Apex, NC, Mar. 25, 2026 — An approximately 83-acre tract in Apex’s New Hill area is moving through annexation and rezoning, marking another step in the town’s westward growth into areas that have historically remained rural in character.

The site, made up of three parcels totaling roughly 83.5 acres, sits east of New Hill Olive Chapel Road and spans areas both north and south of Old U.S. Highway 1, near the railroad corridor. Today, the property remains under Wake County’s Residential-40 Watershed zoning and includes a mix of existing single-family homes, streams that bisect portions of the land, and areas that were previously wooded but have since been cleared. Annexation would bring the property into the Apex town limits, allowing access to municipal services and enabling the requested rezoning to a Planned Unit Development with conditional zoning.

From a long-range planning perspective, the proposal aligns with Apex’s adopted land use map, which designates the area for medium-density residential uses, along with potential commercial services and park space near key intersections. While that designation allows for development intensity of up to 7 units per acre, the current proposal falls significantly short of that threshold.

What the Development Would Deliver

The Welch Homestead plan calls for a mix of housing types across the site, including up to 123 single-family homes and 152 townhomes. Despite that total unit count, the overall density is approximately 3.3 units per acre, reflecting a deliberate decision to build at less than half of what the land use plan would permit.

The layout concentrates much of the development into the southeastern portion of the property, using a conservation-style approach that clusters homes on smaller lots in defined areas while leaving other portions of the site less disturbed. This approach is intended to balance development yield with open space preservation, particularly given the presence of streams and natural features across the tract.

The proposal also incorporates a range of required and voluntary elements, including roadway improvements tied to traffic impacts along Old U.S. Highway 1, internal street connections to adjacent developments, and stormwater management systems designed to meet town standards. A portion of the site is expected to be dedicated to a linear public park, providing recreational space as part of the broader development.

In addition, the plan addresses historic resources located on the property. A corn crib identified as historically significant is expected to be relocated and preserved in accordance with town requirements, while another structure, the Welch-Hearn House, has not been recommended for preservation.

Where the Proposal Meets Resistance

While the proposal fits within the framework of Apex’s long-range plan, the discussion revealed clear tension between that policy alignment and the lived reality of adjacent property owners.

Residents along the eastern boundary of the site raised concerns about how the development will interface with neighboring properties that are characterized by five- and ten-acre rural lots. The shift from low-density, large-acreage land to a denser residential community represents a substantial change in both scale and character, particularly at the property line where those uses meet.

That concern is heightened by the current condition of the land. The site, previously forested, has been logged and cleared, leaving little to no mature vegetation to serve as a natural buffer. As a result, the effectiveness of required buffering becomes a central issue, with residents questioning whether standard measures will provide adequate separation, privacy, and protection.

Proposed mitigation efforts include installing a Type A buffer and potentially constructing a retaining wall along portions of the boundary. However, those measures have introduced additional concerns, particularly related to safety. Changes in elevation, combined with structural elements, could create abrupt transitions or drop-offs near property lines, raising questions about how those features will function once built and whether they will introduce unintended hazards.

Broader Impacts: Schools and Affordability

Beyond the immediate interface between the development and adjacent properties, the proposal also brings broader infrastructure considerations into focus.

Wake County Public Schools has indicated that middle schools serving the area are already projected to face capacity constraints, with the potential for insufficient space as new students are added. As a result, future residents of the development could be subject to reassignment to other schools or changes in transportation patterns, reflecting a broader trend of growth outpacing available capacity in parts of western Apex and New Hill.

The development also includes a commitment to affordable housing, with the applicant indicating that 10 percent of the total units would be made available to households earning up to 120 percent of the area median income. While that commitment aligns with the town's policy goals, details on how those units will be implemented and integrated into the community remain under discussion.

What Comes Next

The Welch Homestead proposal has already received approval recommendations from both the Planning Department and the Planning Board, the latter of which was unanimous. Those recommendations reflect consistency with the town’s adopted land use plan and development framework.

The final decision now rests with the Town Council, which must weigh that policy alignment against the concerns raised by nearby residents and the practical implications of introducing new development into a transitioning area.

As Apex continues to expand toward New Hill, projects like Welch Homestead are becoming increasingly representative of the choices facing the town—how to accommodate planned growth while managing the immediate impacts on communities that have, until now, remained on the rural edge of that growth.

Apex, NC, Mar. 25, 2026 — A recent change to Apex’s yard waste collection policy surfaced during Tuesday’s Town Council meeting, not as a formal agenda item, but as part of council remarks acknowledging community response.

The policy, which would eliminate grass clipping collection, was decided during the Council’s February retreat. By the time it was discussed publicly this week, the focus had shifted from the decision itself to its implementation.

“It’s moved a lot of people in a different way,” one council member said.

In response, leadership signaled a potential pause before moving forward.

“I would like for us to get public input prior to moving forward with the full implementation,” the council member added.

The issue was not included on the meeting agenda or in the supporting materials, and no formal action was taken. Instead, the discussion pointed to a next step: gathering resident feedback before the policy is fully rolled out.

While narrow in scope, the exchange reflects a broader shift in how routine decisions are being received. As Apex continues to grow, even operational changes are drawing closer scrutiny, prompting leaders to reconsider not just what decisions are made, but when and how the public is brought into the process.

Apex, NC, Mar. 19, 2026 — At its March 17th work session, the Apex Town Council stepped away from project approvals and into a broader discussion about the town’s future.

The session, led by facilitators affiliated with East Carolina University, was structured as an “Economic Development Academy.” The goal was to align elected officials and staff around a shared understanding of what economic development means and how it should guide decisions in a fast-growing community.

Early in the discussion, facilitators drew a clear distinction: economic development is not the same as growth. Growth can be measured in population, buildings, and tax base. Economic development, they said, is about creating long-term prosperity for a place while improving the overall quality of life for the people who live there.

What Economic Development Means for Apex Residents

In practical terms, economic development decisions shape how Apex grows and who benefits from that growth.

When the town attracts employers or supports local businesses, it expands the tax base. That can help fund infrastructure and services without relying as heavily on residential property taxes. At the same time, where and how that growth occurs affects traffic patterns, housing demand, and the types of jobs available locally.

A project that brings higher-wage jobs can reduce commuting and strengthen household incomes. Growth that is not aligned with infrastructure or workforce needs can have the opposite effect, adding congestion and increasing pressure on housing without delivering the same level of benefit.

In that sense, economic development in Apex is less about how much the town grows and more about how intentionally that growth is managed—balancing investment with infrastructure capacity, affordability, and long-term livability.

Where Apex Stands Today

Apex continues to benefit from its location within the Research Triangle, with steady population growth and strong demand from both residents and businesses.

Participants pointed to long-term infrastructure decisions, particularly around water and sewer, as a key reason the town can support major opportunities today, including the proposed regional children’s hospital and related development. Regional partnerships with neighboring communities have also expanded access to resources and strengthened Apex’s competitive position.

The town’s preserved downtown, consistent branding, and overall quality of life were cited as defining strengths. Unlike many communities, Apex is managing growth driven by demand rather than trying to reverse decline.

Key Issues Raised During the Session

When asked to reflect on residents' views of economic development, several consistent concerns emerged.

Affordability was at the forefront. Rising housing costs are making it increasingly difficult for teachers, first responders, and service workers to live in the community, contributing to longer commutes and workforce challenges.

Infrastructure was a close second. Participants questioned whether roads, traffic flow, and water and sewer systems are keeping pace with development. The issue is no longer whether Apex will grow, but whether that growth can be sustained without overloading existing systems.

Small business pressures were also discussed, particularly the impact of rising land and lease costs on long-standing local establishments. Workforce availability, especially in the service and retail sectors, was directly tied to those affordability challenges.

Underlying many of these concerns was a broader question about identity. As Apex continues to grow, participants asked how the town can preserve its character and “small-town feel” while accommodating continued expansion.

What’s Working

Despite those pressures, the discussion made clear that Apex is operating from a position of strength.

Decisions made years ago, especially investments in infrastructure, are now enabling the town to attract and support major projects. Regional collaboration has expanded capacity and created opportunities that would not be possible on a town-by-town basis.

Participants also pointed to Apex’s reputation as a place people actively choose to move to. That demand provides flexibility but also raises expectations for how growth is managed.

Efforts to support small businesses and entrepreneurship were highlighted as important contributors to the local economy, helping create both economic activity and community identity.

