 7.1%.
Data Center spending I set to exceed office construction.
The Raleigh metro area has seen a 4% decrease in housing starts.
In 2010 Cary had 27% of new residential permits in Wake County. Now it has 5.7%.
Cary residential properties sold is about the same as last year which is one of the three lowest in 25 years.
Cary has saw a 58% rise in single family home values from 2015 to 2025. This past year it was 0.2%. We have the highest residential values in Wake County.
Based on residential properties sold Cary saw an average increase of 109% in the past ten years.
AI accounted for 80% of the gain in US stocks so far in 2025. AI was 40% of the growth in US real GDP last quarter.
North Carolina ranked as #1 state for business by CNBC, #2 by Business Facilities, #3 by Site Selection, and #4 by CEO magazine.
North Carolina ranked #1 for access to qualified labor, #3 for available sites, #6 for business incentive programs, #3 for cooperative and responsive state and local government, #2 for corporate taxes, #5 for energy availability and cost, #2 for favorable property tax environment, #5 for logistics and infrastructure, #7 for cost of doing business, #4 for site readiness, #8 for water availability, and #6 for workforce training.
Millennials are having even fewer children. Grade school population is now declining in most states due to fewer babies being born.
North Carolina is expected to see an 8.2% population increase by 2034 with Raleigh having the highest growth rate of over 18%.
Older workers continue to leave the labor force.
The current immigration policy is projected to reduce the US workforce by 6.8% million people by 2028 and by 15.7 million people by 2035.
Selected occupations that require workers to have bachelor’s degree will have the following worker shortages through 2032: managers 2.9 million, teachers 611,000, nurses 362,000, accountants and auditors 226,000, engineers 210,000, attorneys 203,000, and physicians 189,000.
The US has 26.80% of the world economy up from 24.40% in 1995. China has 16.90% of the world economy up from 2.4%.
China leads globally, producing much more than the US signaling a decline in American industrial dominance. Skills gaps, cumbersome procurement processes and restrictive policies limit innovative companies. Accelerating AI adoption and streamlining government contracts are crucial steps to rebuild America’s manufacturing prowess.
The US is the world’s top producer of both oil and gas. In 2023, fossil fuels were 75% of US energy production, with natural gas accounting for 38.2% and crude oil accounting for 26.1%. Renewable energy sources comprised 8.2%. Nuclear energy was at 8.1%.
Ford CEO Jim Farley declared, “Artificial Intelligence is going to replace literally half of all white-collar workers in the US. AI will leave a lot of white-collar people behind.
50% say they’re more concerned than excited about the increased use of AI in daily life, up from 37% in 2021. More than half of Americans (57%) rate the societal risks of AI as high, compared with 25% who say the benefits of AI are high.
65% of Americans believe businesses have a positive impact on people’s lives.
Cary Chamber Economic Development Report
The President of the Cary Chamber provided a quarterly Economic Development Report this week. Here are some of the takeaways:
Unemployment Data:
Cary: 3.3% (as of 8/31/25)
Wake County: 3.5% (as of 8/31/25)
North Carolina: 3.7% (as of 8/31/25)
United States: 4.3% (as of 8/31/25) – note, due to the government shutdown, the Sept. data for the US was not available.
Consumer Price Index:
Month
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Jan
257.971
261.582
281.148
299.17
311.08
320.32
Feb
258.678
263.014
283.716
300.84
312.041
320.775
Mar
258.115
264.877
287.504
301.836
313.224
321.105
Apr
256.389
267.054
289.109
303.363
314.133
321.489
May
256.394
269.195
292.296
304.127
315.012
321.75
Jun
257.797
271.696
296.311
305.109
315.933
321.98
Jul
259.101
273.003
296.276
306.016
316.734
323.048
Aug
259.918
273.567
296.171
307.026
317.241
323.976
Sep
260.28
274.31
296.808
307.789
317.693
Oct
260.388
276.589
298.012
308.352
318.301
Nov
260.229
277.948
297.711
309.26
319.014
Dec
260.474
278.802
296.797
310.149
319.811
Annual Inflation Rates
Year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
2025
3
2.8
2.4
2.3
2.4
2.7
2.7
2.9
2025 avg year to date is 2.65%
5 yr avg is 4.18%
Business Recruiting Pipeline: Active Projects: 16; Potential Jobs: 4,302; Potential Investment: $1.8B; Industries: Advanced Manufacturing, Life Science, IT, Research & Development, and Clean Tech.
Heron Therapeutics moved their main operations from San Diego to Cary. They develop and commercialize innovative treatments primarily for oncology and acute care settings.
Invicta Water relocated their business from Burlington, NC to Cary to have a larger operation, be in a more modern space, and to further expand their client reach. They specialize in the removal and destruction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” from water sources. Unlike traditional methods that merely filter or capture PFAS, Invicta Water’s technology aims to eliminate these harmful substances without producing toxic byproducts.
Park Overlook’s first phase is now complete. This west Cary development is in a prime location for this type of product type. They have signed 3 leases so far and have consistent activity from brokers showing the buildings.
The planning for the Cary Chamber Intercity visit is underway. After several meetings with our planning committee, we have focused our attention Minneapolis and St. Paul. The spring trip dates we are focused on are Sunday May 3rd – Wednesday May 6th. The programming days of the trip are May 4th and 5th, with allotting the 3rd and 6th for travel.
Citizens’ Police Academy Graduation
Wednesday night I had the joy of attending the 50th graduation class ceremony of the Cary Police Academy. This group of citizens spent three hours for nine weeks learning everything there is to know about our police department. They now have the option of becoming part of the CAP team (Citizens Assisting Police).
I joined Chief Sult in providing remarks before we joined officers in handing out certificates and having pictures made with each of the graduates.
Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Thursday night I attended a meeting of the HRID (Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board). The agenda included a presentation and assessment of the Cary Senior Center, the election of a Vice Chair, and the discussion and approval of their annual work plan.
Annual Veterans Luncheon
Friday, I had the honor of attending the annual Veterans Luncheon at Prestonwood which was sponsored by the Town of Cary. It was a capacity crowd of veterans and their families. Our emcee was Jack Smith, the Cary council’s only veteran.
I, along with Smith and council member Bansal, greeted veterans as they arrived and provided them with a pin.
In a special moment, I was able to meet and have my picture made with the only World War II veteran in the audience. He was 99 years old.
Next week we will hold a Veterans Day Observance ceremony at the Veterans Freedom Park on North Harrison Avenue.
Cub Scout Pack 216 Den 12 Community Meeting
Sunday evening, I had the joy of visiting with Cub Scout Pack 216. We talked about the difference between majority and plurality forms of elections. Then I answered questions for about half an hour. We had a wonderful time. Before I left, they presented me with bags of popcorn which they have been selling to raise money. What a treat! Then we had our picture made. It was a great way to finish the weekend, and I hope they invite me back in the future.
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
It’s been an exciting week in Cary! Congratulations to Brittany Richards and Bella Huang on their wins in Districts A and C, respectively, and to Carissa Johnson on her re-election to the At-Large seat. I look forward to working with them in the future.
I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Councilmember Jack Smith and Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson for their many years of service and dedication to Cary. Our town is a wonderful place to live because of your unwavering commitment and leadership. Thank you for your service.
This past week, our staff and I organized a meeting with parents of Panther Creek High School students to discuss their concerns about pedestrian safety. It was a very productive and engaging conversation. Parents shared valuable feedback and thoughtful suggestions that will help guide our next steps. Listening to their perspectives provided a deeper understanding of the challenges students face, and I truly appreciate everyone’s time and input as we work together toward safer routes to school.
Sarika Bansal
District D Council Member
Carpenter Village State of Cary Presentation
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht presented the State of Cary to residents of the Carpenter Village community. Following the presentation, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Lori Bush and Carissa Kohn-Johnson joined him to answer questions and engage with attendees.
Panther Creek High School Crosswalk Discussion
Councilmember Sarika Bansal participated in a community meeting held by the Town of Cary in partnership with Panther Creek High School to discuss requests for a crosswalk and pedestrian signal to support student safety.
A Cause for Celebration
Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended Arise Collective’s A Cause for Celebration 2025; the organization’s annual fundraising event held on October 30 at The Palm venue in Cary. The evening highlighted powerful stories of second chances and honored community leadership during the 6th Annual Hope Awards. Honorees included Wheels4Hope as Angel of Hope, Tanisha “Chef T” Carter as Beacon of Hope, and First Lady Anna Stein as Champion of Hope.
2025 Taste of China Festival
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht delivered welcome remarks at the 2025 Taste of China – Chinese Food and Culture Festival, hosted by the Chinese American Friendship Association of North Carolina. Councilmember Sarika Bansal was also in attendance. The event featured traditional performances, Chinese cuisine, and cultural exhibits, celebrating Chinese culture with families and community members.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
I want to begin by congratulating Heather Whelehan and Jimmy Simpson for stepping into expanded roles with the Town – Heather as our Planning and Community Development Director and Jimmy as our Interim Public Works Director. Jimmy has nearly 20 years of experience in Cary Public Works, while Heather has more than 15 years in several states working in the planning and community field. I am proud of them and look forward to the ideas and energy they’ll bring to their new responsibilities.
