Cary, NC — There has been a lot of discussion at the Council table, online and in the papers regarding the proposal for an updated Golf Course Noise ordinance. 

Noise Ordinance Proposal

Because the ordinance language can be a bit confusing, I took the liberty of making a spreadsheet to show what is changing and what is not.

I often do this sort of thing as I’m preparing to vote on a complex issue so that I can make sure that I understand all sides of the issue.

Considerations

First off, my mind is not yet made up here. I have concerns with changing an ordinance that will impact people whose homes and quality of life may be affected. Changing the rules in the middle of the game is not something that I take lightly.

But, at the same time, I look at the bigger issue and problem:

1. There have been very few (no) complaints brought before two of the golf courses in the last few years (some in the last month or so, as this discussion began). Another golf course had a few complaints, but they were amicably settled.
2. Many folks that purchased homes on the golf courses were aware of the potential noise issues when they bought or built their houses.
3. I understand the economic vitality that golf courses bring to our community.
4. Some of the issues with the ordinance are ambiguous and need to be codified more specifically so that everyone understands the rules.

So, having said all of that, here is a chart I put together, along with some explanations, that will guide me at the council table. I hope that it helps you understand the changes, the issues and the impacts. I’d be interested, as always, in your feedback.

The proposed ordinance language is here.

*Golf courses stipulate that “golf course greens” are defined by the USGA as all the grass on the course (i.e. fairways, tee boxes and putting surfaces). Cary has typically enforced the laymen’s interpretation that to “mow the greens” is defined as cutting the grass on the putting surface specifically. Anything outside of that was not allowed by ordinance.

This is one reason to codify the ordinance.

** Typical and routine work includes the mowing, blowing and raking of all of the course’s playing surfaces, using equipment operated with all the manufacturer’s standard mufflers and noise-reducing equipment in use and in proper operating condition.Typical and routine work does not include the use of chainsaws, chippers, shredders or equipment that is used on a sporadic, irregular basis.

Definitions & Explanations

What’s being changed?

1. The proposed changes would allow golf courses to be prepared for play on all playing surfaces beginning at 6 am, 7 days/week April – September. The ordinance already allowed golf courses to mow the “golf course greens,” referring to the putting surfaces. However, the proposed updated language in the ordinance expands that to “all playing surfaces.” The golf course management stakeholders believe that that the “golf course greens” included the other playing surfaces, and they have been maintaining those surfaces in their current practices. As such, golf course management does not believe this is a change from their current practice, although it was not codified in our ordinance till now.
2. The current ordinance specifies “mowing” – the updated ordinance specifies “mowing, blowing, and raking of the sand traps” as permissible activities for the golf courses to perform beginning at 6 am. Also added to this detail is that chain saws, chippers, shredders, etc are specifically NOT exempted by the “typical and routine work”, in the new ordinance. Therefore, that means that in order to use those, they would have to be under 60 decibels if used before 7 am during the week or 9 am on Saturday and Sunday. This matches the current general practice of the golf courses.
3. Measurement of the 60db(A) has to be, and will continue to be, taken at or within the residential property line of the complainant. Added to this ordinance is that the sound measurement shall be averaged over 1 minute, and that it is a violation of the ordinance if it exceeds the average reading of 60db(A), or if any sound exceeds 62db(A) at any time during the measurement period.
4. Also, staff has added a proposal for an additional exception to allow this same activity on the golf courses for the months of October – March. This proposal would allow work to begin at 7 am on Saturday and Sunday. The current ordinance would only allow that work on Saturday and Sunday at 9 am. Keep in mind that anyone across the Town of Cary can mow their lawn at 7 am Monday through Friday. This exception, to start at 7 am on Saturday and Sunday, would only apply to golf courses. We have been informed that this matches the current practice of the golf courses in the area.

What does 60db(A) sound like?

60db is equal to a conversation at three feet.

Anyone can do anything as long as it doesn’t exceed 60db. This is not a change. Note: this is a similar definition that is used by Industrial Noise Control, Inc. A chart by Industrial Noise Control can be found here for their specific wording.

What type of activity is being restricted?

There is no type of activity that is restricted from being performed at any time, rather, it is the level of noise created by that activity that is restricted. Said another way, anyone can cut grass at midnight, so long as they do not exceed 60 decibels at the property line of a person that complains about that midnight mowing. Anyone can do anything as long as it doesn’t exceed 60 db. This is not a change and has been allowed for years.

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Photo by Penn State.

Cary, NC — One of the best things about our Cary community is you. Really. I’m not blowing smoke here. Learn how you can start volunteering in Cary right now.

It’s Sign Up Time!

It’s because of our Cary Volunteers that we are such a great community.

I know this to be true. And, during the month of June, we have several opportunities for you and your family to sign up to be an integral part of Cary.