Looking Ahead: Forces Shaping the Next Phase

The second half of the work session focused on broader trends that will influence Apex’s future, many of which extend beyond local control.

Technology was a central theme. Automation and artificial intelligence are changing the relationship between investment and jobs, with new developments often producing fewer positions than in the past. At the same time, remote and hybrid work are reshaping commuting patterns and reducing the importance of proximity to traditional job centers.

Workforce expectations are also shifting. Younger workers are placing greater emphasis on flexibility, purpose, and lifestyle, which affects where they choose to live and work.

Participants also discussed demographic changes, including the emergence of a “missing middle” as younger and middle-income residents are priced out of the market. Environmental considerations and long-term sustainability are becoming more central to development decisions, while uncertainty around federal and state funding is increasing the importance of regional partnerships.

What Comes Next

The work session did not produce immediate policy changes, but it established a clearer framework for future decisions.

As Apex continues to grow, discussions around affordability, infrastructure investment, and economic strategy are expected to remain central. The session reinforced that many of the pressures residents are experiencing are already recognized and are part of ongoing planning and policy conversations.

The broader takeaway was that Apex’s current position is the result of long-term decisions, and that the choices being made now will shape the town’s next phase of growth.

Apex, NC, Mar. 12, 2026 — Residents used the public forum portion of the March 10th Apex Town Council meeting to raise concerns about housing affordability, transparency in local government, and town service policies affecting older residents.

Several speakers focused on the growing gap between housing prices and the incomes of people who work in Apex.

One resident told the council that many workers who support the town’s economy can no longer afford to live there. According to the data he presented, an estimated 87 percent of workers in Apex commute into town from elsewhere, often because housing costs are too high.

The speaker also cited town planning documents estimating that Apex will need roughly 3,600 additional affordable homes over the next decade to meet demand from low- and moderate-income households.

“That is simply not attainable or not sustainable,” the resident said, noting that many families are paying more than 30 percent of their income on housing.

The resident proposed several potential steps the town could take to expand housing options. Those ideas included increasing funding for home repair programs that help seniors remain in their homes, purchasing land for future affordable housing development, and offering financial incentives to encourage developers to include lower-cost units in new projects.

Current funding levels, he said, may fall far short of what is needed.

“Apex’s current penny tax for the affordable housing fund raises about $2 million annually,” he said. “Doubling that could help catalyze about 1,000 units over the next decade.”

Even with that increase, he added, the town could still face a shortfall of thousands of affordable homes.

Calls for Better Access to Information

Another resident used the public forum to call for improved communication between town leaders and residents.

He noted that Apex once had a local newspaper that served as a centralized source for residents to learn about town issues.

“Back in the day, we had the Apex Herald,” the resident said. “If you wanted to know what was happening in Apex, you would just go pick up the Apex Herald.”

Today, he argued, information is scattered across multiple social media platforms, making it difficult for residents to stay informed.

“We have a community that doesn’t have equal access to information,” he said.

To address the problem, he suggested that council members list their social media accounts on their official town profile pages and that the town website include a central page linking to posts made by elected officials.

Such a system, he said, would make it easier for residents to find information about issues affecting the community.

“People need to have access to the information,” he told the council. “We do not need to put barriers up in our community.”

Concerns About Town Services

Another resident raised concerns about the physical challenges some older residents face with waste and recycling policies.

The speaker, who said she is 74 and uses a mobility aid, described the difficulty of moving large trash and recycling carts to the curb each week.

“I already have a hard time getting the trash and recycling cans to the curb,” she told the council, explaining that the containers themselves can weigh more than the waste inside them.

She urged town leaders to consider how changes to services might affect seniors and residents with disabilities who must manage the process on their own.

What’s Next

While the council typically does not take action during the public forum portion of meetings, the issues raised by residents may influence future discussions on housing policy, communication with residents, and municipal service programs.

Apex, NC, Mar. 12, 2026 — Several major infrastructure and planning projects moving forward across Apex were highlighted during updates presented to the Town Council at its March 10th Town Council Meeting.

The updates focused on transportation improvements, downtown redevelopment, and utility upgrades to support the town’s continued growth.

Among the projects discussed was progress on the Salem Street Streetscape project, an initiative designed to enhance the pedestrian environment and overall appearance of downtown Apex.

The project is intended to improve sidewalks, lighting, and streetscape features along one of the town’s most prominent corridors. Town leaders said the effort is part of a broader plan to strengthen downtown as a destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Residents speaking during the meeting noted that project costs have changed over time, with one speaker referencing an increase from approximately $2 million to roughly $4 million during the planning process.

Town officials did not discuss the cost increase in detail during the meeting, but the project remains a key component of Apex’s downtown investment strategy.

Peakway Southwest Connector Bridge Progress

Another major infrastructure effort discussed was the Peakway Southwest Connector bridge, a project intended to improve transportation connections in the area and support future development.

The bridge is part of the town’s longer-term mobility planning and is expected to help distribute traffic more effectively as Apex continues to grow.

During public comments, one resident urged town leaders to carefully consider how transportation funds are prioritized, suggesting that investments could also be directed toward safety improvements such as crosswalks, traffic signals, and pedestrian infrastructure.

The resident noted that some proposed transportation projects could cost $5 million to $10 million and encouraged the town to ensure those funds are used where they can have the greatest impact on safety and mobility.

Utility and Planning Initiatives

In addition to transportation improvements, council members also received updates on utility planning and infrastructure projects.

One item included in the meeting’s consent agenda authorized Apex to participate in a multimodal access study for Pleasant Park, conducted in partnership with the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO).

The study will evaluate five potential access points and examine ways to improve connectivity to the park for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. The town’s planning department budget includes up to $75,000 for its participation in the study.

Pleasant Park has become one of Apex’s most popular recreation destinations, and town leaders say improving transportation access to the facility is an important step in supporting continued use.

The consent agenda also included agreements related to water and sewer infrastructure improvements, including work associated with the Beaver Creek Commons sewer and water project, as well as design services tied to the Western Transmission Main Phase II waterline project.

Together, these projects represent part of the town’s broader effort to expand and modernize infrastructure to keep pace with growth across the community.

Planning for Growth

As Apex continues to expand, town officials say investments in infrastructure will remain critical to maintaining quality of life.

Transportation projects, water and sewer upgrades, and improvements to public spaces, such as downtown and parks, are intended to ensure that the town’s infrastructure keeps pace with population and economic growth.

Council discussions and public comments during the meeting underscored the importance residents place on balancing growth with thoughtful planning and investment.

What’s Next

Several of the infrastructure projects discussed are already underway or in the planning phase. Town staff will continue working with regional partners and engineering firms on project design, funding coordination, and construction timelines.

Town leaders are considering a pair of policy steps that could reshape how Apex approaches future data center development.

Apex, NC, March 12, 2026 — During its March 10th Apex Town Council meeting, officials discussed both a one-year moratorium on new data center construction and the creation of a resident advisory committee to study the industry’s potential impacts on the community.

The two proposals emerged after a developer withdrew a previously proposed hyperscale data center project that had sparked months of public debate and intense community scrutiny.

Together, the ideas represent an effort by town leaders to slow down and more carefully evaluate the potential impacts of large-scale data centers on Apex before additional proposals move forward.

One proposed item called for the council to consider a temporary pause on new data center construction within town limits, while a second proposal would establish a non-standing committee to study the issue and recommend policy changes.

A Pause to Study the Industry

Town officials said the proposed moratorium would provide time to examine how data centers could affect local infrastructure, utilities, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Large data centers are known for their significant electricity demand, water usage, and reliance on backup power generators. In some communities, concerns have also been raised about noise levels, land-use compatibility, and environmental impacts.

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence and cloud computing has dramatically increased demand for hyperscale data centers across the United States, including in the Triangle region.

While such projects can generate investment and tax revenue, they have also sparked debate in many communities about whether the facilities provide enough local economic benefit relative to their infrastructure demands.

A temporary moratorium would allow Apex officials to review existing policies and determine whether new rules or regulations are needed before additional proposals are submitted.

Under North Carolina law, implementing a development moratorium requires specific legal procedures and findings before it can take effect.

Mayor Proposes Resident Advisory Committee

Alongside the moratorium discussion, the mayor introduced a proposal to establish a resident advisory committee to study the potential impacts of data centers.

The committee would include residents, subject-matter experts, and representatives from areas within Apex’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

Its role would be to evaluate environmental, economic, operational, and public safety considerations tied to large data center campuses and recommend possible updates to the town’s development policies.

