This quarter has been one we have been building toward for more than 20 years — the official opening of Downtown Cary Park. As I stood in the Pavilion overlooking the Park and the thousands of people there to celebrate the milestone, I couldn’t help but feel in complete awe. Standing alongside friends, colleagues, and citizens, I reflected on how this was a moment we created together. It was the culmination of everything we dreamed of, and it is a memory that will remain with me forever. 

Yet the success of the project can’t just be remembered by that one magical moment. It has to be marked by all of the wins and challenges along the way. There are no words to describe how proud I am of all Council and staff has accomplished over the last 20 years. What set this project apart was our staff’s dedication to excellence and the ability our Council and citizens gave us to do great things through forethought, the Shaping Cary’s Tomorrow bond, and consistent feedback about what would make Cary even more exceptional. Throughout this process, we’ve been teaching one another what it means to be Cary. 

Moving forward, as we welcome two new Councilmembers, I want to continue to learn from one another about what it means to be Cary now and in the future. We must remember the lessons of our past, celebrate the successes of today, and collectively envision our dreams for tomorrow.

Here is to beginning 2024 with extraordinary Cary employees and a thoughtful Council who seek to make Cary an inspiring place in everything they do. We look forward to having engaging conversation and providing further updates at the Council-Staff Retreat in Wilmington on March 1 and March 2. 

In appreciation, 

Sean R. Stegall
Town Manager