Harold's Blog

Wake County Mayors Association

Thursday I participated in a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association. Nine out of twelve mayors were in attendance. Missing were the mayors of Fuquay Varina, Holly Springs, and Wendell. Some of the topics discussed were BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) federal funding, state legislation on threatening elected officials, and postal addresses not in municipalities (Cary residents have Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville, and Apex addresses – maybe others). Our meeting lasted about two hours.

State of Cary at Templeton

Wednesday morning, I gave the State of Cary address to the residents of Templeton in Cary. There were about three dozen in attendance including the founder of Lazy Daze, Jerry Miller. Their questions included when there might be a future bond and when highway 64 will be improved. I was there for a little over an hour.

CAMPO

Wednesday evening, I represented Cary at the CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) Executive Board Meeting. CAMPO is a regional transportation planning organization serving communities in Chatham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston and Wake Counties.

The agenda included seven consent items, three public hearings, and eight discussion items.

The board held a public hearing and approved the FY 2026 LAPP program. LAPP is a competitive funding program managed by CAMPO that prioritizes locally administered projects in the Region. These projects are funded using federal funding sources directly attributed to the region with a minimum 20% local match. This approval included $2 million for Cary to construct the Jenks Carpenter Road and Green Level Church Road Streetside trails.

The second public hearing was for Amendment #7 of the FY2024 – FY2033 TIP (Transportation Improvement Program). The TIP is a 10-year work program that lists regionally significant transportation projects within a Metropolitan Planning Organization planning area, including projects for all modes of transportation, and is updated every two years. This was approved unanimously.

The last public hearing was held for the FY2026 Unified Planning Work Program which is required by the federal government. This was unanimously adopted.

Regular agenda items included the FAST 2.0 Study Update – a scalable approach for integrating transit advantage infrastructure along area roadways to support better transit services, a project on the North Harnett Transit Study, a 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan analysis with deficiencies, the US 1 North Update include toll road options, changing the Executive Board meeting time, a draft of SPOT 7.0 (Strategic Transportation Prioritization Process), a draft of the FY2026 Wake Transit Work Plan, and Amendment #8 to FY2024 – FY2033 TIP.

Our meeting concluded after a little over two hours.

Cary Matters Taping

Thursday afternoon I joined council member Michelle Craig in taping an episode of Cary Matters. In this episode we highlighted Cary’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Topics discussed included the importance of the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge, the impact of Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, and other environmental programs that showcase Cary’s dedication to conservation, education, and community engagement.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday I participated in a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors. Here is a summary of that meeting from the Executive Director:

On this week’s Coalition call, we focused on legislation from both chambers, which has received discussion this week. With the Senate’s bill filing deadline coming on Tuesday (March 25) and the House of Representatives’ deadline coming on Thursday, April 3, we expect a significant amount of additional bills to be released over the coming weeks. There have also been significant discussions behind closed doors regarding the budget, with House and Senate leadership beginning to determine funding parameters and address other issues.

The Coalition’s lobbying team and the NCLM Government Affairs team discussed multiple bills that align with the Coalition’s priority areas. Those bills included the following:

House Bill 47 “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I”

House Bill 298 “Local Gov’ts/System Development Fees”

House Bill 432 “Protect Our Homes Act”

Senate Bill 291 “Regulation of Short-Term Rentals”

Senate Bill 314 “Eliminate ETJ Overlap”

Senate Bill 317 “Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act”

With the exception of House Bill 47, which the Governor signed on Wednesday night, the remainder of these bills have not received committee hearings, so their future is generally unclear. The group also discussed the potential for the Senate to release language regarding a fix to the downzoning issue created by Session Law 2024-57 (Senate Bill 382) before the bill filing deadline.

On Wednesday, Governor Stein released his 2025-2027 budget recommendations. Historically, these recommendations have not received much attention from General Assembly leaders, and that is likely to be the case in this session as well. We will compile a general summary of the Governor’s recommendations and provide those for educational purposes in next week’s email. 

Continuing our two-part transportation discussions, the group discussed upcoming work on federal transportation funding. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is the current surface transportation plan signed in 2021 and appropriates monies to support highway and non-highway projects across the country. It is one in a long string of five-year funding programs. Though the IIJA is not scheduled to be reauthorized until 2026, members of Congress have intimated that they would like to approve a plan before the 2026 midterm elections, a feat which is becoming less and less likely due to the amount of time required to develop this type of bill. The group also briefly covered the current review process at the US Department of Transportation related to grant-funded projects, which could jeopardize funding for existing proposed projects.

After the discussion, Coalition members were again reminded to stay in contact with the members of their legislative delegation regarding budget and policy priorities. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Seth or any member of the lobbying team if you have any questions or gain any intelligence from your meetings that would interest the entire group. The lobbying team will continue to monitor General Assembly activities and provide updates during future Coalition calls. 

NC Courage Ring of Honor Proclamation

Saturday night I attended the NC Courage’s first soccer match of the year. After the match I was part of the ceremony honoring Jessica McDonald as the second inductee into the Courage “Ring of Honor”. McDonald received numerous accolades including three NWSL Shields, two NWSL Championships, the 2018 NWSL Championship MVP, and the inaugural Women’s International Champions Cup. As one of four speakers, I read a proclamation honoring her and had the crowd participate by saying all the WHEREASs. It was a great event, and I was proud to be a part of it.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

I’d like to thank Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar, Budget Manager Liam Brailey, and first-time host Dana Williams, Talent and Culture Consultant, for leading a wonderful discussion recapping the Council/Staff Retreat and FY 2026 budget preparations at All Hands. Special thanks as well to the entire production team. The more we share with our employees, the better it is for everyone. Thank you, Council, for your continued interest in the creation of the FY 2026 budget.

On another note, please remember that the Waverly Place PDP rezoning is scheduled for the Planning and Zoning Board meeting on Monday night. As you may recall, this case has drawn significant citizen interest.

Enjoy your weekend.
Sean

2025 Chatham County Property Tax Reevaluation

Chatham County has completed its 2025 property revaluation process for land within its boundaries, including a small segment of properties in the Town of Cary.
A total of 2,513 parcels in Cary are impacted by Chatham County’s revaluation. The total assessed value of these properties has increased from approximately $1.1 billion in FY 2025 to $1.7 billion in FY 2026.

Based on Cary’s current municipal property tax rate of 32.5 cents per $100 of assessed value, the town is projected to receive approximately $2 million in additional revenue for FY 2026.

To assist property owners in understanding their new appraised values, Chatham County has provided the Comper website tool, which allows comparisons between assessed values and recent property sales in the market area.

Property owners who disagree with the new proposed value of their property can appeal to Chatham County, which has sole discretion in determining the final property assessments. Appeals must be submitted on or before May 19, 2025. For additional tax information, visit the Chatham County Tax Administration website or contact the Chatham County Appraisal Division at (919) 542-8211.

Wake County Property Tax Reevaluation Update

Wake County is adjusting its revaluation schedule, with the next revaluation set for 2027 and transitioning to a two-year cycle thereafter. By 2029, Wake County’s revaluation will align with those of Chatham and Durham counties.

State of Cary Address at the Templeton of Cary

On Wednesday, Mayor Weinbrecht and District C Councilmember Jack Smith visited The Templeton of Cary to present the Mayor’s State of Cary Address to its residents. The event attracted a full audience, with attendees offering insightful questions and comments following the presentation.

As the Mayor continues delivering the address across town, groups are welcome to request a visit by submitting this form. Additionally, the live State of Cary Address will take place at Cary Town Hall on April 22.

State of Women in Wake County Address

This morning, Councilmember Michelle Craig attended Congresswoman Deborah Ross’ State of Women in Wake County Address. The event featured a panel discussion with leaders covering topics such as professional and economic development, senior care, childcare, and small businesses. A networking session followed, where Councilmember Craig connected with council and staff members from Knightdale, as well as Alison Rogers, owner of Blush Cowork in Cary.

Sister Cities Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day

On Sunday, Councilmember Michelle Craig joined Cary Sister Cities at Crosstown Pub and Grill for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Cary Sister Cities strives to further global understanding and relationships, with a special focus on Cary’s five Sister Cities, one of them being County Meath, Ireland.

Community Ramadan Dinner at Divan Center

On Wednesday, Councilmember Michelle Craig attended a community Ramadan dinner at Divan Center in Cary. The Divan Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the social, spiritual, cultural, and educational needs of the community. The dinner brought together community members, friends, and faith leaders from various traditions to foster greater understanding and community spirit.

Cary Branching Out Program Paused

Due to the federal termination of funding, the Cary Branching Out Program is being discontinued. The Branching Out Program was funded through the US Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry IRA grant to expand the existing My Tree, Our Tree,tree giveaway program into neighborhood tree planting, pocket forests, volunteer training, and tree care assistance programs. Working with Project Pando, we were still able to successfully giveaway over 600 trees between the two tree giveaway events scheduled over the spring with the final Branching Out event taking place at Cary’s Arbor Day celebration on March 22. Cary remains committed to the environment and will continue to engage the community in forestry education and stewardship. We will continue to explore opportunities for programming and ways to improve our urban forest canopy.

Water Resources Year in Review

The 2024 Water Resources Year in Review report is now available, offering insights into Cary’s water utility services, water and wastewater system capacities, and key historical trends. This year’s report highlights significant changes, including the continuation of reduced water consumption per capita, highlighting the community’s commitment to water conservation. The report also examines the water demand for the larger Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) service area, emphasizing how local demand patterns affect overall system capacity and planning efforts. For a deeper dive into how these numbers relate to treatment capacity, rainfall impacts, and seasonal variations, read the full 2024 Water Resources Year in Review report.

King Street and Linda Court Infrastructure Renewal

Work on King Street and Linda Court was completed this week as part of Cary’s annual water main replacement program. A new water main was installed, and water services were successfully transferred to the new pipeline, and the pavement has been resurfaced as part of the project’s restoration. Infrastructure improvements are still in progress throughout the Oakwood Heights neighborhood. 

PRCR System Plan and Bike Plan Open House

The Bike Plan and the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources System Plan are nearing completion after several years of work. On March 25, staff will host two open house sessions at the Senior Center, where citizens can drop by anytime between 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. or 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. to learn more and provide feedback before the plans are finalized for adoption into the Imagine Cary Community Plan. For more information and to submit feedback online, visit carync.gov/bikecary and carync.gov/prcrplan.

Upcoming Meetings

Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, March 24
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Tuesday, March 25
5:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Regular)
Thursday, March 27
6:30 p.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Complaints about the Waverly rezoning proposal.
• A request from a new resident for information about town activities.
• A complaint about the lack of a traffic signal at Bond Park.
• A request to stop Palestinian protests in the Downtown Park. Adding: “A disgruntled and scared taxpayer. Discrimination is now OK if you are discriminating against a Jew. PS – We are not colonizers, and we are not all white.”

(The police chief responded, saying:

Thank you for expressing your concern.  First and foremost, I want to let you know we take such protests very seriously, having a number of protocols to ensure the safety of our citizens.   This particular group of protestors are well known to us, and we communicate with them on a regular basis to make sure they understand the legal boundaries of the First Amendment Right to free speech.

Additionally, we have officers on the ground and by cameras mounted all around the park and downtown.  We do so each time there is a protest no matter what the content.  We had several officers there for that protest.  However, the Mayor is correct that unless protestors exhibit behaviors specifically restricted by law the right to free speech and assembly is protected.  Should the behaviors exhibit violations of law we stand ready to keep the public safe.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a council tour of the Ivey Ellington, a council work session, a State of Cary Presentation at Carolina Preserve, a council meeting, a NC Metro Mayors meeting, and a Basant Bahar event.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 30^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Council Meeting Prep

Monday I attempted to contact all council members to understand any concerns or questions about the upcoming agenda. No concerns or questions were expressed. Later I met with the staff and reviewed the agenda.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager, and several staff members for my weekly one-on-one meeting. A variety of topics were discussed mostly focusing on the budget.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

Monday night I participated in a meeting of the Cary Tennis Classic Board. We discussed the impacts of our new tournament dates from June 29^th through July 6^th. Other topics included tournament logistics, events during the tournament, the ACC tournament in April, and a special event for sponsors later this month.

Youth Leadership

Tuesday morning I spoke to several dozen high school students who were participating in the Cary Chamber’s Youth Leadership. We talked about Cary’s council and our authority, leadership, and my role in local government. I then answered several questions from the group. Questions ranged from why certain homes in Cary have other municipal addresses to my biggest concerns moving forward. I was impressed with their knowledge and interest in local government.

Farmside Kitchen Ribbon Cutting

Tuesday morning I joined council member Jack Smith for the ribbon cutting of Farmside Kitchen in Waverly Place. They state the following about themselves:

“…We set out to do something different, inspired by nature and our commitment to crafting hearty, wholesome, nutritious food. Our Farmbowls are packed with healthy grains, freshly grilled proteins and tons of vegetables – made with ingredients sourced from trusted local and regional farm partners.

…

We work with local and regional farmers and purveyors who value healthy and sustainable sourcing and regenerative practices as much as we do – those who share our mission of making a positive impact in the world. We’re proud to partner with folks like Hines Family Farms and La Farm Bakery.

…

We’re a woman-led organization with a culture designed to support our team members and our guests in leading a life of wellbeing. We care most about creating enjoyable experiences for our guests through warm, welcoming service and delicious, wholesome food. We can’t wait to host you!

…”

We are glad they are in Cary and wish them great success.

State of Cary at Glenaire

Tuesday afternoon I presented the State of Cary address to about a hundred people at Glenaire. I was joined by council members Craig and Bush. My presentation was well received. Questions included affordable housing and DEI.

Macon Georgia Delegation

Wednesday, I joined members of the Cary Tennis Classic Board in hosting a delegation from Macon, Georgia including their mayor, Lester Miller. The primary reason for their visit was to see the Cary Tennis Center. In addition to showing them that we visited USA Baseball and WakeMed Soccer Park. They were very impressed with all our venues but were most impressed with our tennis center’s park like setting which is unusual for large tennis centers. Additional plans for Thursday had them visiting DPAC and the Downtown Cary Park.

They were a delightful group, and their mayor was very entertaining. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together.

Council Work Session

Thursday evening the council held a work session with topics including Chatter, Vision Zero, and Downtown Mobility Updates.

Chatter is a social collaboration platform integrated within the Salesforce CRM system, enabling real-time communication and collaboration among team members, allowing them to share updates, files, and information in a centralized space. It is currently used by staff and council member Bush. This presentation was to provide information about Chatter in case other council members wanted to use it with staff.

Vision Zero is a “strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. First implemented in Sweden in the 1990s, Vision Zero has proved successful across Europe — and now it’s gaining momentum in major American cities” according to the Vision Zero network. It would allow Cary to use innovative designs to prevent crashes with fatalities. Some of those strategies include:

• Chicanes
• Diverging Diamond Interchanges
• Continuous Flow Intersection
• Woonerfs
• Restricted Crossing U-Turns
• Synchronized Streets (Superstreets)

Project that these strategies can be used in include:

• Signal Projects
• Sidewalk Projects
• Pedestrian Improvements Projects
• Intersection Improvements Projects
• Traffic Calming Projects
• Bicycle Projects and Studies
• Speed Limit Reduction Projects

FYI, last year Cary had 771 crashes, 96 with injuries.

