Growth: District A which incorporates the west side of Cary is experiencing explosive growth that is expected to continue. I believe that there is a need for Cary to continue to expand its offerings of homes and businesses. We need to be sure that the growth is done in a manner that is in alignment with the needs of Cary. Road ways, Water services, Schools, and emergency services all need to keep up with the growth. Growth must be done in a manner consistent with the look and feel of Cary.
The need to protect to Jordan Lake has never been greater. When expanding the homes and businesses in our community the preservation of our water supply must be considered. We need to remember the assets that drew us here when planning for the future.
I have met with many residents in Chatham County and have heard their viewpoints on Cary's land use plan and its impact on Chatham County. There residents voiced their concerns about increased noise, traffic and lights coming from Cary. They wanted to be assured that they could maintain their country lifestyle which incorporates larger lots, fewer homes and the enjoyment of the environment. . The conversation was informative. I do believe that we need to be good neighbors and have a continued dialog with surrounding communities.
Infrastructure: Cary has slowed its investment pace across the town due the economy. However, the amount of previously approved land development remains quite high. One of my goals is to ensure that investments in our future continue at a pace to stay ahead of the coming resurgence in development as the economy recovers. We need to take advantage of the unused Bond Initiatives, low interest rates and stimulus funds to bring more projects to the table in 2010.
Downtown Cary: My vision for downtown is a community where people live, shop, dine, listen to entertainment and conduct business. Downtown Cary needs a pocket park where community members can sit and enjoy a sunny day. I believe that the Cary school reconstruction project needs to be completed. I would love to see this facility used by the local schools for performances. It would be grand to bring in professional venues and offer locals the opportunity to perform for the Cary community.
Budget: While the Town has held the tax rate to 33 cents per $100 elevated property it has managed to maintain its AAA bond rating and move ahead with some projects. The amount of money held in reserves is state mandated at 4 months. I believe that we need to take a closer look at our budget and find creative ways to increase our Police presence and improve the quality of roads like Carpenter Fire Station which is a heavily used road in poor shape.
Schools: I have plenty of experience with the WCPSS. All 3 of my children have attended public schools in Cary. My daughter is a recent graduate from Panther Creek High School and will be attending UNC Chapel Hill in the fall. While in the school system she attended 5 different schools in Cary. We have been instrumental in opening elementary, middle, and high schools. I have been an active member of the PTA and volunteer on a regular basis at the schools. I believe that the Town of Cary needs to improve its communications with the school board as well as other governing bodies. I do not propose to tell other boards how to do their jobs but instead see a partnership where we work together for the common goal of educating our children with as little disruption to families and community as possible. To me that means attending a school close to home where parents can participate in their child’s learning experience.
Environment: I believe that the Town could do a better job of protecting our environment and natural resources. Replacing mature trees with new ones does not adequately protect our environment. Working with the natural contours of the land and incorporating the existing landscape when creating new projects must be a priority. Roads do not need to be flat and straight to be effective. Buildings can be built on hills. Our water source must be protected and we need to be certain that there will be enough water for all new construction when implemented.
Greenways and Parks: I worked closely with the Towns parks and greenway staff with regards to the Bachelor Branch greenway project. We negotiated changes that were beneficial to my neighborhood, the community, and the Town. In the end we where able to create a greenway that worked for all. It is a beautiful asset and greatly used greenway system. It is the first one to have a raised board walk over a small marshy area. I also worked with the Town with regards to Sears Farm Park. I initiated our neighborhood hosting a family fun day at the park in conjunction of the parks opening. The town has now incorporated this concept into its park openings like the recent opening of Walnut street park.
I believe that it is the mission of our Town Council to represent Cary to the best of it's abilities. It will be my honor to represent a Town with such a rich heritage and a grand future.
Paid for by the Cynthia Sinkez campaign for
Cary Town Council District A