On Thursday, I had the privilege of representing Cary at the Salesforce State and Local Government Summit in Atlanta, where I joined a panel on Reimagining Constituent and Employee Experiences to Build Trust and Drive Outcomes. Speaking with peers from across the country reaffirmed the value of Cary’s approach, where culture guides innovation and technology support staff in doing their best work. I am left grateful for the reminder that Cary’s strength continues to come from its people and the culture we’ve built together.
Please note that Town Hall and most staffed facilities will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day, and there will not be a Town Manager’s Weekly Report on Friday, Nov. 14, following our Quarterly Meeting next Thursday. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Quarterly Economic Development Report
Cary Chamber of Commerce President Mark Lawson submitted a summary of economic development activity between Aug. 1 and October 28.
Loose Leaf Collection Begins
Public Works leaf collection crews began the annual Loose Leaf Collection on November 3, working across town to keep streets clean and clear. Citizens can view the interactive map on the Loose Leaf Collection page for real-time updates, schedules, and helpful tips.
Holiday Decorating Begins
Public Works crews will begin installing holiday decorations throughout the Downtown Business Improvement District on November 12, with all decorating scheduled for completion by November 28. The display footprint will mirror last year’s, featuring festive light displays and decorations across downtown. Visitors can explore the online map to find their favorite decorations and learn more about Cary’s seasonal events.
Hunter Street Opens
The extension of Hunter Street from E. Chatham Street to E. Cedar Street opened this week. Constructed through the development agreement with Meridian East Chatham, the 0.10-mile segment enhances connectivity within the downtown corridor and adds new pedestrian facilities and on-street parking.
Norwell Boulevard Sidewalk Substantially Complete
Construction of the new sidewalk along Norwell Boulevard, from Bexley Bluff Lane to Weston Parkway, is substantially complete. The project closes a key gap in the pedestrian network and includes ADA-compliant curb ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. Funded through federal transit funding provided by the Locally Administered Project Program (LAPP), the project improves connections to nearby transit facilities, strengthening Cary’s multimodal network and ensuring transit riders can complete their journeys.
Environmental Defense Fund Case Study
Cary welcomed the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) on Wednesday to conduct interviews with staff and gather footage for a national case study on municipal sustainability, innovation, and fleet electrification. The visit stemmed from a pitch developed by Cary’s Marketing team, who also coordinated the production.
The report will feature the Pierce Volterra electric fire truck and highlight Cary’s long-term planning and cross-departmental collaboration as a model for other local governments. The visit’s success reflects the teamwork of staff from the Town Manager’s Office, Fire Department, and Public Works.
Chamber Intercity Planning Trip
This week, Assistant Town Manager Scot Berry and Assistant Director of Administrative Services Brittany Edwards joined representatives from the Cary Chamber of Commerce for a 2026 InterCity Trip planning visit to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The trip, scheduled for May 3 – 6, 2026, will include new development, redevelopment, and public-private partnership information.
MCNC Community Day
Chief Information Officer (CIO) Nicole Coughlin represented Cary on the Not Your Average Women in Tech panel at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina (MCNC) Community Day, joining an inspiring group of women leading innovation across NC. The panel featured voices from both public and private sectors. The discussion explored how women are shaping the future of technology through AI, quantum computing, and digital transformation. Nicole highlighted how Cary’s people-first approach and focus on innovation, collaboration, and responsible technology adoption are defining what it means to lead in the digital age.
Veterans Day Luncheon at Prestonwood
On Friday, Cary hosted 350 veterans at the annual Veterans Day Luncheon at Prestonwood Country Club. This cherished tradition brings the community together each year to recognize and thank those who have served our country.
Councilmember Jack Smith, a veteran himself, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for an afternoon of remembrance and gratitude. Keynote speaker Amy Dozier shared her family’s story of service and sacrifice in honor of her husband, Sgt. Jonathan Kilian Dozier, who was killed in action in Iraq. Her remarks offered a moving reminder of the cost of freedom and the resilience of military families.
Cary was proud to partner with American Legion Cary Post 67, whose presentation of the colors added a powerful sense of tradition to the ceremony. The Veterans Day Luncheon continues to reflect Cary’s deep appreciation for the courage, service, and sacrifice of those who have served.
CAP Team Graduation
On November 5, the Police Department graduated 14 students from its Citizens Police Academy (CPA). The CPA is a 10-week, free program offered to Cary residents for a close-up view of the Police Department. The course is a prerequisite for citizens interested in becoming members of the Police Department’s Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) team.
GoCary Outreach at the Cary Senior Center
This week, Transit Public Outreach Specialist Fabian Rodriguez and Transportation Program Coordinator Sheri Legans led an educational session at the Senior Center as part of the Community Connections series. The presentation included a walkthrough of the GoCary app and an overview of two newly launched routes, helping participants learn how to confidently use local transit services. The session reflects Cary’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and community engagement for older adults.
Taste of China Festival
On Saturday, the Chinese-American Friendship Association hosted the 3rd annual Taste of China Food & Culture Festival at Downtown Cary Park, welcoming an estimated 10,000 visitors. The event celebrated Chinese culture through food, art, and performances, with more than 40 food vendors along Academy Street and 30 artisan booths throughout the park. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht offered welcoming remarks and was joined by Councilmember Sarika Bansal and several state dignitaries.
An election for three of seven council seats was held on Tuesday, November 4th. They included District A, District C, and an At-Large seat. Here are the results of the election:
At-Large
Carissa Johnson 22,184 65.00%
Marjorie K. Eastman 11,878 34.8%
District A
Brittany Richards 5,756 59.19%
Jennifer Robinson 3,956 40.68%
District C
Bella Huang 7,116 64.80%
Renee Miller 3,864 35.02%
Council members will be sworn in on Thursday, December 4th.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
A complaint about the lack of a traffic signal at McCrimmon Parkway and Channing Park Circle.
A complaint about jaywalking on Walnut Street at Cary High School.
A complaint about Cary discontinuing shredding events.
A question about serving on the Economic Development Committee.
Several invitations to events.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, Cary’s Veterans Day Observation, the Dorcas Breakfast including branding, a council-staff quarterly, and the Chinese Lantern Festival.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 16th, 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.
Monday Cary issued a press release announcing that TST (The Soccer Tournament) will return to Cary through 2029:
CARY, N.C. — The Town of Cary and The Soccer Tournament (TST) today announced a new long-term agreement that will keep the world’s premier 7v7 soccer festival at WakeMed Soccer Park through 2029.The partnership is supported by a grant from the NC Department of Commerce Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, recognizing TST’s impact in attracting visitors, driving local spending, and showcasing North Carolina on the global stage. The fund will reimburse eligible in-state expenses up to $6.8 million over the duration of the agreement.
“What makes Cary special is our people,” said Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “Our staff, our volunteers, and our citizens always show up and take pride in making visitors feel welcome. The State’s investment is a recognition of that and how amazing our facilities are. We’re proud to keep hosting The Soccer Tournament and to continue sharing this experience with our community and the world for years to come.”
Now entering its fourth year in Cary, TST has continued to expand its global reach and influence. The 2025 event doubled the size of the women’s tournament to 16 teams and achieved a record attendance of 51,730. Nearly 2,000 players representing 34 countries competed across the men’s and women’s fields. Notable past participants include Carli Lloyd, Sergio Agüero, Heather O’Reilly, Luis Nani, Hope Solo, JJ Watt, Steve Nash, Ali Krieger, and Pat McAfee, alongside entries from world-renowned clubs such as Atlético de Madrid, Inter Milan, Club América, Borussia Dortmund, West Ham United, and Wrexham AFC.
“The Town of Cary and its residents have played a major role in TST becoming the preeminent small-sided soccer festival in the world,” said TST CEO Jon Mugar. “Our number one goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience to fans and participants, further cementing TST as a worldwide destination. This support will go a long way toward ensuring we are able to continue to deliver on that.”
“We love hosting the event in Cary and I can’t wait to see everyone back at TST next year!” said NBA superstar and TST co-owner Chris Paul.
An estimated 31,657 fans traveled to Cary from outside Wake County, including visitors from all 50 states, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Fans raved about their experience at TST 2025, which featured a larger festival footprint with club activations, international food, and two live broadcasts of ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show.”In post-event surveys, 80% of attendees called TST the best soccer event they had attended in the past year, and 87% said they would recommend it to friends and family.
According to the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, TST has generated $23.9 million in total economic impact for Cary and Wake County since 2024.
The 2025 tournament generated more than $14.7 million in direct economic impact, including over $547,000 in local tax revenue. Nearly 20,000 room nights were utilized from out-of-county visiting fans, driving $3.8 million in local lodging and transportation spending.
TST has been held at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary since its inception in 2023. The 158-acre park is known for its top-tier fields, natural setting, and long history of hosting championship soccer at every level, including the upcoming NCAA Division I Men’s College Cup in December and a doubleheader of both the men’s and women’s soccer championships in 2026.
This year also marked the debut of The Cary Cup, the first youth tournament to use TST’s signature 7v7 format and Target Score Time™. More than 130 boys’ and girls’ teams from nearly 60 clubs across the country competed, with championship matches played on TST’s stadium fields at WakeMed Soccer Park. As part of the agreement, The Cary Cup will return each year alongside the main tournament. Teams interested in competing in the 2026 edition of The Cary Cup can find more information at carync.gov/thecarycup.