Items of note from the Downtown Mobility Update presentation include:

• There are 1708 on-street parking spaces
• There are 2066 off-street parking spaces
• There are 3241 off-street private parking spaces
• Phase 1 mobility study utilizing town staff before hiring consultants
• Sidewalk/pedestrian improvements at West End Breweries
• Yield to Ped Signs on Academy Street
• No Right Turn on Red at Academy and Dry
• Pre-Planning for Road Diets for Harrison, West Chatham, and High House
• LIDAR pilot at Academy and Dry
• 4-Way Stop signs at Dixon/Willow and Dry/West
• New Sidewalks at Ivey Ellington
• Bike corrals pilot made permanent at Academy and Chatham
• Low tech flag pilot for Glenaire
• Learning, discussion, and planning among PW, PD, Transportation, Utilities, Parks, etc.

Council Meeting

Thursday night the council held its first regularly scheduled meeting of the month. Other than the consent agenda there was only one item on the agenda. A public hearing on a Yates Store Road rezoning proposes 67 detached units and 25 townhouses. Most of the speakers expressed concerns that a private road, that they had to maintain, would be connected to the new development. After the regular agenda the council spent about an hour in closed session for multiple items.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday morning I participated in a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors. Here is a summary from the Executive Director:

“…

This week’s Coalition call focused on the work at the North Carolina General Assembly and previewed what is expected to occur in the coming weeks as the Senate begins its budget process in earnest. On Wednesday night, Governor Josh Stein joined legislators for his biennial State of the State address, where he presented many proposals that received bipartisan support from both chambers. 

The Coalition’s lobbying team and the NCLM Government Affairs team discussed multiple bills that align with the Coalition’s priority areas. Those bills included the following:

House Bill 50 “LEO Special Separation Allowance Options”

House Bill 244 “Depoliticize Government Property Act”

House Bill 369 “Parking Lot Reform and Modernization Act”

House committees discussed House Bill 50 and House Bill 244 this week, and both received favorable reports. House Bill 244 was amended during committee discussion to add three other allowable flags. House Bill 369, which was filed on Tuesday, would restrict local governments from setting minimum numbers of parking spaces, restrict specific types of pavement sealants, and clarify the limits of local ordinances related to stormwater requirements for redevelopment sites. This bill results from a broad stakeholder engagement but has received concern from multiple other groups. 

Beginning a two-part series, the group discussed upcoming work on state transportation funding, including the release of the draft State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Additional information from that discussion is included in the “State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)” below. We accidentally skipped over a planned discussion of House Bill 364/Senate Bill 172, “STIP Grant Anticipation Notes,” which would allow local governments to borrow money to accelerate local transportation projects programmed for STIP funding. These bills resemble a similar proposal filed during the last session, which was ultimately unsuccessful. Next week, the series will focus on federal transportation funding.

The lobbying team will continue to monitor General Assembly activities and provide updates during future Coalition calls. 

State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)

By statute, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is tasked with developing the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) that shows how and when transportation projects are expected to be funded over the next decade. The STIP is typically updated every two years, but generally, projects scheduled in the first five years are considered “scheduled for delivery,” while those on the latter half of the schedule are funded for preliminary engineering only and are subject to re-evaluation when the next STIP is developed. 

The public comment period for the draft 2026-2035 STIP is now open and runs through April 4. We encourage everyone to work with their teams to review the draft plan to ensure you understand where projects in your area appear. NCDOT officials expect to adopt the 2026-2035 STIP in the summer of 2025. 

March Revenue Forecast

On Tuesday, the General Assembly’s Fiscal Research Division and the Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) released their monthly consensus forecast based on data received through February. This forecast anticipates total collections in FY 2024-2025 of $34.71 billion, representing a $544 million surplus from the May 2024 forecast. The February forecast also assumes that recent economic growth will be sustained throughout the upcoming biennium, with projected collections for FY 2025-2026 forecast at $34.89 billion. More information will be provided in the coming months, with the most significant data point coming in late April after initial tax filing concludes.

…”

The following is the weekly legislative summary from Checkmate and Associates:

“…

State of the State Address

On Wednesday night, Governor Josh Stein gave his first State of the State address.  Representatives, Senators, Council of State members, Supreme Court Justices, and Stein’s cabinet convened in the House Chamber to hear his address to the state of North Carolina. The State of the State address sets the expectations and goals of the administration. Governor Stein’s speech focused on the following issues facing the state:

• Hurricane Helene recovery
• A clean energy economy 
• Work force growth 
• Affordable childcare
• Teacher pay increases and free school meals
• The housing crisis 
• Medicaid expansion
• The opioid and fentanyl crisis 
• Community college and law enforcement benefits

House Speaker Destin Hall responded to Governor Stein’s address with his policy goals for the legislature which include economic growth, hurricane recovery, investing in education, and ICE cooperation. Speaker Hall voiced his support for policies such as lowering taxes, reducing red tape for small business and housing, affordable natural gas, supporting law enforcement, and eliminating DEI. 

Disaster Recovery

The House voted to not concur with the Senate’s version of House Bill 47 , “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025, Part I.” The Senate made several changes, including the addition of funding for schools that need to utilize summer school to combat potential learning loss in students. The bill was sent to a Conference Committee, where appointed House and Senate members will negotiate a compromise. 

The Energy Security and Affordability Act

Senate Bill 261, the “Energy Security and Affordability Act”, passed through the Senate this week. S261makes changes to a bill passed by the General Assembly in 2021. Under current law, electric public utilities were required to meet a 70 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from 2005 levels by 2030. Senate Bill 261 would eliminate the 70 percent reduction requirement from public utilities, while also allowing them to charge rate payers for new natural gas or nuclear plants while they were under construction.  The bill has been sent to the House for consideration.

…”

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Following last night’s discussion on Cary’s utilities during the work session, Director of Learning & Organizational Development Allison Hutchins shared an internal article by Communications and Policy Advisor Kathryn Trogdon. Titled Navigating the Waters: The History of Cary’s Interbasin Transfer Strategy, itoffers valuable insights you may find informative.
Have a great weekend.
Sean

Notes from March 13^th Council Work Session

Downtown Strategic Parking Plan Update (2024)

Current Pedestrian Crossing Standards for New Construction (for all plans approved after 7/1/24):

• 2-Lane Undivided Road Crossings
• Multi-Lane/Median Divided Crossings

Delivering the State of Cary at Glenaire

On Tuesday, Mayor Weinbrecht delivered the State of Cary Address at Glenaire, joined by At-Large Councilmember Lori Bush and District B Representative Michelle Craig, who also spoke during the event.

Welcoming Visitors from Macon, Georgia

On Wednesday, Mayor Weinbrecht and the Cary Tennis Classic Board hosted a delegation from Macon, Georgia, including Mayor Lester Miller. The group toured the Cary Tennis Center, USA Baseball, WakeMed Soccer Park, and Downtown Cary Park. While they were impressed by all the venues, they were especially struck by the tennis center’s unique park-like setting, a rare feature for large tennis facilities.

“They were a delightful group, and their mayor was very entertaining. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together.” – Mayor Weinbrecht

Youth Leadership Day

On Tuesday, Cary hosted the Cary Chamber Youth Leadership Day, where students were welcomed by the Mayor and attended presentations from staff across the organization. Organized by the Chamber of Commerce, the program offers students a chance to learn about their community and build leadership skills.

Briarcliff Elementary Field Trip

On Thursday, Councilmember Michelle Craig welcomed Briarcliff Elementary School’s 3rd-grade classes for a Town Hall presentation on Cary. After her talk, IT Systems Administrator Ted Urbaniak introduced the students to the LoRaWAN network. The field trip wrapped up with a visit to Downtown Cary Park.

Downtown Cary Park Celebrates International Women’s Day

Last Saturday, Downtown Cary Park hosted HER Voice, HER Power: an International Women’s Day Event. Participants enjoyed presentations and karaoke while celebrating, uplifting, and supporting one another. Councilmember Michelle Craig joined attendees in recognizing the importance of the day and the impact of women in our community.

Governors Welcome Reception

On Thursday evening, Assistant Town Manager Shelley Curran and Assistant Director of Administrative Services Brittany Edwards represented Cary at the Raleigh Chamber’s welcome reception for Governor Josh Stein. Attendees had the chance to hear from Governor Stein about his goals for the state, as well as network with public officials and members of the business community.

The Nest Nominated for USA TODAY’S 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards

The Nest at Downtown Cary Park has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Public Playground. Anyone can vote once per day (no sign-in required!) now through noon on April 7.

Each vote helps showcase Cary’s world-class facility, Downtown Cary Park, as a must-visit destination for families and adventurers! 

Evans Road System Upgrade

Duke Energy crews will begin installing new underground infrastructure in the Evans Road and NW Cary Parkway area to strengthen the electric grid, making it more resilient to severe weather and enabling faster power restoration after outages. According to a flyer sent to nearby residents, work is set to begin in March and continue through summer 2025, weather permitting. The project will affect the following roadways:

• Evans Road (Weston Parkway to W. Dynasty Drive)
• NW Cary Parkway (Winfair Drive to Evans Road)
• Winfair Drive (Pebble Ridge Farms Court to NW Cary Parkway)

Celebrating Cary’s 311 on 3.11

March 11 is nationally recognized as 311 Day, and Cary 311 marked the occasion by educating staff and citizens about its unique services. Citizen advocates hosted pop-up information sessions at Cary Tennis Park and Downtown Cary Park, while Assistant 311 Director Carolyn Roman presented to the Cary Youth Leadership cohort and at the Senior Center.

Social media promotions reached over 20,000 impressions in the past week. At Town Hall, staff celebrated with cake and shared notes of appreciation with citizen advocates. Outreach will continue throughout March, including an appearance at the Open House/PRCR System Plan information meeting at the Senior Center on March 25. Residents are also encouraged to invite Cary 311 to their neighborhoods in the future.

This fiscal year, Cary 311 has handled approximately 100,000 cases via phone, email, text, web, and social media, assisting both citizens and the news media. For more on this service, check out a recent Cary Matters episode hosted by Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson.

American Legion Honors Public Servants

On Tuesday, American Legion Post 67 honored three of Cary’s public safety employees at a dinner and awards ceremony:

• 2024 Firefighter of the Year: Fire Engineer Jessica Rogers, for leading the creation of Camp Ignite, a program introducing high school girls to the fire service.
• 2024 Police Officer of the Year: Officer Erick Caba, for his bravery during a high-risk incident involving a gunshot victim.
• 2024 Telecommunicator of the Year: Senior Emergency Communications Officer Jennifer Bevars, for taking on critical training responsibilities.

We are incredibly proud of these dedicated professionals and grateful to Post 67 for recognizing their service.

ITS Carolinas Public Meeting

This week, Transportation staff attended the 2025 ITS Carolinas Annual Meeting held at the Wilmington Convention Center. The conference featured 12 technical sessions covering topics such as AI applications, municipal project updates, and grant funding experiences. Transportation Engineering Manager David Spencer was honored with ITS Carolinas’ 2025 Outstanding Commitment Award and staff contributed to panel discussions on out-of-pavement technology and the future of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in the public sector.

NCWaterWARN Virtual Functional Exercise

This week, Cary’s Utilities staff participated in a statewide virtual exercise on emergency mutual aid support for NC water and wastewater utilities. Hosted by NCWaterWARN and the North Carolina Rural Water Association (NCRWA), the event brought together representatives from various NC utilities, the NC Division of Public Safety (NCDPS), NC Division of Water Resources (NCDWR), and the EPA.

The agenda included presentations on emergency support roles from NCWaterWARN, NCDPS, and NCDWR, followed by a functional exercise simulating a winter weather event. This exercise tested utilities’ response capabilities and provided practice in coordinating mutual aid requests. It emphasized the importance of preparation, resilience, and communication, highlighting the critical role of organizations like NCWaterWARN in connecting utilities in need with those able to assist during emergencies.

Presentation to Templeton Residents

On Thursday morning, Fabian Rodriguez from Transit, Andrew Marsden from Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources, and Sarah Braman from Utilities met with residents of the Templeton of Cary Retirement community to share updates on Transit, Parks, Greenways, and Utilities. The discussion was lively, showcasing the Town’s commitment to excellence and active engagement with citizens.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – April 2^nd

The following Neighborhood Meetings will be held on Wednesday, April 2, at 6:30 p.m.

• 25-REZ-03 Calyx Senior Living of Cary
• 25-REZ-04 Ferrell Road Rezoning

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

Upcoming Meetings

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, March 19
6:15 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday, March 20
6:00 p.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Complaints about the Waverly rezoning proposal.
• Questions about the progress of the Magnolia project at Harrison and Chatham.
• A thank you for my State of Cary address at Glenaire and for the work I do as mayor.
• A complaint about NC House Bill 5 which would “…make it easier for individuals who should not have firearms to carry hidden, loaded handguns…” (We have no authority in this matter)
• A complaint about the permanent railroad crossing closure at Indian Wells Road.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a State of Cary address at Templeton, a CAMPO meeting, and an NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 23^rd, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager, a couple of key staff members, and representatives for a development. Our discussion included development impacts and how the town might be involved.

HRID Meeting

Tuesday night I participated in a meeting of the Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board. The agenda included Community Engagement at the Latino Festival, a presentation of demographic data, and providing translation of public safety information.

District A Meeting

Wednesday night I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, council member Bush, council member Kohn-Johnson, the town manager, police chief, and several other staff members in a town hall meeting for District A. There was a couple dozen people in attendance. We presented data on the budget, public safety, and talked about future expectations. Some of the specific topics included the role of the council, the Cary Community Plan, the state of Cary infrastructure (Greenways, parks, town facilities, community centers), and a financial overview.  Then we answered questions from those in attendance. This is the first of what I hope will be meetings in every district.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday I participated in a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors. Here is the legislative summary from Checkmate Government Relations:

This week’s Coalition call discussed ongoing activities at the North Carolina General Assembly. Though legislators’ work has continued to move slower than usual, work is underway to develop the Senate’s appropriations plan and pass multiple pieces of legislation in both chambers. 

The Coalition’s lobbying team and the NCLM Government Affairs team discussed multiple bills that align with the Coalition’s priority areas. Those bills included the following:

House Bill 47 “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I“

House Bill 92 “NC Digital Assets Investments Act”

House Bill 310 “Eminent Domain”

House committees discussed House Bill 47 and House Bill 92 this week, and both received favorable reports. House Bill 310 was filed on Wednesday and has yet to be heard in committee. The group discussed that House Bill 310 resembles bills filed in previous sessions calling for a constitutional amendment addressing eminent domain actions. 

Legislators are awaiting financial data from the fourth quarter of 2024 before setting final budget targets, though current consensus forecasts project a small surplus ($400-700 million) for the upcoming fiscal year. 

The group also discussed Governor Josh Stein’s upcoming State of the State address (Wednesday, March 12) and the legislature’s direction following the passing of both chambers’ local bill deadlines. Finally, the group discussed the potential for both chambers to choose to release large omnibus bills on topics including transportation, regulatory reform, and others as opposed to smaller, topic-specific bills we have seen in prior sessions.

The lobbying team will continue to monitor General Assembly activities and provide further updates during future Coalition calls. 