The committee would also work with an independent third-party consultant to help analyze potential impacts and provide objective research to inform future decisions.

Town leaders said the goal is to ensure Apex has a clear policy framework in place before new projects are proposed.

Residents Voice Concerns

Public comments during the meeting reflected strong residents’ opinions on the issue.

Several speakers urged the council to carefully consider the long-term effects of large data center facilities on local infrastructure and quality of life.

One resident used an analogy from the film The Big Short to compare certain data center proposals to risky financial investments that could leave communities dealing with long-term consequences.

“If [Apex] is the peak of good living, why are we accepting what is essentially garbage?” the resident told council.

Another speaker questioned the economic benefits often cited by developers, noting that the most significant job creation often occurs during construction rather than during long-term operation.

“The immediate promise is always the construction jobs,” the resident said. “But these are short-term.”

Some residents also emphasized the need for greater transparency and better access to information as the town evaluates future proposals.

“We have a community that doesn’t have equal access to information,” one speaker told the council, calling for improved communication between town leaders and residents.

A Growing Regional Issue

The discussion in Apex reflects a broader policy debate taking place across North Carolina and the country.

As demand for computing power continues to grow, developers are seeking locations for large data center campuses that require hundreds of megawatts of electricity and substantial land.

Communities nationwide are grappling with how to balance the economic opportunities associated with the industry against concerns about energy consumption, environmental impacts, and compatibility with nearby residential areas.

For Apex, town leaders indicated that the goal is to ensure any future decisions are made with a clear understanding of the potential benefits and tradeoffs.

What’s Next

The town council did not take final action on either item during the meeting.

In the coming months, the council could move forward with the legal process required to establish a moratorium, approve the formation of the advisory committee, or pursue both strategies as part of a broader policy review.

Either step would give town leaders additional time to study how Apex should approach future data center development.

Apex, NC, Feb. 16, 2026 — The town’s annual retreat isn’t where decisions are made. It’s where councilmembers absorb information, test ideas, and begin shaping the priorities that later appear on meeting agendas.

Over three days last week, those discussions pointed to a town increasingly focused on managing costs, infrastructure, and service demands associated with continued growth. No policy changes were adopted, but the sessions offered a detailed look at how growth is beginning to shape both the town’s long-term strategy and its daily operations.

Taken together, the retreat suggested Apex is entering a phase where expansion is no longer just about accommodating development, but about managing the systems and costs that come with it.

Housing policy is shifting from planning language to operational tools

One of the clearest signals from the retreat was that Apex is preparing to move beyond traditional zoning and incentives toward more direct involvement in housing affordability.

Staff outlined steps underway to establish a community land trust, including recruiting board members and preparing to issue a request for proposals for an administrator. The model would allow the town to retain ownership of land used for housing so homes built on it remain affordable over time, an approach increasingly used in fast-growing communities where land cost drives prices.

Officials also discussed the possibility of creating a local down-payment assistance layer that could be combined with Wake County and North Carolina Housing Finance Agency programs. The goal is to reduce the gap between what households can borrow and the price of available homes.

These discussions were framed against ongoing development, with staff citing growth along the US-64 corridor and around the Veridea area as examples shaping both housing demand and infrastructure needs.

Planning signals suggest how affordability efforts might begin

While no parcels were formally designated, staff referenced the possibility of placing a town-controlled tract of roughly thirteen acres into the future land trust as an initial demonstration project. The acreage was discussed as a planning concept rather than a confirmed action, but its inclusion suggested town leaders are already considering how the trust could begin operating once established.

Infrastructure planning is being driven by projects already underway

Utility presentations reinforced that infrastructure planning is increasingly tied to development that has already been approved or is moving forward.

Staff described the need to expand transformer capacity and add substation infrastructure to support growth areas, including development associated with Veridea and projects along the US-64 corridor. These upgrades were framed as necessary to maintain reliability as new residential and commercial demand comes online.

Officials also reviewed longer-term demand-management strategies, including evaluating distributed solar integration, battery storage, and load-management programs. These measures were discussed primarily as ways to avoid costly system expansions where possible.

Planning discussions also hinted at the scale of future infrastructure needs

While no projects were announced, infrastructure discussions indicated that multiple substations or major capacity expansions may eventually be required if current development trends continue. Those references were framed as planning scenarios rather than commitments, but they illustrated the scale of infrastructure growth officials expect to manage.

Yard-waste service has become one of the town’s most complex operational systems

The retreat’s most detailed operational discussion focused on yard-waste collection, which staff described as increasingly complex as the town has grown.

A two-year internal review showed that demand spikes sharply during leaf season, requiring additional staffing, equipment, and hauling capacity for relatively short periods. Staff emphasized that managing those surges is now one of the largest drivers of program cost.

Disposal logistics were a major part of the conversation. About 78 percent of Apex’s yard waste is sent to transfer facilities, while roughly 22 percent is hauled directly to processors. Staff described growing pressure on disposal capacity and increasing haul distances. One brush disposal site is 18 miles away, and a round-trip can take about 45 minutes, while an alternative processor roughly 60 miles away would require a 90-minute trip to Harnett County.

Officials noted that counties across the region are focusing primarily on trash and recycling rather than organics, meaning municipalities like Apex must manage yard-waste solutions largely on their own.

Service funding and fairness questions are beginning to surface

Councilmembers also discussed how the yard-waste system is funded. The base fee of $7.83 per household supports not only cart collection but also seasonal leaf pickup, bulk waste collection, and storm debris response.

Some officials raised equity concerns, noting that residents in townhouse communities often pay for the service even when landscaping is handled by homeowner associations. Staff noted that allowing residents to opt out could increase costs for those who rely on the service, underscoring the tension between fairness and the need to maintain a financially sustainable universal program.

Staff also noted that the town has examined alternatives, including establishing waste-excess thresholds, evaluating zone-based collection models, and reviewing practices in communities like Cary, where the goal is typically two leaf sweeps before Christmas and a final sweep afterward. These examples were discussed as references rather than proposals.

Capital planning exercises showed how quickly projects compete for funding

A work session on capital prioritization asked councilmembers to consider how transportation improvements, facilities, and growth-related infrastructure might compete for limited funding capacity.

The exercise did not produce rankings, but it illustrated how quickly available capital could be consumed by competing needs. Staff indicated the results would be reviewed internally and brought back for further discussion.

Officials also discussed strengthening coordination with the town’s legislative advocates and state partners. Plans are underway to establish a workgroup that links departments and lobbyists to help Apex better track legislation and funding opportunities affecting local projects.

Staff emphasized that building relationships with grant programs before applications open often improves the chances of securing funding, signaling that outside funding is increasingly viewed as part of a long-term strategy.

What the retreat ultimately showed

The retreat offered no votes and few immediate actions. But it provided something residents rarely see: an early view of the pressures shaping future decisions, and the direction those conversations may take.

Housing discussions are moving toward tools that directly influence affordability. Infrastructure planning is closely tied to ongoing development. Service systems such as yard-waste collection are becoming more complex as the town expands. Capital projects are increasingly viewed through the lens of funding limits and sequencing.

For residents, the retreat offered a clearer view of what may surface on council agendas in the months ahead. The decisions themselves are still to come. But the retreat showed where they are beginning to take shape.

Note: Officials also examined the town’s facilities footprint and long-term service hubs, an issue that could shape how town services operate in the future. We’ll take a closer look at that in an upcoming story.

Retreat Documents (click to access):

• Day 1 Agenda Packet (2/11/26)

• Day 2 Agenda Packet (2/12/26)

• Day 3 Agenda Packet (2/13/26)

Note: The full meeting agenda packet can be found by clicking here

Apex, NC, Feb. 11, 2026 — Last night’s The Apex Town Council’s meeting stretched more than four hours, opening with an extended period of proclamations, recognitions, and a resolution of remembrance that occupied before the Council turned to its regular business.

The opening portion of the meeting included recognition of Teachers of the Year from Apex-based schools, presentation of the Apex Public School Foundation’s Peak S.T.A.R. Award, proclamations marking Black History Month and the town’s first Lunar New Year observance, and a resolution honoring the late Stuart Turner Wagner for his years of volunteer service to Apex transit.

After that extended opening Council moved into the substance of the agenda, which included approval of infrastructure and staffing items under the consent agenda, wide-ranging public comment, multiple annexation requests, and the first public hearing on the FY 2026–27 town operating budget, a sequence that prompted residents to raise questions about affordability, transparency, public health, and the pace of decision-making as the town continues to grow.