Teen Council

Looking for a way to get your teen involved and off the couch?

Have them sign up for the Cary Teen Council. This award-winning program that has been around for more than 20 years, and it’s just for 6th-12th graders. Over 700 kids have participated the last few years – and all of them have made a big difference for this community.

These teens participate in all kinds of programs across the town, from social and recreational events, volunteering and community awareness/service, educational, leadership/teamwork and fundraising/recruitment. Many of the Cary Teen Council members receive a chance to serve in advisory capacities for various Town boards and commissions; in fact, we have one on the Information Services Advisory Board. Hey, I’m sure it looks good on their college application, too.

Membership Applications are accepted in June of each year only, so have them sign up now.

See – everyone gets in on the volunteer action.

Boards & Commissions

June is also the month for signup for our Town of Cary Boards and Commissions. If you want to learn more about how the Town works, and have more of a say in what happens, this is a great place to start. Our volunteer boards and commissions serve an important role in our democratic local government process. These boards are a great way for us on council to gather constructive citizen input and recommendations from our citizens.

It allows us to tap into your amazing collective intellectual capital and talents as individual citizens, and it can also help you understand our day-to-day local government processes. This is a double-edged sword. Maybe you don’t want to know that much?

By serving on a board, you will not only learn more about the Town of Cary, but you will become a community leader, and, more importantly, you will get the chance to weigh in on your beliefs about our community needs and how they can be addressed and met.

Your input will help influence the important decisions we make regarding government policies. It’s also an amazing way to meet new neighbors, and, of course, to serve. Oh, it’s fun, too!

Each of our boards and commissions are unique in size, meeting schedule, and specific function; however, the overall mission is the same: to make Cary a place in which we can be proud to live, work and play.Citizens who serve on these boards and commissions perform a community service using their skills, interests and initiatives to make the difference.

These volunteers believe that Cary should indeed become “My Cary” for each of us.

Six of our seven boards below and the Economic Development Committee have openings for terms that are completed or vacant, so please review the list, and apply.

Vacancies for Boards and Commissions:

• Environmental Advisory Board: 3
• Historic Preservation Commission: 0
• Information Services Advisory Board: 3
• Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources: 3
• Planning & Zoning: 3
• Public Art: 2
• Zoning Board of Adjustment: 1
• Economic Development Committee: 1

Applications are being accepted through the end of June. All volunteers must live within Cary’s Corporate limits or, where applicable, in Cary’s ETJ.

Review the list of boards and commissions, find one that speaks to you and apply here.

Cary Volunteers Do So Much

There are so many great ways to volunteer – check them out online.

Take a look at our Spruce Program – our volunteer-based program designed to connect citizens to beautification, litter reduction, and environmental service projects, save us significant money and add beauty to our community. In 2014 alone, they collected 27,085 pounds of litter, spread 782 yards of mulch and planted over 1,600 trees, flowers and shrubs.

We also have Cary’s CAP team, the Citizens Assisting Police program. Before volunteering for the CAP Team, volunteers must successfully complete Cary’s Citizens Police Academy.

These volunteers help provide security at public events and assist the Police Department with fingerprinting, child safety seat installation, clerical duties, service center staffing, Community Watch programs and other duties. Last year, the 178 member CAP Team volunteered 5,585 hours, saving our town more than $135,847.00.

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. ~Gandhi

There are so many opportunities for all citizens to participate and engage with our community.  I hope you will find one that is your calling.

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From the blog of Lori Bush, At-Large Member of Cary Town Council. Pictures are from the Cary Teen Council, Town of Cary Spruce Program and Cary It Green Facebook Page.

Full disclosure: my son is in one of these pictures

It’s Budget Time

Wake County Commissioners just passed their budget, and the NC General Assembly just dropped a big budget document on all the members’ desks on Tuesday, June 16, 2015.

For a vote on Wednesday, June 17, 2015. That’s right. The very next day.

The good news is that, here in the Town of Cary, we have a participatory budget process. It allows lots of time for involvement from you, our citizens.

Feedback

For our Fiscal Year 2016 budget, we received feedback via:

– Facebook – 19 comments
– Twitter – 2 comments
– Email – 26 comments
– Public Hearings – 4 comments
– Voicemails – 1 comment

Not a lot, but some. And we’ve had more feedback in previous years.

This feedback started in October 2014, when we expressly solicited feedback from you, and, also, when we look for feedback during our two public hearings in May and June. There are about eight weeks between the posting of the proposed budget and our final vote.

Often, comments we receive make it into the budget process, and, sometimes, as in the SK8 Park and Pickle Ball enthusiasts, they make it into our Master Plans.

So, What’s in the Budget?

-Total Budget of $295M:

• $218M operating budget
• $77M capital budget

-$1/month increase in solid waste fee to help with cost recovery

-$3.8% increase in water and sewer rates, an average of $2.75/month (the result of rate smoothing to pay for the $300M water treatment plant).

