News Digest for Town of Carrboro, NC (May 18, 2023) 

Here's what's new in Carrboro This Week: Don't miss a very special Music Maker Revue at Friday's Freight Train Blues Concert. There are more opps this Saturday to get involved in Bike Month events. Did you know that you can order a composting yard bin or kitchen pail?   All that and more in this issue! Have a wonderful week! 

FREIGHT TRAIN BLUES CONCERT SERIES MAY 19: Music Maker Blues Revue feat. Aretta Woodruff, Sugar Harp, Hermon Hitson, Albert White and Ardie Dean

Bring your picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets for an evening of live music on the lawn. Enjoy Music Maker Blues Revue feat. Aretta Woodruff, Sugar Harp, Hermon Hitson, Albert White and Ardie Dean at this week’s Freight Train Blues Concert. The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Carrboro Town Commons, 301 W. Main Street. 

The concert series runs every Friday night through June 23 and is a collaboration among Music Maker Foundation; the Town of Carrboro; WUNC 91.5 FM; and The Forests at Duke.

Public parking is available and free in downtown Carrboro.

The Music Maker Blues Revue is an all-star band and a thriving musical institution. It was born in the early 1990s as a backing band for Guitar Gabriel, and quickly became a power cell of Music Maker Foundation’s live presence. Featuring dozens of different Music Maker artists over the years—from Etta Baker and Macavine Hayes to Robert Lee Coleman and Pat “Mother Blues” Cohen—the Revue has played all over the world in every kind of venue. They’ve busked on the sidewalks of High Point, N.C., and received standing ovations at Carnegie Hall. From Argentina to Australia, Europe to Guatemala, and across the U.S., the Revue pleases all types of fans; “the boogiers and the bookworms,” as drummer Ardie Dean puts it.

Read more about the artists featured in the Music Maker Revue.

Shred-A-Thon this Saturday

Bring your confidential documents for free, safe, and contact-free destruction and recycling to the location behind Home Depot, Hampton Pointe, 625 Hampton Pointe, Hillsborough.

 Drive-Thru service is available. Orange County residents, small businesses, and local government employees only. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until capacity is met). 

Resolution Supporting the Right of All North Carolinians to Safe and Comprehensive Reproductive Health Care 

The Carrboro Town Council unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday night (May 16, 2023) supporting the right of all people to access the full spectrum of reproductive healthcare, including abortion.

The resolution was in reaction to the North Carolina General Assembly party-line vote on Senate Bill 20 to limit the rights of women, specifically their bodily autonomy, by prohibiting abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy and restricting access to medication abortion after 10 weeks of pregnancy. 

“The Town Council urges Carrboro’s delegation in the General Assembly to prioritize the health care needs of all residents, to reject further attempts to restrict access to abortion, and to increase investment in access to health care, affordable birth control including emergency contraception, and comprehensive age-appropriate sex education,” the resolution states. 

"The Town Council encourages residents of Carrboro to speak out against these egregious attacks on bodily autonomy and make their views known to members of the General Assembly."

Read the full resolution at https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12872/A-RESOLUTION-SUPPORTING-THE-RIGHT-OF-ALL-NORTH-CAROLINIANS-TO-SAFE-AND-COMPREHENSIVE-REPRODUCITVE-HEALTH-CARE_SB20_51623-Final 

Carrboro receives Excellence in Communications Awards

The Town of Carrboro was among 25 North Carolina jurisdictions to earn recognition in the North Carolina City & County Communicators (NC3C) 2023 Excellence in Communications Awards. Carrboro won two first place awards in Citizen Participation and Most Creative With Least Dollars Spent. 

The awards were announced May 4, 2023, during NC3C’s annual conference. All 144 award program entries were judged by professional communications peers from the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators.

“To win an award in this field of outstanding communicators is a real accomplishment,” said NC3C President Stacie Galloway. “The NC3C board extends our sincere congratulations to those working so hard to reach their communities in creative and effective ways.”

The awards spotlight programs that support the Town Council’s commitment to having an equitable public participation system that enfranchises everyone. The Communication & Engagement Department continues to explore ways to increase the influence and involvement of residents in civic and community life.

