Mayor Harold Weinbrecht publishes his weekly blog post on his personal blog (mayorweinbrecht.com), sharing his thoughts and updates on local news and events in Cary, NC. The Cary Report, with permission from the town, will be re-publishing the Mayor’s blog as they are posted each Sunday. The following is the latest from Mayor Harold Weinbrecht.
Council Meeting Prep
Monday, I attempted to contact each council member to hear of any questions or concerns about the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. Council members had questions about an appointment to one of the town’s advisory boards. There was also a comment requesting the staff report on replacing water meters be expanded.
Later in the day I met with Mayor Pro-Tem Frantz and key staff members to go over the agenda items.
Manager One-On-One
After meeting with staff, I met with the town manager to discuss our board and commission process and a few other items. Our meeting lasted about 20 minutes.
One of the Safest Cities in the Country
Monday I was notified that University City Review ranked Cary as one of the safest communities in the country. Here is what they said about Cary:
“Cary, situated in North Carolina, is considered one of the safest cities in the country and is one of the best places to reside in North Carolina. It is a serene suburban area located to the southwest of Raleigh. With a population of 180,338, Cary’s overall crime rate is 1,035 per 100,000, which is 64% lower than the US average. Although Cary is considered a bedroom community, its downtown area has undergone a significant transformation with many new restaurants and parks. Hemlocks Bluffs Nature Preserve and Fred G. Bond Park are two of Cary’s most well-known parks, offering hiking and boating access. Currently, the median home price in Cary stands at $593,705.”
While I am very proud of this recognition, I want to remind everyone that safety is an ongoing partnership between the citizens and the police department. Thanks to all that help keep us safe.
Cary is a Hidden Gem
I was also notified on Monday that WriteUpCafe recognized Cary as a hidden gem. Here is part of what they said:
“Cary, North Carolina, often referred to as the “Technology Town of the South,” has long been a well-kept secret among locals and those in the know. With its picturesque landscapes, thriving community, and a plethora of hidden treasures, Cary is a destination that deserves the spotlight it’s finally receiving. …”
To read the rest about what they said about Cary go to https://writeupcafe.com/unlocking-the-secrets-of-cary-a-hidden-gem-revealed/ .
CAMPO Rail Subcommittee
Tuesday I attended a meeting of the CAMPO (Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s) Rail Subcommittee. The purpose of this subcommittee was to review and plan recommendations on future rail to the MPO of the Raleigh area (CAMPO) and the MPO of Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro (DCHC). I was only able to stay for the first half of the meeting and obtained information from other attendees.
At our last meeting we heard that there would be no funding for commuter rail from the federal government due to lack of density along the rail. We decided that we should focus on BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) which gets 50 cents on every dollar we spend from the federal government. We also knew that we would get 80 cents on every dollar spent on rail infrastructure such as bridges.
At this meeting we heard from a long-time planner that we should consider hybrid commuter rail which is basically shorter trains. GoTriangle made a presentation and said that they would like to apply for a $50 million dollar grant for rail. They need a partner to sign on. Since CAMPO meets before DCHC then we would have to decide if we would want to be that partner. The problem is that GoTriangle has not presented the application for review and our meeting is next week and there is a concern that certain applications could harm NCDOT efforts.
The meeting concluded after close to three hours without a clear sense of direction. It will be interesting to see what happens next.
USTA Past President Dinner
As part of the Atlantic Tire Championship Tennis Tournament, we entertained a special guest in Cary, immediate past president of the United States Tennis Association, Mike McNulty. The following is the USTA bio:
“Michael J. McNulty III of the USTA Southern section is currently serving as Immediate Past President of the United States Tennis Association. He served as Chairman of the Board and President of the USTA from 2021-22, when he also served as Chairman of the US Open.