Proclamations & Special Presentations

Council first recognized Teachers of the Year from Apex-area schools, honoring educators representing multiple grade levels and campuses across the town. In remarks accompanying the recognition, council members emphasized the role teachers play beyond classroom instruction, noting their influence on student confidence, family stability, and the broader fabric of the community.

Apex-Area Teachers of the Year (2025–26)

(Sorted by school name A–Z; verified against official list)

Apex Elementary — Kellie Grainer
Apex Friendship Elementary — Erin Dunbar
Apex Friendship High — Hillary Kitchen
Apex Friendship Middle — Matin Maani
Apex High — Amy Crump
Apex Middle — Paige Hutto
Baucom Elementary — Marisa McKinney
Felton Grove High — Chad Miller
Laurel Park Elementary — Natalie Sayag
Lufkin Road Middle — Jennifer Lomelino
Middle Creek Elementary — Lisa Woodard
Middle Creek High — Teresa Dwiggins
Oakview Elementary — Jennifer Taylor
Olive Chapel Elementary — Tuyetnga Levesque
Pleasant Plains Elementary — Kinya (Kinney) Bloomer
Salem Elementary — Michelle Gregory
Salem Middle — Sara Roberts
Scotts Ridge Elementary — Stephanie Chase
West Lake Elementary — Tamra Dunstan
West Lake Middle — Melissa Barnhart
White Oak Elementary — Terence “Terry” Lynch

That recognition was followed by presentation of the Apex Public School Foundation’s Quarterly Peak S.T.A.R. Award to Kendra Goggins, assistant principal at Westlake Elementary School. Goggins was recognized for her leadership in creating the school’s Kindergarten Cottage, a purpose-built, play-based learning environment aligned with the North Carolina Kindergarten Course of Study and designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and social-emotional development for early learners.

Council then adopted a Black History Month proclamation, formally recognizing February as a time to reflect on the history, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans, including those who have shaped Apex. The proclamation referenced town-supported events and educational observances planned throughout the month.

Alongside the proclamation, Council also recognized and presented certificates to long-residing Black residents of Apex, acknowledging their decades-long presence in the community and their role in shaping the town’s civic, cultural, and social life.

The meeting next reached a milestone moment for the town with the adoption of its first-ever Lunar New Year proclamation, recognizing 2026 as the Year of the Fire Horse. Community members participating in the presentation spoke about cultural visibility and civic acknowledgment for Apex’s growing Asian American and Pacific Islander population, emphasizing inclusion, intergenerational identity, and the connection between cultural recognition and youth mental health and belonging.

Council also adopted a resolution of remembrance honoring the late Stuart Turner Wagner (obituary), a longtime volunteer and former chair of the Transit Advisory Committee. The resolution recognized Wagner’s years of service advocating for expanded GO Apex routes, door-to-door transit services, and improved accessibility, and reflected on the lasting influence of resident advisory boards on town policy.

The opening portion of the meeting concluded with two informational presentations. An update on the Apex Farmers Market highlighted continued growth in vendor and attendance numbers, expanded SNAP participation, partnerships with local nonprofits such as Meals on Wheels, and efforts to increase community giving while exploring expanded capacity and improved amenities. An annual update to the Town’s Sustainability Action Plan followed, outlining progress over the past year, initiatives underway, and projects scheduled for future phases, with an emphasis on long-term planning rather than new policy actions.

Consent Agenda

Council then approved the consent agenda (document), a set of items typically considered routine and adopted through a single vote unless a council member requests separate discussion. While handled efficiently, the items approved collectively advanced several road, utility, staffing, and administrative actions with near- and long-term implications.

The largest item authorized an agreement with the North Carolina Department of Transportation related to the Apex Peakway North widening project, covering the stretch between Center Street and Old Raleigh Road. The agreement allows the Town of Apex to move forward with engineering design and right-of-way acquisition for a future four-lane roadway that would include sidewalks, a side path, and traffic signal improvements. Under the agreement, the town assumes responsibility for all upfront engineering and property acquisition costs, with any reimbursement contingent on future federal funding that has not yet been secured. The agreement does not authorize construction but advances the project to the next phase.

Council also approved a $40,000 contract for a 250-drone light show planned for July 3, 2026, as part of the town’s Independence Day celebrations, reflecting rising demand and limited availability for such events nationwide.

Several consent items focused on infrastructure work already underway. Council approved nearly $576,000 for Duke Energy utility relocation associated with Jessie Drive Phase 1, a prerequisite to advancing roadway construction, and approved a construction contract for the town’s 2026 road rehabilitation program, which funds annual resurfacing and maintenance across multiple streets.

Utility system work advanced through approval of a master services agreement and ordinance amendment tied to completion of the town’s water meter system upgrade, a multi-year effort to modernize metering infrastructure. Additional technical actions included abandoning a waterline easement on Vision Drive that is no longer needed and correcting documentation related to a previously approved road closure on Walden Road.

Administrative items included approval of prior Town Council meeting minutes and authorization to add four new staff positions across the Planning, Parks and Recreation, Water Resources, and Stormwater departments, expanding capacity as development and service demands continue to grow. Council also received the December 2025 tax report, providing an end-of-year snapshot of tax collections.

Public Comment

Residents used the public comment portion of the meeting to raise substantive concerns on issues not scheduled for public hearings, focusing on transparency, housing affordability, public health related to large-scale energy infrastructure, and the growing cost pressures facing households.

Several comments centered on access to information, with residents describing difficulty locating staff reports, work-session materials, transportation studies, and development documents without filing public records requests. Speakers contrasted Apex’s approach with nearby municipalities that post such information in centralized, searchable locations, arguing that limited access prevents residents from understanding projects before decisions are made and increases distrust in the process.

Housing affordability emerged as one of the most detailed and personal topics. Residents described Apex as increasingly out of reach for teachers, first responders, and service workers, warning that rising home prices and rents are already affecting workforce stability. Speakers urged the town to expand housing investment tools, preserve existing affordable housing, and support home-preservation efforts.

Multiple speakers raised concerns about a proposed large-scale data center, focusing on public health, environmental impact, and the communication of technical risks. Comments cited emissions from on-site backup generators, potential air-quality impacts near neighborhoods and schools, and questioned whether developer-provided information gives residents enough clarity to evaluate long-term health and emergency-response risks.

As the town begins its next budget cycle, residents also spoke about cost-of-living pressures, particularly for retirees and those on fixed incomes. Speakers described rising property taxes, insurance, utilities, and basic necessities, noting that while incomes remain fixed, expenses continue to rise.

Across topics, residents returned to a common concern: decisions with long-term consequences are advancing faster than the public’s ability to fully understand them.

Public Hearings

Council then moved into formal public hearings (documents), which included annexation requests, the first public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2026–27 town operating budget, and hearings on utility rate and development ordinance changes.

Annexation Requests

Council considered several annexation requests involving individual properties seeking to come into the town’s corporate limits, typically to gain access to municipal services or advance approved development plans. Requests included properties along Roberts Road, Olive Chapel Road, Old U.S. 1 Highway, Apex Peakway, and Secluded Acres, many of which are adjacent to or surrounded by existing town limits.

One annexation tied to a church property drew extended comment related to a proposed septic spray field, with residents raising concerns about groundwater and air-quality impacts. Staff noted that annexation brings property into town limits but does not impose land-use or operational conditions, which are addressed through separate regulatory processes. All annexations were recommended for approval by staff.

FY 2026–27 Operating Budget — First Public Hearing

Council held the first of two required public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2026–27 town operating budget, marking the earliest formal step in the annual budget process. Staff emphasized that the hearing occurs before a proposed budget is drafted and is intended to gather resident priorities early. No tax rates, fee changes, or funding levels were presented for approval.

Staff outlined the upcoming timeline, which includes departmental requests, council work sessions, a second public hearing later in the spring, and final budget adoption anticipated in June. Public input echoed concerns raised earlier in the evening about affordability and spending growth.

Utility Rates and Development Rules

Council also held a public hearing on proposed amendments to commercial electric time-of-use rates, intended to close a policy gap that allowed customers with constant usage to benefit from discounted rates designed to encourage shifting demand away from peak periods. Residential customers are not affected.

The final hearings addressed a rezoning request at 0 Smith Road and a series of Unified Development Ordinance amendments, which govern zoning standards and development requirements across Apex. These hearings were procedural steps in ongoing reviews rather than final adoption.