Carrboro in Motion Fest/Festival de la Comunidad en Movimiento – The Town of Carrboro received a first place award in the Citizen Participation category for its program of community block parties at apartment complexes. The events create a method for the Town to establish a presence in underserved communities and neighborhoods, build relationships, offer multiple ways for residents to contribute input and feedback, and receive information about programs and services. The events leverage community assets and strengths from public agencies and partners, including El Centro Hispano, Bike Carrboro, Chapel Hill Transit, Kramden Institute, Carrboro Run Club, NEXT, Red Ridge NC Bike Share, Orange Literacy, Orange County Public Library, and Carrboro Transportation Choices.  “This sounds like a great initiative to meet residents where they're at and get them to meet their neighbors, city staff and elected officials,” commented a judge.  Learn more at https://www.carrboronc.gov/2735/Carrboro-In-Motion 

Bilingual Calendar – The Town of Carrboro received a first place award in the Most Creative With Least Dollars Spent category for its bilingual (English/Spanish) calendar featuring free community events. Calendars were distributed to residents who live in the Qualified Census Tract, as well as those in apartment complexes and mobile home parks. A judge commented: “Excellent way of connecting with the community and sharing resources. Each month has a QR code with a resource link for employment opportunities, wellness activities, park programs, etc. without being an overwhelming list of links. I appreciate how it was staff that delivered the calendars to create a secondary opportunity to connect one-on-one with the public.” Download the calendar at https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12230/Carrboro-Calendar-2023-  

About NC3C 
The purpose of North Carolina City & County Communicators is to encourage professional development and networking among local governmental communications professionals. The organization was formed in March 2007, and consists of professional government communicators from around the state. For more information about NC3C, visit www.nc3c.com.

Don't miss our great Bike Month Events

Bike Month Events Rolling Your Way

• Wednesday, May 17: Bike to the Carrboro Farmers’ Market -- 3-6 p.m. at Carrboro Town Commons
• Friday, May 19: Bike to Work Day 
• Saturday, May 20: Carrboro Bike on Bus Workshop -- 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Carrboro Town Commons
• Saturday, May 20: Carrboro Ride for the Ages -- 12 p.m. at Carrboro Town Commons
• Wednesday, May 31: Ride into Pride with Carrboro Mayor -- 7 p.m. at Carrboro Town Hall

…and other events organized with local partners including the Carrboro Bicycle Coalition, the Bicycle Alliance of Chapel Hill, and the Town of Chapel Hill.

Read more about Bike Month in the full proclamation here: https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12695/2023-Bike-Month-Proclamation

Carrboro announces Green Neighborhoods Grant Program

The Town of Carrboro will host an information session about the Green Neighborhoods Grant Program  from 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 23. 

Attend in person at Carrboro Town Hall, 301 W. Main St., or virtually (access the zoom link at the Town Calendar at https://bit.ly/41IpUvb )

As part of its Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) implementation, the Town of Carrboro is pleased to announce the Green Neighborhoods Grant Program that offers grants for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance ecosystem resiliency or contribute to climate action awareness or engagement. The maximum grant award is $2,500.

The Carrboro Town Council accepted the Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) in 2017 to expand the Town’s existing climate action efforts and emphasize measures that community members can implement to help achieve greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. The plan’s goal is to raise the community’s awareness and involvement in climate action and the enhancement of ecosystem resilience. In 2020, the Town updated the CCAP goals to recommend an 80% reduction of 2010 emissions levels by 2030. To achieve this goal, widespread community participation in every aspect of the plan is essential. 

The Green Neighborhoods Grant Program seeks to benefit low-income households and residents of color by bringing neighbors together to pursue projects which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create natural areas that are more resilient to the impacts of climate change, ultimately benefiting the entire community.  

The goals of the program include: 

• Educate and empower neighborhoods to address climate change 
• Build neighborhood capacity to engage in climate action 
• Develop and enhance community and Town partnerships 
• Leverage Town and neighborhood involvement and resources 
•  Distribute resources to low-income communities and communities of color who are disproportionately affected by climate change.  

The maximum grant award is $2,500. Applications are due by June 9, 2023 at 3 p.m. Info sessions will be held throughout May. 

Visit this webpage for more information: http://www.carrbororec.org/2778/Green-Neighborhoods-Grant-Program

For questions and additional information, contact Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Laura Janway at ljanway@carrboronc.gov or (919) 918-7326. 

May community update for the 203 Project

CARRBORO, NC -- Crews are currently working on forming up the third and final floor of the building.   Concrete for the third floor is scheduled to be poured on the morning of Thursday, May 18.  Once the third floor is complete, construction of the roof will begin and the building will be topped out.  