-Increase taxes of 2 cents from 35 cents per $100 valuation to 37 cents to pay for voter approved bond projects (approximately $40/year for a $200K home) – still keeping us in one of the lowest taxes in Wake County. (Originally, this was 3 cents, but additional electricity tax revenue came in, allowing us to remove the additional penny).

-24 new positions including hires of a new police officer, three firefighters, customer service reps in Public Works, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources and more (reducing staff to 8.1 staff per 1,000 Cary residents).

The Budget Process

It’s hard to believe, but budget planning starts almost as soon as the budget is signed. The Town of Cary Fiscal calendar starts July 1st, so our budget must be approved by the last council meeting this month, which is June 25, 2015.

By law, the balanced budget (yes, local government MUST have a balanced budget, even though the Federal government does not) by June 30th.

I, and my fellow members of the Town Council, take this job and our fiduciary responsibilities to the citizens with utmost care and responsibility. There are many additional projects that each of us would like to see added to the budget – but money always seems to get in the way.

During this process, if there is something that we want added to the budget, that means that some other project will have to be removed or slimmed down. Those are hard decisions, just like you make at home everyday.

Adding to this struggle is the fact that the General Assembly removed the Town’s ability to levy a privilege tax on businesses. Despite how we might feel about that tax, it did bring in an additional $1.5M in revenue to Cary. We have to make up for that lost revenue in some other manner.

There are various ways to make up for the lost revenue – reducing spending, of course, or raising taxes.  And no one wants to raise taxes. The math for raising taxes works this way – if we raise taxes by 1 cent – that generates about $2.2M in revenue.

Raising taxes is not what anyone wants to see, and Cary has been lucky to have an amazing Town Staff that run a highly productive and tight ship – keeping our productivity and efficiency of our employees high while providing some of the highest quality of life in the Triangle.

We have not had a tax increase that wasn’t for voter approved bonds in 25 years…since 1990. Pretty amazing.

What’s In?

There are a number of great projects on tap for this year – some of those funded with voter-approved bonds from 2012.

• Support for deployment of gigabit fiber services by telecom companies AT&T and Google Fiber ($821K)
• Support for new positions, from Planning, Parks, Public Works, and Engineering
• Addition of wellness programs at Mills Park Middle School ($7700)
• Parks Master Plan update to include the Joint Planning area for Cary in Chatham County ($100K)
• Expansion of the successful Project PHOENIX ($130K)
• ADA and access improvements at Sertoma Aphitheater and Koka Booth ($550K)
• Renovations at Thomas Brooks Park Fields ($275K)
• Kilmayne Water Storage Tank ($3.5M)
• Replacement of a Fire Pumper truck($650K)

There are many more that you can read about in the budget

What’s Missing?

I’m sure that there are lots of folks that would weigh in on wanting more out of our budget, and I hear them, as well. As of today, we have a list of items that might be in or out of the budget. (We had a work session on a few of them Tuesday, June 16, 2o15).

Open Data – discussed on Tuesday. A small request that I think will make for HUGE inroads in citizen engagement, visibility and public information availability.

Expansion of Crossing Guard program at Schools – this item did not get funded this year. The proposal would have added an additional $250K to the police budget. Cary currently spends $100K to provide crossing guards at 11 elementary schools. We plan to reach out to Wake County to see what additional resources they might provide. Side note: Cary also pay for School Resource officers in the high schools, today.

Paper map of Cary – suggestion: to find a private or not-for-profit that will step up.

On-location Cary TV program – too costly.

Increase in recycling pickup frequency – although many folks have shared that their recycle bins are becoming fuller more quickly than their regular can, this would be a significant increase in costs to the Town (one time cost of $2M for new equipment and annual costs of $595K).

Sunday C-Tran service – although I would love to see Sunday service, this is a difficult item. Currently, Wake County is considering a November 2016 referendum on a sales tax increase to support transit. If we expanded our service now, it would not make that service eligible for that funding. So, we are in a “wait and see” mode.

So, Overall…

So, overall, I think we are close to having a completed budget. There is still room for improvement, and I always value your input. Although we might not be able to do something in this year’s budget, please give us your thoughts. They, and you, matter.

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From the blog of Lori Bush, At-Large Member of Cary Town Council. Photo by R. Nial Bradshaw.

A Brief History Lesson

This year – 2014 – marks the 200^th anniversary of the birth of a man without whom Cary would not be Cary.  The 200^th birthday of — no, not Jack Smith – but of Samuel Fenton Cary, the man for whom our town was named. 

Brick Homestead in Ohio

Sam was born on Feb 18,1814  to a pioneer family on the outskirts of  Cincinnati, OH in a log cabin.  (Although it seems like everyone was born in a log cabin in those days,  it still makes for a good story.)  We’re told shortly after his birth his father built and moved the family to the finest brick home in the county.  Perhaps that’s where we get our preference for brick around here – we may have inherited it from the Carys.