Note: The full meeting agenda packet can be found by clicking here

Contact

Apex Town Council member contact information can be found by clicking here.

Apex, NC, Jan. 11, 2026 — Apex Town Council will next meet on Tuesday, January 13th at 6:00 p.m. at the Apex Town Hall (directions). The agenda blends routine approvals with several decisions tied to growth, infrastructure, and the Town’s next budget. Below are the key items residents may want to watch. The agenda and related documents are available here and on the town’s website.

Water and infrastructure spending

Council will consider an agreement related to Veridea Parkway that would allow a developer to install a larger waterline than required, with the Town reimbursing the added capacity at a cost capped at $250,000. Town officials say the larger line would improve long-term water capacity and fire protection as the area continues to develop.

Council will also ratify contract amendments related to ongoing road rehabilitation, pavement preservation, and Jones Street improvements, keeping previously approved projects on track.

Annexation and rezoning decisions

Several public hearings are scheduled for annexation and rezoning requests involving properties on:

• New Hill Olive Chapel Road

• Castleberry Road

• Old U.S. 1 Highway

• Humie Olive Road (The Summit Apex)

Council will also revisit Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) amendments that were continued from late 2025 meetings. Together, these items will shape how and where future development occurs in Apex.

Budget season begins

Council will formally schedule the first public hearing for the Town’s Fiscal Year 2026–27 operating budget, marking the start of the annual process that sets spending priorities and tax rates.

Town governance and procedures

The agenda includes several governance-related items, including:

• A proposal to limit the term length of the Mayor Pro-Tempore

• Cleanup of duplicated language in Council rules

• Acceptance of advisory board attendance reports, which could lead to warnings or removals for members who miss too many meetings

Transit, parking, and community items

Council will review an amendment to the GoApex Sunday transit service agreement and update parking time limits for a redesigned Town-owned parking lot. The meeting also includes proclamations recognizing Human Trafficking Awareness Month and Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Weekend.

A note on finances

One consent item on the agenda acknowledges receipt of the November 2025 tax report, but the public agenda materials do not include any revenue figures. Holly Springs Update has reached out to the town clerk for the full report.

How to weigh in: Public Forum and Hearings

Residents may participate by attending the meeting in person (directions) or by submitting written comments in advance.

Here’s how to submit comments in advance:

Public Forum comments (for topics not scheduled as public hearings) must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. on the meeting date to public.forum@apexnc.org, or mailed or hand-delivered to the Town Clerk at 73 Hunter Street.

Public Hearing comments (for annexations, rezonings, and ordinance changes) are also due by 3:00 p.m. on the meeting date and should be sent to public.hearing@apexnc.org or delivered to the Town Clerk at the same address. Emails should include the public hearing topic in the subject line.

All written comments must include the sender’s name and address and will be shared with Town Council members before they vote.

Apex, NC, Dec. 19, 2025 — During its December work session earlier this week, Apex Town Council members discussed the current status of the town’s Peak Plan 2055 (document) and where the process is headed. The long-range planning process is designed to help shape how Apex grows, develops, and invests through the middle of the century.

Discussion during the meeting focused on explaining what the plan is intended to do, how the process is structured, and what residents have said so far through surveys and public engagement. The Council made no decisions, but the meeting laid the foundation for policy choices to be considered in the months ahead.

What is Peak Plan 2055

Peak Plan 2055 is Apex’s update to its current Comprehensive and Transportation plans. It will replace documents and policies adopted in 2019. Together, these plans guide decisions on land use, transportation, housing, infrastructure, and public investment.

Consultants emphasized that the plan itself does not change zoning or approve development. Instead, it provides direction that informs future updates to development regulations, capital improvement priorities, and infrastructure planning. Under North Carolina law, municipalities must maintain an up-to-date comprehensive plan to support zoning authority.

How the plan is being built

Peak Plan 2055 is organized into three phases. The first phase focuses on gathering data and public input. The second phase involves creating and testing growth scenarios, and the final phase yields policy recommendations and implementation strategies.

Apex is currently transitioning from the discovery phase into scenario development. A citizen task force, town staff, consultants, and Council members are involved at key points throughout the process to review information and provide feedback.

Much of the afternoon’s work session was devoted to guiding council members through how public input is incorporated into each phase, particularly as the town prepares to evaluate different long-term growth scenarios.

Resident responses

Consultants presented results from the first round of public engagement, which included a community survey, focus groups, and public forums. More than 580 residents completed the survey, making it the effort’s largest single source of input to date.

Six themes emerged from the survey results:

1. Growth and balance - Residents frequently raised concerns about the pace and location of growth and whether Apex is adding enough non-residential development to support jobs, services, and a balanced tax base.

2. Housing - Survey responses showed strong interest in a wider range of housing options, including affordable housing, smaller homes, and senior-friendly designs. Many respondents expressed support for infill development, meaning new housing on underused land within existing developed areas.

3. Quality of life and community spaces - Parks, community centers, and gathering places ranked highly across nearly all engagement methods. Residents emphasized the importance of protecting downtown character while expanding amenities that support daily life.

4. Mobility and traffic - Traffic congestion ranked as the top transportation concern. Residents also called for improved sidewalks, greenways, bicycle facilities, and safer pedestrian crossings, particularly along NC 55.

5. Infrastructure and public services -Participants stressed that roads, schools, utilities, and public safety services need to keep pace with growth. During the meeting, discussions acknowledged the challenges of funding and timing infrastructure investments as development continues.

6. Environment - Environmental protection surfaced repeatedly. Preserving open space, tree canopy, farmland, and natural resources ranked among the highest priorities, with more than half of survey respondents identifying the natural environment as a top concern.

While sharing this with the Council, town staff and consultants emphasized that survey results are not treated as a vote but as one input among several, alongside data analysis, focus groups, and in-person forums.

From feedback to future maps

A key focus point of the discussion was what comes next in the process. Rather than advancing a single vision, the planning team will develop multiple growth scenarios that show how Apex could evolve. These scenarios will test trade-offs related to traffic, infrastructure costs, environmental impacts, and housing supply.

Scenario Planning (Examples)

Public feedback and task force input will also inform the preferred hybrid scenario. That scenario will inform the future land-use map and policy recommendations in the final Peak Plan 2055 document.

Why this meeting mattered

Although Peak Plan 2055 does not directly rezone property or approve development, the December work session made clear that the plan will influence nearly every major growth decision Apex makes over the next several decades.

By dedicating most of the work session to explaining the plan’s purpose, process, and early findings, Council signaled that long-range planning will play a central role in shaping Apex’s future before formal decisions are brought forward.

Additional public workshops, scenario presentations, and draft documents are expected in the coming months as the process continues.

Related Document:

• Apex Peak Plan 2055 slide deck presented during Workshop (click here)

Town & Town Coucil Contacts:

• Town Council Members (click here)

• Town Manager (click here)

Apex, NC, Dec. 10, 2025 — Apex’s utility systems will end 2025 on firmer footing, with Town Manager Randy Vosburg telling the Town Council on Tuesday that meter upgrades, billing cycle stabilization, and reductions in customer service backlogs are all trending in the right direction.

The update was delivered during the Council’s final regular meeting of the year and covered topics ranging from meter replacement timelines to ongoing challenges facing solar customers. While issues remain, the overall picture was notably more stable than earlier in the year.

Meter Replacement Work Reaches Milestones

Vosburg began by noting significant progress on the Town’s large-scale meter modernization. The water meter replacement effort, which has been underway for years, is now finished, with final checks underway.

Electric meter upgrades are also moving forward. Crews have replaced roughly 4,000 meters so far, with about 28,000 meters remaining to install through next fall. Early indicators are promising: the upgraded electric meters are achieving a 99% read success rate, which should reduce manual review and improve billing system consistency.

Billing Cycles Settle Back Into Normal Rhythm

After a period of irregular billing cycle lengths that frustrated residents throughout the year, Vosburg said the Town’s two utility billing cycles have largely stabilized:

• Cycle 1 averaging 30.2 days

• Cycle 2 averaging 30.3 days

These numbers may seem small, but for billing operations, consistency is a significant factor in preventing spikes in customer confusion and reducing discrepancies that trigger account reviews.

Variance Reports Fall Sharply

Vosburg also highlighted what many staff consider the clearest sign of improvement: the steady decline in variance reports, which flag unusual usage or atypical meter readings.

In Cycle 1, variances dropped from 5,469 in October to 945 in November and 865 in December.
Cycle 2 saw a similar pattern, falling from 5,919 in September to 1,125 in November.