Focus will then shift to the building of the concrete parking deck.   

Duke Energy is currently scheduled to perform some aerial utility work on S. Greensboro St the morning of Tuesday, May 23.  This may involve a lane closure and short power interruption to some customers. Utility work is ongoing, please follow the Town’s social media for the latest utility work notifications.

Background 

The $42 million development will be the future home of the Orange County Southern Branch Library. The facility will also provide a permanent home for the Orange County Skills Development Center; Carrboro Recreation, Parks and Cultural Resources Department; WCOM Radio; and performance/multipurpose uses. The 203 Project will provide opportunities for education, art and community connection.

More information:

The Town of Carrboro posts regular updates to the community on the Town website and through social media. Sign up to receive Carrboro Town News updates at www.carrboronc.gov/signup

If you would like to be included on a neighborhood email distribution list, which includes residents living in the adjacent neighborhood and the local business community, please notify the203project@carrboronc.gov

For more information and the latest drone videos, please visit www.the203project.org

For Healthier Soil, Healthier Food...Compost!  

Save the Date – Pride Food Truck Rodeo & Dance Party on June 30 

Carrboro is planning for its Pride Food Truck Rodeo & Dance Party to be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 30, at Carrboro Town Commons, 301 W. Main St.

Join us for food, dance, and frolicking on the lawn. This is a free, family-friendly, festival celebrating all that unites us and makes us unique.

If you’re interested in participating as a vendor or by setting up an information or resources table, fill out the application form at https://www.carrboronc.gov/FormCenter/Communication-and-Engagement-Department-31/PRIDE-Events-at-Carrboro-Town-Commons-201

Please Note: Selections for tablers will prioritize groups, organizations or businesses providing support and resources for our LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual) community.  

As part of our Small Town Pride joint celebration with Chapel Hill, we will update this page with more event details: https://www.carrboronc.gov/2706/Pride-Month

Questions? Contact our event team at communications@carrboronc.gov

Mayor Proclaims Police Week in Carrboro

Mayor Damon Seils has proclaimed May 14-20, 2023 to be Police Week in Carrboro.

“I encourage residents to share their gratitude with the officers and other professionals in the Police Department for promoting the safety of Carrboro’s residents and visitors,” Mayor Seils said.

Employees in the Carrboro Police Department provide a vital public service by acting as first responders in emergency and crisis situations. Not only do they investigate and solve crimes, but the Police Department also offers a variety of community services to individuals, local businesses, and community organizations and agencies.

In 2022, the Police Department handled more than 17,000 calls for service and hosted more than 50 community events. This past year, two officers retired, and six new officers were hired. Two K-9s retired and two new K-9s were trained. Sergeant Charles Brent Hobby was named Carrboro’s 2022 Police Officer of the Year and was honored on Community Hero Night with Carolina Athletics.

Employees in the Police Department attended nearly 1,400 hours of training to stay updated on current policing techniques. The department strives to achieve the department’s bias-free policing goals and provide community services in a fair and professional manner through this ongoing training.

In the Town’s most recent biennial community survey, the Police Department was among the major categories of Town services that had the highest levels of satisfaction.

Mayor Seils encouraged residents to understand the duties and responsibilities of these essential employees and to remember the risks they often must face to help make Carrboro a safe and welcoming place to live.

Read the full proclamation here: https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12839/2023-Police-Week-Proclamation

Carrboro shows appreciation for Advisory Boards

More than 80 people gathered at the Century Center on Thursday night (May 11, 2023) for an Advisory Board Appreciation Banquet held by the Town of Carrboro.

The group was welcomed by Mayor Damon Seils, who expressed his appreciation for their service. Also in attendance were members of the Carrboro Town Council. Carrboro Poet Laureate Liza Wolff-Francis read “A poem of appreciation."

The Town has about 21 advisory boards that provide input and recommendations to the Town Council. Learn more about advisory boards and how you can participate at https://www.carrboronc.gov/228/Advisory-Boards-Commissions

Thanks to Wesley Barker and Mary Bryant of the Town Clerk’s office for their work in organizing the event.

Carrboro Celebrates Public Works Week

Carrboro Mayor Damon Seils has proclaimed Public Works Week in Carrboro May 21-27, 2023.

This year marks the 63rd annual observance of National Public Works Week, and the theme of this year’s observance is “Connecting the World Through Public Works,” highlighting how public works connects us all through infrastructure and services.