To celebrate the new four-year partnership, TST and The Town of Cary will host a Kickoff Party at Sports & Social in Fenton on November 18, featuring giveaways, special announcements, and a live watch party for the USA vs. Uruguay soccer match.
Details for TST 2026, including dates, participants, and expanded fan experiences, will be unveiled in the coming months.
TST remains open to all teams, from global legends to local hopefuls. Applications to enter a team for TST 2026 are now open at tst7v7.com.
…
About The Tournament
Founded in 2014, The Tournament is owned by Jon Mugar and Chris Paul. Its flagship property, The Basketball Tournament (TBT), has crowned 12 champions, awarded more than $15 million in prizes, and introduced innovations such as the Elam Ending®. In 2023, The Tournament launched its second property – The Soccer Tournament (TST) which has become the preeminent small-sided soccer festival in the world. For more information on The Tournament and its properties, visit TheTournament.com.”
This is not only great entertainment but a huge economic boost for our region. I am proud that Cary will host TST through 2029. This is a must-see event so get your tickets now!
Manager One-On-One
The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. Topics included an issue with fireworks, traffic studies, and budget related revenues and cost sharing.
State of Cary at Carpenter Village
I presented the State of Cary address at Carpenter Village on Tuesday night. There were approximately three dozen in attendance. Afterwards I answered questions along with Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson and council members Kohn-Johnson and Bush.
Joint MPO Transportation Meeting
I joined members of the Capital Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board (CAMPO) and members of Triangle West Wednesday morning in a joint MPO meeting. Topics of discussion included the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the CAMPO and Triangle West Joint Strategic Rail Infrastructure Study.
The 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan has three areas of shared investments that include:
Transit & Rail
Healthy, Safe, Resilient Mobility
Complete Corridors/Managed Motorways
The two MPOs previously decided to prioritize investments in the following for incremental progress while larger programmatic investments are pursued:
Grade Crossing Eliminations
Advancing Station Work (including NEPA and Engineering Studies)
Protective Land Purchases for a Regional Maintenance Facility and layover yards
Interlockings and Sidings
Ridership Studies
Investments in the NC-Line from Burlington to Selma
Projects will be submitted to the state based on these priorities. Triangle West has already approved the project list, and CAMPO will vote on it in November.
The meeting concluded after about an hour and a half.
5th Annual Taste of China Festival
Saturday, I joined council member Bansal and several state and local officials at the Taste of China festival at Downtown Cary Park. I, along with others, were given an opportunity to address the attendees. Here are the notes I spoke from:
“Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to Cary Downtown Park. We are honored to host this year’s Taste of China celebration—an opportunity to experience the flavor and tradition of Chinese culture right here in the heart of Cary.
Today is more than just great food, art, and performances. It is a celebration of community. Events like this remind us how fortunate we are to live in a town where diversity is embraced, and where traditions from around the world are shared and enjoyed by neighbors and friends.
Thank you to the organizers, performers, vendors, volunteers, and community partners who worked so hard to bring this event to life. Your dedication helps make Cary a place where everyone feels welcome and included.
To all joining us today—whether you grew up with these traditions or are experiencing them for the first time—I hope you leave with full hearts, full stomachs, and a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture.
On behalf of the Town of Cary—welcome, thank you for being here, and enjoy the Taste of China!”
I am proud that Cary is a diverse community with almost 1/4th of our residents born outside the U.S.
NCDOT Information
At the last Wake County Mayors Association meeting information was provided by a representative from NCDOT. Here are some of the interesting points made about NCDOT maintained roads:
NC has 80,591 road miles and 167,270 lane miles. More state-owned roads than any state except Texas.
NCDOT Division 5 (Wake, Durham, Franklin, Vance, Warren, Person, and Granville has 6,757 road miles and 14,945 lane miles. More than 14 states.
Wake County has 2,757 road miles and 6,229 lane miles. More than Vermont, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and New Jersey.
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
This week has been such a wonderful reminder of how our community “shows up” for one another. On Tuesday, I attended the District B Community Meeting at The Cary Theater, and I was thrilled to see so many neighbors come out to listen, learn, ask questions, and make their voices heard. That same energy carried into Thursday night’s Council Meeting, where residents came out to speak during Public Speaks Out. It’s inspiring to witness how deeply our community members care about shaping Cary’s future together.
On Wednesday morning, I joined the Cary Chamber’s Eye Opener Breakfast, where Dr. Katherine Loflin shared her deep knowledge of Cary’s history. As the Council Liaison for the Historic Preservation Commission and the Friends of Page-Walker (Cary’s historical society), I never want to miss one of her talks. She has such a gift for bringing Cary’s story to life. (In fact, my son and I even went to one of her recent events at the Barnabas Jones property near Jack Smith Park.)
Perhaps the highlight of my week was Cary High School’s Homecoming. There’s nothing quite like seeing the streets lined with families and friends, alumni, and students cheering on the oldest public high school in North Carolina. From the parade to the homecoming football game, the marching band, and crowning the winners from the homecoming court, it was a day full of pride and community spirit.
I can’t say enough about how much I love our town. Cary is full of people who care deeply for one another and love to celebrate together. On that note, I want to mention another way we can show up for each other. Food insecurity is growing, and local food banks and Dorcas Ministries need our help to keep their shelves stocked. Please consider making a donation if you are able: (https://dorcasnc.org/donate/)
And if you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out: (https://foodbankcenc.org/food-finder/). Several friends have shared how these programs were lifelines for their families, and no one should ever feel alone in seeking support.
Take care,
Michelle Craig
District B Council Member
Grand Opening of Cary Acclaim at Cary Pointe
Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Lori Bush attended the ribbon cutting at Acclaim, the new active adult community in Cary. Open since April, new residents are moving in daily and becoming part of the vibrant District D community.
District B Community Meeting
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson hosted the District B Community Meeting at The Cary Theater. The meeting included presentations on the State of Cary, Town Financials, Downtown Development, Aging Resources, and Public Safety. Following the presentations, the Mayor and Councilmembers answered questions from the audience.
Eye Opener Breakfast
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Chamber Eye Opener Breakfast, where Katherine Loflin spoke about Cary’s Missing Landmarks and her new book, Hidden History.
Islamic Center Visit
Councilmember Sarika Bansal spent time with Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam at the Islamic Center of Morrisville, engaging with residents and community leaders.
Courtyards at West Cary Diwali Party
Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the Courtyards at West Cary Diwali Party, where attendees celebrated the holiday and shared in the spirit of community and togetherness.
Trunk or Treat
Councilmember Sarika Bansal stopped by the Mills Park Elementary School Trunk or Treat to celebrate with students and parents and enjoy the creative costumes and decorated trunks.
Laasya School of Dance 30th Anniversary
Councilmember Sarika Bansal read a letter of congratulations at the Laasya School of Dance 30th Anniversary celebration, recognizing the school’s longstanding contributions to Cary’s arts and cultural community.
Bhojan with Baba (Dine with Saibaba)
Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended “Bhojan with Baba” (Dine with Saibaba), a special community event at the Sri Shirdi Saibaba Mandir of NC celebrating faith, service, and community spirit.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
This week, I joined Councilmember Bansal at Panther Creek High School for a community meeting to facilitate conversations with nearby residents and parents about traffic concerns around the school. About thirty community members attended and offered thoughtful input on improving traffic flow along NCDOT’s McCrimmon Parkway.
Wishing you all a safe and Happy Halloween.
Sean
New Veterans Day Flag Displays
In honor of Veterans Day, American flags have been proudly displayed along Academy Street and at Veterans Freedom Park. Flag banners were installed using existing brackets along Academy Street, while removable flagpoles were added at Veterans Freedom Park for the display. The flags will remain in place through early next week. To learn more about Cary’s Veterans Day Observance, click here.
Organizational Development Partners with Wake Tech
This week, Organizational Development (OD) wrapped up a series of classes delivered through a new partnership with Wake Tech Community College (WTCC). For the first time, professional instructors brought handpicked courses directly to staff, with a mix of on-site and virtual classes such as Confidence in Public Speaking and Big Data & Business Analytics. A total of 55 participants were enrolled in the four offerings. This initiative reflects Cary’s commitment to investing in our greatest resource – our people. This partnership created meaningful opportunities for employees to learn, grow, and strengthen the skills they use to serve our community. Building on this success, a new set of offerings is being planned for spring.
NVIDIA GTC in Washington D.C.
CIO, Nicole Coughlin represented Cary at NVIDIA’s GTC Conference in Washington, D.C., participating in a session on Leadership Strategies to Transform Public Services. The conversation explored how AI and data-driven decision-making are reshaping local government, improving operational efficiency, and advancing digital twin initiatives that help cities better model, predict, and plan for the future.
Regionalization Study Kickoff
On Wednesday, Apex and Holly Springs joined Cary to officially kick off a regional wastewater study exploring long-term solutions for all three communities. Each municipality shared project updates, and consultants from HDR and Jacobs led a discussion on project scope, success factors, and desired outcomes. The session took place at the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF), one of the sites under evaluation and currently undergoing an expansion master plan. The study is planned to wrap up in spring 2026.
Cary and Apex Tour UNC Cooling Tower
On Wednesday, Cary and Apex Utilities staff toured one of the large, chilled water plants at UNC Chapel Hill to learn more about how UNC staff have optimized their processes to use reclaimed water for their chilled water production. Reclaimed water is used on the UNC Chapel Hill campus as makeup water within the cooling towers in place of potable water to conserve water. Staff learned how proper management and optimization of the treatment processes improves water quality and prevents scaling in cooling tower applications for chilled water production.