He was also a member of the International Committee and the ITF Constitution Committee and served two consecutive terms on the Grand Slam Board. He served two consecutive terms on the USTA’s Nominating Committee and the Constitution and Rules Committee, where he served as Vice Chair, and was also previously Board Liaison to the Adult Tennis Leadership Council and a member of the Budget Committee.
McNulty has a long history of volunteerism at the section and district levels. He served as President, First Vice President, Vice President and member of the Board of Directors of the USTA Southern section and as Section Delegate to the USTA. He served three consecutive terms as Chair of the Constitution and Rules Committee, Chair of the Nominating Committee and Board Liaison to multiple Committees. McNulty is the former tournament director of the BB&T Atlanta Open, a US Open Series tournament. He is a recipient of the USTA Southern Jacobs Bowl, the highest volunteer service award given by the Section. McNulty was a long-time USTA Louisiana volunteer where he served as President. He is a member of the Louisiana Tennis Hall of Fame and recipient of the President’s Award.
McNulty was a partner with the law firm of Plauche Smith & Nieset, LLC. He has recently taken Of Counsel status and is considered one of America’s top attorneys in insurance defense with specialties in construction and products liability.”
During our dinner we were able to hear and be entertained by Mike’s stories and information. At the end of the dinner, I felt as though I had known him for years. What a special guest to have here in Cary.
Atlantic Tire Tennis Championships Luncheon
Wednesday, we toured Mr. McNulty around Cary to our various venues. He was so impressed that he told his wife that he wanted to move to Cary. She responded she would if he could get his three sons and their grandchildren to also move. I guess we will have to work on that.
Cary Chamber Business After Hours
Wednesday evening, I joined council member Eades and several staff members at the Cary Chamber’s Business After Hours which was held in the covered court area of the Cary Tennis Park. Food was provided by Rey’s and comments were made by the chamber president, me, the tournament director, and the past president of the USTA. There were almost 200 in attendance.
First Council Meeting of September
Thursday the council held its first regularly scheduled meeting of September.
At the beginning of the meeting, we recognized the Carolina Courage Soccer Team who was present with the Challenge Cup they won. We are so proud that they are here in Cary and that they have won the cup multiple times. Congratulations Courage!
Next, I asked the council to name the stadium tennis court at the Cary Tennis Park after Anthony Blackmon, who had not only supported tennis but has contributed and helped our community for decades. As we unanimously approved this motion, we knew he only had hours left with us on earth. So, it was a sad but celebratory moment.
The consent agenda, which is normally unanimously approved, was approved with a 6 to 1 vote with council member Bush voting nay. She had expressed a concern earlier about one of the appointees to the Planning and Zoning Board.
The only public hearing was for an annexation of a property for the Viridis at Green Level. There were no speakers. The decision on this will be made at a future date.
The discussion item was for our AMI Meter Replacement. These automated water meters were first installed almost two decades ago. They have saved Cary and customers millions of dollars by detecting leaks and providing real-time information. About 1500 of these meters are at the end of their service life and will be replaced. The council unanimously approved this expenditure.
A closed session was held for three items and lasted about 20 minutes.
Death of Anthony Blackman
Friday morning, I was notified of the passing of Anthony Blackman. While we knew his death was eminent, it was still crushing. Cary lost one of its greatest ambassadors ever! Whether you knew him or not, he impacted all of us by all he did to make Cary better. We will miss him but will not forget him. Rest in Peace Anthony!
Playing George Washington
Later Friday morning I visited Cary Christian school dressed as George Washington. I was part of a skit from the book about Anna Strong during the Revolutionary War which was played in front of several dozen kindergartners and first graders who have been studying government. Afterward the skit I read a proclamation. I loved watching the faces of the children. What a great group of kids. I hope they invite me back again.
Cary Misses Out on US Soccer
Later Friday I was notified that Cary did not get the training center for USA Soccer. Similar to when we were a finalist to get the US Tennis Training Center, we lost a big city with big donors. In this case a philanthropist gave $50 million to help Atlanta get the center. Nevertheless, we remain the home of the champion, Carolina Courage, many more ACC Championships, and NCAA Division I Soccer Cups on one of the finest pitches in the country. I look forward to many more great years at our soccer park.