Young Sam Cary

Sam grew up in Cincinnati, went to college and law school and became known for his legal and oratorical skills and was appointed to the Ohio Supreme Court at the age of 26, an appointment he turned down.

He used his skills instead to work for the common man advocating strongly for the 8 hour work day and other labor laws.  During the Mexican War, he was bestowed the rank of general and served in various military and quasi–military roles.

He became Chief of Staff to 3 Ohio Governors and later served in Congress as an “Independent Republican” and was the only Republican in Congress to vote against the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, Raleigh’s native son.   Sam had an independent streak.

General Cary

He was a strong advocate against slavery and became good friends with and advisor to Abraham Lincoln, Henry Clay and others.

After the War Between the States, he turned his attention to the issue of temperance – prohibition – the evils of drink.  And this is how he is connected to our town.  He engaged in widespread speaking tours on the subject of temperance, including spending 8 months in England in 1870  where he became a celebrity – as much for his speaking skills as for his message.  It was this fame that brought him to the attention of Frank Page, Cary’s founder, who was a larger than life teetotaler himself…..and who just happened to be looking for a name for his new town.

Samuel Fenton Cary

He honored his idol by naming the town “Cary” in April 1871.   Sam probably never set foot here.  It’s unclear if Sam and Page ever met.  It’s certainly possible that Cary passed through town on the train during one of his tours.  And it’s possible that he got off the train and spent an evening at the Page(-Walker) Hotel.  But that’s just conjecture.  The rest is history, though.

Sam later ran for Vice-President on the “Greenback Party” ticket in 1876  and continued his temperance crusade until his death at age 86 in 1900.

He has been described as a man of commanding presence, a public official who brought honor and dignity to the profession.  As a servant of the people, he had no superior.  He combined qualities of ‘head and heart’ that inspired confidence and respect in all he did.   He was called a friend and neighbor of the highest rank.

All in all, not a bad person to be named after.  We can be proud of Cary – both of our Town….and of Sam!

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Pictures from the College Hill Historical Society  

Additional reference material from “The American Local History Network”

Morrisville Parkway Extension

From Town of Cary

Town of Cary staff and consultants have been working to get the planning and design in place for the completion of the final segment of Morrisville Parkway between NC55 and Green Level Church Road. The developments on both ends of that segment of road are helping to expedite the construction – and will have nearly half of the length completed by summer of 2014.

The developers along Morrisville Parkway at Fryar Gate will build another 1,000 feet of this area over the next 18 months, leaving only the connections to the existing NC 540 bridge. The last ½ mile segment at the interchange has cleared a number of major environmental hurdles before going to the Federal Highway Administration for final review and approval. Construction is targeted for mid to late 2015.

Morrisville Parkway Railroad Grade Separation Project

From Town of Morrisville

Starting in April, the Morrisville Parkway/NC Railroad Grade Separation Project near Park West is planned to begin, with a scheduled completion date for May 2017.

What’s Happening?

The grade separation project will eliminate the at-grade crossing that is currently on Morrisville Parkway, just past Crabtree Crossing Drive in the Morrisville/Cary area. This will be done by building a bridge over the Morrisville Parkway, separating the vehicular road traffic from the rail traffic, sending cars underneath the railroad tracks. The project is part of a larger project to “double track” portions of the NC Rail Road corridor between Raleigh and Charlotte.

The goal is to increase safety by removing the at-grade crossing, while also realigning the curve. This realignment should improve track speeds and reduce travel times between Raleigh and Charlotte on the train. Also, moving cars under the tracks will reduce travel time for cars, and also increase capacity on Morrisville Parkway.

This will improve safety for automobile and rail passengers, and reduce automobile and train congestion and potential collisions.

Project Status, new intersections and lights

There’s good news: earlier in 2013, the NC Department of Transportation had announced that based on considerable public input, they chose to build the railroad bridge with a method that will take longer overall but reduce the crossing closure and associated detours from 36 months to 6-8 months.

But, there will still be an impact. Starting in April 2014, construction will begin. Morrisville Parkway will be closed for 7 days between April – June 2013 to facilitate the construction of a detour.

In order to facilitate this work, a new traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of Crabtree Crossing Parkway at Morrisville Parkway.

Also, the contractor will be making some improvements to three intersections that are located along the detour route. Those intersections are Town Hall Drive at Morrisville-Carpenter Road, Weston Parkway at NC54 (Chapel Hill Road), and Davis Drive at Morrisville Parkway. The improvements mainly consist of extending turn lane storage lengths to facilitate larger volumes of turning traffic and adjustments to signal timing.