Halloween Recap
During the month of October, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources hosted a series of fall and Halloween events across town. On October 24, the Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park drew 1,300 attendees for lakeside festivities featuring live music, food vendors, and floating jack-o’-lanterns. That same evening, the Theater’s 10th annual Zombiepalooza attracted thousands to Downtown Cary Park’s Great Lawn Pavilion for its popular costume contest and short film festival.
The celebration continued with Teen Council’s Haunted Walk at Bond Park’s Challenge Course, which drew nearly 1,000 visitors through themed areas such as Twisted Circus and Haunted Graveyard. On October 25, Downtown Cary Park’s Pumpkin Carve welcomed more than 2,000 participants who created 515 jack-o’-lanterns, while sustainability efforts converted 880 pounds of pumpkin waste into compost. The event concluded with a Halloween movie double feature drawing more than 1,000 attendees. Across town, ACCESS Cary’s Moonlight Mayhem at the Senior Center offered games, crafts, and dancing.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.
You can see the League of Women Voters Forum here.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.
Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
A complaint about trash on soccer fields on High House.
A complaint about abandoned vehicles in the Brickyard at Highway 55 and Mahal Avenue.
A complaint about a malfunctioning railroad crossing at Highway 54 and Highway 55.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, an Economic Development meeting, a HRID (Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity) Advisory Board meeting, and the annual Veterans Day luncheon.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 9th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.
Cary #13 in America for Safest Cities to Trick-Or-Treat
Monday I received information that Cary was one of the safest cities to trick-or-treat in America according to SafeHome.org. This study ranks 161 U.S. cities according to their relative safety for children and families participating in trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Cary was ranked 13th. The analysis integrates crime, traffic safety, and public safety resources into a composite Safety Index, ensuring that comparisons are made on a standardized basis across cities of varying size.
Council Meeting Prep
I contacted each of the council members on Monday to hear of any concerns about the upcoming agenda. Council members expressed concerns with the Alston Commons rezoning proposal.
Later in the day I met with staff to discuss the agenda items. At that time, we were not aware of any major public concerns with agenda items.
Manager One-On-One
The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. Some of the topics we talked about included crosswalks, the accident at Panther Creek High School, the campaign season, and complaints from the individual who lives across from the Downtown Cary Park’s dog park
Wake County Mayors
I attended a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association on Monday night. Attending were the mayors of Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Zebulon.
A representative from NCDOT Division 5 (mostly Wake County) gave a presentation. I hope to provide some of that information in a future post. One interesting note was about monies spent for the recovery of Hurricane Helene. The money spent will not prevent or delay future projects but instead will be taken from highway maintenance.
Council District B Community Meeting
A community meeting for District B was held Tuesday night in the Cary theater. Council member Craig gave opening remarks, I gave a brief presentation on the State of Cary, and staff provided other information and updates related to the district and the town overall. Then council member Craig and I were joined by council members Bush and Kohn-Johnson to address questions from the audience. After about thirty minutes of questions, we adjourned and continued to answer questions for another thirty minutes. There were about three dozen people in attendance.
Town of Conover
Wednesday night I had the pleasure of meeting with the Mayor of Conover NC, a few of their council members, the city manager, and several staff members. They were here mostly to see Downtown Cary Park. We had a great conversation and shared stories of issues we have in common. They were a great group and Conover is well represented. Before they left I had my picture made with the mayor, council, and manager.
Council Work Session
Council held a work session on Thursday evening to discuss the council schedule, get an update on utility payment and meter reading, and transportation system requirements.
There were two council calendar entries of note, a quarterly meeting will be held on November 13 and the swearing in of council members will be on December 4.
The first topic was on Cary’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure. Key Points in this discussion:
Cary’s first-generation smart meters have surpassed their intended life span of ten years.
Supply chain disruptions delayed meter replacement efforts.
Full replacement of all first-generation smart meters (28,436) is planned by the end of 2025.
All 14 base stations have already been replaced to improve performance.
The original meters were SRII meters which were first generation and lasted about ten years.
The new meters are IPERL meters, have no moving parts, and should last twenty years.
The second topic of discussion was about cumulative effects of development projects on traffic. Key takeaways from this discussion include:
Review of approved zoning cases over the past three years shows no cases would have triggered a cumulative Traffic Analysis Report (TAR) analysis.
Zoning conditions are voluntary and must be offered by the applicant.
Practices of neighboring municipalities may offer potential TAR changes depending on the Council’s desired goals.
After much discussion on what triggers a traffic study and what neighboring municipalities are doing, the staff agreed to discuss with developers and provide additional information in the future.
Council Meeting
The last regularly scheduled council meeting of October was held on Thursday night. The agenda included three presentations, four consent items, two public hearings, and two discussion items. One item for discussion, 22-REZ-20 Alston Commons PDP, was tabled indefinitely at the request of the applicant when the agenda was adopted. It was questionable as to whether the Alston Commons PDP proposal had enough support for approval.
Presentations included a proclamation recognizing Diwali to the SV temple, a proclamation recognizing Cyber Security Awareness month, and a proclamation recognizing the 66th Cary High School band day on November 1st.
The first public hearing was a rezoning proposal 25-REZ-08 on Green Level Church Road for up to six single family homes on 3.31 acres. Speakers complained about traffic and stormwater that would come with the development. This will go to Planning and Zoning Board for their review and recommendation and will be returned to council in a few months for a final decision.
The second public hearing was for an annexation 25-A-07 on the corner of Bayoak Drive and High House Road. The owner’s intention is to develop residential detached dwellings. There were no speakers, and this was approved unanimously by council.
After a close session the council meeting concluded after about three hours.
Dorcas Rebrand
Dorcas has recently merged with Western Wake Crisis Ministries. As a result, they are launching their rebrand at their annual fundraising breakfast on November 13th. I was asked to be part of a short video that will also include Apex Mayor Gilbert and Morrisville Mayor Cawley. I was interviewed for my part on Friday morning with questions focusing on being a good neighbor.
Legislative Update
The following is this week’s legislative update was provided by Checkmate Government Relations:
“Tensions between legislative leaders resurfaced this week as discussions around the state budget and major policy items once again stalled.
Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon returned four bills to the House that were ruled ineligible under the chambers’ agreed-upon rules for the October session:
SB 378 – Align Medicaid Eligibility with Federal Law
SB 405 – Healthcare Investment Act
SB 599 – State/Teacher Pay & Local LEO Bonus
HB 491 – Medicaid Rebase Funding
The Senate argues the House violated procedural rules by sending bills over not permitted under the current adjournment resolution, while the House continued advancing its preferred versions. The dispute underscores the ongoing rift between legislative leadership, leaving major issues such as state employee pay raises, Medicaid funding, and the overall budget unresolved.
You can read the full press release from Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger here.
Still, not all was lost this week. Lawmakers enacted SB 449 (SL 2025-97) Continuing Budget Operations Part IV., which includes several positive changes, such as waiving State Health Plan local government surcharges and clarifying criminal history background check requirements, two issues created under prior legislation this session.”
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
This week reminded me of how many ways our community comes together to celebrate, serve, and support one another. I was honored to join Governor Josh Stein and community members at the SV Temple for the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month, a celebration that beautifully reflects Cary’s spirit of unity and inclusion.
I also had the opportunity to connect with inspiring mothers and daughters at the National Charity League event, where service and leadership go hand in hand, and at the Equality NC Gala, which honored decades of advocacy for a more equitable North Carolina.
The week ended close to home at the Advisory Volunteer Event in Downtown Cary Park, where we recognized the dedicated residents who lend their time and expertise to Cary’s boards and commissions. Their contributions help shape the thoughtful, community-driven decisions that make Cary such a special place to live. Thank you to everyone who continues to invest their time, energy, and heart in making Cary stronger together.
Carissa Kohn-Johnson
All Hands Meeting
Councilmember Jack Smith participated in the Town’s internal All Hands meeting, where staff honored him as the longest-serving councilmember. His decades of experience continue to provide valuable insight and leadership.
Habitat for Humanity Anniversary Event
Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the 40th Anniversary celebration of Habitat for Humanity of Wake County. Habitat’s work has empowered families for decades by building homes, stability, and hope. With one in four Wake County residents housing cost-burdened, their mission is more vital than ever.
Celebration at SV Temple
Councilmembers Sarika Bansal and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the signing of the Diwali Proclamation and designating Hindu Heritage Month by Governor Josh Stein at the SV Temple. The event honored the cultural significance of Diwali and celebrated community unity.
Furniture Store Grand Opening
Councilmember Jack Smith attended the grand opening of Bob’s Discount Furniture in Cary. The company, originally founded in the Northeast, is expanding its presence into North Carolina with this opening.
Groundbreaking for Lucy Daniels Center Expansion
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmembers Michelle Craig and Lori Bush attended the groundbreaking of the expanded Lucy Daniels Center for Early Childhood. The expansion will triple the number of children served annually, providing essential mental health services to over 1,500 children. The Center has supported families across the Triangle for 35 years.
National Charity League Event
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended a National Charity League event. The organization empowers mothers and daughters through leadership and service, contributing nearly three million volunteer hours annually to over 6,000 charities nationwide.
