Cary Council Work Session – October 15, 2026

The Cary Council work session on October 15, 2026, focused primarily on the historic preservation program and a planned update to its master plan. Staff said funding was approved in the FY2027 budget for the update, which will assess current conditions, public engagement, regulations, and program effectiveness, and align recommendations with the Imagine Cary plan. Staff expects to issue an RFP for a consultant in fall or winter 2026, with engagement and drafting in 2027; no consultant selection or contract award occurred. Council also discussed whether the updated preservation plan should remain a separate document or be integrated into Imagine Cary, without making a decision. The discussion noted continuing work and potential public-private fundraising for the Nancy Jones House.

Council discussed a proposal from external auditor Cherry Bekaert for additional services, including policy and procedure review, a financial operations health check, financial dashboards, and fraud prevention and mitigation. The estimated range was $5,000 to approximately $75,000–$80,000, depending on scope; council gave feedback on priorities but made no funding decision. Staff noted that an internal auditor was being recruited. The mayor also reported that a $50,000 council appropriation would fund an interim rapid-flashing beacon near Ederly, scheduled for installation the following week. No procurement vote or contract award was recorded. Council additionally discussed the meeting calendar and holiday/observance list before entering and later reconvening from closed session.