NCLM Legislative Goals

After a lengthy member-driven process, member cities and towns have chosen the Legislative Goals for the 2025-26 legislative biennium. NCLM thanks all municipal representatives who were involved in this process, whether you served on the NCLM Legislative Policy committee (including Coalition Treasurer Mayor Bill Dusch, who served as committee co-chair), took part in the numerous in-person or virtually listening sessions soliciting ideas, or assisted your city or town in the final electronic voting to select the list of 10 goals to be pursued. Here are the goals, for your consideration, in both a single-page listing and a two-page document providing context for each goal.

This process ultimately involved 197 individuals representing 154 municipalities, and that broad participation is so important as we now begin the work of seeking approval of the goals before the North Carolina General Assembly. We hope that you take the opportunity to discuss these proposals with your legislators at an appropriate time. Your involvement in NCLM’s advocacy efforts is so vital to our success.

Town Manager’s Report

Russ’ Message

It was great to see many of you engaging with citizens on important topics like updates to the Cary Community Plan and the State of Cary address at Wednesday night’s District A Information Meeting. I always appreciate these opportunities for us to connect with the community.
Don’t forget to spring forward this Sunday, enjoy your weekend!
Russ

Eagle Scout Court of Honor

On March 2, Councilmember Craig attended a Joint Eagle Scout Court of Honor at White Plains United Methodist Church for Troops 210 and 232G.

Green Hope Fine Arts Showcase

On February 28, Councilmember Craig attended Green Hope High School’s Fine Arts Showcase, which included their award winning Anon(ymous) production. These theater students are traveling to Baltimore, Maryland later in March to represent North Carolina at the Southeast Theatre Conference. 

Nancy Jones Maintenance Work Begins

This week, contractors began maintenance work on the Nancy Jones House, a Cary Historic Landmark also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, located at 9321 Chapel Hill Road. The project will take approximately two months and focuses on preserving the building’s outer structure. Planned improvements include replacing damaged weather barriers, upgrading windowsills, replacing rotted wood, and painting the refreshed areas. For more details, please visit the project webpage.

AARP Age Friendly Designation

In 2022, Cary became a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. This prestigious designation highlights our dedication to fostering a community where individuals of all ages and abilities can thrive in a supportive environment.

Over the past several months, the Senior Advisory Board has collaborated closely with Michelle Barrett, Program Manager for Seniors and Aging, to develop the Age-Friendly Action Plan and Goals. This comprehensive plan, which will be submitted to AARP next week, outlines Cary’s strategic commitments to enhancing Housing, Transportation, and Social Connections for our residents.

Lazy Daze Wins the SFEA Green Initiative Award

The Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival was honored with the Green Initiative Award at the 2025 Southeast Festivals and Events Association (SFEA) Kaleidoscope Awards. This award recognizes the festival’s commitment to sustainability through comprehensive efforts such as our composting program, waste reduction strategies, and enhanced vendor collaboration which creates a cleaner, greener community event.

Staff Tours NCSU Compost Facility

On Monday, Assistant Town Manager Danna Widmar joined Public Works and Environment staff on a tour of the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Compost Facility. The visit provided insight into best practices for receiving food scraps and other organic material in a permitted facility, as well as processing and using finished compost on campus. Seeing a closed-loop system for organics management expanded the staff’s understanding of circular options for waste and resource management.

CSX Temporary Railroad Closures

Cary has been notified by CSX Transportation that they will be in the area to perform track maintenance March 10 – 24. This work will require street closures expected to last 2-5 days. Tentative closure start dates are as follows: 

• Laura Duncan Road on March 17  
• High House Road & North Dixon Avenue on March 18 (concurrent closure) 
• Old Apex Road & N Harrison Avenue on March 19 (concurrent closure) 

Estimated closure dates and durations are subject to change due to weather. During closures, no vehicle or pedestrian traffic will be allowed to cross the tracks. Motorists should follow posted detours and plan for potential traffic disruptions during this time. Click here for more information. 

Old Apex Water Main Reinforcement Update

Starting March 10, surveying and utility locates for the Old Apex Water Main Project will begin, with construction expected to start the following week. Drivers should expect lane shifts, closures, and flaggers directing traffic in an alternating one-way flow along Old Apex Road. Click here for more information about the project.

LED Signage Update

Beginning next week, crews will start the installation of new LED enhanced crosswalk signage at eight locations around Cary as part of our regular Street Improvements project. These lighted signs are similar to the installations on Walnut Street and N. Harrison Avenue. Locations of upgrades include Two Creeks Road, Seabrook Avenue, Greenwood Circle, and Howland Avenue.

Finalize Airport Boulevard Diverging Diamond Interchange

This weekend, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), contractors, and staff will be finalizing the Airport Boulevard Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) in preparation for its opening to traffic on March 10. Staff will be on-site to perform traffic signal inspections and to gather and program data for coordination plans that will need to be in place for efficient traffic flow through the five signals that have been modified for this project.

Diavolo Disc Golf Course Top 20 in the World

Cary’s Diavolo at New Hope Disc Golf Course has been ranked number 17 in the Udisc 2025 World Rankings. This course recently hosted the 2024 United States Masters Disc Golf Championship in September and draws in pro and casual players from around the globe.

Upcoming Meetings

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 11
6:00 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday, March 12
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Thursday, March 13
4:45 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Regular)
Thursday, March 13
6:30 p.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Complaints about proposed rezoning at Waverly Place.
• A request for the town to spend more money on adults with autism.
• A request to not cut funding for WCPSS (the WCPSS school system is funded by the county and not municipalities)
• A request to reduce the town’s budget by 10%.
• A request to broker a deal with Jim Goodnight and Tim Sweeney to have a major league baseball team come to Cary and be on the old Cary Town Mall site (outside the scope of my office).
• A complaint about trash outside a dumpster at an apartment complex (apartment complexes have private companies collect their trash).

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with an Amtrak representative, a Cary Tennis Classic Board meeting, a Youth Leadership presentation, a Farmside Kitchen grand opening, a State of Cary address at Glenaire, a meeting with a delegation from Macon Georgia, a council work session, a council meeting, and a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 16^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Sallie Jones Celebration of Life

Tuesday afternoon I attended the memorial service for Sallie Jones, a life-long Cary resident and a centenarian. Here is an excerpt from her obituary:

“Sallie Ethel Jones, affectionately known as Aunt Sallie, Mother Sallie, or Miss Salie was the sixth of eight children born to the late James Henry and Emily Arrington Jones on September 3, 1924, in the family home near downtown Cary, NC.

…

Sallie Jones is a descendant of history Cary African American families where several of her ancestors were enslaved and came to Cary after the Civil War. She lived through desegregation and the Civil Rights movement and helped integrate the schools in Cary. Growing up in the Cary community, Sallie Jones was a beloved pillar of the community and the entire Town of Cary with her involvement. As an active AARP volunteer coordinator for years, this remarkable woman played a pivotal role for affordable housing and programs for seniors. She helped with plans to build Glenaire.

…

Sallie Jones was a 1940 graduate of Berry O’Kelly High School in the Method area and earned a French/English degree at St. Augustine’s College in Raleigh, NC. She spoke French very fluently and taught the French language in Parmele and Goldsboro, NC High Schools for twelve years. After receiving a master’s degree in French from the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris, France, she moved to Gary, Indiana where she taught advanced French and History at Horace Mann High School.

Sallie Jones enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to travel to 33 French-speaking countries and numerous cruises.

…

Sallie Jones made it her personal project in the 1980s to preserve the Cary First Christian Church historic cemetery dating back to the 1860s to save it from being lost. The work she began in the 1980s led to a resurgence of interest in the church cemetery in the early 2000s. With the help of volunteers from The Page-Walker Historical Society, Sallie’s tireless and dedicated efforts led to the identification of many names of people buried in unmarked graves in the church cemetery and becoming a Cary Historic Landmark and registered in the NC Archives Museum with the names of all buried there through 2002.

Sallie Jones received numerous recognitions and awards by the Town of Cary and Wake County through her work and belief in preserving what you have:

2000 – Received a bronze plaque by the Wake County Historic Preservation Commission

2021 – Key contributor to the development of the cemetery’s “Walking Tour” brochure

2022 – Honored with the Anthemion Award by the Capital Area Preservation in Raleigh

2024 – Winner of the Town of Cary’s Hometown Spirit Award

2025 – On March 22^nd for Arbor Day, a tree will be planted in her memory as well as a given plaque by the Town of Cary

…

What a journey we’ve experienced through the life and eyes of this strong Centenarian blessed only by God! …”

NCLM Town and State Dinner

Wednesday night I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson, and council member Craig at the annual North Carolina League of Municipality’s annual Town and State Dinner. It is the opportunity to talk with elected officials from all over the state and to hear from legislative leaders in the NC Senate and the NC House. In the panel discussion between NC Senate Majority Leader Berger and NC Senate Minority Leader Sydney Batch the biggest point of disagreement was the economy in the next three years. Berger believed there would be continued growth. Batch pointed out that 50% of the state’s budget was from the federal government and with massive cuts she believes we might “fall off a cliff”.

State of Cary Taping (short version)

Thursday afternoon I spent a couple of hours taping a ten-minute version of the State of Cary address. This was taped inside the council chambers from a few different angles. It will be posted on the town’s website soon. I also taped an opening for a staff version of the State of Cary address which will be available for their viewing.  

NC Metro Mayors

Friday the North Carolina Metro Mayors held a weekly meeting. Here is the legislative summary from Checkmate Government Relations:

Limits to AG Power

The North Carolina General Assembly filed two bills that restrict the Attorney General’s power to engage in any litigation against a President’s executive orders. House Bill 72 and Senate Bill 58 were introduced in response to the multiple law suits that Attorney General Jeff Jackson has filed against President Trump. The executive orders being challenged include ending birthright citizenship and issues related to the creation and work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). 

The bills cite Article 3 section 7 of the North Carolina Constitution which provides the General Assembly with the power to prescribe the Attorney General’s duties through law. The Senate version of the bill passed through the Senate Judiciary and Senate Rules Committees this week and could be heard on the Senate Floor as early as next week. 

Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum

This week, Senate Bill 145, Mecklenburg Transportation Referendum, was filed by Senate Transportation Chair Vickie Sawyer (R-Iredell) and Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick). The bill would allow the Mecklenburg County Commission to add a referendum to the ballot in 2025. If approved by voters, the referendum would provide the county with the ability to levy a one cent sales tax to fund transportation projects in the area. 40% of the funds will go to road improvements, 40% of the fund will go to rail improvements, and 20% of the fund will go towards the bus system. This would include funding the recently announced Red Line commuter rail, a project that will connect Uptown Charlotte with the northern Mecklenburg County suburbs, including Huntersville, Cornelius, and Davidson. 

Disaster Recovery Spending

House Bill 47, the “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I” passed unanimously through the House this week. The bill includes $500M in disaster relief funds, including:

• $125M to the Department of Commerce, Division of Community Revitalization, for the Home Reconstruction and Repair Program.
• $75M to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Soil & Water Conservation to be used for natural restoration projects for farmers and to protect communities against additional flood damage.  
• $75M to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for the Hurricane Helene Agricultural Crop Loss Program
• $100M to North Carolina Emergency Management for the Private Road and Bridge Repair and Replacement Program. 
• $55M to the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program. 
• $20M to the Office of State Budget Management to distribute to State agencies and units of local government for debris removal unmet needs.  
• $10M for the North Carolina Emergency Management to provide grants to any member of Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster. 
• $10M to the State Fire Marshal to provide funds for repairs of damage to fire stations, buildings, or vehicles used by rescue squads or emergency medical service providers.
• $10M to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Social Services, to supplement rental assistance payments. 
• $5M to the Department of Commerce for marketing towards tourism. 
• $15M to Golden LEAF to allocate to nonprofit organizations in the affected area. 

NC Border Protection Act

This week, Senate President Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) filed Senate Bill 153, the “North Carolina Border Protection Act.” S153, requires state agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Adult Corrections, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the State Highway Patrol, to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The MOA requires the agencies to cooperate with federal immigration officials and develop departmental policies for doing so. The bill disincentives agencies and public institutions, including universities, from creating sanctuary policies via immunity waivers. 

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

On Tuesday, I visited the Ivey-Ellington House with staff. They’ve worked hard to bring this remarkable home back to life and we’re excited to share it with you. Friends of the Page-Walker, members of the Historic Preservation Commission, and each of you will have a chance to tour the building in the coming months. 
The public will have a chance to tour the building during the ribbon cutting ceremony. 

Enjoy your weekend.

Sean

SAS Insights

Chief Information Officer Nicole Coughlin was honored to take the stage at SAS Insights this week, showcasing our partnership with SAS and how we’re leveraging data and Internet of Things (IoT) to drive innovation. She was thrilled to share the stage with Jason Mann, Vice President of IoT at SAS, to discuss the power of smart technology and data analytics in building resilient, future-ready communities—using data-driven insights to enhance adaptability, sustainability, and long-term community strength.

Water Main Replacement Update

Starting in early March, contractors will begin replacing approximately 1,100 feet of aging 12-inch fiber cement water main with new 12-inch ductile iron pipe along Kildaire Farm Rd, between Byrum St and Shirley Dr. This upgrade will increase the reliability and longevity of the downtown water distribution system and will take approximately four months to complete.

During construction, traffic delays and shifts will occur along Kildaire Farm Rd and intersecting side streets. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians should anticipate a combination of conventional and automated flaggers managing traffic, ensuring at least an alternating one-way flow is maintained.

Annual Disinfection Switchover Begins

The Cary/ Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) will begin its annual disinfection switchover on March 1. In accordance with state and federal recommendations, each year the treatment facility switches from its normal disinfection mixture of chlorine and ammonia to free chlorine. This change, combined with the flushing of Cary’s water lines, cleanses the system and helps ensure safe, high quality water throughout the year. During the switchover period, which will last until April 10, residents and customers may notice a minor increase in chlorine odor. In areas near active hydrant flushing, water may also appear slightly discolored. This activity is part of the normal water system maintenance process and occurs in tandem with several of our neighboring municipalities. For more information, visit www.carync.gov/waterchange.

Staff Visits WRAL Station

On Thursday, Police Sergeant- Public Relations Officer Kenric Alexander, along with 311 Assistant Director Carolyn Roman and 311 Communications Specialist Rebecca Pearce toured WRAL’s station. The visit provided an opportunity to connect with the professionals behind the scenes who produce, edit, and deliver news to the Triangle.

Cary maintains strong partnerships with local media and regularly collaborates with stations to ensure accurate and timely information reaches the community. As part of this ongoing effort, Cary staff remains committed to being accessible and responsive.

AMI Updates

This year marks the 14th anniversary of Aquastar! As a result, in the coming months contractors working on behalf of Cary will be upgrading aging Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters across our utility service area, which includes Cary, Morrisville, Wake County’s portion of RTP, and RDU Airport. These upgrades will ensure continued efficiency, accuracy, and reliability in water service for our citizens and customers. 

Annual Biosolids Report

Cary’s South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF), North Cary Water Reclamation Facility (NCWRF), and Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF) play a critical role in managing and treating biosolids through thermal drying processes. This process transforms nutrient-rich wastewater byproducts into EPA-Certified, Class A Exceptional Quality biosolids, which are then repurposed as a natural fertilizer and soil amendment. In 2024, the NCWRF and SCWRF together generated 3,481 dry tons of biosolids, while the WWRWRF produced 3,107 dry tons. These high-quality, dried biosolids—referred to as Enviro-Gems—are marketed to a vendor for use in the agribusiness sector. For a detailed overview, you can read the full 2024 Annual Biosolids Report  here.