NC Metro Mayors
The NC Metro Mayors didn’t meet Friday, but a summary of legislative actions was provided by KTS Strategies:
Budget Update
Legislators did not hold a vote on the budget this week. The House and Senate have agreed on major budget items including tax cuts and raises for state employees. The sticking point between the two chambers continues to be whether to include a proposal that would authorize opening additional casinos and would legalize and regulate video lottery terminals (VLTs) in the state. As reported by the News & Observer, Speaker Moore (R-Cleveland) said casinos “are the only thing holding up the budget now.” Moore was also quoted saying he does not believe that the House can pass a budget that includes gaming, and he will not do so without support from a majority of House Republicans. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) has said he is not interested in voting on a budget that does not include gaming. The chamber leaders are working to reach a compromise and plan to hold a final budget vote next Wednesday, September 20th.
Elections Bill
A proposed committee substitute (PCS) for S749, No Partisan Advantage in Elections, was approved by the House Rules Committee this week. This bill would make changes to the structure of both state and county boards of elections. It would increase the number of members on the State Board of Elections from 5 to 8 and decrease the number of members on each of the 100 county boards of elections from 5 to 4, with all appointments to be made by the General Assembly instead of the Governor. The House has calendared the PCS for a vote next Tuesday, September 19th.
Rowing Practice for the Dragon Boat Festival
Friday afternoon I joined Mayor Cawley of Morrisville and several of Cary’s finest firefighters and police officers to practice for the Dragon Boat race to be held the next day. We learned about technique and commands and practiced for an hour.
Asia Fest and the Dragon Boat Race
Asia Fest began Saturday morning with remarks from me along with Mayor Cawley from Morrisville.
We also showed the crowd our race jerseys and invited them to join us at the docks for our boat race.
Our remarks were followed by Lt. Governor Robinson and Secretary of State Marshall.
Afterwards we went to the docks where the Lt. Governor and Secretary of State “dotted the eye” of the dragons on the boats.
Mayor Cawley and I joined the team of Cary’s firefighters and police officers in the team’s second race (they won earlier in the morning). Our team won convincingly, and I was proud just to be on the boat with them. The team went on to win second overall losing by 200th of a second. What a fantastic performance by our firefighters and police officers especially since there were 30 teams including 3 professional teams.
Atlantic Tire Tennis Championships Double Finals
Saturday afternoon and evening I attended the Atlantic Tire Tennis Championship’s singles semi-final matches and the doubles final match which were held on Anthony Blackman court. In the doubles final former UNC player Rinky HijiKata joined fellow Australian Andrew Harris in defeating the team of William Blumberg, also a former UNC player, and Luis David Martinez from Venezuela.
Ryan Eades Campaign Event
Sunday, I attended a campaign event for District D incumbent Ryan Eades. In my comments I talked about how his experience has helped him to contribute quickly as a council member since being appointed in January. I think Ryan is a strong council member who would serve Cary citizens well during the next four years.
As a reminder, I am endorsing all incumbents but will help all candidates.
Atlantic Tire Tennis Championships Singles Finals
For only the second time in Atlantic Tire Tennis Championships history, the finals had to be played indoors due to weather conditions. Rain began a little after noon and did not stop completely until after midnight. The Cary staff did an amazing job of setting up the final match indoors. The two-finalist put on a great match that lasted almost three hours with Svajda beating Hijikata 7-6, 4-6, 6-1.
While this was a great week for tennis, it was bittersweet since we lost one of Cary’s greatest ambassadors and tittle sponsor during the tournament.
Pink Floyd Show
Sunday night I joined family and friends at Booth Amphitheater to watch Ausie Pink Floyd. If you are a fan of Pink Floyd this was an amazing show. I am so glad they came to Cary.