“We continue to see a decreasing volume as it relates to utility billing, which is a positive indicator,” Vosburg said.

Staff believe the sub-1,000 range may now represent the system’s normal operating level.

Backlog Shrinks, But Solar Accounts Require More Time

The Town is also continuing to work through a large number of previously unresolved customer billing cases. Vosburg reported that 75% of the backlog has now been resolved, leaving about 250 cases still open.

Most of those remaining involve solar households, which tend to be more complex due to variations in older meter technology, inconsistent reporting, and the interplay between consumption and generation data.

“As a group, solar is probably still the most impacted currently, and we’re working through that,” Vosburg told Council.

He noted the solar backlog should ease as more customers transition to the new, unified electric metering platform now being installed town-wide.

What Residents Should Watch for in Early 2026

Looking ahead, Apex residents can expect:

• More predictable monthly bills

• Fewer unusual spikes triggered by inconsistent meter data

• Faster problem resolution once all electric meters are aligned under the same system

• Continued improvements in call volume and response times from the utilities team

While some complex accounts, especially solar, are likely to extend into January, Vosburg said staff remain focused on closing out the remaining issues as early in the new year as possible.

“We hit the 75% mark today, so we have roughly 25% left,” he said.

Apex, NC, Dec. 8, 2025 — The Apex Town Council meets tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. for its final regular meeting of 2025, and the agenda is packed, particularly in the Consent Agenda, Public Hearings, and New Business sections.

Consent Agenda (No Public Comment)

The meeting’s decision points open with a lengthy Consent Agenda, where multiple unrelated items are bundled into a single up-or-down vote by council members. The items up for vote are typically administrative or already vetted and do not offer residents an opportunity to comment during the meeting.

Tomorrow’s Consent Agenda includes actions related to:

• Transportation and pedestrian improvements

• Stormwater and utility service contracts

• Solid waste collection and disposal

• Annexations and rezonings

• Budget amendments and tax reports

• Greenway funding

• Board and committee appointments

• Meeting minutes and calendar adjustments

Residents who want to review the Consent Agenda items in detail can view the agenda packet by clicking here.

Updates by Town Manager

After the Consent Agenda approval, the Town Manager, Randy Vosburg, will provide updates on ongoing Town operations, service initiatives, and seasonal announcements.

As always, no public comment is taken during this segment.

Public Forum

Following the Town Manager’s update, Council will open the Public Forum period. Residents may speak on any topic not tied to a Public Hearing, with remarks limited to three minutes per speaker. Residents intending to speak should review the town’s Public Forum and Public Hearing Participation Policy document found here.

The Protect Wake County Coalition is expected to address the Council, voicing opposition to the proposed data center development near the Shearon Harris Nuclear Plant. The group has raised concerns about environmental impact, land-use compatibility, and long-term safety, and Tuesday’s Public Forum is one of the few avenues for residents to speak directly to the Council on these issues.

Public Hearings

Seven Public Hearings are scheduled, offering residents the opportunity to speak directly to Council before decisions are made.

(Note: PH is the abbreviation for Public Hearing, followed by the item #)

Veridea Development Planning (PH2–PH5)

Four hearings involve proposed changes to long-term planning components of the Veridea district:

PH2 – Thoroughfare Map Amendments
Updates roadway routing intended to reduce congestion and improve regional mobility.

PH3 – Transit Map Amendments
Adjusts planned public transit connections to improve transportation options.

PH4 – Environmental Enhancement Plan Amendments
Clarifies protections and standards for streams, buffers, and stormwater systems.

PH5 – Rezoning Case 25CZ18 (Special District Plan)
Aligns zoning elements with the proposed roadway, transi,t and environmental revisions.

Public comment is invited before Council action.

Road Closure Proposal — Walden Road (PH6)

The proposal would close an unpaved portion of Walden Road running through the Friendship Village subdivision now under construction. The closure supports an approved plan to replace the old alignment with a new, safer street network, maintaining access to Evans Road while providing a safer vehicle and pedestrian intersection and a more efficient internal street layout.

Potential impacts include:

• Neighborhood traffic rerouting

• Emergency service access

• Connectivity between adjacent areas

No existing properties will lose access, and the Town’s Technical Review Committee recommends moving forward.

Residents may comment during the hearing.

UDO Amendments — Growth & Development Rules (PH7)

Council will consider changes to the Unified Development Ordinance that:

• Allow and regulate temporary turnarounds at the ends of short streets

• Clarify how they are constructed and later removed

• Adjust related buffer and terminology language

The goal is to ensure:

• Safe access for emergency and sanitation vehicles

• Orderly long-term street connectivity

• Predictable development standards

Residents may comment during the hearing.

Annexation (PH1)

Council will consider annexing 2.59 acres at 1000 Classic Road into the Apex town limits. The property owner voluntarily petitioned for annexation, which would make the land eligible for Town services, including municipal water and sewer access, solid waste collection, and Town police and fire coverage. Annexation also means that any future use would be subject to Apex zoning and development regulations rather than county-only rules.

No development plan is under review here; the request is strictly about whether the property becomes part of Apex.

Residents may comment during this hearing.

New Business: Discussion & Direction (No Public Comment)

(Note: NB is the abbreviation for New Business, followed by the item #)

Salem Streetscape Construction Contract (NB1)

Council will review a construction contract to advance downtown streetscape improvements that are expected to enhance pedestrian access and public space frontage.

Public Records Program Improvements (NB2)

The Town will receive an operational overview of its public records system, including administrative changes intended to improve transparency and responsiveness.

Residents cannot comment during the New Business period.

Bottom Line for Residents

Tuesday night’s meeting covers major issues shaping:

• Mobility and transportation safety

• Long-term development and planning

• Neighborhood connectivity

• Infrastructure reliability

• Municipal transparency

Residents may speak during:

• Public Forum, and

• All Public Hearings (PH1–PH7)

For residents preparing comments, the Town provides helpful procedures via its
Public Forum & Public Hearing Participation Policy (document)

Key contacts:

Mayor Jacques Gilbert - jacques.gilbert@apexnc.org
Town Manager Randy Vosburg - randy.vosburg@apexnc.org
Town Clerk Allen Coleman - allen.coleman@apexnc.org

Apex, NC, Dec. 7, 2025 — Apex celebrated public service, community spirit, and leadership transition at its annual organizational meeting last Wednesday night at town hall. The event drew an impressive lineup of regional dignitaries, including Senators Sydney Batch and Lisa Grafstein; Representatives Julie Von Haefen and Yao Liu; Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings; Wake County Board of Education Chair Tyler Swanson; Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell; Durham County Commissioner Nida Alam; former Congressman Wiley Nickel; former school board members Lindsay Mahaffey and Christine Kushner; Morrisville Town Council Member Steve Routt; Judge Chris Brooks; and leaders from the Apex Chamber of Commerce.

The dignitaries’ and residents' attendance underscored a sense of collaboration as the town honored its outgoing council members and welcomed new voices to the dais.

The emotional heart of the evening centered on formal recognitions for outgoing council members Audra Killingsworth and Brett Gantt, who each completed eight years of service.

Killingsworth: “Fingerprints” Everywhere

A resolution highlighted Killingsworth’s work on:

• Affordable housing initiatives and planning

• Employee support, personnel policies, and benefits

• Apex’s first Pride celebration

• Community engagement and diversity efforts

• Increased coordination across multiple levels of government

Her service to town staff earned her a significant honor: the Town’s Employee MVP Award will now be known as the “Audra Killingsworth MVP Award.”

Killingsworth reflected on her commitment through the metaphor of “fingerprints,” describing how leaders leave quiet but lasting marks that future residents will notice. She thanked her family and acknowledged the sacrifices they made throughout her two terms.

Gantt: Connectivity, Sustainability, and Public Art

A separate resolution honored Gantt’s leadership on:

• The GO Apex mobility program and the expansion of pedestrian connectivity

• Downtown revitalization planning

• Greenway, sidewalk, and environmental improvements

• Advancing public art and placemaking

The Sculpture Walk was officially renamed the “Brett Gantt Sculpture Walk” in recognition of his enduring contribution to arts and culture in Apex.

Gantt’s remarks emphasized gratitude for the people he served alongside, crediting town staff and colleagues for strengthening Apex during a period of rapid growth.

Colleagues Praise Their Heart, Vision, and Integrity

Tributes from fellow council members highlighted Killingsworth’s empathy and advocacy for town employees and underserved residents. At the same time, Gantt was praised for his quiet analysis and for elevating the quality and safety of town planning.