Cary Utilities Welcomes Visitors

On Tuesday, Utilities staff from Aiken County, SC and Brunswick County, NC visited the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF) to observe Cary’s biosolids treatment process. Aiken County representatives also visited the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility (SCWRF) to exchange experiences with biosolids rotary drum dryer systems. Both communities are preparing to expand their wastewater treatment capabilities and came to learn from our experienced operators. These visits are part of broader collaborations on wastewater biosolids treatment that are taking place across the region.

Black History Month Highlights

Throughout February, Cary celebrated Black History & African American Appreciation Month with the theme, “Recognizing the Role of Creatives in Shaping Black History & Modern Culture.” The community enjoyed a variety of events, including a sold-out Neo Soul Jazz concert at the Cary Arts Center and films by African American creatives at The Cary Theater, which also hosted a Big Civil Rights Singalong. Art exhibitions at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center and Cary Arts Center highlighted Black history and culture, with classes inspired by influential Black artists. The Downtown Cary Park hosted a discussion on the transformational impact of Black creatives on modern culture, while the Senior Center hosted a Taste of Black History Luncheon. The celebrations concluded with the Youth Advocacy Summit at the Cary Arts Center, where youth organizations led sessions focused on service, belonging, and creative expression.

Statewide Aging Conference

Michelle Barrett, the Program Manager for Seniors and Aging, attended the North Carolina Association on Aging State Aging Conference in Chapel Hill this week. She engaged with other state leaders and received an update on the next steps for the All Ages All Stages plan. Keynote speakers, NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson and NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, addressed the conference, highlighting their dedication to protecting our aging population from fraud and scams.

Upcoming Meetings

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

Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, March 3
6:00 p.m.

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

Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 4
6:00 p.m.

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

District A Information Meeting
Wednesday, March 5
5:30 p.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Complaints about the proposed Waverly Place rezoning generated by a social media post asking folks to send the council emails.
• A request to make the old mall site an MLB location (the land is owned by Epic Games not Cary. We have no authority in the dealings of two private entities).
• A complaint about the tax rate.
• A complaint about the railroad crossing closure at Indian Wells Road.
• A complaint about me: “it looks more and more like old entrenched interests hiding behind ugly Soviet-era words like misinformation and disinformation, who simply don’t like the idea that somebody with an alternative viewpoint might express a different opinion…” (Wow! Really?! That is exactly opposite of how I operate. I have 17 years of council meetings to prove it! BTW, everything I do is public record and available to anyone.)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with private investors, a HRID meeting, a short version of the State of Cary at a District A meeting, and a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 9^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I briefly met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. Our topics of conversation included a visit from the Le Touquet mayor, the death of Sallie Jones, the upcoming Wake County Mayors Association meeting and topics, and the retreat agenda.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday night I participated in a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association. Ten of the twelve mayors were present. The only absent mayors were Knightdale, due to an illness, and Wake Forest, who was giving her annual address.

We heard a presentation from a representative of the Wake County Cultural Arts. The mayors discussed several topics including the CAMPO-GoTriangle money dispute, zip codes, budgets, and NCDOT. Concerns were expressed about losing federal money for projects.

Council Work Session

Tuesday night five of seven council members attended a work session in the RTIC (Real Time Information Center). We got to see how our police and fire departments remain on the “cutting edge not the bleeding edge” in their technology. They demonstrated how they used existing devices and data with AI can provide real-time assistance to officers in the field. Body cameras, traffic cameras, and other cameras can be used in the command center to see the situation. Of course, no private camera is used without permission. But a private individual can be sent a text so that their phone camera can be used if they wanted to help. This has proven effective in quickly assessing a situation and providing the correct response. There were many examples that were shown in how this was used. In one example, an autistic child riding away from home on a bicycle was found within minutes using real-time cameras.

Snowstorm #2

Wednesday evening and overnight Cary experienced its second snowstorm of the winter. Most of Cary had two to three inches. I am proud of Cary’s A-team response. By noon on Thursday Cary’s roads were wet but clear. By Thursday afternoon they were dry. I don’t know of any other municipality in the region that had that kind of response. A big thank you to all the public works folks who worked throughout the night.

Public Works ARE the Best!

While the snowstorm was in progress, our public works department was collecting trash, recycling, and yard waste. They were notified that the landfill would be closed Wednesday at noon through Thursday and open Friday. This meant that all trash collected on Wednesday would have to remain in the trucks until Friday, then disposed of at the landfill, and then they could collect trash on Friday. On Thursday night they were notified that the landfill would not open until noon which meant they couldn’t empty their trucks and do routes on Friday. Due to the great partnerships our staff has, they got permission to empty their trucks in Sanford and a private convenience center so they could do Friday’s routes. And it was done at basically the same cost. This is just another example of why Cary’s public works department is the best of the best.

North Carolina Metro Mayors

The North Carolina Metro Mayors met on Friday. Here is the legislative summary from Checkmate Government Relations:

Bill Filing

Bill filing is underway at the North Carolina General Assembly. So far, the House has filed 151 bills, and the Senate has filed 116 bills. The bill filing deadline is approaching in both the House (March 6) and the Senate (February 27). Bills that are not impacted by the bill filing deadline include: 

• Redistricting bills for the House, Senate, Congress, or local entities
• Ratification of amendments to the Constitution of the United States
• Bills providing for action on gubernatorial nominations or appointments
• Appointments by the General Assembly
• Adjournment resolutions
• Bills proposing amendments to the North Carolina Constitution
• Statutory changes necessary to implement State constitutional amendments
• Bills addressing election laws.
• Bills introduced on the report of the House Committees on Appropriation, Finance, or Rules

Crossover Deadline is currently set for Thursday, May 8, 2025. For a non-appropriations bill to be considered in the biennium, it must pass through its chamber of origin by this date. 

Hurricane Helene Recovery Bill

Due to the impending inclement weather, the House canceled floor and committee votes this week. House Bill 47, “The Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I,” is expected to receive a House floor vote next week. This bill includes additional appropriations for disaster relief and appropriates $500M for road and bridge repair, farmland repair, home repair, and debris clean up. 

NC Innovation Funds

NC Innovation was founded in 2020 to help provide researchers at Universities across North Carolina with funds for projects that may lack the immediate return on investment private investors require. Last year, the North Carolina Senate proposed appropriating $1.4B to the organization. During budget negotiations, the House and Senate agreed to send the organization $500M. 

This week, a group of legislators filed House Bill 154 that requires NC Innovation to pay back the $500M in full. The legislators cited the unforeseen catastrophic weather events our state suffered at the end of 2024 and the impending budgetary needs to fund recovery. 

Council-Staff Two Day Working Retreat

The council and several dozen staff members met all day, Friday and Saturday, at a Cary location for our annual working retreat.

Friday started with an icebreaker contest about Cary facts:

• Cary’s population in 2025 is 191,000.
• The average age of Cary residents is 39.6.
• Cary staff maintains 518 miles of streets.
• Cary staff maintain 145 facilities.
• The Cary police department has 198 officers.
• Cary has 200 miles of fiber.
• Cary staff maintains 228 signalized intersections.
• Cary has 700 vehicles in its fleet.
• Cary has 105 miles of greenway.
• It takes $221.2 million of General Fund to support daily operations.

The manager opened the retreat with a presentation that included:

• Town Council Value Choices:

• Is maintaining an AAA rating a priority?
• Is maintaining a low tax rate a priority?
• Is maintaining existing services and infrastructure a priority?
• Is adjusting our existing and future capital program expectation a priority?
• Community acceptability of all the above

• Three Objectives for the retreat: budget/framework/trends, draft multi-year framework model, capital budget thinking
• 14% of Cary’s population is over 65
• 25% of Cary’s population was foreign born
• 29% of Cary is working from home
• “As Cary runs out of land for development and enters a new phase of slower growth in the next 10 to 20 years, the Town could experience a declining rate of revenue growth.”
• Influx Subsidy ERA is Over – Yet the Built Environment remains and is aging & along with our residents
• You can’t have stable services, low density, and low taxes together.
• Stable services with low density mean higher taxes.
• Stable services with low taxes mean more density.
• Low density and low taxes mean cuts in services.

The next presentation focused on the LIVE chapter of the Cary Community Plan. Here are some notes that I took away from that presentation:

• Our Values
  • Maintain and enhance existing residential fabric buildings with strong design
  • Create new sustainable mixed-use neighborhoods
  • Include additional residential choices for variety of lifestyles, ages, cultures, income
• Competing Goals
  • High Property Values vs Affordability
  • Preservation vs Evolution
  • Suburban Character vs Densification
  • Redevelopment vs Additional Supply
• Rehabilitation and Preservation: over half of homes were built before 2000 with most near Cary’s core where incomes are lower on average
• New Home Production: Residential market remains strong with potential demand for a balanced mix and additional 1,975 homes per year
• Household Stability: Households are cost stable. Lowest income residents are experiencing high-cost burden, increasing vulnerability to housing instability
• 38,221 of Cary’s 70,780 homes were built before 2000.
• Oldest homes are largely in downtown Cary and south/southwest
• Old housing occupied by households with lower income on average
• Cary’s existing housing supply is 73% single units and 27% multi-family housing
• Median price for homes on the market is $620,000
• Multi-family rental housing is averaging $1720/month
• 5% of Cary households are below the federal poverty level
• The average household size is 2.61
• 29% of Cary households are non-family
• By 2040 there will be demand for an additional 39,500 new homes in Cary
• By 2040 there will be demand for an additional 948 multi-family units and 1027 single-family units (some of which could be attached)
• Cary added 443 multi-family units in FY2024 and 996 in FY2023, which is well below the five-year average
• Goal is to encourage a balanced mix of future housing
• Housing stability has proven to provide a lower crime rate, a higher employment rate, a higher graduation rate, a higher generational wealth, a greater social connection, and improved mental health
• Those that are housing cost-burdened experience food insecurity, a health and well-being impact, higher divorce and parental stress, lower generational wealth, and housing instability & homelessness
• Cary median home price is $620,000 which requires $180,000 of income
• Cary currently has Stable Homes Cary, Journey Home Program with The Carying Place, and other partnerships to increase affordable opportunities

The next presentation focused on the SHAPE chapter of the Cary Community Plan. Here are some notes that I took away from that presentation:

• Cary is evolving. This includes demographics and development patterns. As Cary runs out of land there will be more infill and redevelopment.
• As Cary runs out of land for development and enters a new phase of slower growth in the next 10 to 20 years, the Town could experience a declining rate of revenue growth.
• The Imagine Cary Community Plan describes what we are experiencing today.
• The Future will be different from the past. Imagine Cary articulates the Town’s vision and values to set the course for achieving Cary’s desired future.
• On average, 80% of new revenue growth comes from new tax base to the Town. As growth slows due to limited land for development, new revenue generation models will be needed to maintain the level of service residents have come to expect.
• Per capita income in Cary is $63,806
• Cary has 110 detached single units and 127 attached single units under construction
• There are currently 1,521 multi-family units under construction
• There are currently 1,462,926 square feet of non-residential under construction
• In 2015 Cary had 18% of undeveloped land. Today that is 14%. There is 12.4% in the pipeline
• With both limited land for development and the presence of aging commercial and residential developments, the Town faces a changing paradigm where new projects will increasingly come in the form of infill development and redevelopment of existing properties.
• There are many properties in Cary where the land value is greater than the structure’s value. For example, inside the Maynard loop and MacGregor.
• There were 67 teardown and rebuilds from 2018 to 2025
• The One Walker property had a value of $306,867 in 2010. It is now worth $56,472,692
• 120 and 124 Urban Street had a value of $227,561 in 2010. It is now worth $2,401,088
• Cary’s Business Improvement District has an assessed value of $500 million with around 35% of the land exempt from taxes. It was established in 2012
• Cary needs to upgrade major water lines on Kildaire which gives us an opportunity to transform Kildaire into a vibrant, walkable, urban mixed-use corridor

The last item on Friday was a driving tour of District D with Cary council, staff, and public in attendance. We visited Parkside Town Commons, Alston Yards, Park Overlook, Amberly, Earnest Jones, Diavolo at New Hope, the American Tobacco Trail, Destin, the future White Oak Park, Duke Health, Virdis, Bell Canto, Thomas Brooks Park – USA Baseball, Mills Park School and compost site, McCrimmon Neighborhood Park, Carpenter Fire Station Park, and Alston Regional Destination Center.

The first presentation on Saturday focused on the SERVE chapter of the Cary Community Plan. Here are some notes that I took away from that presentation:

• Cary is recognized nationally as a service leader.
• The level of service and priorities are determined by the council.
• The SERVE values are equitable and inclusive governance, high-quality public services, and comprehensive and top-quality facilities and infrastructure
• Cary’s population is projected to be 270,000 by 2040.
• Cary’s demographics in 2040 are projected to be 45% white, 5% black, 25% Asian, and 15% Hispanic
• Since 2017 Cary has added 30 miles of street maintenance, 47 miles of sidewalks, 29 miles of greenways, 132 miles of water mains, 81 miles of sewer mains, 13 miles of stormwater pipes, 85 miles of fiber, 23,632 hours of public transit. It has seen the median home price go from $356,800 to $647,748. The median household income has gone from $99,209 to $125,000.
• Operational demands for maintaining the level of service, infrastructure, and facilities include:
  • Maintenance of roads, utilities, and public buildings
  • Expanding smart systems for waste and traffic management
  • Renewable energy initiatives for town facilities
  • World-class facilities and competitive programming
• Construction challenges include supply chain issues, inflation, market driven industry, skilled labor, and availability of materials
• Raw Material Costs in the last 5 years:
  • Rebar $52 to $119.76 (130%)
  • Asphalt $428.05 to $550.00 (28%)
  • Concrete $150.45 to $215.00 (43%)
  • Sidewalk Construction $20 linear foot to $60 linear foot (200%)
  • Street Resurfacing $12.25 sq yd to $16.85 sq yd (38%)
  • Sanitation truck regular $299,317 to $416,496 (39%)
• Fire and police additional demands since 2017
  • 6,427 single family units
  • 5,871 multi-family units
  • 7,589,221 sq ft of commercial space
• Cary Fire Department remains an Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 and internationally accredited agency, 1 of 121 departments nationwide to hold both
• Fire responses since 2017 are up 59.76%
• Cary provides high-level fire services following national consensus standards
• Past investments have allowed the fire department to maintain current service levels
• Continuous investments will be needed to maintain response model service levels
• Cary remains one of the safest communities in the nation
• Cary police experience operational impacts including increased calls for service, special events, emergency response times, growth in 3 counties, time to hire and train, space for evidence, training, and storage, and future capital improvements
• In the last 5 years property crime has been up and violent crimes are down.
• Most property crimes are crimes of opportunity like leaving doors unlocked.
• Challenges to our IT include rising cyber threats, potential breach incidence, regulatory framework, and protecting sensitive data
• IT opportunities for the future:
  • Enhancing municipal services with real-time data and automation and data management
  • Pedestrian and bicycle counters, drones, smart meters, and stormwater sensors
  • LoRaWAN network deployment for IoT Connectivity and efficiency
  • Integrating AI and IoT to create a sustainable, intelligent urban ecosystem

The last two presentations on Saturday focused on Budget Prioritization. A lot of the presentation material was educational material about budgets. Here are some notes that I took away from those presentations:

• 80% of our General Fund revenue is from property tax and sales tax.
• Cary’s assessed value from reevaluation went from $36 Billion to $52 Billion
• Property and sales tax revenue are growing much slower and are basically flat.
• 71% of our expenses are Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks, and the general government that supports all services. Those expenses impact our tax rate the most.
• Cary is in maintenance mode. Staff recommend continuing projects that are mandated, maintain existing infrastructure, and underway and at a point where it’s difficult to stop. Staff recommend stopping projects that are cost-prohibitive or haven’t begun or at a point where work can be stopped.
• Cary needs recurring funding of $5 million a year to replace critical technology and maintain Cary facilities.
• Cary currently has 1328 full-time employees that make up 53% of the budget. A 1% cut would result in eliminating 14 employees.
• Cary’s fund balance policy (savings) is set at 33.3% of the operating budget. A 1% reduction in policy is $2.8 million.
• The Fund Balance:
  • Avoid Local Government Commission warnings
  • Help protect credit rating and obtain lower interest rates on borrowings
  • Cash flow
  • Avoid short-term borrowing
  • Reserve for emergencies, unforeseen events, and unexpected opportunities
• Cary’s debt service policy is to stay under 20% of operational expenditures. We are well under that. $10 million of debt is about $1 million in recurring debt service.