Town Manager’s Report
Sean’s Message
This has been a full week, characterized by high highs and low lows. The one uniting theme has certainly been relationships. From our time together at the Chamber After Hours to prepping for last night’s Council meeting, I’m reminded that our success is based on listening to and understanding each other, always putting Cary’s interests first.
To our Jewish friends and colleagues celebrating this weekend, L’shana tova.
Sean
Cary Chamber Business After Hours at Atlantic Tire Championships
Cary hosted the Chamber Business After Hours for September at Cary Tennis Park during the Atlantic Tire Championships (ATC) men’s professional tennis tournament on Wednesday. This was the third day of the tournament, and over 180 chamber members attended the event and enjoyed watching the men’s professional tennis matches before and after the Chamber event. The Mayor and Councilmember Eades were in attendance. In addition to the mayor, the guest speakers were Ted Reese (co-tournament director for the ATC) and Mike McNulty (the Immediate Past President of the USTA and presided over the US Open in 2022 & 2023). Speaker discussions centered around Cary, tennis, and the ATC. Rey’s Steakhouse provided delicious food for this event. The tennis tournament concludes on Sunday.
Senator Gale Adcock Visits Cary Police Department
Last Thursday, Senator Gale Adcock and Assistant Town Manager Shelley Curran, were honored to spend the day with the Cary Police Department. Lieutenant Redig did an amazing job coordinating the activities which included, target shooting, handcuffs, a demonstration from Logan, our canine officer, tours, and riding with officers on parole (in the front seat!). It was an excellent learning experience and gave them an even greater appreciation for what our police department does to protect and serve all our citizens on a daily basis.
Senator Adcock shared the following email with the team following the visit:
“Please let everyone involved with the planning and execution of my CPD visit yesterday know that I had an incredible experience. I came away with an even deeper appreciation for the training, skill, and dedication of every officer I met. I am so grateful for the opportunity to represent the citizens of Cary and to be partners with the CPD in making Cary the best possible place to live, work, play, raise a family, and run a business Each of these depends on our community feeling and being safe. I am personally grateful for the incredible work of very member of the CPD.”
Cary is Awarded USDA Forrest Service Grant to Support Trees
The US Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry- Inflation Reduction Act Grant Program has awarded Cary $1,000,000 for the ‘My Tree, Our Tree Branching Out’ project. This multi-year initiative will establish a comprehensive reforestation program in Cary, focusing on sustainability and resilience in our urban forest. The grant funding will ultimately help staff and citizens inventory planting sites, grow native trees, collaborate with various partners, and train volunteers for tree maintenance. This project is one of only six awarded in North Carolina.
Tidying up the Library Parking Deck
We’re prepping for the Park! Contractors working on behalf of Cary are set to power wash, sweep, and then restripe the parking spaces in the library parking deck over the coming weeks. Windows and elevators will also be cleaned.
During work, the deck remains open; only immediate cleaning areas will be inaccessible. Signage will be placed around the deck to let visitors know what we are doing.
US Soccer goes to Atlanta
We have now been officially notified of what we have thought for quite some time: Cary is no longer in contention to the be new home of US Soccer. In the end, the size of the philanthropic and corporate communities along with the availability of international flights have allowed Atlanta to be their first choice. A special “thank you” to Doug McRainey and Shelley Curran, who have led our efforts on this project.
Bachelor Branch Greenway Screening from Proposed Duke Energy Substation
At the September 14 Council meeting, there was a request for information regarding proximity of the Batchelor Branch Greenway within Thomas Brooks Park to a utility substation proposed by Duke Energy at 3150 Green Level West Rd. Since that meeting, staff have researched this question and can share the following update: The Batchelor Branch Greenway will run along the west side of Thomas Brooks Park and will curve to the east to eventually cross NC 540. Each stretch of the Batchelor Branch Greenway will sit at least 1,000 ft away from the proposed Duke Energy substation.
The Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Facilities Master Plan does show a conceptual greenway alignment that creates a loop within Thomas Brooks Park. The greenway loop was conceptual in nature, and a portion is now proposed to be built as a cross-country course. The design of the cross-country course has not yet been completed but is scheduled to begin in the coming months. Staff will work with the designers for this project to ensure that the course maintains adequate separation (in addition to the buffer provided on the Duke Energy substation site) to provide screening for users of the course. The Batchelor Branch Greenway will be located downslope as it heads south to link to the White Oak Creek Greenway, and thus the substation will not be visible.
Lochmere Drive Sewer Pipeline Repair
Following the installation of sewer system bypass pumps in the vicinity of Lochmere Drive and the Lochmere Lake Dam, Cary’s contractor, Moffat Pipe, began work on a planned sewer pipeline repair and rehabilitation project. Forty-five feet of 20-inch diameter pipe was replaced this week. In addition to the new pipe installation, approximately 380 feet of pipe liner will also be installed over the next few weeks to rehabilitate the existing sewer line to new condition.
Winter 2023-2024 Youth Basketball Registration Opens
Registration for Youth Winter Basketball leagues opened on September 13. Youth sports league participants registered on the TeamSideline platform. TeamSideline is a familiar platform to many sports participants, though this was the first time Cary had used it for youth sports registration. Over 1,100 citizens successfully registered on the first day! The first-day tally was the largest number of registrants on a single day of any sports league registration in the history of Cary Sports. Citizen advocates in 311 and PRCR staff were ready to assist any citizen who needed assistance with the new registration process. Registration continues through October 1, with non-residents eligible to register beginning September 27.
Women’s Soccer Cup Challenge Final
Cary and the NC Courage hosted the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup Final at WakeMed Soccer Park. With only two days’ notice, staff worked diligently to set up and ensure the event went smoothly and exceeded expectations for players and visitors. Just three hours before game time, the stadium field was under two inches of water due to a quick-moving storm. Due to the quality of field maintenance in Cary, the match started without delay.
Aired in front of a national TV audience, the NC Courage won the Challenge Cup for the second year in a row and will share the largest prize pool to date of $1.1 million.
Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting – October 4, 2023
The Neighborhood Meeting will be held virtually on WebEx from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The following case will be discussed on October 4, 2023:
For more information and to register visit the Virtual Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
Planning and Zoning Board
Monday, September 18
6:30 p.m.
Public Art Advisory Board
Wednesday, September 20
6:15 p.m.
Greenway Committee
Thursday, September 21
6:00 p.m.
Mayor’s Mailbox
- Complaints about flooding in the Prestwyck subdivision after the severe storm last week. (This neighborhood is one of many built before flood restrictions and building restrictions were in place in the early 2000s)
- A thanks for gift bags presented to Lazy Daze committee members.
- A complaint that Cary should do more in composting.
- A complaint about Google fiber was put in the ground months ago but no service was offered.
- An invitation for walk to school day (Unfortunately I will be in Austin, Texas)
- A complaint about Cary signing a Gas Utility Franchise agreement.
- A complaint about someone disrupting a homeowners meeting.
- A complaint about school assignments not being near their home.
- Complaints about blasting that disturbs the residents of Providence at Yates Pond (Unfortunately, this is a state regulated activity)
- A complaint about grading by a developer on Debra Drive.
- A request to move the bus depot to Crossroads.
Next Week
Next week’s activities include staff meetings, a meeting of the Wake County Mayors Association, a meeting of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Executive Board, a memorial service for Anthony Blackman, an Advisory Board Volunteer Appreciation event, a constitutional event at the Page Walker, and a meeting of the North Carolina Metro Mayors.
Well, that is all for this week. My next post will be on Sunday, September 24th, 2023. 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@townofcary.org and email personal comments to augustanat@mindspring.com.
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