July 2024
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Update: Cary is working on relaxing the requirements for ADUs, such as allowing them in more zoning districts, adjusting size and height limits, and changing parking regulations. ADUs are small, independent units located on the same lot as a single-family home and provide essential living facilities. These units, also known as backyard bungalows, in-law suites, or carriage houses, will help address affordable housing by providing additional rental income for homeowners and more affordable living options for renters.
On the Ballot in Nov 2024: The Cary Town Council has passed a motion directing the Town Clerk to publish bond orders for the upcoming referendum. Voters will see a $560 million bond for parks and recreational facilities and a $30 million housing bond on the November ballot. Approval will set priorities for community projects and affordable housing for the next decade, including:
- The Center ($300 million)
- Mills Park Community Center ($150 million)
- Cary Tennis Park ($60 million)
- District D Nature Park ($10 million)
- Asian Garden ($10 million)
- Greenway connecting downtown, Fenton, and South Hills ($30 million)
Athletic Committee: As the council liaison for Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources, I am actively attending subcommittee meetings to understand their priorities. Recently, the Athletic Committee discussed various priorities including tennis, softball, pickleball, volleyball, and cricket.
Cary Chamber of Commerce Leadership Conference: Councilman Smith, Mayor Weinbrecht, and I attended the conference featuring speakers such as Senator Adcock, Mayor, RDU CEO and NC Community College Head Cox. This event was an excellent opportunity for networking and connecting with both new and long-standing Chamber members.
Projects: Council reviewed several projects between last two meetings, some of those are in District D. 2 projects in District D that were approved are as follows:
- Belcanto: It is part of the destination center with several housing choices creating affordable choices for workforce. This community will provide commercial and residential options with structured parking, bike lanes, parks, community gathering spaces. Although this project will have 700+ appartments, the density in this side of the district will not impact the harmony of existing neighborhoods. Council voted 5 in favor and 2 against
- Carpenter Fire Station: this project had great opposition from several neighborhood as it was very dense for this area. The builder was not engaged and had issues communicating with me and the community members. This project was approved by 4 votes in favor and 3 against it (Jennifer, Jack and me).
Green Level West Road Renaming community meeting: Previous council requested a change in name of Green Level West Road to High House Road, from NC 55 highway to Green Level Church Road. A community meeting will be helpd virtually on Aug 13the at 6:30 pm
Cary public service academy: A dream project of mine, this program educates teenagers on Cary’s past and present. Twenty-four participants learned about infrastructure, environment, building codes, parks, and more. They also volunteered at Dorcas, gaining valuable community service experience.
Meeting with Cary’s Town Manager, Sean Stegall: Sean and I meet biweekly to discuss Town Council agendas, challenges, and District D priorities. My key priorities include, but not limited to:
- Designing and widening Green Level Church Road with sidewalks and bike lanes
- Developing cricket fields and pickleball courts
- Maintaining existing sports facilities and parks
- Organizing holiday decorations and fairs for children in District D
- Expanding recreational programs to include classes in District D
- Adding a traffic signal at Morrisville Parkway and Highcroft Drive
- Investing in tree planting in District D
- Youth academy feedback and next steps
- Community center in District D
Meeting with Tyler Swanson, School Board Elected Leader:
Tyler and I discussed Cary
schools, focusing on capacity, security, and student safety. We plan to address concerns from two communities affected by recent reassignments, working closely with our respective administrations.
Meeting with Spelling Bee Finalist, Ananya Prasanna: Mayor Harold and I had the honor of meeting Ananya Prasanna, who represented North Carolina in the National Spelling Bee and won 3rd place. Ananya’s dedication and hard work are inspiring, and we wish her continued success.
Diwali Dance Practice: I am participating in the Celebrity Diwali dance for the first time and enjoying learning the steps. I look forward to performing in October at Humsab Diwali.
Ribbon Cutting: I attended the ribbon cutting for a new Nepalese restaurant in District D. This
restaurant is one of the first in western Cary to offer specialties from Nepal. I am thrilled they chose District D for their business and wish them much success.
Personal Note: I am spending quality time with my husband, daughter, and two dogs. My daughter turns 16 in August and will soon get her driver’s license. While I will miss our car conversations, I am excited for her newfound independence.
July 4th was special as we celebrated with friends, enjoying food I cooked, and a beautifully decorated buffet counter arranged by my daughter.
My daughter, Aanya, and I visited my family in NJ for 5 days. We are blessed to have the family that we do.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement in our community. Please reach out to sarika.bansal@carync.gov for official and info@sarika4cary.com for other topics.
Yours sincerely,
Sarika Bansal
Cary Town Council – representing District D