My takeaways:

I believe this retreat marks the start of a new chapter for Cary. The days of enjoying the highest quality of life with the lowest tax rate in Wake County are behind us. With flat revenue growth and rising expenses, both the council and citizens will face a crucial decision. Will we opt for higher taxes moving forward, or are we willing to accept no longer being the best of the best? It’s important to recognize that being the best often impacts critical services, such as fire and police, where it could literally mean the difference between life and death. The dialogue between staff, the council, and the public will continue over the coming months, with the budget set for approval on June 26th.

Waverly Place Rezoning

There was an email campaign launched against the council by people opposing the Waverly Place rezoning. It included comments like “You should be ashamed of yourselves for even considering this rezoning” and “I don’t have faith that you care about anything other than making money.”

Due to the number of emails I had to do a cut-and-paste response to try and address them all:

“…

Misinformation about rezoning

Some information and statements sent to me are incorrect. You can find factual information here.

Who is proposing

This is not a council proposal it is a proposal from the applicant who is the owner of Waverly Place. The owner/applicant is HGIT (Hines Global Income Trust). FYI, they were partners in building Fenton.

The Applicant Doesn’t Care and is Trying to Make Money

While a rezoning doesn’t go with the applicant but the location, the applicant in this case lives in Cary and plans to remain here.

Why are we allowing this

We aren’t “allowing” anything but are reviewing. The mayor and council have a sworn duty to review all applications. Our job is to determine if the request matches the Cary Community Plan. That plan was created by Cary citizens over a three-year period, approved by council in 2017, and an update was approved this year. That is what guides our development.

There are too many apartments

The type of use in certain areas is determined by the Cary Community plan.

Cary is over 90% built out. The remaining land is hard to develop because of topography and other reasons. That means future requests we see are mostly redevelopment. Shopping centers will see redevelopment. More on that later.

Land in Cary is VERY expensive. For Instance, almost all homes inside the Maynard Loop, most in MacGregor, and some in other areas have land that is worth more than the structure. So, to make projects viable applicants increase density.

The region is short on housing supply. There is great demand for all types of housing including apartments.

Those are the reasons we are seeing multi-family proposals. But again, it must match the Cary Community Plan which was created by Cary citizens. That is why there are mostly apartments being proposed.

The Future of Large and Medium Shopping Centers

The future of large and medium shopping centers looks bleak. Why? Shopping habits have changed (including mine). It is much easier to order something online and have it delivered to your front door rather than going to a shopping center.

Building Height

There will be balloons floated on Tuesday, February 25^th. This will allow everyone to see from all directions what the maximum building height would look like. Living close to the area I believe it will not be visible from Lochmere but will be seen on Tryon Road and Kildaire Farm. Of course, the building height is similar to the hospital across the street.

Stormwater

This was a concern of mine that I mentioned at the public hearing especially since they were grandfathered in. It is my understanding that the applicant has added conditions that will make stormwater mitigations so that after development the stormwater situation would be as good or better than it currently is .

Traffic

Cary used to have an ordinance that required road capacity before development. Makes sense right? Well, court cases showed that was an extremely risky ordinance so it was removed. The roads adjacent to Waverly are at their maximum widths. Any improvements would likely be in the form of turn lanes. As far as road improvements, we can’t require much from the developers. While you can deny a rezoning based on traffic, doing so in a location where both roads are at their maximum widths is a big risk.

Tryon and Kildaire Farm Road are both state roads. That is unfortunate since state funding is already lacking and federal funding will likely have additional funding cuts. I doubt you will see improvements on those roads any time soon, but I am hoping I am wrong.

Most of the traffic on Kildaire and Tryon is pass-through. That means people are not originating or terminating at Waverly. That also means that future traffic will get worse no matter what happens at Waverly. Why? This region, not only Cary, will see significant growth in the next ten to twenty years.

You are doing this to make money

I will ignore how insulting that is and speak to the men and women who make up the council and staff.

Cary is blessed to have some of the finest men and women serving on the council. They have a wide variety of backgrounds including IT, business owners, and retirees. I have seen MANY different councils around the country (in my consulting job) and there is nothing that compares to Cary.

Cary council members make around 12K a year, the mayor pro-tem a little more, and the mayor around 15K. So no, we don’t make money off anything.

Our staff was ranked the #1 government a couple of years ago.  They are by far the best of the best

What’s next?

It will go to the Planning and Zoning board, a council appointed advisory board, for their review and recommendation as to whether this meets the Cary Community Plan.

It will come to council in a few months for a vote. If it passes, then staff will review site plan submittals. If it fails, then they have to wait a year to resubmit another request.

It is important to know that they have the right to redevelop certain uses now without any council vote. For example, they could build a Dollar General. I certainly don’t want that.

I think it is in everyone’s best interest to work with the applicant.

IMHO, this and all shopping centers will need to consider redevelopment or die. If they die, then we risk blight and crime. We have seen MacGregor Village struggle. We are currently seeing the shopping center with Big Lots suffer. That will be an interesting one to watch. Of course, the Cary Town mall died and was bought by EPIC. They tore it down and currently have no proposals to do anything with the land.

I hope this information is helpful. I would encourage you contact Katie.Drye@carync.gov if you have any questions.

…”

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint that we need to “right size our local government”.
• A complaint that Cary did not brine a cul-de-sac.
• A complaint that DEI is supported in WCPS. And that “Democrats lost by a landslide for a reason”. And that WCPSS support of DEI will cause them to lose federal funding.
• A request to “do everything in your power in NC to resist Trump in any way you can.”

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, the funeral for Sallie Jones, a taping of Cary Matters, a North Carolina League of Municipalities state dinner, a State of Cary taping, and a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, March 2^nd, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I briefly met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. Our topic was about the 2019 bond projects and the upcoming reprioritization of capital projects at the retreat.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

Monday night I met the Cary Tennis Classic board. We talked about the dates for our professional tournament which have been set for June 29^th through July 6^th. It will be a combined men’s and women’s event. We also talked about events leading up to the tournament and events during the week of the tournament. Other topics included sponsorship and how to show appreciation and get them involved.

Economic Development

Wednesday night I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson and council member Jack Smith for the Economic Development Committee meeting. The agenda included presentations and discussions on marketing Cary, development updates, and the Cary Chamber’s quarterly report.

Here are some notes from the marketing presentation:

• 2025 Goals of marketing team
  • Increase regional, national, international investments
  • Higher-profile sports and entertainment events
  • Increase regional visitation
• Performance Indicators Used
  • Web traffic to venues
  • Social engagement outside NC
  • Downtown visitation
  • Economic Development website traffic
• Marketing team’s work with chamber
  • Data-backed marketing efforts, CaryED.com
  • Storytelling
  • Updating Economic Development materials
  • Supporting ED with pitches and paid advertising
• TST (The Soccer Tournament)
  • $15 million in economic impact last year
  • Goal: to increase attendance to support return in future years
  • Focus on travel markets: Atlanta, NYC, Charlotte, Wilmington, D.C.
• Koka Booth Amphitheater celebrates its 25th anniversary this year
• Naming Cary C A R E Y on November 1^st was a huge exposure across the country
• Cary was one of the Christmas webcams from around the world
• The CEO magazine will feature our Public Works Director Matt Flynn
• Some of the unique things Cary is known for today
  • Fortnite – Epic Games
  • Golf – SAS Championships
  • Umstead – Top hotel in NC
  • Cheez-Its – Most made in Cary

Here are some takeaways from the development update:

• Development patterns remain consistent with Imagine Cary
• Projects are clustered in large developments, very small projects, and Downtown
• Multi-family interest continues to be strong
• In 2015 Cary had 18% undeveloped land, in 2024 Cary had 14%, there is 12.5% in the pipeline
• In Q2 (October – December) there were 20 cases seeking rezoning and 1 approved (South Hills). No approvals in Q1
• In Q2 4 rezoning cases were submitted (Trinity Road PDD, Weston PDD, Wake Western Regional, 420 South Harrison)
• Rezoning conversion rate is around 14% which is consistent with the last 5 years
• Site plans approved by staff included 49 townhomes and 126 multi-family units
• Site plans for Q2 were the lowest in years
• There were 55 residential permits issued in Q2 which is the lowest in years
• There have been 200 single unit permits issued so far this year, which is the lowest in at least the last 35 years.
• A large development called Alston Yards, at Highway 55 and O’Kelly Chapel, was approved
• Imagine Cary Community Plan 2024 Update was approved

Here are some takeaways from the Cary Chamber’s Quarterly report:

• Unemployment as of December 31^st: Cary 2.5%, Wake County 2.9%, NC 3.7%, and US 4%
• Flex-Light Industrial product development: 65,000 sq ft should begin construction this spring on Northgate Court
• The Dow, up 12.88% last year, shows favorable market conditions
• Federal Reserve rate cuts are expected to be down to 3.75% to 4% by the end of the year.

North Carolina Metro Mayors

Friday I participated in a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors. Here is a summary of Legislative Action from Checkmate Government Relations:

Helene Relief Continued

Members of the House continue to advance House Bill 47, the “Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part I.” The House Select Committee on Helene Recovery met to amend sections of the bill. These changes focus on appropriating money towards homes, farmlands, private bridges, and road repairs. The Appropriations Committee approved these changes, and the bill has been sent to House Rules, where it could receive a hearing as early as next week. 

The House Finance Committee met to discuss House Bill 48.  This bill expands Executive Order 322 issued by former Governor Roy Cooper. The Order is set to expire on March 1, 2025, and primarily dealt with Unemployment Benefits during the Hurricane Helene Disaster. H48 increases the cap of maximum benefits under current unemployment law to $450 and adds an employer a tax credit for unemployment tax on wages paid in 2025.

Digital Currency Bill

House Bill 92, the “NC Digital Investments Act,” was filed by new Speaker Destin Hall (R-Caldwell) along with Representative Ross (R-Alamance) and freshman member Representative Schietzelt (R-Wake). This bill allows the North Carolina State Treasury Department to invest in certain digital assets but sets strict standards and guidelines for these digital investments.  

Senate Passes Health Insurance Bill

Senate Bill 24 passed a floor vote in the Senate this week with a 30-15 vote. The bill requires any new mandate in the State’s health insurance plan to be offset by repealing an existing mandate. Senate Bill 24 requires disclosure that any additional mandates do not cause an increase in costs in the State’s health insurance plan. The bill next moves through the NC House of Representatives.  

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

It’s been a productive week, especially as we prepare for the retreat. We’ll send out the agenda early next week, and the staff and I look forward to seeing you there.
Since we’ll all be together next Friday, there will be no weekly report on February 21.
Finally – and most importantly – Happy Birthday, Jennifer!

Enjoy your weekend.
Sean

Jordan Lake One Water & US Water Alliance Meeting

On Thursday, Councilmember Lori Bush and staff attended the One Water – One Vision meeting, co-hosted by the Jordan Lake One Water Coalition (JLOW) and US Water Alliance. Held at RTI International, the event brought together water stakeholders from across North Carolina to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions for water challenges in the Jordan Lake watershed. Attendees represented a range of sectors, including stormwater, drinking water, wastewater, agriculture, and land conservation.

As JLOW Chair, Councilmember Bush shared insights into the organization’s history and key achievements. Later, Betsy Drake from the Utilities Department presented Cary’s efforts to optimize water treatment, specifically its work on PFAS treatment and mitigation at the Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility.

NCDOT’S Draft State Transportation Improvement Plan

NCDOT has released a draft update to the State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) for review and comment. The STIP is updated every two years, identifying funding and schedules for NCDOT projects over a 10-year period from 2026-2035. In this year’s draft, there are changes to timelines for eight NCDOT projects in Cary . NCDOT is taking public comments on the recent updates through April 4 and a finalized version will be approved by the NC Board of Transportation in Summer 2025.

My Tree, Our Tree Has Branched Out

My Tree, Our Tree is branching out this spring with two opportunities to receive a free tree. The first event took place last Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park, where hundreds of Cary residents picked up saplings and learned about tree care.
Thanks to a partnership with community nonprofit Project Pando, our 2025 trees have been sourced from local seeds, are sized for easier maintenance, and grown to maximize future life expectancy. New in 2025, our pickup events now feature hands-on tree planting demonstrations, a Q&A with certified arborists, and nature-themed activities for children.
Through this innovative environmental initiative, more than 200 trees will find homes on private properties across town. The second giveaway will be held during Cary’s Arbor Day celebration on March 22.

The Cary Cup

Cary, with the support of The Soccer Tournament (TST), is proud to announce The Cary Cup, the nation’s first 7v7 youth soccer tournament featuring TST’s revolutionary Target Score Time™.
Taking place at premier sports venues in the Cary area from June 6-8, this groundbreaking event will offer a festival-like atmosphere and include TST tickets for youth players, discounted tickets for players’ families, and a free shuttle to TST. Teams will compete for a spot in The Cary Cup finals, which will be held at WakeMed Soccer Park on the same fields as TST’s biggest stars and celebrities.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – March 5

The following Neighborhood Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 6:30 PM.

• 25-REZ-05 6708 Bandelier Lane Rezoning

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

Upcoming Meetings

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Tuesday, February 18
 5:30 p.m.

Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, February 19
6:15 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Annual/Retreat Meeting)
Friday, February 21
8:30 a.m.

Town Council Meeting (Annual/Retreat Meeting)
Saturday, February 22
8:30 a.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A recommendation that Cary should have a DOGE because of the “recent election Mandate”, “cancel the electric garbage and fire trucks”, a “reduction in building and inspections”, “cancel the DEI dept.”, and “what happened to Mayberry”.
• A complaint about a permit taking too long.
• A request to know what I am “actively doing to protect the citizens of Cary from Trump’s abhorrent discriminatory, and illegal actions.”
• A request to hold a hackathon.
• A complaint that a part time contract employee that works “underrepresented minority communities” cannot be a full-time employee.
• A request to offer developers incentives “to build even time home rentals”.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association, a meeting with congresswoman Foushee, a council work session, a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board, and the annual council/staff retreat.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 23^rd, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. We were joined by Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson. Topics included retreat topics, CAMPO and GoTriangle funding dispute, and the budget.