Once those improvements and the detour is completed, Morrisville Parkway will be closed for up to 6 months, most likely from Feb-July 2016 – while the bridge is being constructed. During the closure, the off-site detour will be required.

Additional information

•  – Cost: $16.6 million, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
•  – Start of construction: April 2014
•  – Targeted completion: May 2017
•  – Project construction contract awarded to Fred Smith Company.
•  – Visit NCDOT’s project webpage, or Morrisville’s page to learn more.

As always, thanks for listening and please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns.

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Featured photo by Hugh Kimura

A Tour 

Photo from Town of Cary

My evening started with the GRAND tour of the Police department by Lieutenant Jerry McCormick.  We started in the 9-1-1 Communications Center where, you guessed it, your 911 calls are sent.  

They’ve seen a HUGE increase in the number of calls to the center when calls started to require a 10-digit phone number.  (Raise your hand if you have recently dialed 911 by mistake – instead of 919.  My hand is up!)  The most important thing to do is to STAY ON THE LINE if you make that mistake.  That allows the 911 operators to make sure that it was REALLY a mistake and clear the call. Otherwise, you should probably expect a call back from the operator – and just remember that takes time away from them to answer an emergency call.  So stay on the line if you make that mistake.

I was impressed watching the staff manage the calls, with the TVs showing the news on the screens at the front of the room, while they answered calls at their stations.  In front of them was a mapping system allowing them to see the locations of the Fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to more accurately and efficiently deploy the right vehicles to the needed locations, saving vital response time.

Also during the tour we saw the Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) team members. I wasn’t aware of this program till then – but it’s one of several community services run by the Police Department.  These volunteers help out the Cary PD in a number of ways, whether it’s providing additional security at events, helping with clerical duties or providing other services.  They don’t carry guns or make arrests, but they are a great resource for the department.  If you are interested, you have to first complete the Citizens Police Academy.

We continued the tour in the interview rooms and finished by checking out the new Cary Police Cars and Motorcycles. The new Dodge Chargers are pretty slick looking – and they are more fuel-efficient which helps our tax dollars and us.

The Ride

Photo from Town of Cary

My host for the rest of the evening was Sergeant Jeremy Burgin. (That’s not him, but his dog, Max.)  Sergeant Burgin has spent many years on the Cary Police force, much of his time in the K9 Unit with his dog, Max.  They were Cary’s first K9 team (Max is retired and living with him and his family), and I loved hearing “Max stories.”  Max has been a true Cary hero – finding missing and wanted people, sniffing out drugs and serving our community. Cary now has three K9 teams as part of the police department.

Our first “find” of the evening was a driver who had the misfortune of making an illegal U-Turn RIGHT IN FRONT of our police car.  You can imagine the look on their face when they saw the police lights and sirens in their rear-view mirror.

Missing Storm Grates

After that we headed to areas that have recently been hit with a series of robberies involving the storm water grates.  These grates are HEAVY – they have to be a few hundred pounds, and are in place to keep us all from falling into the storm drains along our curbs and gutters.  But apparently these grates are the latest item to steal for scrap metal and their removal is posing a real safety issue.  You can only imagine if a cyclist, dog walker or child were to fall into the gutter or drains because of these missing grates.  And, they are expensive.  So far, more than 30 have been stolen since July.  We drove through several of the areas hardest hit by these crime sprees – but we didn’t see any grate thiefs.

If you have any information regarding these grates – make sure to call Crime Stoppers.

The In-Car System

I’ve always wondered about the computer system that is in the Police Car. From the outside, it looks pretty crammed full of technology – and it is!  There are systems to record the officer via video and audio, a computer system that gives the officer a view of what is happening around town, and the ability to hone in on an area, to see “hot spots” of activity.

The idea of identifying “hot spots” isn’t a new one – I remember reading about it and the “broken window theory” in “Leadership” by Rudy Giuliani.  Research has shown that by identifying and responding to crime hot spots, you can reduce the crime in not only that area, but also the surrounding areas.  It’s interesting to see that hot spots aren’t just about the type of service calls (they can be crime related, or not) but also around the time of the calls, and the day, as well as location (such as retail, neighborhood, etc.)

The different layers on the mapping system in the vehicle allowed us to see everything from violations, to gang members or known sexual offenders.  (All of this is public record and can be found on the Crime Data mapping page.)

Final Violations

We drove all over Cary – on the lookout for any signs of disturbance.  It was Cary on a Thursday night, so there wasn’t much going on.  We happened upon a driver that must’ve mistaken a curb for a bumpy left turn – missing the intersection by a significant amount.  (I think they call that “impaired driving.”)  The driver was OK, but shaken, and shockingly missed the ravine and many many trees along the way.

After that, we saw one final issue.  What Sgt. Burgin referred to as a “popeye” – a vehicle with only a single headlight on.  Most of us don’t notice when that happens – so I thought it was a great service to let the driver know, write it up and send them on their way.