Equality NC Gala
Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Equality NC Gala. Equality North Carolina is the nation’s oldest statewide LGBTQ advocacy organization, working to build a safer and more equitable future for all.
Advisory Volunteer Event
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Lori Bush, Michelle Craig, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, and Jack Smith attended the Advisory Volunteer Event at Downtown Cary Park. The event recognized the service of outgoing, current, and incoming advisory board volunteers as part of the Jazz’d Up Sundays concert series.
Grand Opening of Local Spa
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Sarika Bansal attended the grand opening of Aura Bliss Spa, supporting a new local business in our community.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar and I had the opportunity to present at the UNC School of Government this week on building trust through equitable engagements, specifically how Cary works to move beyond individual preferences toward a shared sense of responsibility. The session offered a chance to reflect on the partnership between elected officials, staff, and citizens that defines our community. Danna’s thoughtful remarks on Count Me In, Cary! captured the depth of her leadership.
The questions and dialogue reminded us that Cary’s success is rooted not in a single program or policy, but in the culture of learning and collaboration that Council has made possible. I left feeling deeply grateful for the partnership of colleagues like Danna, for the hospitality of UNC’s faculty, and for the continued opportunity to represent Cary among those who serve with purpose.
On a personal note, I am off today spending time with my daughter who is home on fall break.
Sean
Early Voting
Additional Early Voting sites will open on October 25. Wake County voters can vote at Herb Young Community Center, and Chatham County voters can vote at New Hope Baptist Church in Apex. This is in addition to the Wake County Board of Elections and the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, which opened last week.
Early Voting ends November 1, and Election Day is November 4. You can vote early at any Early Voting location in the county where you live, but on Election Day, you must vote at your assigned polling place.
Weston Parkway Bridge Maintenance
Beginning October 27, the westbound lanes of Weston Parkway will close for bridge maintenance over Black Creek through early December, weather dependent. To maintain two-way traffic, westbound vehicles will be shifted to an eastbound lane. Turning movements at Verizon Driveway and Winstead Drive will be limited to right-in and right-out only, with detours available via Norwell Boulevard and Old Reedy Creek Road. Drivers should anticipate changes in traffic patterns and possible delays.
GoCary Service Changes
On November 1, GoCary will launch two new routes with connections to Raleigh and Apex. Route 2 will connect downtown Cary, NC State University Centennial Biomedical Campus (CBC), and the NC State Fairgrounds. Route 9 will replace the Apex-Cary Express with a local route offering all-day service between downtown Cary and downtown Apex. In addition to the new routes, schedule changes to existing routes and systemwide accessibility improvements will expand access, enhance mobility, and strengthen regional connections.
Moldovan Delegation Visits Cary
On Thursday, Assistant Town Managers Danna Widmar, Shelley Curran, and Scot Berry, along with Town Attorney Lisa Glover, Chief Strategy Officer Susan Moran, Marketing & Creative Manager Kristy Buchanan, and Marketing Strategist Sean Maroney, welcomed a delegation from Moldova hosted by the NC Department of Secretary of State.
The group included mayors, local government division directors, and a county commissioner who were interested in Cary’s public-private partnerships, organizational structure, and stormwater management. They were highly impressed by the Imagine Cary Community Plan’s long-range vision and the walking tour of the Downtown Cary Park. Here’s what the group’s district council president shared online.
EDF Cities Initiative and SSDN Meeting
Cary welcomed 40 local and regional leaders to Bond Park Community Center on Tuesday for a joint meeting of the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Cities Initiative and the Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN). NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Secretary D. Reid Wilson, and representatives of Duke Energy and the Sierra Club, led thoughtful discussions on North Carolina’s Carbon Plan, non-residential solar and battery storage opportunities, and the challenges facing communities in advancing climate and energy goals. Cary showcased the Pierce Volterra electric fire truck, inspiring other municipal leaders to explore similar innovations.
WWWRF Forcemain Repair Training
This week, local contractors joined staff to participate in a steel pipe repair training session focused on repair methods for the 54-inch steel effluent force main. This style pipe has been in service since 2014, and transports treated wastewater 11.5 miles from the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWWRF) to the Cape Fear River. Participants were trained in the latest repair techniques and materials to ensure readiness and collaboration in the event of an emergency.
Harvest Fest Recap
Harvest Fest welcomed a record 1,500 guests to Good Hope Farm last Saturday, reflecting growing community interest in Cary’s agricultural and environmental initiatives. The event showcased strong partnerships with organizations such as Future Farmers of America, NC Forest Service, NC Bluebird Society, Piedmont Fibershed, Farmer Food Share, NC Conservation Network, and others that help advance Cary’s sustainability and local food goals. Participants enjoyed engaging environmental education, children’s activities, and farm tours connecting them to the people and programs that keep Cary rooted in environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.
Mummy and Son Ball
On October 21, the annual Mummy and Son Ball brought Halloween magic to life as mummies and sons gathered for an evening of spooky fun and laughter. The event featured a variety of carnival games, a Halloween costume contest, and the “Not So Scary” Halloween tale of the Giant Whistling Frog said to live in the mysterious woods of Ritter Park. To end the night on a sweet note, families roasted “ghosts” over the fire for delicious s’mores.
Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting Cancelled
The Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting for 25-REZ-13 & 611 E. Chatham has been cancelled at the applicants request.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.
Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
Agreeing with me that “blame and hurt is the culture today”.
A complaint about the Weston rezoning proposal 24-REZ-14.
Several complaints about Eastman’s mailer which used a logo very similar to Cary’s logo.
A complaint debris on Jones Franklin Road, tree limbs down on West Chatham, and buckling pavement on Meeting Street.
Thanks for the police officer’s help in a hit and run case.
A request to not pick up leaves to help wildlife.
A complaint that I didn’t respond to an email “You silence is deafening. Hope your children and grandchildren are not listening. You have allowed a very vile old man to take your humanity and your dignity. …” (Wow! This was after he agreed with me that blame and hurt is the culture of today. I didn’t know he was waiting for a response. I certainly will.)
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a State of Cary address at Carpenter Village, a joint meeting of the Capital Area MPO and Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization, and the 5th Annual Taste of China Festival.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, November 2nd, 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.
The town manager and I met for our weekly meeting on Monday. The two main topics we discussed were stormwater issues at Twin Lakes and a complaint about trucks parked in front of houses. BTW, vehicles allowed to park in front of your house include cars, trucks, and work vehicles. To prevent that parking would require a ban town-wide of on-street parking.
Cary Tennis Classic Board
The Cary Tennis Classic Board met on Monday night. We mostly discussed new abilities tennis events. We also talked about the video board at the Cary Tennis Park which will have video with audio for the 2026 tournament. Sponsors will be able to have their advertisements run year-round. The 2026 tournament is scheduled for June 28th through July 5th.
CAMPO
The CAMPO Executive Board held its monthly meeting on Wednesday afternoon at their offices in Cary’s Fenton. The agenda included three consent items, one public hearing, and four discussion items.
The consent agenda was approved unanimously and included minutes, the adoption of the Federal Functional Classification changes, and authorizing the Executive Director to sign the final Local Funding Agreement with NCDOT Division of Aviation.
The public hearing was on the Community Funding Area Program Management Plan. The Community Funding Area Program (CFAP) was initiated to support the goals of the Wake Transit Plan. The program provides an opportunity for the 10 smaller towns and the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in Wake County, which would otherwise have limited funding options, to create or accelerate local transit services and programs. CFAP provides an opportunity for the 11 eligible applicants to participate in a competitive grant process to receive match funding for planning, capital, operating, or combined capital/operating transit projects. Funding matches are required to ensure that projects include local funding to support continued transit investment. The purpose of the agenda item was to hold a public hearing.
The three discussion items were just for information purposes only. Presentations were made on amendment one to FY 2026-2035 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Safety Performance Measure Targets for 2026, and an update for the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the Comprehensive Transportation Plan.
Cary Matters Taping
Thursday afternoon I taped a version of Cary Matters with longtime council member Jack Smith. He is his 36th and final year and this episode was dedicated to him. In this episode I asked the following questions:
You’ve seen big challenges and big wins over the years. Is there a particular moment or decision that stands out to you as especially meaningful for our community?
That balance – between growth and preserving Cary’s character – has really been a constant theme. As you look back on your time on Council, how do you hope it will be remembered?
We’ve spent a lot of this conversation looking back, and these lessons from our history are so important as Cary continues to learn and evolve. But looking forward – as Cary continues to grow and change – what do you think will be most critical to focus on in the years ahead?
Make sure to watch the episode to hear his final thoughts as Cary’s longest serving council member.
Advisory Board Appreciation Event
I joined council members Bush, Kohn-Johnson, Craig, and Smith at the Advisory Board Volunteer appreciation event in Downtown Cary Park on Sunday afternoon.
I started the program by recognizing outgoing advisory board members and then council members. Our advisory board members are residents who give their time, ideas, and perspective throughout the year to help shape the future of Cary. Their service is one of the reasons why Cary remains one of the greatest places to live, work, and play in America. Cary is blessed to have so many citizens willing to sacrifice their time to make Cary a better place. Thank you!
In my concluding remarks I introduced the entertainment, Catching Some Rays: The Music of Ray Charles, featuring the Noel Freidline Quartet and vocalist Maria Howell.