New Councilmembers Sworn In: Commitment, Unity, and Service

Following the retirements of Killingsworth and Gantt, the focus shifted to the three incoming council members:

Edward Gray

Gray, an incumbent council member, spoke about the seriousness of taking an oath, emphasizing his military background and commitment to thoughtful decision-making. He thanked family, supporters, and the community, pledging to serve with integrity and respect.

Shane Reese

Reese’s remarks mixed warmth and appreciation, emphasizing Apex’s sense of community. He credited his wife and family for their support and spoke of working for all residents, including those who did not support him politically, noting, “We’re all neighbors.”

Sue Mu

Councilmember Mu made town history as the first Asian American elected to the Apex Town Council. She delivered heartfelt remarks affirming her commitment to listening, collaboration, and community representation, thanking her family, volunteers, and supporters.

Mahaffey Named Mayor Pro Tem

At the close of the swearing-in portion, Councilmember Terry Mahaffey was unanimously elected as Mayor Pro Tem, praised by colleagues for his transparency, compassion, and thoughtful approach to town leadership.

Apex’s Future Grounded in Collaboration

As the meeting wound down, the message of teamwork remained clear. That sentiment was reinforced by Juliana Corsetti, the youngest person ever appointed to a Town of Apex resident advisory board and a youth voting member of the Culture and Arts Advisory Board, who spoke about the importance of civic responsibility and collaborative leadership.

Corsetti shared a message she said Mayor Gilbert often emphasizes:

“There is nothing we can’t accomplish when we work together.”

Though spoken by her, she made clear that the words reflect the mayor’s guiding approach, and, on this night, they echoed throughout the room.

Apex, NC, Nov. 10, 2025 — The Town of Apex is asking residents to help chart the community’s long-term path by sharing their views on how the town should grow over the next three decades. The Peak Plan 2055 Survey (website) invites residents to weigh in on issues such as housing, transportation, conservation, economic development, and social infrastructure. Responses to the survey are anonymous, and residents can complete it online through November 30, 2025.

The survey is part of Peak Plan 2055 (website), Apex’s new comprehensive planning effort designed to guide growth and investment through the middle of the century. According to town materials, the plan builds on prior initiatives, including Advance Apex, the Downtown Master Plan, and the Sustainability Action Plan, uniting them under a forward-looking framework for land use, housing, employment, and community services.

Planners say the input gathered will directly inform policies and priorities around “authentic and celebrated downtown spaces,” “protected and linked green space,” “abundant and attainable housing choices,” and a “connected, safe, multi-modal transportation network”.

Once complete, the plan will serve as a long-term roadmap for growth, infrastructure, and quality-of-life investments, ensuring Apex continues to thrive as one of North Carolina’s most desirable communities.

Apex, NC, Sep. 20, 2025 — Apex Town Council’s September 9th meeting began with routine business and ended with a dispute over parliamentary rules, mayoral authority, and the proper process for board appointments. The discord has left residents wondering whether the Mayor overstepped or whether the Council applied rules selectively.

The Flashpoint: Board of Adjustment Appointments

Mayor Jacques Gilbert nominated Dr. Tracy Taylor and Robert Carmac for reappointment to the Board of Adjustment. He presented the two together as a slate:

“This is the complete recommendation I have for tonight. If the slate is not approved, I will have no other names to recommend at this meeting.”

Councilmember Brett Gantt then moved to separate the nominees for individual consideration. Gilbert ruled the motion out of order, arguing that under Robert’s Rules of Order, amendments such as striking a name are only allowed once a motion on the full slate is on the floor.

Councilmember Terry Mahaffey cited the Apex Town Code (§2-35) (link), which permits dividing motions that contain multiple propositions. The Council then voted to suspend the rules, enabling the nominations to be considered individually.

At that point, Gilbert withdrew his recommendation and declared repeatedly during the meeting:

“We are in recess. I have declared a recess as the mayor of this town council and chair of this board.”

When the town attorney was asked to weigh in, she reminded the chamber:

“Declaring a recess? You can’t declare a recess. You can ask unanimous consent to declare a recess, but you can’t declare a recess.”

Gilbert stated again:

“We are in recess. So we are in recess. I’m gonna repeat my motion… We are in recess. I’ll second that. We’re in recess.”

Council members, however, continued with business, making and seconding motions despite the Mayor’s repeated objections. Gilbert later left the chamber before the closed session.

Note: Watch the Council’s board of adjustments conversation on the town’s YouTube channel (video 1), (video2)

Mayor’s Position

Gilbert argued that the Council applied rules selectively, allowing suspension to divide his slate but denying his call for recess. He said that in six years of service, his recess calls had never been challenged, and that refusing this one was unfair and unprecedented. He also described the suspension of rules for a routine reappointment as a “dangerous precedent.”

Council’s Position

The Council’s official response insisted its actions were consistent with Robert’s Rules and Apex tradition. “Councilmember Brett Gantt moved to separate the recommendations, allowing an individual vote on each. This motion aligned with Robert’s Rules of Order and longstanding Council practice,” the statement read.

Councilmembers emphasized that their decision to proceed was not an effort to strip the Mayor of authority. Instead, they said, the Mayor chose to leave the chamber. “Our rules and process are not subject to the desires of any individual. They apply to and are formed by the collective for the people of Apex,” the letter stated.

Explainer: What Does “Suspending the Rules” Mean?

• Robert’s Rules allow a council to set aside its routine procedures temporarily by a two-thirds vote.

• It cannot override state law or the town charter, but it can bypass customs or procedural steps.

• On Sept. 9th, suspending the rules allowed the Council to treat two nominees as separate questions instead of one slate.

• This was in order under Robert’s Rules and consistent with Apex’s charter. The controversy stems less from legality than from optics: why the Council embraced flexibility here but denied the Mayor’s attempt to call a recess.

Explainer: How a Recess Works in Council Meetings

• What Robert’s Rules Say: A recess is a privileged motion — it takes precedence over most other business but still requires a second and a majority vote by the Council.

• Who Can Call It: The Mayor, as presiding officer, can suggest or entertain a recess, but cannot unilaterally declare one unless the Council consents.

• How It Usually Worked in Apex: In past meetings, mayors often asked if there was unanimous consent to recess. If no member objected, the meeting paused.

• What Happened on Sept. 9th: Mayor Gilbert declared a recess without seeking consent. Council members continued business, and the town attorney confirmed the Council could proceed.

What State Law Says

North Carolina General Statute §160D-302 (link) gives local governing boards, not mayors, authority to appoint members of boards of adjustment. The law is clear that appointments belong to the Council as a whole.

In Apex, the Mayor has historically played a role in recommending appointees, but that is a local custom. Published Rules of Procedures (link) for the board of adjustment are clear; the mayor recommends candidates, and the council, by vote, appoints members. By contrast, many nearby towns do not involve the Mayor at all in appointments.

Another wrinkle: the Board of Adjustment seat in question had already expired nine months earlier, in December 2024. That long delay heightened the need for Council action.

Larger Implications

Both sides point to Robert’s Rules and precedent, but from different angles. The Mayor frames Council’s actions as selective enforcement that undermines fairness. Council members argue it was the Mayor who broke with tradition by attempting to block their business with an unauthorized recess and by insisting that his nominations be voted on only as a slate.

State law clarifies that the Council has the final authority on appointments, and Apex’s unique practice of mayoral recommendations has now become a flashpoint. For residents, the deeper issue may be whether Apex will adhere strictly to parliamentary formality and state statute, or continue to allow local customs and mayoral discretion to shape its proceedings.

Apex, NC, Sep. 8, 2025 — At its August 26th meeting, the Apex Town Council approved a two-year agreement with Backgrounds Online (website) to handle background checks for youth athletic coaches, volunteers, and program instructors.

The contract, effective May 2025 through May 2027, will be used by the Town’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department. The background check service integrates with the Town’s volunteer database, providing a streamlined process for screening those working with Apex youth.

Contract Details

• Annual Minimum Cost: $2,500, with additional costs depending on the number of checks requested.

• Scope: Provides consumer and investigative reports used to screen volunteers and staff, with compliance under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

• Town Legal Review: The Town’s Legal Department reviewed and approved the agreement before Council action.

Safeguards

The two-year agreement requires the Town to:

• Obtain written consent from each individual before conducting a check.

• Use reports only for legitimate screening purposes.

• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information, with security measures in place for the storage, access, and destruction of records.