Overall, it was a quiet Thursday evening driving around Cary.  And that’s a good thing. 

I’ve had the opportunity to visit WakeMed before, as both a patient and visitor when my kids needed to check out the Emergency Room. I’ve always been impressed with their quality of service and the care that each and every employee shows the patients and visitors. And I’ve seen the hospital grow from a relatively small facility 20 years ago to one that is now expanded out and UP, and serving so much of our Cary community.  

The Tour

eICU

Our tour began with one of my favorite topics – technology! This time, the technology is being used in Healthcare. We visited the new eICU area in the hospital. We have all seen Intensive Care Units (ICUs) before, on TV or in the movies, or maybe up close and personal. But this ICU was different, in a good way. It looked like a normal ICU, with all of the vital signs of the patient able to be seen and managed by a critical care nurse or doctor, but that information was ALSO being sent to a “second pair of eyes” offsite.  This is where ANOTHER set of critical care providers were watching and assisting the hospital staff. Inside of the patient room they installed high-resolution cameras – able to zoom-in to even read the text off of a wrist cuff; and microphones and speakers – to be able to converse with staff or the patient. This technology assists the doctors and patients, where the offsite personnel can watch for trends in the patient’s condition and to catch issues proactively and before they become too serious.

I was told it’s been used in the U.S. for 12 years, and has been shown to reduce the length of time a patient is in the hospital by 25-35%, and also improves a critically ill patient’s chance of survival by an average of 28%.

Robotic Surgery

Ready for Surgery

Yes, that’s right. We went to suit up in our “bunny suits” for a visit to the Surgical suite. Here’s where we got a chance to see and touch something that I have ONLY seen on TV. A robotic surgical machine, called da vinci, that does minimally invasive surgery on a state-of-the-art robotic platform. The idea behind this system is that the less invasive the surgery, the less post surgical pain, less blood loss, and shorter recovery time a patient will have.

But besides that, it was just cool. The surgeon (ok, me in this case) sat down to a console that gave me a 3-D image in 10 times resolution, of the field. (You thought I was going to say something else, didn’t you?) I reached into the console, and using 2 fingers on each hand, was able to have a full range of movement that was replicated exactly by the robotic arms. The movements were so precise, I could pick up a rubber band (the size of a orthodontic rubber band, think the size of the top of a push pin) and move it to another location. The dexterity was amazing. It was like a video game, but in real life.

Now, I can see a whole new career path for our kids that play XBox and other video games. In fact, when I mentioned that, one of the nurses said that they have found that when kids (read “gamers”) use this robot, they are extremely agile at it. In fact, a study from the University of Texas

found that the surgical skills of high school students (who play video games approx. 2 hours a day) “were found to be equal to the UMTB physicians, and in some cases, even exceeded the skills of the residents.”

Where the Babies Are

After that fun, we headed down to the Women’s Pavilion and Birthplace. Another beautiful area of the hospital, with private suites that let the families be together. We were surprised to learn so many new factoids there, as well.

•  – Midwife supported births occur at the hospital, so that women can choose their delivery support team
•  – Approximately 2400 babies are born at WakeMed Cary every year – with a new baby born every 4-5 hours
•  – At WakeMed Raleigh, a NEW KINDERGARTEN CLASS is born EVERY DAY. Wow!
•  – Skin-to-Skin is a program implemented that helps with newborn bonding and the baby’s brain development, steadies the mom and baby breathing and heart rate. The babies are placed right away on their moms so that they can bond right away.
•  – Moms choosing breast milk for their children at WakeMed is on the rise, with almost 85% of mom’s choosing to breastfeed

Our Community Hospital

I was truly impressed with my tour, and even though we saw just a small part of the Hospital, it was good to see a place like this that does so much for our community.   Did you know that 85% of the WakeMed Cary patients are served from within a 5 mile (or so) radius – so this hospital is  truly serving our Cary community, and beyond.

DID YOU KNOW

iPhone App

There’s an app for that. Yep, there is an app for WakeMed Health and Hospitals. It’s FREE! You can download it and see their locations, wait times at the various Emergency departments and more. (You can also get that information online.)

As always, feel free to contact me with comments, questions and concerns.

Pictures from WakeMed Cary, Google, my iPhone

Why the bond?

My job on the Town Council is to serve you, our citizens.  This is a task of which I am immensely honored and privileged.  And part of that task is to ensure that you have the services you need to work, live, play, learn and grow in the community that you call home.

During the economic downturn, the Town’s general fund revenues declined, and in 2008, Town Council made some tough decisions to do what we all did at home; re-prioritize our capital projects, canceling $24 million in projects, reallocating resources, and delaying many other projects.