Mayors Diwali Dance Big International News
The Bollywood dance performed on October 11th at Koka Booth Amphitheater by Morrisville Mayor and me along with council members, and a dozen staff members from Cary and Morrisville was big news internationally. Media outlets include Hinustan (equivalent to CNN I am told), NewIndiaAbroad, NDTV, NewsXWorld, Times of India, and others. Comments made included:
“As Diwali celebrations commence worldwide, the North Carolina expatriate community recently hosted an event to share the festive spirit. A memorable moment occurred when Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley joined performers on stage, delighting the audience by dancing to popular Bollywood songs.
The now viral video shows both Weinbrecht and Cawley dancing to Salman Khan’s hit song, Chunari Chunari, at the event organized by Hum Sab, an NGO dedicated to sharing the social and cultural traditions of India with residents of the North Carolina Triangle area and beyond.”
“A now viral video of Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley dancing to Bollywood songs has taken social media by storm.
The Celebrity Segment, introduced a few years ago, has grown into a crowd favorite. Local leaders rehearse for weeks, donning colorful costumes sponsored by community businesses, and showcasing the joy of shared cultural connection through music and dance. This year, it featured the two mayors, along with other council members and performers from Taal Harmony Dance Group.”
“Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley delighted the crowd by dancing to iconic Bollywood songs like Chunari Chunari and Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai at a Diwali event.”
“There are few things that exemplify the spirit of togetherness as well as people coming together through music and dance. This could not have been more evident than the Diwali celebration in North Carolina, where Mayor Harold Weinbrecht of Cary, and Mayor TJ Cawley of Morrisville danced on stage to the cheers of the crowd, even dancing to Salman Khan’s popular track ‘Chunari Chunari’.”
Accident at Panther Creek High School
Tuesday morning a student at Panther Creek High School was unfortunately hit by a car driven by another student. Prayers were answered and the student will be OK.
Sadly, there are some people who are quick to blame and resort to hurtful statements like “It’s shameful that someone has to get hurt for action to be considered (re: student hit by car in front of Panther Creek HS). Do better, do good.”
The street where the student was struck is a NCDOT maintained road. In addition, NCDOT decides whether crosswalks are installed based on criteria they set. Here are portions of the staff’s response when I asked for information about this accident and the person’s statements:
“…You are correct, the incident at Pather Creek HS yesterday was on the portion of McCrimmon Parkway owned by NCDOT. Transportation staff have been working with NCDOT for intersection and crosswalk improvements along the school’s frontage and the new townhome community, Channing Park. …
Mr. ___ in his email below, has requested a crosswalk at the intersection of McCrimmon Parkway and Bluff Oaks Drive within the Amberly subdivision. …
The crosswalk requested by Mr. ___ has been added to our potential crosswalk list and would be considered a new, uncontrolled crosswalk. Staff … have scored the location to determine if it meets the requirements for a crosswalk. The score is based on several factors and was considered a mid-to-low priority compared to all existing uncontrolled crosswalks in Cary. …”
I removed the parts of the email with the person’s name and information not pertinent to where the accident occurred. Again, the scoring is for NCDOT and that sets the priority.
Council member Bansal, who represents District D which includes that area posted the following:
“Sharing information on a 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤/ 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥. While these are great and much-needed improvements, driver attentiveness will continue to be essential to avoid any future incidents.
I was also made aware of a 𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 —sharing his personal experience and highlighting the daily challenges faced by students walking to school. While 𝐈 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 and concern expressed, 𝐈 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 “𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧” 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭.
𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐃𝐎𝐓-𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝. Despite that, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 $𝟏.𝟐 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. It’s important that we share accurate information as we work together toward keeping Cary a place where we can continue to call home.
1) we will be sharing some dates for information session very soon
2) I will be happy to speak to you directly if you have any questions or concerns. My email is sarika.bansal@carync.gov ”
Being a father and grandfather, I can tell you that it is very hurtful to imply that a child’s injury is due to my negligence. Unfortunately, blame and hurt is the culture today.
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
What a joy it’s been to celebrate community this month here in Cary! From milestone moments to cultural festivals, I hope you’ve had a chance to join some of the events happening about town.
We kicked things off with the Cary Senior Center’s 25th Anniversary – it was a truly heartwarming celebration of a place that has meant so much to so many. You could feel the love in the room as friends reminisced, laughed, and shared stories about how the center has brought people together over the years.
And then there was Hum Sub Diwali! What an unforgettable evening! Taking part in the Celebrity Dance with my fellow Councilmembers and our staff (including folks from Morrisville!) was an absolute blast. The music, the lights, the crowd’s excitement, it all captured Cary’s spirit of celebration and togetherness perfectly. Moments like these make me so grateful to be part of such a vibrant, caring community.
Lori Bush
At-Large Council Member
Barkitecture Pre-Pawty
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht attended the Barkitecture Pre-Pawty at Downtown Cary Park. Triangle Barkitecture is a one-of-a-kind pet architecture and design competition that raises funds for local foster and pet rescue organizations across the Triangle. Architects, engineers, designers, and other creative minds collaborate to build custom pet structures, which are auctioned at the event – with 100% of proceeds benefiting pets in need.
SAS Championship Women’s Day Conference
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson provided remarks at the SAS Championship Women’s Day Conference, part of the annual SAS Championship Tournament. This year marks the 12th Annual Women’s Day, held under the theme “Power in Progress.”
Cary Elementary Walk & Roll School Event
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the Cary Elementary Walk & Roll to School event, which began at Frantz Square in Downtown Cary Park. The Walk & Roll program is part of a nationwide initiative that encourages students, families, and communities to walk or bike to school together.
25th Anniversary Celebration for the Cary Senior Center
Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Robinson and Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson provided remarks at the 25th Anniversary Celebration for the Cary Senior Center. Also in attendance were Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, and Michelle Craig. The celebration marked 25 years since the Cary Senior Center opened in Bond Park, recognizing its long-standing role as a hub for programming, community connection, and lifelong learning.
Folds of Honor Event
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmember Jack Smith attended the Folds of Honor event as part of the SAS Championship Tournament. The program celebrated another remarkable year of the tournament and highlighted the inspiring partnership with Folds of Honor – an organization that embodies service, sacrifice, and hope.
Hum Sub Diwali at Koka Booth Amphitheater
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Michelle Craig, and Carissa Kohn-Johnson attended the Opening Ceremony of Hum Sub Diwali at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Later that evening, Mayor Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Sarika Bansal, Lori Bush, and Michelle Craig participated in the Celebrity Dance performance at the event. Hum Sub Diwali is one of Cary’s largest and most celebrated cultural festivals, organized by the nonprofit Hum Sub, Inc., which promotes Indian heritage and cultural awareness throughout the Triangle.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
This week we held a special All Hands meeting with staff. After a few updates, we spent time with Councilmember Jack Smith, who – as you all know – will retire at the end of this term after 36 years of service.
Jack was, as always, honest and he reflected on what it means to serve with heart. He told staff, “Be adaptive. Be flexible. Be yourself. But never lose your compassion… we work for the people of Cary… never forget the folks we support.” You could feel the room lean in when he said it.
The conversation was a meaningful glimpse into the history and values that have carried this organization forward. Staff walked away grateful to Jack for his example, and to Council for the culture you’ve helped create, one where service is both personal and proud.
Sean Stegall
Old Apex Waterline Reinforcement Project
Old Apex Road Between Maynard Road and High House Road will be closed October 24 – November 2.
Construction crews have steadily progressed on the new 24-inch water main along Old Apex Road since March. Later this month, the contractor plans to cross the intersection of Maynard Road and Old Apex Road. To connect the new line to Cary’s system, crews will close the northeast side of Old Apex Road from October 24 to November 2, weather permitting. Message boards are in place to alert travelers of the closure, and detour routes will direct drivers along Maynard Road and West Chatham Street.
Crosswalk Installation on Walker Street
As part of ongoing improvements to the downtown mobility network, a new mid-block crossing was installed on Walker Street near Fairview Road and the Barkyard at Downtown Cary Park (DCP). The high-visibility crosswalk includes push-button-activated flashing signs to alert drivers and enhance access to DCP.
Public Works Snow Rodeo
Public Works held its annual Snow Rodeo today, a hands-on training event that brings together over 300 team members to prepare for winter weather. The event includes equipment testing, safety training, and route familiarization, as well as preparations for leaf collection season, which begins November 3.
Public Safety Partners Visit Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility
Utility and Public Safety staff hosted a tour of the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) for representatives from Chatham County Emergency Management, North Chatham Fire Department, Moncure Fire Department, Apex Utilities, Apex Fire, and Apex Police. The tour showcased the facility’s operations and emphasized the importance of protecting the Jordan Lake water supply. It also helped clarify each agency’s role in responding to potential emergencies that could impact the lake or the CAWTF intake.
Utilities staff from Cary, Apex, and Holly Springs traveled together to Atlanta, GA, to tour three water reclamation facilities using Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technologies. The team explored MBR systems as one of the leading options for expanding the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF).
Mary Collins Award for Resilience and Sustainability
Cary received the 2025 Marvin Collins Award for Resilience and Sustainability from the NC Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) for Count Me In, Cary! Stewardship Strategies for a Sustainable Future. The community-driven initiative helped shape Cary’s Sustainability and Climate Action Strategy and engaged more than 100,000 residents through online and in-person events.