NWSL Chief of Staff Meeting

Tuesday morning I joined Assistant Town Manager Curan in a meeting with Mma Afoaku, Chief of Staff to the Commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League. In our meeting we discussed how Cary and the WakeMed Soccer Park can be involved in the 2026 World Cup which will be coming to the U.S.

HRID Meeting

Tuesday night I attended the monthly meeting of the Human Relations, Inclusiveness, and Diversity Board meeting. We heard from the town manager about the budget and the board made a few recommendations. They also discussed demographic data, and the various languages public safety information should be in. I provided a few remarks in the end on current and upcoming events. I also emphasized to them that everyone is welcome in Cary and that we embrace our diversity, whatever that diversity may be.

Council Work Session

Thursday evening the council held a work session on the budget to prepare for the upcoming annual council/staff retreat in Cary. After the retreat the council will start holding budget work sessions in March and April. The council will receive a recommended budget from the town manager on May 10^th. Here are some of my takeaways from the work session:

• Individual council members have expressed interest in holding the tax rate flat, retaining our AAA bond ratings, maintaining existing infrastructure, and maintaining levels of service. The town manager said that these are in conflict.
• The majority of the town’s expenditures are police, fire, and public works.
• All councils have an obligation to think about future residents.
• The council may consider using BID (Business Improvement District) assessments for downtown.
• For years Cary has funded capital projects with overages from the annual budget. (Municipalities in NC have to have a balanced budget and can’t go over budget without pulling money from Capital Reserves) Overages are close to 0 now.
• Currently there is a council policy to have four months of operating budget in capital reserves which significantly exceeds requirements.

The council will discuss the budget on the second day of our retreat.

Council Meeting

The council held its first regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday. The agenda included four consent items, two public hearings, and two discussion items.

The public hearing on the Wake Western Regional Center drew a few speakers. One speaker said that he was concerned that people on welfare would be so close to his properties and that would cause more crime. The Wake Western Regional Center would provide services to Wake County residents that include healthcare support, employment assistance, and vital documentation. The proposed location is next to Dorcas Ministries.

The second public hearing was to split a lot on Charles Street, next to Chatham Street, for two single family homes. The existing home is dilapidated and hasn’t been lived in for years. One of the speakers complained that it wouldn’t fit the character/size of the current houses nearby. This is not true.

The two discussion items were for the annexation and rezoning of Alston Yards across from Parkside Commons. This is a large mixed-use development of over 46 acres. The proposal uses a land swap with the Town of Cary. It will have 400K square feet of office, 55K square feet of commercial, 1120 multifamily dwellings or less with a hotel, 25K square feet of community gathering space, 7 acres of open space, and 40K square feet for a town linear park. The council approved this unanimously.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday the NC Metro Mayors held their weekly meeting to get a legislative update. Here is a summary from the Director of Urban Affairs:

Checkmate Government Relations Legislative Update

As we enter the second week of the legislative session, bills continue to be filed in the House and Senate. Some committees have begun meeting, though we expect that to be a slow process as there are numerous new members of the leadership, especially on the House side. This week saw meetings of the Senate Committee on Health Care, the Senate Commerce and Insurance Committee, and the House Select Committee on Hurricane Helene Recovery. We have also heard a significant amount of discussion regarding how the government efficiency model we are seeing discussed at the federal level will permeate to the state level.

Down-zoning Provision – SB 382 [SL 2024-57, p. 131]

Discussions continue regarding solutions to address the challenges facing cities and towns from the downzoning language. NCLM Government Affairs team members continue to have conversations with legislators regarding solutions and relaying feedback provided by local leaders across the state. As we mentioned in last week’s update, we have already seen multiple bills filed, some of which repeal the provision in specific counties.  Representative Jay Adams has also filed House Bill 24, a full statewide repeal of the downzoning provisions. Our team has been working with attorneys from across the state and in concert with the NC Association of County Commissioners to develop potential options to address this issue. In the next week, we expect there to be additional discussions with legislators in both chambers.

A question was asked in the meeting about having municipalities pass resolutions or draft letters signaling their opposition to the downzoning provisions and encouraging legislators to repeal the existing language. NCLM Government Affairs continues to encourage local leaders to pass these at their discretion and continue to share their stories of how the language impacts their communities.

We will continue to keep you informed of where the conversation is progressing and always appreciate insight from your respective areas.

Guest Speaker: Jim McCleskey

During today’s call, we had Jim McCleskey, Director of North Carolina’s Washington, DC office, join us for an in-depth discussion of recent activities on Capitol Hill as well as with federal agencies. A significant amount of effort is being focused on Western North Carolina and recovery activities from Hurricane Helene. Jim discussed how, with recent confirmations of multiple agency leaders, the pace of activity has picked up significantly. In the coming weeks, visits from the interim FEMA and EPA Administrators and the new Secretaries of Homeland Security and Transportation are expected in western North Carolina.

Jim spent significant time discussing the current status of the transportation-related projects in western North Carolina. It is currently estimated that there are roughly $5 billion in damages to roadways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure, with $350 million already being spent on repairs to date. He outlined the various funding mechanisms utilized to repair federal, state, and private roads. While USDOT and FEMA monies can be spent to repair government roads, a bipartisan group of members of the state’s Congressional delegation has introduced legislation in both the House and Senate to allow private roads and bridges to be eligible for FEMA’s Public Assistance program. No action has been taken as of yet, but it will be an important issue to watch.

We also discussed the current conversations on Capitol Hill regarding the continuation of federal funding (the December continuing resolution expires in late March) and President Trump’s recent actions through Executive Orders to pause, delay, or suspend countless programs. While there remains a significant amount of gray area, there have been positive conversations related to multiple programs. NCLM staff will share additional information about the information coming out of department-level programs as we receive it. 

Jim encouraged all attendees to reach out to him whenever they have any questions. His contact information is as follows:

Jim McCleskey, Director

North Carolina Washington Office

444 North Capitol Street NW, Suite 332, Washington DC 20001

(O) 202-624-5833

(M) 984-218-0086

jim.mccleskey@nc.gov

Public Safety: HB 50 “LEO Special Separation Allowance Options”

Community & Economic Development:

Clean Fuel Advanced Technology (CFAT) Project Grant Funding; Federal Grants Freeze and Other Administrative Decisions of Federal Funding

Local Revenues & Local Control:

Down-zoning provision in SB 382 [SL 2024-57]

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

I hope you enjoy the latest updates from the week. 
Have a great weekend. 
Sean

Council Work Session February 6

The UNC School of Government has several informative blog posts about the budgeting process.  In this post, they explain what happens if a budget is not adopted by July 1.  In summary, without a budget, a local government has no authority to expend funds.  Typically, “interim appropriations” are made which authorize limited spending on employee salaries, debt service, and “usual ordinary” expenses, which must be funded with available fund balance or current revenues.  

25^th Anniversary of Hum Sub

Councilmember Kohn-Johnson attended the special 25th-anniversary celebration of Hum Sub, joining community members and local leaders, in recognizing the organization’s enduring impact in fostering cultural connection and appreciation. The evening featured Invoking the River, a captivating performance by the renowned Chitresh Das, held at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in Raleigh. The event underscored Hum Sub’s dedication to bringing the community together through signature celebrations like Basant Bahar and Hum Sub Diwali. Cary is grateful for Hum Sub’s contributions and the vital role cultural events play in enriching the community—both over the past 25 years and in the years to come.

Share and Care

Councilmember Michelle Craig attended Cary’s Share & Care event, a one-stop opportunity for persons with disabilities, family members, care providers, and anyone interested in gathering information to learn about the amazing services our community offers. Share & Care was held today at the Herb Young Community Center. Close to 50 booths were set up sharing information on everything from resources for seniors, GoCary, the CERT team, to our wonderful community engagement staff.

Impediments to Fair Housing Community Meeting

In conjunction with Cary’s continued preparation of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Plan, Cary is partnering with Wake County, the City of Raleigh, the Wake County Housing Authority, and the Raleigh Housing Authority to develop a regional Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). This week, Cary staff and municipal partners participated in a community meeting at the NW Cary YMCA, to gather feedback from stakeholders on Fair Housing issues. The meeting was a part of a larger community engagement effort throughout Wake County which also includes a Fair Housing survey that can be found on Cary’s housing page.

Opportunities for High School Students

A new page on Cary’s website highlights the unique programs and opportunities available for high school students eager to learn about local government operations, public service careers, and essential life skills. Encourage a future leader to explore the possibilities at www.carync.gov/studentopportunities.

High House Road and West Chatham Street Pedestrian Refresh

Cary staff and contractors will be refreshing pedestrian access points at the High House Rd. and W. Chatham St. intersection. Improvements will include ADA ramp upgrades, installation of a new crosswalk and upgrades to the existing crosswalk, and new signage. Work began February 6 and is expected to continue for two weeks, weather dependent. 

North Carolina’s Future Cities Competition

On January 25, Transportation Department staff Luana Deans and Chelsea Stern served as judges for the state-wide Future Cities Competition, where middle school teams from across North Carolina showcased innovative ideas for floating cities of the future. The creativity and ingenuity on display was truly inspiring, with teams presenting models and solutions to keep their futuristic citizens safe and healthy. Cary is proud to support opportunities that spark the next generation of problem-solvers and forward-thinkers. 

Cary-Apex Quarterly Meeting: AMI Warehouse

Each quarter, Cary and Apex Utilities and Water Resources staff meet to coordinate projects affecting our jointly owned facilities at the Cary-Apex Water Treatment Facility (CAWTF) and the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility (WWRWRF). This quarter’s meeting was held at Cary’s new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Warehouse on January 31. Apex staff, who are just embarking on their AMI journey, toured the warehouse to learn best practices from Cary’s experienced AMI team.

2025 Reclaimed Water Holiday

Starting February 10, Cary will begin its annual 10-day maintenance shutdown of the reclaimed water system, also referred to as the “Reclaimed Water Holiday”. The scheduled shutdown provides staff with the opportunity to perform routine maintenance of the system while irrigation and reclaimed water demands are minimal. There were 1,037 letters mailed on January 27, notifying customers of the upcoming system shutdown. Citizens also have a valuable opportunity to perform essential maintenance of their own systems. Commercial customers who use reclaimed water for cooling tower operations were notified in advance via mail and phone and typically switch to their potable water backup feeds during the annual maintenance window. Following completion of maintenance and repair work, the system is scheduled to be restarted and back in operation by February 20. 

NCDEQ Staff Visits Cary’s Utilities Needs

Over the past two weeks, multiple staff from Cary’s Public Works and Utilities Departments hosted North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) staff who have been conducting annual inspections of our utility infrastructure, regulatory compliance, and program management. NCDEQ staff have visited the Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility, North Cary Water Reclamation Facility, South Cary Water Reclamation Facility, the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility and met with staff to inspect the management of Cary’s Wastewater Collection System including several site visits. Cary operates a regional utility operation that serves Cary, Morrisville, Wake County’s portion of Research Triangle Park and the RDU International Airport. Cary staff appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with NCDEQ and are please to share the inspections were a success.

A Taste of Black History at the Cary Senior Center

Cary’s Senior Center hosted its 4th annual Taste of Black History event today. Over 80 older adults enjoyed a cultural cuisine experience paired with Black history facts, fun, and trivia. The event offered a unique and enjoyable way for seniors to honor and celebrate Black History Month, combining cultural education and culinary delight.

Celebrating World Wetlands Day with Environmental Service

Fourteen volunteers gathered at Dunham Park to celebrate World Wetlands Day through Cary’s Spruce program. Part of the Walnut Creek watershed, the wetlands in this neighborhood park play an important part in storing carbon, trapping pollutants, and temporarily detaining stormwater before slowly releasing it to area streams. As part of Spruce’s environmental service-learning goals, staff provided ecosystem education to the volunteers who then worked a collective 28 hours to remove approximately 200 pounds of litter from our urban wetlands.

Under the Silver Moon Lantern Parade

The Under the Silver Moon Community Lantern Parade lit up the Downtown Cary Park last Saturday evening with handmade lanterns, live music, and great community turnout. The Lantern Parade kicks-off GLOW pop-up light art installations throughout downtown during the dark winter months. Whether you walked in the parade or watched from the sidelines, your support made it an event to remember. Visit the GLOW webpage for the full details.

Upcoming Meetings

Environmental Advisory Board
Tuesday
February 11
6:00 p.m.

Economic Development Committee
Wednesday
February 12
5:15 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission
Wednesday
February 12
6:30 p.m.

Greenway Committee
Thursday
February 13
6:00 p.m.

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A complaint about a utility bill.
• A request to have the Children’s hospital by UNC Health and Duke Health at the old mall site (Epic Games owns this not Cary).
• A request to build a community center on the old mall site (Epic Games owns this not Cary).
• A complaint about the railroad crossing closure at Indian Wells (it is required as part of an agreement to allow the Olive Chapel crossing.)
• A complaint about the budget and taxes.
• A request to help the town in beautifying the city. (YES! Thank you!)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Cary Tenns Classic Board meeting, an Economic Development Board meeting, and a NC Metro Mayors meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 16^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Manager One-On-One

Monday I met with the town manager for our weekly one-on-one. Our topics of discussion included GoTriangle, CAMPO, Economic development, and the annual council-staff retreat.

#1 Organics Diversion Program of the Year

On Wednesday I was notified that the Town of Cary has been awarded the Organics Diversion Program of the Year Award by the U.S. Composting Council (USCC), marking a significant achievement in Cary’s commitment to sustainability and waste diversion. This award, presented annually at the USCC’s Annual Conference and Tradeshow, held in Phoenix this year, recognizes outstanding achievements in the composting industry and is one of the most prestigious honors in the field.

Cary is the first municipality to receive this award. Jenna Kostka, festivals and events supervisor, and Srijana Guilford, waste strategy and community impact consultant, received this award on Cary’s behalf.

Cary’s path to earning the Organics Diversion Program of the Year Award is built on two key initiatives: its popular Lazy Daze and Spring Daze festivals, and its year-round food waste drop-off program. Both programs work in tandem to engage residents and event-goers, promote sustainability, and reduce waste sent to landfills.

In 2024, Cary’s low-waste initiatives at festivals achieved an impressive 95% compliance rate among food vendors, contributing to the collection of over 4,000 pounds of compostable material at Lazy Daze alone — surpassing the total trash output. We value the support of local businesses and non-profits, including Toward Zero Waste and Compost Now, as Cary grows these programs in the community. This material and all of the organics collected at Cary’s drop-off sites are transformed into nutrient-rich compost locally. A portion of the finished compost is used at Cary’s Good Hope Farm to support urban agriculture.

Cary’s integrated approach to composting — combining large-scale public events with a permanent food waste drop-off program — is a model that other communities can emulate. With impressive results in both diversion rates and community engagement, Cary’s composting efforts reflect the town’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. 

Key highlights of Cary’s composting success include: 

• 317,497 pounds (159 tons) of food waste diverted from landfills since 2022 
• 30 tons of finished compost donated to Good Hope Farm to support local agriculture 
• Over 38,000 drop-offs recorded at the initial food waste drop-off site 
• 95% vendor compliance with composting standards at Lazy Daze and Spring Daze festivals 
• 4,000 pounds of food waste collected at the Lazy Daze festival was diverted from landfills 

For more information on Cary’s composting initiatives, visit Cary’s Composting webpage.