We are now at a point that some of those projects need to be reconsidered if we are to continue to support the high quality of life that Cary citizens have come to expect.  And, sometimes, just like in our own lives, we need additional capital to enhance our community.  Whether it’s maintenance or new coat of paint on the house, updating a room, or improving our backyard, these projects cost money.  The same thing is true in our town.

1. We have a need to update Fire Station #2, it’s overcrowded, outdated, and has significant structural repair needs, and is serving a large area.
2. Maintenance on our roads has been pushed out during the economic slowdown, many streets need resurfacing and improvements. Other projects such as the Walnut Street projects and the Downtown streetscape will enhance the community, while other improvements for intersections in West Cary (Carpenter Firestation and Morrisville Carpenter, as well as Green Level West) will help those areas.
3. Parks and Recreation have become a big part of Cary’s identity.  A Downtown Park, Carpenter Park, updates to Mills Park and Bartley Park (Penney Road Park) will provide additional amenities across the town.

Just the Facts, Ma’am

In order to pay for these initiatives, we need to come to you, Cary Citizens, to ask you for your approval. There are 3 ballot questions put before you – totally $80 million. If all 3 are approved, our tax rate will increase from the lowest in Wake County (at $0.33) to $.0.37 (with 2 cents in 2013 and 2 cents in 2015.)

If approved, Cary would still have the lowest property tax rate of any municipality in Wake County.

As part of the initiative to educate our citizens about the Bond, the Town of Cary has created several tools to provide you the information you need to make a decision.

A Cary Bonds Website: with the list and details about the projects included in the Bond referendum, the financial impact, and information on what is on your ballot.

A Video: An overview of the bonds with with information about the bond and the Town’s current status. (Click HERE to see the video.)

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions – found on the Cary Bonds Website, with more financial information for your use.

How Much?

That’s really the question we all want to know.  If I vote for it, how much is it gonna cost me?

If all 3 bonds are approved, the property tax rate will increase 2 cents in 2013, and 2 cents again, in 2015.

That means that if you have a home that is worth $250,000, your property tax bill will increase $50/year for the increase in July 2013, and $50/year for the increase in 2015.

Just so you know, Cary has not raised property tax rates since 1989.

If I vote against it, what will happen?

The Town does not currently have the funds for these proposed projects.  So, if you decide to vote against it, it is highly unlikely that any of these projects will move forward in the next 3 to 5 years.

This is a vote on whether the Town can use a general obligation bond for financing these projects, it’s not a vote on the property tax rate, although it impacts that rate.

Why the Blog Post?

I’ve received a number of emails and FaceBook posts regarding this issue, so I wanted to address some of the comments publicly.  Please feel free to contact me with any comments, questions or concerns.  This is YOUR decision.  Be informed and tell us what you want.  You choose.

Featured photo from CaryBond.org website

Why don’t they put a park by my house?

Wonder what they’re building over there…

I wish we would have bigger recycling bins…

I want a walkable Town…

Why don’t we have a YouTube channel?

I wish Cary would….

If so, then your town needs YOU!

It’s that time of year, when we at the Town of Cary ask citizens to step up and help continue to make Cary the best Town in North Carolina.  Or, what we call, applying for a Town of Cary board or commission.

Board? Commission?

The Town of Cary boards and commissions are just one way that the Town Council and staff get direct citizen input and guidance on issues and opportunities facing the Town.  Our volunteers (across the Town) are advocates for this great community, and their participation makes Cary a better place to live. By volunteering your precious time to participate in one of our boards and commissions, you give us the information that we need to make decisions.

We have seven boards and commissions right now at the Town and each of them provides a vital and important role to staff and Town Council.  By participating on one of the boards, you are giving us your “citizen recommendations” for all types of activities, events, and policies throughout the town, on issues that impact our entire community.  Whether you provide input relying on a unique skill or set of experiences, or based on your personal interests – your active involvement makes Cary a better community.

What will you do if appointed?

Each of the boards and commissions has a set of guidelines and focus areas.  Although some of the boards are looking for specific skills for some roles, the basic requirement is your active participation.

•    Each board has a set meeting schedule and you are asked to attend these meetings in person.
•    Different boards/commissions have various work plans, time committments  and schedules.
•    Some “homework” may be involved.
• Your input and feedback is key to continuing our great quality of life.  You’ll develop new relationships, share your concerns, opinions, and help us solve problems,  and you might even have fun!

Apply

The following boards and commissions will have openings this year:

1. Environmental Advisory Board – 3 positions
2. Information Services Advisory Board  – 2 positions
3. Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Board – 3 positions
4. Public Art Advisory Board – 3 positions
5. Planning and Zoning Board – 3 positions
6. Town Center Review Commission – 1 position  (This board is being sun-setted)
7. Zoning Board of Adjustment – No positions open for 2012

Please review the Board and Commissions guidelines before applying, to ensure you don’t have any conflicts of interests associated with the board for which you would apply.