IT Showcases Initiatives at All Things Open Conference
Staff from Information Technology showcased innovative Downtown Cary Park (DCP) initiatives at RIoT’s Demo Night, held alongside the Connected Triangle Summit during the All Things Open Conference, which attracted more than 5,000 attendees to the Raleigh Convention Center. The team demonstrated how smart sensors and connected infrastructure enhance sustainability and elevate the visitor experience in the Park. Chief Information Officer Nicole Coughlin led a featured session, AI in Local Government: Big AI, Small AI, and Everything Between, highlighting how local governments can use AI to improve services while addressing the human side of technology adoption.
Barktoberfest
Barktoberfest wrapped up October 12, concluding a monthlong celebration of Cary’s four-legged friends. Dog lovers took part in puppy yoga, pet portrait painting, dog-themed trivia, pet performances, and outdoor movie nights at the Cary Arts Center and Downtown Cary Park (DCP). The festivities culminated with the Barkitecture event and the introduction of the first class of DCP Bark Rangers, regular Barkyard visitors recognized for good behavior and for welcoming new friends. Each received an official bandana, badge, and photo display at the Barkyard. A similar recognition has been extended to the top dog visitors at Jack Smith and Godbold Park dog parks.
Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – November 5
The following neighborhood meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 5, at 6:30 p.m.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.
Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
A complaint about a drainage issue at Twin Lakes.
A complaint about a rezoning proposal 25-REZ-12 at Trenton Road and Reedy Creek (council has not seen a staff report on this yet).
A complaint about speeding on Dynasty Drive.
Thank you for building Higgins Greenway.
A complaint about a neighbor parking a trailer in the driveway, not mowing grass, and leaving trash cans in the street.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a Council District B Committee meeting, a meeting with the Town of Conover, a meeting with the Deputy Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, a council work session, the last regularly scheduled council meeting in October, and an interview with Dorcas Rebrand.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 26th, 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.
Monday I received information about new state legislation that took effect. On September 25th the Legislature passed H926. The Governor neither signed nor vetoed this bill, so by law it became effective 10 days after the legislative action. Three provisions are noteworthy for the potential impacts they may have on Cary.
Local governments may not require a waiting period for refiling of rezoning requests or development approvals after a request is denied by the local government or withdrawn by the applicant. This provision became effective immediately (today, October 6). Cary’s LDO requires a one-year waiting period for new rezoning applications if an application is denied or withdrawn, with council having the option to waive the waiting period for good cause shown. Cary will no longer be able to enforce that provision of the LDO.
Local governments are prohibited from regulating the size, number, location, or height of the flags of the United States of America or the State of North Carolina, except in limited circumstances where public health, safety, and welfare concerns justify enforcing such regulations on a particular piece of property. This provision also became effective immediately and was applicable retroactively to any pending enforcement actions.
Local governments may not establish pavement design standards for public or private streets more stringent than NCDOT’s minimum standards. This provision becomes effective January 1, 2026; staff will evaluate its impact this fall.
Municipalities continue to lose authority to manage their towns. This legislation will have a significant impact on our rezoning cases since developers will have no wait time if an application fails. This will discourage them from working with residents and council to create a positive application. In addition, we dumb down our requirements for local streets. This is disappointing to say the least.
Barkitecture Pre Pawty
Monday evening, I attended a Barkitecture Pre Pawty. The Triangle Barkitecture is a one-of-a-kind pet architecture and design competition to raise money for pets in need by supporting local foster and pet rescue organizations right here in the Triangle. Local architects, engineers, designers, and creative minds all over the Triangle compete to create the best custom pet architecture that is then auctioned off at an event with 100% of those profits going to pets in need. This year it was held in Downtown Cary Park on Saturday.
This Pre Pawty was a networking event for those architects, engineers, and designers participating. Barkitecture made a twenty-minute presentation for the group. I spent a little more than an hour talking to various participants.
SAS Pairing Party
Tuesday evening, I joined council member Smith, the Cary Town Manager, and the former Cary Chamber President at the SAS Pairing Party. This is an event that SAS holds for participants in the SAS Championship Pro-Am and is held in building C on the SAS Campus. It was a big mingle and meet event. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay an hour.
SAS Pro-Am
I participated in the SAS Championship Pro-Am on Wednesday and Thursday along with council member Smith, the Cary Town Manager, and the former Cary Chamber President. We played with Cameron Percy of Australia (who now lives in Wakefield) on Wednesday, and Shane Bertsch of Colorado on Thursday. Both were excellent golfers and very personable. We all had a great time.
SAS Championship Cary Taping
On Thursday morning I did a taping for the Golf Channel. They spent a few minutes setting me up for filming from my chest upwards. The following was my script:
Hello from Cary, North Carolina, where we’re proud to once again host the 25th annual SAS Championship here at beautiful Prestonwood Country Club.
This great tournament is just one of many national and international amateur, collegiate, and professional sporting events we host in Cary at our world-class venues. They’re helping make Cary and the surrounding Triangle, rank among the top sports and visitor destinations in the nation.
Please accept my personal invitation to come visit and see why Cary is consistently named one of the best places to live, work, and play in America.
Having done this many times before, I was able to do this in one take. It took longer to set up than it did to do the taping.
Folds of Honor at SAS Championship
Friday morning, I was given the privilege of speaking at the opening ceremony for the 25th SAS Championship and the 2nd Folds of Honor. My comments didn’t come near to recognizing the importance of our veterans and their families.
Since 2007, Folds of Honor has provided life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military. They have expanded their mission to include families of first responders. They say, “On our watch, those who protect our freedoms and our families will know they are not forgotten.” Bless them for all the great work they are doing for those that have sacrificed so much.
Diwali
Saturday morning, I participated in the opening ceremony of Cary Diwali held at the Koka Booth amphitheater. I was joined by council members Craig, Bansal, and Kohn-Johnson.
Other dignitaries included Congresswoman Ross, the Morrisville Mayor, Morrisville council members, and an Apex council member.
I provided a few remarks before reading a proclamation recognizing the 25th year of the event:
“DESIGNATING OCTOBER 11, 2025 AS THE
SILVER JUBILEE DIWALI CELEBRATION
IN CARY, NORTH CAROLINA
WHEREAS, Diwali, an Indian cultural holiday celebrating light and the victory of good over evil, is a festive occasion in many regions of India and is looked upon as the beginning of the New Year.
WHEREAS, Diwali celebrates Indian customs and traditions, and is a time when communities join together to observe and enjoy Indian cultural heritage.
WHEREAS, the theme of Hum Sub Diwali 2025 is “Yaadein-Ek Shana Safar: 25 Glorious Years of Culture, Community, and Celebration.”
WHEREAS, Hum Sub Diwali recognizes the quarter-century partnership of Hum Sub, Inc. and Cary in celebrating Indian culture.
WHEREAS, Hum Sub Diwali at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a daylong cultural immersion into the Indian subcontinent filled with entertainment, shopping, sumptuous food and breathtaking fireworks.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Harold Weinbrecht, Jr., Mayor of Cary, North Carolina, on behalf of the Cary Council, do hereby proclaim October 11, 2025 as the Twenty-Fifth Annual Diwali Celebration in Cary, marking the silver jubilee event for Hum Sub, and I urge all the citizens of Cary to join in the festivities during this special time.
PROCLAIMED this 11th day of October 2025.”
Cary’s Diwali event is one of the biggest of its kind in the southeast and I am proud to be a part of it.
Diwali Dance with Cary and Morrisville Team
I along with Mayor Cawley from Morrisville, Cary Council members Bush, Craig, Bansal, several Cary staff members, and Morrisville staff members have been practicing dances for Diwali weekly since July. Needless to say, we spent hours and hours learning all the dances. Saturday night was our performance and the group was amazing. Special thanks to Taal Harmony School and our instructors Rohini and Irina for all the hours they spent helping and teaching us. If you weren’t there made sure to search for the video. It is a must see.
SAS Championship Final
The SAS Championship was held at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary for the 25th consecutive year which is one of the longest on the senior tour. Over the years it has brought the best players from around the world to compete here, which in turn has given Cary international exposure and created millions in economic benefit. We are so grateful to SAS and the Senior Tour for continuing to support this tournament.
Congratulations to this year’s winner Alex Čejka. Čejka was born in Czechoslovakia, lives in Munich, and is a West German citizen.
Council Out and About
Message From Mayor and Council
Last week, I had the honor of hosting a delegation from Wiesbaden, Germany, as part of Cary’s long-standing Sister Cities partnership. Welcoming our friends from Wiesbaden was a wonderful reminder of how meaningful these international exchanges can be – not only in strengthening ties between our communities, but in giving us the chance to see Cary through our visitors’ eyes.
As we toured some of Cary’s most recognizable places – Downtown Park, the Page-Walker Arts & History Center, and our greenways – I found myself rediscovering them in new ways. Our guests noticed details we often overlook: the care given to public spaces, the diversity of our neighborhoods, and the welcoming spirit that defines our town.
Their perspective reminded me that Cary’s reputation for quality of life, thoughtful planning, and community pride is not something to take for granted – it’s something we continue to build together every day.
I’m deeply grateful to our Sister Cities partners for their warmth, curiosity, and friendship. Their visit strengthened the bond between our two communities and reaffirmed that, though we live an ocean apart, we share the same values of connection, culture, and community.