Carrboro Public Works makes important contributions to the community’s well-being by providing reliable solid waste collection; loose leaf collection; street, greenway, and right-of-way maintenance; snow removal; stormwater facility maintenance; mowing and landscaping of Town properties and rights-of-way; tree trimming and removal; ball field preparation and maintenance; facility maintenance; vehicle and equipment maintenance; cemetery maintenance and burials; and more.

The accomplishments of Carrboro Public Works in the past year include:

• awarding a construction contract and breaking ground on the 203 Project, a building designed to LEED Gold standards
• completing a townwide speed table improvement project
• completing sidewalk and curb ramp improvements to improve compliance of pedestrian infrastructure with the Americans With Disabilities Act
• installing bike boxes on West Main Street to improve the safety and convenience of travel by bicycle; and 
• replacing 54 trees at Martin Luther King Jr. Park
• facilitating the Town’s recertification as a Tree City USA for its 37th year
• completing bus shelter improvements
• adding two hybrid electric vehicles to the Public Works fleet, two electric mowers, one utility vehicle, and three weedeaters and backpack blowers—reducing the department’s overall fuel consumption and emissions
• continuing the leaf compost program on the Town’s property on Old NC 86 in accordance with the requirements of the NC Department of Environmental Quality

“I encourage all residents to thank and celebrate the Town’s public works employees and to recognize the importance of public works professionals and public works programs for protecting our health, safety, and quality of life and making Carrboro a great place to live,” said Mayor Seils.

Read the full proclamation here: https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12840/2023-Public-Works-Week-Proclamation

The 2023 Recreation, Parks & Cultural Resources

Summer Brochure is now available 

This session also includes registration for our youth Fall Baseball and Flag Football programs. Registration for Carrboro residents begins on May 3, 2023, and for all others on May 4, 2023. 

View the full PDF Brochure to learn more

Town Council Update

Meeting agendas and updates are issued from the Town Clerk’s Office. To receive these by email or text, sign up for Carrboro Town News at https://www.carrboronc.gov/SIGNUP

Civic involvement is a valued tradition in our community. Reach the Town Council with your ideas, views, and questions at Council@carrboronc.gov

Coming Up

The Carrboro Town Council will hold the next Council Meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 23, 2023. The agenda is available at https://carrboro.legistar.com/  and https://bit.ly/3MrUe8J 

This meeting will be held at Carrboro Town Hall, 301 W. Main St. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or can view the livestream YouTube.com/CarrboroNC OR at https://carrboro.legistar.com/ OR Cable TV 18 (in Carrboro). 

To download a copy of the full meeting calendar visit https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12313

Past Meetings 

The Carrboro Town Council met Tuesday, May 16, 2023, for a Council Meeting and took the following actions on agenda posted at https://bit.ly/3MrUe8J. Watch the video at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ev97HlrGHiU  

• Approved a Resolution Supporting the Right of All North Carolinians to Safe and Comprehensive Reproductive Health Care - https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12872/A-RESOLUTION-SUPPORTING-THE-RIGHT-OF-ALL-NORTH-CAROLINIANS-TO-SAFE-AND-COMPREHENSIVE-REPRODUCTIVE-HEALTH-CARE 
• Recognized a Police Week Proclamation - https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12839/2023-Police-Week-Proclamation 
• Recognized a Public Works Week Proclamation – https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12840/2023-Public-Works-Week-Proclamation 
• Recognized a Period Poverty Proclamation - https://www.carrboronc.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12871/2023-Period-Poverty-Proclamation- 
• Received a report on the implementation of Carrboro Connects Transportation & Mobility Strategy 4.2 to reduce negative effects of parking requirements on housing costs and natural resources.
• Approved an amendment to the Joint Planning Land Use Plan for a 4.66-acre property at 2106 Mount Carmel Church Road that was annexed into Orange County from Chatham County in 2021.

Town Council 

The Town Council, which is the legislative and policy-making body for Carrboro, comprises Mayor Damon Seils, Mayor Pro Tempore Susan Romaine, Council Member Barbara Foushee, Council Member Randee Haven-O’Donnell, Council Member Danny Nowell, Council Member Eliazar Posada, and Council Member Sammy Slade. More information is available at https://www.carrboronc.gov/248/Town-Council

Attention Food Truck Operators!

We are accepting application for the 2023 Freight Train Blues Concert Series at Carrboro Town Commons. 

Contact Michelle Blume at mblume@carrboronc.gov or 919-918-7367