Applications must be received by June 30, 2012.

Play a part

Pick a board or commission that has a mission that is near and dear to your heart or perhaps one of your passions.  From the Environmental Advisory Board, to the the Information Service Advisory Board, to Parks and Recreation – there are many to choose from. YOU are what’s best about this town that we live in, and we need your help.

I look forward to seeing your application, and thanks for helping to keep Cary great!

Featured picture by DonkeyHotey 

Perhaps my early engagement learning about our government at Girl’s State is what sparked my pubic service interest.  But it’s watching the process of  government and seeing how few people vote, that fuels me today.  As folks that know me well can tell you, I been an “active” participant in the electoral process –  reminding my family, neighbors, friends and constituents about the importance of voting.

Voting Trends

There is phenomena in this country where folks just don’t seem to vote.  In the 2008 Presidential election about 63% of eligible voters cast their ballots – but in local elections, that number is closer to 15%.  Yes, 15%.   This has always surprised me.  Why would you NOT vote?  I’ve heard lots of reasons for not voting from folks. “I’m too busy or, I work and can’t get there, I don’t know who’s running, My vote won’t matter…   But none of these really ring true to me.

It’s your duty

Voting in this country is a right, privilege and responsibility.

Throughout history, so many of our servicemen and women have given their all to protect our nation, or as Abraham Lincoln said, “their last full measure of devotion.” Voting is a right that people across the world continue to fight for and that many have not yet achieved.

Voting is also a responsibility – and an opportunity. It’s your chance to choose who represents you in making the decisions that guide our society.  Many elections also have social consequences, as well.  Without your vote, your voice is not heard.

Why Vote?

By now you maybe thinking “C’mon, does my vote really count?”  I’m here to tell you, it does.  We’ve seen elections recently that were decided by just a few votes.  That alone should tell you that each and every vote matters.

But, your vote does more than elect candidates.  It holds us, your local and national leaders responsible and accountable for the decisions we make. Your vote also sends a message about the issues that you believe are important, and have you weigh in on the topics of the day, personally providing your say about your community.

Voting Confusion

So, you’ve seen the signs all around town by now.  With the primary election on May 8th, the candidates are doing what they need to do to get your attention. For some folks that aren’t from North Carolina, there are some new definitions that have to be learned about voting here.

1. Unaffiliated *does NOT equal* independent.  Unaffiliated in North Carolina just means that you choose NOT to be associated with a particular Political Party.  But, it DOES mean that you can vote in a primary. (Unlike in some other states.)
2. If you ARE registered as an “unaffiliated voter” you are in good company with more than 30% of voters in Cary registered as “unaffiliated.”) In Wake or Chatham County you CHOOSE your ballot, either Democratic, Libertarian, Republican or Unaffiliated. That does not lock you into that party for the general election, or moving forward.
3. Choosing a political party ballot will allow you to vote for those party candidates on the ballot, the races that are non-partisan, and the referendum of the Amendment to the NC State Constitution.
4. If you are registered with a political party, you must use *that* ballot.
5. Be prepared before you go, and check out your “sample ballot” online.

Vote Now

One of the great advances in the voting process has been no-excuse absentee, also called “early voting”. Early voting is the ability to allow a qualified voter to cast his or her ballot prior to the official election day.  No excuse or justification is required.  You just show up!

In Wake County early voting is in full swing, and you can vote this week at a location near you from 11am – 7pm, Monday thru Friday.  In Cary, you can vote at the Herb Young Community Center, or check out the Wake County Early Voting page for more information. If you live in Chatham County, check out the Chatham County  Election page for more information.

Let’s face it, with early voting and their extended hours, there is really no excuse NOT to vote.

My View

This wouldn’t be a blog without my editorial perfunctory comments.  So here goes.

Photo by Kittenry

I will be voting AGAINST AMENDMENT ONE.

Plain and simple: it’s bad public policy, it harms North Carolinian families and children, and it writes discrimination into our State Constitution.  Furthermore, it reduces our state’s ability to successfully compete for jobs in these tough economic times while harming our business climate and having the potential to have far-reaching unintended consequences for so many.

But for me, it’s more personal. As the grandchild of a Holocaust Survivor, I know too well the impact of discrimination.  What Amendment One aims to do is to make some of our friends, family members and co-workers feel “less than” the rest of the population.  To limit their ability to care for their loved ones and to deny them or their children health insurance, whether in a gay or straight domestic partnerships, is ludicrous.

This is discrimination, plain and simple; and our state, our people, and our constitution deserves better than this.

Final Words 

Abraham Lincoln called democracy a “government of the people, by the people and for the people.” This means that we are not here to serve our government, but that our government is here to serve us. You have the responsibility to vote – and have your say.  Please make time to do so.

Thanks for listening.