Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cary public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in environment
Community Garden Lottery and Environmental Programs
Staff prepared for the annual community garden lottery launching December 1, open only to Cary residents and automated through RecTrac for the first time. Rain garden improvements at Good Hope Farm are showing better drainage.
EAB annual work plan for 2027
The board is building next year's work plan around the town's Sustainability & Climate Action Strategy priorities — from healthy-home climate upgrades to EV outreach and green stormwater guides. A draft comes back in November for approval.
Beyond the South Wake Landfill Study
Cary, via the Solid Waste Consortium and Central Pines Regional Council, is using EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant funding to study cost-effective regional solid waste and organics management. Bids are due this month; work wraps by July 2027.
Lithium-ion battery disposal ban
Starting December 1, lithium-ion batteries can't go in NC landfills. Cary doesn't collect them, so residents should use the Cary Waste Wizard or Wake/Chatham County household hazardous waste facilities.
Collect and Connect Food Rescue Study
Raleigh Charter High School students presented research on food waste, expiration date confusion, and local grocery and restaurant practices. The board discussed potential next steps like composting outreach and grocery store waste ratings.
Environmental Advisory Board Annual Report
Cary is the 101st community in the nation certified as a wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation, and the board reviewed the program webpage to suggest improvements. Annual recertification keeps the designation active.
Drought Monitoring and Water Supply
Staff provided a drought update, noting that while regional watersheds face dry conditions, Cary's water supply from Jordan Lake remains secure and normal operating triggers are well above restriction levels.
Festival composting and waste reduction
A new FY27 contract with Compost Now extends composting to 18 Cary festivals and events, and volunteers staffed composting education at Spring Daze. It's part of the town's push to cut event waste.
Urban forestry and tree preservation standards
Cary is hosting its first tree workshop for developers, landscapers, and industry professionals, aiming to improve how trees are protected during development and redevelopment. The board weighed how to define champion, significant, and specimen trees and how to get builders and HOAs engaged.
EV charging expansion
An electric vehicle charging update for Cary takes effect August 1, per the staff liaison's report.
Flood insurance premium reduction
Staff noted the town's FEMA Community Rating System efforts earned residents a 15% reduction in flood insurance premiums — a concrete pocketbook win tied to stormwater investment.