Cary Council Work Session — May 28, 2026

The Cary, NC Council Work Session on May 28, 2026, focused primarily on the Austin Yards development project and related development agreement negotiations. The council reviewed the proposed mixed-use development plans, including office, retail, and multi-family units, and discussed the public-private partnership aspects, infrastructure commitments, and economic impact projections. Key procurement-related topics included the $18.19 million development agreement ask, split between utility and general funds, covering fees and infrastructure reimbursements tied to property tax revenues over a 12-year period. The council also discussed near-term and long-term revenue and cost recovery options, such as charging for electric vehicle (EV) charging, increasing building permit and parks fees, and exploring a stormwater utility fee. Additionally, the session addressed living wage practices for town employees and contractors, noting legal limitations on requiring contractors to pay a living wage. The meeting included budget considerations with these items incorporated into the FY27 recommended budget and plans for further discussion in upcoming sessions.