Jack Smith
District C Council Member
SAS Media Day Tournament at Prestonwood
Councilmember Jack Smith provided welcoming remarks at the SAS Media Day Tournament held at Prestonwood Country Club. The event served as one of the first celebrations leading up to this year’s SAS Championship, marking the beginning of tournament week festivities.
NC Affordable Housing Conference
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended the North Carolina Affordable Housing Conference, which brought together housing professionals, advocates, developers, and policymakers from across the state. The conference focused on strategies and partnerships to address the pressing challenges and opportunities surrounding affordable housing in North Carolina.
2025 State of the County
Councilmember Lori Bush attended the 2025 State of the County event, which celebrated a year of passionate, proactive, and purposeful work across Wake County. Chair Susan Evans highlighted accomplishments in housing, transit, planning, libraries, public safety, education, and economic development, while also calling on residents to support the needs of foster youth – through fostering, donating, or raising awareness.
Triangle Oktoberfest
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith and Michelle Craig attended the opening ceremonies of the Triangle Oktoberfest at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. The annual event celebrates German culture, food, and music while supporting local charities through its proceeds.
German Sister Cities Visit
Mayor Harold Weinbrecht and Councilmembers Jack Smith and Michelle Craig welcomed a delegation from Wiesbaden, Germany, as part of Cary’s Sister Cities exchange program. The visit strengthened cultural ties and continued the long-standing friendship between the two communities.
Kids Together Walk, Run, and Roll
Councilmembers Lori Bush and Michelle Craig joined families and community members at the Kids Together Walk, Run, and Roll event at Marla Dorrel Park. The annual celebration promotes inclusion and accessibility by honoring every child’s right to play – whether walking, running, or rolling on wheels of all kinds.
Fall Litter Sweep
Councilmember Michelle Craig joined volunteers at East Cary Middle School for Cary’s Fall Litter Sweep on October 4. In partnership with Wake County’s Big Sweep, 53 volunteers spent 106 hours removing about 340 pounds of litter from the community. Part of Cary’s Spruce Program, the event helps protect water quality and promotes a cleaner, greener future.
Friends of the Page-Walker Ice Cream Social
Councilmember Michelle Craig attended an ice cream social hosted by the Friends of Page-Walker, Cary’s historical society, in appreciation of their volunteers. During the event, the group also introduced a new app launching soon that will offer self-guided history tours of downtown.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
Council,
This year’s SAS Championship Pro Am was bittersweet this week as the Mayor and I, along with Cary Chamber President Emeritus Howard Johnson, played our final tournament with our friend and Cary’s longest serving Councilmember, Jack Smith.
The hours with Jack were truly amazing – and not because of the golf. Jack literally spent nearly the entire time sharing his appreciation for having served Cary citizens and his gratitude for all the Town staff who helped him help others. It was an inspiring reminder of just how much we rely on each other for our successes.
Also inspiring this week was the Cary Senior Center reaching its milestone birthday of 25 years. Congratulations to the staff, citizens, and elected officials who worked tirelessly to make the center a reality so long ago and my deep appreciation to those who keep this important work going every day.
Have a great weekend.
Sean
Harrison Avenue Tank Rehabilitation Project Begins
Construction on the Harrison Avenue Elevated Water Storage Tank Rehabilitation Project began this week with the blasting and priming of the tank’s interior. The tank will receive all new coatings, first on the interior and then the exterior of the tank. In advance of the exterior work, installation of the containment system has begun and is expected to be in place next week, weather permitting. This rehabilitation project is expected to be completed by spring.
Fall Litter Sweep
Cary’s Fall Litter Sweep took place on October 4, hosted in partnership with Wake County’s Big Sweep. Fifty-three volunteers worked a collective 106 hours removing an estimated 340 pounds of litter from multiple sites around town. Councilmember Michelle Craig attended and helped canvas the East Cary Middle School site. Part of Cary’s Spruce Program, the event helps protect water quality in the region and provides community members with impactful opportunities to join in growing a greener future.
Cary Sparks Student Interest in Electric Vehicles at NC State
On Monday, Cary participated in NC State University’s National Drive Electric Week Ride & Drive event on Centennial Campus. The event drew strong interest from students eager to learn more about electric vehicles and clean mobility options. Energy Manager Sara Caliendo showcased a Tesla Model 3 from the green fleet and highlighted Cary’s sustainability efforts. Attendees also explored a variety of electric mobility options including cars, e-bikes, and e-scooters, underscoring the growing momentum around cleaner transportation solutions.
SAS Women’s Day
As part of Cary’s partnership with the SAS Championship, 30 staff members from various departments, along with Councilmember Jennifer Bryson Robinson, joined women from across the Triangle for an inspiring event focused on Power and Progress – You Don’t Have to Have it All Figured Out to Lead. This gathering provided an opportunity for participants to share their unique stories, connect with one another, and embrace progress over perfection.
Sidewalk Construction Begins Next Week
Weather permitting, construction of a new sidewalk along the north side of Penny Road from Kildaire Farm Road to Magnolia Wood Drive will begin the week of October 13. This project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), was selected to move forward because it will close an existing sidewalk gap, improving connectivity between neighborhoods, schools, and nearby commercial areas. Construction is anticipated to be complete by spring 2026.
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Fall Tennis Invitational
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) hosted its second Annual Fall Tennis Invitational from Oct. 2 – 4 at the Tennis Park. This men’s and women’s individual tournament featured top conference players competing in singles and doubles play, with winners earning automatic qualification for the NCAA Division I Singles and Doubles Championships in November. The event brought collegiate athletes, coaches, and fans from across the region to Cary, highlighting the continued commitment to supporting competitive athletics and providing high-quality facilities for local and visiting players.
Great American Cross Country Festival
For the 17th consecutive year, the Great American Cross Country Festival returned to WakeMed Soccer Park on October 3 and 4, bringing together top talent from 17 states and Washington, D.C. The event featured high school, middle school, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), and community races on Friday, with 467 athletes competing in front of approximately 2,600 spectators. Saturday showcased over 10 JV and Varsity races, drawing 3,494 runners and more than 4,100 spectators. As one of the largest cross-country events in the region, the festival continues to highlight Cary’s role as a premier destination for youth and collegiate athletics.
Bands, Bites, and Boats Recap
Last Friday, Bond Park wrapped up its final Bands, Bites, and Boats of the season. Guests enjoyed cuisine from local food trucks, sampled brews from nearby breweries, and relaxed by the waterfront while taking in a spectacular lineup of live performances. This popular concert series typically draws 500 – 800 attendees for an evening of entertainment, food, and fun with family and friends. The monthly series runs from April through October and will return next spring.
Applause! Cary Youth Theatre Presents Shakespeare Live! As You Like It
On October 5, Applause! Cary Youth Theatre presented Shakespeare Live!, a free theatre-in-the-park performance of As You Like It at Downtown Cary Park. Twelve teen performers presented Shakespeare’s classic comedy of mischief and mistaken identity to a crowd of 160 audience members. Lucky patrons at the Arts Center’s Mini Art Fest on Saturday, Oct. 4 got a sneak peak of the performance as the teens performed an iconic wrestling match scene from the show on the steps of the Arts Center.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
To find out more about the Candidates view the Cary Candidate Forum here.
Cary Mayor Rumors for 2027
Rumors that these next two years on the Cary Council will be my last are simply not true. I fully intend to seek re-election and am grateful to have the unwavering support of my family, friends, and constituents.
As the only living Mayor who has led Cary through a recession and some of the most challenging financial times, I see it as both my responsibility and my calling to continue my service on the Cary Council. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to help guide our community through today’s uncertainties.
In the coming months, I encourage all citizens to focus on the important Cary Council election ahead, where three seats are up for decision. Once those choices are made by our community, we can then look ahead to November 2027.
Until then, I remain dedicated to my oath and to serving as Cary’s Mayor. I’m excited for what lies ahead—tomorrow and beyond.
Mayor’s Mailbox
Invitations to several events.
A complaint about trucks with company logos parking in a neighborhood.
A complaint about a “large truck” parked in front of a house.
A complaint about “a broken pipe, erosion, and roots of trees” that we are not giving attention to.
A complaint about property taxes in Cary (We have the lowest in Wake County for the 17th consecutive year).
An email campaign of several emails to not collect leaves so that butterflies, salamanders and fireflies would be protected. (None of the emails left addresses so I can only assume they don’t live in Cary).
A request from a high school student to assist with public health.
A complaint about an encampment on a walkway at swift creek and crescent green.
A request for assistance with parking and transportation for a 2026 Cary Garden Tour.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, a CAMPO Executive Board meeting, a Cary Matters taping, and an advisory board appreciation event.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, October 19th, 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.
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:
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 11th 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 36th 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 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.
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
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.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
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 12th, 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.
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.
10th 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.
10th 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 18th. 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 4th.
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
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 5th, 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.
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 36th 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 90th 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.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
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 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 28th, 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.
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 28th through July 5th. 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 23rd 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 90th Anniversary Celebration
Sunday I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, council member Craig, and council member Bansal in the 90th anniversary celebration of the Cary Woman’s Club. I was one of three speakers recognizing this milestone. Here is the proclamation I read:
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 14th 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.
Filing for Cary Town Council ended on July 18th. 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 4th.
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 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 10th annual Asia Fest with Dragon Boat races.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, September 21st, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.
Harold's Blog 