Raleigh-Cary Top 30 Most Dynamic Metros

Thursday I was notified by Heartland Forward’s communication director that the Raleigh-Cary area was ranked in the top 30 most dynamic metros. Here is what he said:

“Congratulations! We are excited to share that your metro area has been ranked in the top 30 of Heartland Forward’s “2024 Most Dynamic Metropolitans” report. Your metro’s high ranking is a testament to effective planning, smart policy and a shared commitment to your citizens – all worth celebrating. 

Heartland Forward is the nation’s only think-and-do tank dedicated to advancing the economic opportunity of the 20 states we define as the heartland. For the past six years, this report has served as a benchmark to celebrate success and identify opportunities for growth in cities across the country. 

The “Most Dynamic Metropolitans” report ranks 380 metropolitan areas by measuring key indicators like employment growth, average annual pay, real GDP, entrepreneurial activity and educational attainment. Using multiple data points, the report is a valuable tool for governors, U.S. mayors and economic development departments to evaluate their policies and identify best practices for growth, development and community health. 

Key trends identified in the report include: 

• AI investment and policy
• Advanced manufacturing innovation
• Post-pandemic tourism and recreation growth
• Oil, gas and alternative energy
• University-driven growth 

…

Once again, congratulations on a fantastic 2024. We look forward to monitoring your metropolitans’ dynamic growth in 2025 and hope to see you back at the top next year!”

I am proud to live in a metro area that is recognized nationally as being the best of the best.

State of Cary Address

Wednesday morning, I gave my annual State of Cary address at Prestonwood as part of the Cary Chamber’s monthly breakfast program. It was a sellout with over 280 in attendance.

I started working on the address in December and had the first draft in early January. That was followed by bullets for each slide. Staff took those and made a PowerPoint presentation with pictures. We then reviewed the slides to narrow them down to fit in a 40-to-45-minute time frame. You can find the entirety of my message here and the slides I used here.

For my opening for the Cary Chamber event, the staff and I agreed to do walkup music to set a casual lighter tone for the address. I entered with Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas” and then explained to the crowd that I proclaimed Cary to be spelled C-A-R-E-Y for one day last November 1^st. One of the slides show me reading the proclamation to her and we played her response: “That was amazing. I need to move there.” Then I challenged the realtors to follow up with her.

I thought the presentation went well (no major gaffs on my part). The presentation was about 40 minutes and was followed by two questions. I will be giving the presentation several other times this year. A 5 to 10 minute version will be created and put on line at a later date.

Lunar New Year

Thursday evening, I was joined by the entire council at the Lunar New Year event at Prestonwood Country Club. This was hosted by the Triangle Area Chinese American Society and the Chinese American Friendship Association of North Carolina. Ya Liu, former Cary Council member, helped organize the event. Attendees included dozens of elected officials including Congresswoman Ross, Congresswoman Foushee, and NC Attorney General Jackson. I read a proclamation recognizing the Lunar New Year Celebration and wished everyone good fortune, health, and happiness. Afterwards, I was presented with a painting by Jason Shi on behalf of the town.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday the NC Metro Mayors met virtually for a legislative summary. Here is a summary of the first week from the NC League of Municipalities Director of Urban Affairs:

Legislative Update:

Mayor Williams said he would happily share the toolkit with the group once it was completed. 

House leadership also announced the creation of the House Select Committee on Government Efficiency.  All indications are that this committee will be different than a more traditional regulatory reform committee as this committee will be specific to government efficiency. It has been reported that the committee is modeled after the federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and we expect that many of the proposals from the federal group will be funneled down for potential state consideration. The Senate has also formed its own Regulatory Reform committee, which we have not seen in prior sessions.  

Regarding committee leadership, we wanted to note some changes to the leadership of both chamber’s Transportation Committees. On the Senate side, Senator Bill Rabon, who was instrumental in the Airport Improvement Program, has returned as Co-chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, joining Senators Lazzara and Sawyer. Representative Jay Adams is the new Co-chair of the House Transportation Committee, joining Representatives Iler, McNeely, Shepard, and Tyson.

Legislative notes prepared by the Checkmate Government Relations Team. 

Down-zoning Provision – SB 382 [SL 2024-57, p. 131]:

The down-zoning provision in Senate Bill 382 has created uncertainty in both cities and counties with their ability to do county or city-initiated zoning. An issue that municipalities are having with this provision is that there is a retroactive effect. If any zoning fell under that provision that the local government had approved in the prior six months, then that zoning approval could be invalid. The provision restricts cities from evolving their zoning code over time. Mayors should continue to speak with and provide specific and concrete examples to their Legislators. 

Over the past week, NCLM Government Affairs team members have held meetings with Senator Berger’s staff and numerous legislators about options to address these concerns. While our preference would be for a full repeal, it is understood that we may need to explore other options to address this issue and resolve it as soon as possible. With bill filing beginning this week, we have already seen multiple bills filed, some of which repeal the provision in specific counties, and a singular bill filed by Representative Jay Adams for a full statewide repeal of the downzoning provisions. Our team has been working with attorneys from across the state, as well as in concert with the NC Association of County Commissioners, to develop potential options to address this issue, and in the next week, we expect there to be additional discussions with legislators in both chambers. We will continue to keep you informed of where the conversation is progressing and always appreciate insight from your respective areas. 

Federal Grant Freeze:

On Monday, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a memorandum to federal agencies calling for a freeze of trillions of dollars of federal grant funds and other federal assistance programs. This memo caused a significant amount of concern across the country due to the uncertainty it presented for countless programs. Since its release, the action has received bipartisan opposition and was ultimately rescinded because of a federal court injunction.  

It is unclear how this proposal may be resurrected, but there may be continued cause for concern related to federally funded programs. We encourage all municipalities to review their utilization of federal monies and what the impact would be if a freeze were to take effect. During the call, we also heard about a pilot program currently underway in the City of Durham to build a toolkit related to understanding federal funding. Mayor Williams said he would happily share the toolkit with the group once it was completed. 

SHEILD Proclamation

Friday morning I met with four representatives from SHIELD North Carolina. Their mission:

“Shield North Carolina prioritizes collaboration to combat human trafficking in North Carolina through empowerment, prevention, and advocacy.”

I presented them with a proclamation that designated January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Afterwards, we took a few photos. If you would like to learn more, they will be offering a Human Trafficking 101 (Virtual) on February 10^th at 7 pm. You get the meeting link at https://www.shieldnc.org/trainings .

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Council,
It was so good being with you at the third annual Lunar New Year Gala last night! I was truly inspired to see the positive impact we are making in – and with – our community.
One of the highlights for me was witnessing the Council enjoying camaraderie and the strong sense of connection throughout the event. The night certainly left a lasting impression on me.
A special thanks to our former Councilmember and now NC House member Ya Liu for including me in this wonderful celebration.
Enjoy your weekend.
Sean

State of Cary Breakfast

On Wednesday, Mayor Weinbrecht delivered the 2025 State of Cary address at the annual State of Cary Breakfast held by the Chamber of Commerce. More than 280 attendees gathered as the mayor provided key highlights and data from the past year while offering insights into Cary’s future. The full presentation and accompanying slides are available at carync.gov/stateofcary.

Organics Diversion Program of the Year

On Wednesday, Cary became the first municipality to ever receive the prestigious Organics Diversion Program of the Year Award from the U.S. Composting Council. This award honors outstanding achievements in the composting industry, and Cary earned recognition through its innovative food waste drop-off program and composting efforts at the Lazy Daze and Spring Daze festivals.
Since 2022, these initiatives have successfully diverted 317,497 pounds (150 tons) of food waste from landfills. Last year alone, 95% of festival vendors met composting standards, and Lazy Daze saw over 4,000 pounds of food waste diverted. This achievement highlights Cary’s strong commitment to sustainability and sets an example for other communities striving to reduce waste and support local agriculture.
A special thanks to Councilmember Lori Bush and the entire Council for their leadership in making this success possible!

Regional Transportation Updates

On Wednesday, the CAMPO and Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro (DCHC) Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) held a joint meeting to review key regional transportation projects. MPOs collaborate with local governments to develop and coordinate transportation plans that improve mobility across the region.

A key highlight was an update on the S-Line rail project, a passenger rail corridor designed to connect communities across North Carolina and beyond, boosting both regional travel and economic growth. The meeting also covered the rebranding of DCHC MPO to Triangle West MPO, reflecting a refreshed identity for future collaboration.

Board members discussed the Destination 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, a long-term strategy to address transportation challenges such as population growth and infrastructure needs. Updates on safety programs, rail studies, and joint planning initiatives reinforced a shared commitment to making travel in the Triangle region safer, more efficient, and better connected.

East Chatham Street Road Closure Next Friday

On February 7, East Chatham Street will be closed between North Walker Street and North Academy Street starting at 7:00 a.m. as contractors dismantle and remove the tower crane used for the Cedar Street Parking Deck construction. The closure is expected to last up to two days.

Detour signs will direct through traffic to Chapel Hill Road via Harrison Avenue and East Durham Road. Pedestrians will be rerouted to the south side of East Chatham Street during this time.

Radar-Activated Warning Sign Installed

Staff installed an upgraded intersection warning sign on Cary Glen Boulevard, featuring flashing LEDs that activate when radar detects a vehicle significantly exceeding the advisory speed. This enhanced sign aims to remind drivers to slow down as they approach the intersection of Hollowridge Court and Lantern Ridge Lane, where sight visibility is challenged by the steepness of the road profile.

The decision to install this sign followed a pilot study in Cary, where similar devices successfully reduced vehicle speeds.

New Crabtree Creek Greenway Connection Opens

This week, a newly completed section of the Crabtree Creek Greenway opened, connecting Bond Park to High House Road. Funded in part by a $1.57 million Federal LAPP Grant, the project broke ground in March with Lanier Construction as the primary contractor.

The new greenway extends north from Bond Park,  passing under Cary Parkway, running alongside the Preston soccer fields, and linking to High House Road and a new street-side trail.
By filling a critical gap in the Crabtree Creek Greenway corridor, this project improves bicycle and pedestrian access to Bond Park’s baseball and soccer fields while also enhancing transit connectivity via a GoCary stop on High House Road. The completed trail strengthens Cary’s greenway network, supporting both recreation and active transportation for the community.

Indian Wells Railroad Crossing to Permanently Close

In 2015, Cary, CSX Railroad, and NCDOT signed a Railroad Crossing Consolidation Agreement to close two at-grade crossings at Carpenter Fire Station Road and Morrisville Carpenter Road. In exchange, a new at-grade crossing was approved for O’Kelly Chapel Road as part of the Parkside Town Commons development.

As the final step in this agreement, the Indian Wells Road (formerly Morrisville Carpenter Road) crossing will permanently close by spring 2025. Kite Realty is responsible for scheduling this work. To maintain traffic flow, Saunders Grove Lane will be restriped to connect with Carpenter Upchurch Road. Residents and businesses will be notified via postcards and electronic message signs.

For more details, visit carync.gov/indianwells.

Sewer Rehabilitation

SAK Construction crews have begun work on a maintenance project to rehabilitate the Brier Creek Interceptor Sewer, a large-diameter pipeline along the west side of Lake Crabtree.

The first phase involves installing cured-in-place liners in sewer lines upstream (west) of Aviation Parkway. A temporary sewer bypass system, including pumps and above-ground pipes, is being set up to manage flows. This phase is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

The project will renew over 8,000 feet of 36-inch and 42-inch sewer lines, extending their service life by 50 years. The $8.2 million project is scheduled for completion by winter 2026.

Upcoming Meetings

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

Information Services Advisory Board
Monday, February 3
6:00 p.m.

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

Human Relations, Inclusion, and Diversity Advisory Board
Tuesday, February 4
6:00 p.m.

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

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting
Wednesday, February 5
6:30 p.m.

Town Council Meeting (Work Session)
Thursday, February 6
4:45 p.m.

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

Mayor’s Mailbox

• A lecture from a former council member on how to manage taxes and budget.
• A concern that Cary will end DEI programs. (NO! Equity is a core value.)
• A complaint about litter on US 1 (Unfortunately maintained by NCDOT)
• A concern and request for Cary to do more about invasive plant species.
• A complaint about the cost of public art on Bus Stop Shelters.
• A concern about a shooting incident at Williamsburg Manor.
• A complaint about property taxes and that we should make our community less desirable and more affordable. (Um… no on the less desirable)

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting with the NWSL president, training on Zencity, meetings with the Macon Georgia mayor, a council work session, a council meeting, and a meeting of the NC Metro Mayors.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 9^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

MLK Day in Cary

Cary offices were closed on Monday to celebrate and honor Martin Luther King Jr. There were several events held in Cary as part of Dreamfest. I hope you were able to be a part of one of them.

Wake County Mayors Association

Monday, eleven of the twelve Wake County Mayors met for our first meeting of the year. Unfortunately, the mayor of Raleigh was unable to attend. We discussed several topics including how we could use our collective voice to have an impact with legislators. Each mayor then updated the group on happenings in their municipalities.

Cary Chamber Government Relations Panel

Tuesday, I joined NC Senator Adcock and Wake County Commissioner Evens as part of a panel to discuss government relations. We were asked a set of questions about collaboration and what we have done together. These two women are amazing leaders, and I was honored to be part of the panel. We concluded by answering questions posed by those in attendance (about three dozen).

Council Meeting Prep

Monday and Tuesday I contacted council members to hear of questions and concerns about the upcoming council meeting. Council member Bansal had concerns about the Augusta rezoning. Council member Bush had concerns about the White Oak rezoning. And council member Smith had concerns about the Wellington rezoning.

Later Tuesday, I met with staff, management, and Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson to go over the agenda. By that time most of the concerns by council members Bansal and Bush had been addressed. As a result, we expected the meeting to be relatively short.

Manager One-On-One

Tuesday evening I joined Mayor Pro-Tem Bryson-Robinson and my weekly one-on-one meeting with the town manager. Our topics of discussion included AI and AI training, recent SAS property purchases, safety issues, future work sessions, the upcoming retreat, site plan process concerns by developers, and pocket parks.

Snow Postpones State of Cary Address

Cary received one and a half to two inches of snow Tuesday night into Wednesday. With temps in the teens and twenties, that made travel hazardous. Fortunately, we were able to get this forecast ahead of time and postponed my State of Cary address until January 29^th.

At the council meeting on Thursday council member Bansal did a great job of summarizing the town’s response to the storm:

“I want to express my deep gratitude to our incredible staff for their tireless efforts during the recent winter storm. In under two days, our team brined an impressive 400 miles of streets, using 40,000 gallons of brine, ensuring safer travel for our citizens.

With 55 plows and 29 spreaders, they worked around the clock, supported by nearly 300 dedicated team members staffing Snow Command, with roughly 150 individuals per 12-hour shift. Behind the scenes, feeding Snow Command made a monumental effort, with 150 pizzas needed to sustain one shift alone! Thanks to this preparation and hard work, our Public Safety team responded to just four weather-related crashes, none involving injuries, and assisted seven motorists during the storm’s peak. Our 311 team didn’t miss a beat, serving nearly 400 citizens via phone, email, social media, and web portal, even with our physical facilities closed. Public Works Director Matt Flynn represented Cary live on ABC 11’s noon news, keeping the community informed and assured. CaryNC.gov’s traffic page was a vital resource, drawing over 1,400 visitors on January 22 for real-time street conditions and camera views. Social media engagement highlighted the community’s joy, with over 200 photos of snow fun submitted and over 50,000 impressions on snow-related posts. While winter weather and the MLK holiday impacted curbside collection, our team has worked hard to ensure all citizens will be serviced by Saturday. Our staff’s dedication, professionalism, and care for the community, led by our fearless Fire Chief Mike Cooper, were on full display, and I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts during this event.”

Well said. I couldn’t agree more. Once again Cary’s snow response was the best in the region. We are blessed to have such great public works professionals.

Council Meeting

Thursday night the council held its last regular scheduled meeting of January. The agenda included five consent items, one public hearing, and one discussion item.

The Wellington Rezoning which proposed seven townhomes across from the Wellington Shopping Center was pulled from the Consent Agenda by council member Smith because some in the neighborhood disliked the proposal. The original plans for this neighborhood had this parcel as day care but that wouldn’t fit because there wasn’t enough room for parking. Then there was a proposal for a dental office a couple of years ago which was vehemently opposed by the neighborhood. The council voted that down. This proposal for townhomes was made by a resident of the neighborhood after he met with members of the HOA. The council approved this rezoning unanimously.

The one public hearing was for Act 35 of the Land Development Ordinance Amendments. This amendment would add “swimming pool, hot tub, and spa” as a permitted accessory use in the Town Center Cottage Business and Residential (TC-CB&R) district. Most speakers were in favor of the proposal. One speaker expressed existing concerns about noise from swimming pool pumps and filters. Staff will investigate this issue separately.

The discussion item was for the ACT 34 Imagine Cary Community Plan Update. This update had been in the works for several years. Four key items were included in the update:

1. The plan’s new preface documents external factors, such as the pandemic, while also sharing Cary’s organizational culture, which is based on the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and transparency.
2. An update to the LIVE chapter with the inclusion of the 2021 Cary Housing Plan. The housing plan, created with strong stakeholder engagement, builds upon the Imagine Cary Community Plan policies, going beyond the focus of affordability with goals to ensure that all residents experience Cary’s high quality of life.
3. A new chapter titled ENRICH consolidates all sustainability, climate action, and environmental policies, reflecting Cary’s commitment to preserving and protecting our finite natural resources.
4. An update to the SERVE chapter, which focuses on our operational model as we strive for excellence in serving the Cary community.

This update was unanimously approved by the council. The regular meeting was followed with a closed session.

NC Metro Mayors

Friday the NC Metro Mayors met for the first time this year. Here is a legislative summary from that meeting:

Legislative Update:

The legislative session will begin in earnest next week on January 29. Legislative leaders are closely watching President Trump’s visit to western North Carolina today (January 24) as they hope it will provide needed clarity on the amount of federal assistance that will be coming for continued hurricane recovery efforts. The amount of federal assistance will ultimately determine the level of funding needed by the state. With the new Speaker of the House, Destin Hall, from the western part of the state, we expect a significant focus on hurricane recovery regardless of the federal funding determination.

Legislators are also expected to prioritize efforts that will help keep the state ranked as the number one state for business across multiple organizations’ rankings. These efforts will be followed closely by the need for increased state tax revenue and needed infrastructure improvements and expansions to support the state’s rapidly growing population.

We encourage Mayors to contact their legislators as early as possible with a list of their prioritized needs before budget negotiations commence. This year’s appropriations package comes first from the Senate.

Down-zoning Provision – SB 382 [SL 2024-57, p. 131]:

The down-zoning provision in Senate Bill 382 has created uncertainty in both cities in counties with their ability to do county or city-initiated zoning. An issue that municipalities are having with this provision is that there is a retroactive effect. If any zoning fell under that provision that had been approved by local government in the prior six months, then that zoning approval could be invalid. The provision restricts cities from evolving their zoning code over time. Mayors should continue to speak with and provide specific and concrete examples to their Legislators. The President Pro Tempore, Senator Phil Berger mentioned that he is open to change regarding this provision. For additional information and context around this provision the article “Limits on “Down-Zoning” by UNC SOG’s Adam Lovelady provides ample insight. 

Other Updates

NCLM Staff have listed a few updates for what to expect in 2025. Until Seth Palmer is fully onboarded to his new role as Director of Urban Affairs, please contact Derrick Applewhite, NCLM Sr. Government Affairs Associate, dapplewhite@nclm.org, (919) 333-3659 (cell), for any MMC related requests. 

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

Many were excited to see snow fall in Cary this week. I want to extend my thanks to our 911, 311, and Public Works teams for their incredible efforts in prioritizing safe travel for our residents and maintaining clear communication throughout the process. Because of their dedication, we were able to resume normal operations quickly and safely.
As a reminder, due to the weather, the Mayor’s State of Cary Breakfast has been rescheduled to next Wednesday, January 29, at Prestonwood Country Club. I hope to see you all there!
Enjoy your weekend.
Sean

Council Meeting (January 23):
ACT 35 Land Development Ordinance Amendments

Staff is in the process of examining screening requirements for pool pumps as part of the amendment under consideration.

Cary Chamber Government Affairs Panel

On January 21, the Cary Chamber of Commerce hosted a Government Relations Meeting at Prestonwood Country Club. The event featured a panel discussion with Mayor Weinbrecht, Senator Gale Adcock, and Commissioner Susan Evans. Attendees, including Assistant Town Manager Shelley Curran, gained valuable insights into how local, state, and federal officials collaborate to drive initiatives that benefit the community.

RTA Annual Meeting – The State of Mobility 2025

Today, Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Bryson Robinson, Councilmember Michelle Craig, and staff attended the Regional Transportation Alliance Annual Meeting: The State of Mobility 2025 in Cary. This 23rd annual event showcased innovative approaches to funding and advancing North Carolina’s mobility infrastructure.

The program featured the annual State of Mobility presentation, offering valuable insights into the future of regional transportation. Attendees explored transformative strategies, with a focus on the importance of innovative leadership in driving mobility solutions across the state.

MLK Dreamfest Celebrations

On January 17, Cary kicked off Dreamfest Weekend with a sold-out screening of Farming While Black. The free event included a post-film discussion that delved into the history of Black-owned farms and explored ways to support Black farmers within the community.
The celebrations continued on Saturday at the Cary Arts Center with the Dreamfest Celebration. Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson kicked off the event with opening remarks and a proclamation declaring Janueary 15 – 20 as Cary MLK Dreamfest Weekend. Guests enjoyed an evening of performances and presentations by guest artists and speakers centered around the theme, “Stronger Together, Cultivating a Community of Compassion.” Donations collected during the event supported The Carying Place, an organization dedicated to empowering homeless working families.
Also on Saturday, nearly 70 guests gathered at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center for Tellebration. Families celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through storytelling, songs, and crafts.

Regional Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing

Every five years, Cary prepares the Consolidated Plan which serves as the primary vehicle for prioritizing the use of entitlement funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  In conjunction with continued preparation of the 2025-2030 Consolidated Plan, Cary is partnering with Wake County, City of Raleigh, Wake County Housing Authority, and Raleigh Housing Authority to develop a regional Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). The AI process involves a review of each jurisdiction’s housing and housing-related programs and policies to ensure they are implemented free from discrimination. Public engagement opportunities, including a Fair Housing survey and regional community meetings, can be found on Cary’s housing page at housing.carync.gov.

Cary Participating in the National “Point-In-Time” Count

The annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count is a national count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. This week, in partnership with the Wake County Continuum of Care NC 507, Cary participated in the regional PIT. Cary Police, Fire, and a team from our nonprofit community visited known encampments to register occupants and offer backpacks with basic supplies.
The Wake County Continuum of Care NC 507 is a collaboration of over 50 public, private, and nonprofit entities working together to make homelessness rare, brief, and unrepeated. More on this effort and Cary’s work to support residents experiencing housing instability and homelessness can be found on Cary’s housing page at housing.carync.gov.

Commemorating 40 NCAA Championships in Cary

Scott Dupree and the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance (GRSA) were honored with a plaque recognizing the 40 NCAA Championships hosted in Cary. The presentation took place at the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (GRCVB) Board Meeting. Scott, GRSA’s Executive Director for 30 years, has played a key role in event success, from hotel arrangements to enhancing experiences for athletes, fans, and visitors. His leadership has been vital in Cary’s success hosting these championships across six sports. Staff thanked him for his service to the community.

Upcoming Meetings

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

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Concerns about Lake Crabtree County Park (Wake County Park).
• Concern about erosion control at a development site (staff investigated and resolved issues).
• A concern about pool noise that would be allowed with Amendment 35 to the LDO.
• A complaint that the Wellington proposal for seven townhomes would “bring more traffic and congestion.”
• Several emails supporting the Wellington proposal.
• A request to protect students from ICE enforcement (we have no such authority).
• A complaint that someone’s garbage wasn’t picked up (curbside pickup was delayed two days because of the holiday and the snow).
• A thank you for the town installing carbon filter canisters on vents along greenways.
• A thank you for the town’s leaf collection “awesome job”.

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, the State of Cary address (rescheduled for January 29^th), and several private meetings.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, February 2^nd, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.

Raleigh-Cary Top 15 Up-And-Coming Cities to Visit

The Raleigh-Cary metro area was ranked in the top 15 Up-And-Coming cities to visit in 2025 by WorldAtlas. Here is what they said:

“The city of Raleigh and its neighboring town of Cary in North Carolina are gaining attention for their combination of a thriving tech-driven economy with many great cultural and natural attractions.

Known as part of the “Research Triangle,” the region uniquely blends innovation with Southern charm. Downtown Raleigh features institutions like the North Carolina Museum of Art and the City Market, where visitors can also explore locally owned shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Cary offers a quieter pace with its extensive greenways, parks, and spots like Koka Booth Amphitheatre, a wonderful outdoor theater that plays movies, concerts, and other live performances throughout the year.

The food scene thrives in both cities, with Raleigh’s brewery culture and Cary’s also containing a number of acclaimed eateries, like the renowned City Barbeque, the spot for mouthwatering eats in another BBQ-loving region of the country. …”

Sadly, the picture they used of Cary was of phase 1 of the downtown park which just had our fountain.

Cary Tennis Classic Board

Monday night I met with the Cary Tennis Classic Board. Topics included dates for the combined men’s and women’s pro event, new sponsors, and opportunities to engage sponsors at other events.

CAMPO

Wednesday evening I participated in a meeting of the CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) Executive Board. This board is a regional transportation planning organization serving communities in Chatham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston and Wake Counties.

What is a Metropolitan Planning Organization? According to The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1962, areas considered by the Federal Census to be urban in nature with a population of at least 50,000 must have a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive transportation planning process. In order to receive funding from the federal government in the state of North Carolina, this process is carried out by Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO). Members from each of the MPOs make up the North Carolina Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (NCAMPO). Currently, there are 19 MPOs in North Carolina.

At this meeting the only action was to elect the Chair and Vice Chair. Mayor Jones of Wake Forest was elected for another term as Chair and Butch Lawter of Johnson County was reelected as Vice-Chair. The agenda also included two consent items and six discussion items. Items for information purposes included the Unified Planning Work Program for FY2026, Amendment #7 to the FY2024-FY2033 TIP (Transportation Improvement Program), FY2026 LAPP Program awarding Cary $2 million in grants for two sidewalk projects, the draft 2055 MTP Deficiency analysis, and Safety Performance Measure Targets for 2025. After the regular meeting the board spent about an hour in closed session.

Town Manager’s Report

Sean’s Message

As you are aware, I spent the majority of the week at Harvard University participating in an Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning session. It was an incredible learning experience and advanced my understanding of AI a great deal. Further, the Council’s discussion last week (policy, data strategy etc.) is in alignment with the best practices in this field, which is very affirming and hopefully a point of pride for you. In the days ahead, I will be preparing a summary of the experience to share with Council and staff.
As we focus on growth and reflection, the Town’s annual Dreamfest weekend provides a meaningful opportunity to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The celebration begins today and continues through Monday, January 20, offering a variety of events and programs for the community to enjoy. Details about the celebrations are available here.
Please note that in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Town Hall and most staffed facilities will be closed on Monday.
Enjoy your weekend.
Sean

America’s 250^th Anniversary Planning

In 2026, America will celebrate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking the birth of a nation founded on the principles of ‘Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.’ On January 10, Cary PRCR staff met with state representatives, historical agencies, and communities from across Wake County to discuss plans for events, projects, and initiatives to commemorate this milestone. Staff will continue participating in planning meetings and looks forward to collaborating on this program.

Construction Wraps Up at Cary Fire Station Number 4

Contractors working on behalf of Cary recently completed renovations to Fire Station No. 4. Originally built in 1987, the station had seen only minor updates during its 38-year history. Located in a key area for the community it serves, renovating the existing structure was deemed the most sustainable and cost-effective approach.

To maintain uninterrupted service during construction, temporary structures were set up on-site adjacent to the station. The renovation included several key upgrades, such as new bi-fold apparatus bay doors, enhanced building systems, and a 1,100-square-foot addition for a dedicated workout room. These improvements ensure Fire Station No. 4 remains well-equipped to serve the community for many decades.

White Oak Greenway Wrap-up

An important safety improvement and stormwater maintenance project along the White Oak Creek Greenway is now complete. The trail was widened, and the curves near the entrance to the tunnel under Cary Parkway were softened, significantly enhancing sightlines on the east side of the tunnel. Additionally, a stormwater culvert was repaired, and new safety railings were installed.

Transportation Department Hosts Engineering Students

This week, Transportation staff hosted high school students from the Wake County Public School System’s Academy of Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing (AOE). The students visited Cary’s Transportation Management Center, the Byrum Street Sidewalk Project, the Walnut Street Road Diet, street repaving sites, and the Black Creek Greenway Renovation. They learned about the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of Cary’s transportation infrastructure, with discussions covering staff backgrounds, project challenges, infrastructure costs, and career opportunities in local government.

GLOW Art Installations

While the Under the Silver Moon Community Lantern Parade has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 1, due to weather, the GLOW must go on! Keep your eyes peeled as stunning light installations illuminate Academy Street and Downtown Cary Park. These dazzling works of art combine innovative technology with radiant creativity. Visit the GLOW webpage for the full details. 

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival Sets New Attendance Record

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre concluded on January 12, setting a new attendance record with more than 249,000 visitors this holiday season. This marks a significant increase from approximately 216,000 attendees in 2023, and the festival also experienced 23 sold-out nights. Now in its ninth year, the festival was first brought to Cary by Tianyu Arts & Culture in 2015.
Over the eight-week run, visitors from all 50 states and six countries came to admire the spectacular lantern displays, each crafted from fused metal and hand-painted silks, illuminated by thousands of LED lights.

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival will return to Koka Booth Amphitheatre in November with all new lanterns.

Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – February 5

The following Neighborhood Meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 5 at 6:30 p.m.

• 24-REZ-16 Trinity Road Planned Development District (PDD) Rezoning

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

Upcoming Meetings

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

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

Mayor’s Mailbox

• Concerns about the East Cary Gateway
• A complaint about our property tax
• A complaint about erosion control in the Stonebridge shopping center
• Several chain emails about the Holocaust
• A complaint about a proposed land development ordinance amendment

Next Week

Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a Wake County Mayors Association meeting, a Government Relations panel discussion, a rehearsal of the State of Cary address, the State of Cary address, and a council meeting.

Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, January 26^th, 2025. Although I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, those are not the best means of communication with me. Please send all Town of Cary questions or comments to Harold.Weinbrecht@carync.gov and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.