Why it matters: With hundreds of children and families taking part in town-sponsored athletic and cultural programs, the background check process provides an additional layer of safety and accountability.

Apex, NC, Aug. 15, 2025 — A simmering frustration over high school student parking boiled to the surface in a tense town council meeting this past Tuesday, where parents, students, and officials clashed over both the scope of the problem and the best way forward.

The discussion followed continued complaints from parents and residents that existing parking provisions fail to meet demand, forcing many students to park far from campus or rely on informal arrangements. Several council members acknowledged the depth of frustration, noting that this was not the first time the matter had been raised and that the intensity of public concern seemed to be increasing.

One parent described the daily challenge bluntly: “My daughter has to walk a half mile just to get to class after finding a spot,” the parent said, underscoring how the shortage forces students into unsafe or impractical routines. Others spoke of their children scrambling for rides or depending on private property arrangements that were neither consistent nor sustainable.

Council members debated potential remedies, but the conversation quickly revealed divisions. The proposed request to change the town’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to create more flexibility in parking requirements was met with opposition. Councilmember Terry Mahaffey pushed back, saying such an approach was too broad for what he saw as a narrow issue. “Rezoning is the answer, not a UDO,” Mahaffey said, warning that a town-wide rule change would carry unintended consequences beyond the high school’s situation. Several colleagues signaled agreement, leaning toward a solution tailored to the school or specific property rather than a blanket amendment.

The discussion also touched on temporary measures already in place. Annie Scott, a nearby property owner, noted how her family’s property is being used to ease the overflow. “I’ve opened up my property because these students need somewhere safe to park, and we’re trying to be good neighbors,” she said, adding that while the arrangement has helped, it is no substitute for a permanent solution. Her comments highlighted both the generosity and the limits of stopgap fixes.

In closing, Mayor Gilbert acknowledged the contentious tone of the meeting and emphasized that the matter was not settled. He directed that the discussion be documented in the official notes and made clear it would return to the council agenda. “This conversation isn’t over. We’ll be revisiting it,” he said, signaling that parents and students should expect the issue to remain a priority.

Apex, NC, Aug. 13, 2025 — A project years in the making took a step forward Monday night as the Apex Planning Board endorsed transportation map changes designed to help clear the way for a future Mobility Hub. This multimodal transit center will bring passenger rail service back to town. The proposed updates would reorient Apex’s long-term transportation planning around the hub, which is intended to link trains, buses, bikes, and pedestrians in one central location.

The Apex Mobility Hub (document) is part of a broader state and regional effort to prepare for future passenger rail service along the S-Line (link), a rail corridor stretching from Richmond, Virginia, to Raleigh, North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Transportation envisions “mobility hubs” as multimodal centers where passenger rail, buses, bicycles, and pedestrians converge in one location, making it easier for people to travel without relying solely on cars. In Apex, the hub would not only serve as a train station, but also as a central connection point for bus routes, bike trails, and walking paths. The concept comes out of a feasibility study and public engagement process that examined potential sites, connections to existing infrastructure, and ways to stimulate transit-oriented development while preserving Apex’s small-town character.

During the Monday meeting, the Apex Planning Board considered a package of Transportation Plan Map and Bicycle and Pedestrian System Plan Map amendments that would bring the town’s long-range planning documents in line with the Mobility Hub Plan accepted by the Town Council earlier this year.

The most visible change is the relocation of the planned Rail and Bus Transit Center from Center Street near the S-Line to a site at East Moore Street and the S-Line Railroad. This location emerged from the hub feasibility study as the most practical option, offering better integration with planned pedestrian and cycling facilities. “The mobility hub was determined feasible for East Moore Street,” Shannon Cox, Long Range Planning Manager, told board members.

The proposed amendments (document) also include two grade-separated bicycle and pedestrian crossings. One would span the S-Line at East Moore Street to directly connect the hub to a future passenger boarding platform. The other, at NC 55, would allow people to cross over a major traffic artery without interacting with vehicles. These structures will improve bicycle and pedestrian access to the proposed mobility hub while eliminating safety conflicts.

To strengthen these connections, the plan adds a side path from the hub to the Downtown Strollway and a future crossing at Tingen Road, linking to the South Walk Greenway and a future James Street path. Another side path is proposed along East Moore Street itself, designed to match the upcoming Salem Street streetscape improvements.

The Planning Department reported that the amendments had been reviewed by Transportation and Infrastructure Development, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, Police, and Fire, with all departments supportive or without concerns. The Planning Board voted to recommend approval, sending the proposal to the Town Council for final consideration.

If adopted, these updates will not immediately trigger construction. Still, they will serve as the official roadmap guiding Apex’s pursuit of funding and partnerships to make the Mobility Hub, and the multimodal future it represents, a reality.

Apex, NC, Jul. 26, 2025 — At its July 14 meeting, the Apex Planning Board reviewed and recommended approval for two rezoning requests that could reshape development on both the western and northern edges of town. The board's actions now move the proposals to the Town Council for final consideration.

Ashburn PUD: A New Residential Community Near Parkside at Bella Casa and Buckhorn Preserve

The first case, Rezoning #24CZ10 (file), involves a 15.3-acre site located at 0 & 0 Mt. Zion Church Road. The applicants, Ashburn Development and JV Management, seek to rezone the property from Rural Residential to Planned Unit Development-Conditional Zoning (PUD-CZ) to create a mixed residential neighborhood called Ashburn PUD.

Surrounded by existing neighborhoods such as Parkside at Bella Casa and Buckhorn Preserve, the proposed development features a mix of townhomes and single-family homes with alley-loaded access, totaling no more than 74 units. The proposed density of 4.8 units per acre falls within the town’s 2045 Land Use Map designation for Medium Density Residential.

Key features of the plan include:

• Architectural standards that prohibit vinyl siding and require varied materials and facade detailing.

• Rear-alley garages for all single-family homes.

• Sidewalks along all internal streets and improved pedestrian access along Mt. Zion Church Road.

A significant component of the proposal involves realigning Hammocks Beach Trail, including the addition of a roundabout at its intersection with Mt. Zion Church Road. This change, which also includes adjustments to bicycle and pedestrian pathways, was presented as a separate amendment to the Apex Transportation Plan and was likewise recommended for approval by the Planning Board.

While the proposal includes enhanced stormwater controls, electric vehicle charging outlets, and pet waste stations as suggested by the Environmental Advisory Board, the developer declined to include any affordable housing units, despite a recommendation to designate at least 5% of homes for that purpose.

The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of both the rezoning and the transportation plan amendment.

Jordan Lutheran Church: Returning with a New Zoning Approach

The second request, Rezoning #25CZ02 (file), centers on 6.22 acres at 1201 Chapel Ridge Road, where Jordan Lutheran Church is seeking to revive plans for a house of worship. The property was previously approved for a church via a Minor Site Plan in 2019; however, that approval expired after three years of inactivity.

Rather than reapplying through a Special Use Permit process now required under Apex’s updated development code, the church has proposed rezoning the land from Rural Residential to Planned Commercial-Conditional Zoning (PC-CZ).

If approved, the rezoning would change the site’s designation on the 2045 Land Use Map from Medium Density Residential to Commercial Services. The surrounding area already includes commercial and multi-family zoning and development, including the Beaver Creek Commons shopping area and Chapel Ridge North Apartments.

In addition to allowing a church, the proposal would also permit:

• Daycares, nursing homes, assembly halls, and youth camps.

• Offices, bookstores, fitness centers, and personal services.

• Communication towers and parks.

The plan includes environmental and architectural conditions such as:

• Use of durable exterior materials, such as brick and stone.

• Installation of solar conduit.

• Native species for 70% of buffer landscaping.

A key part of the request is the dedication of a 30-foot sewer easement and special grading permissions along the buffer zones. While several stronger environmental recommendations from the town’s Environmental Advisory Board, such as strict stormwater runoff limits and riparian buffer restrictions, were not adopted, staff noted the conditions represent an improvement over what would be required under the default zoning.

The Planning Board voted to recommend approval of the rezoning request, subject to all conditions offered by the applicant.

Next Steps

The Apex Town Council will consider both rezoning requests in the coming weeks. If approved, they will facilitate new development consistent with the town’s long-range plans, while raising ongoing questions about housing affordability and environmental impact as Apex continues to grow.

Apex, NC, Jul. 13, 2025 — With the municipal election season underway, four candidates have officially launched campaigns for three open Town Council seats. One incumbent is seeking re-election, while two long-serving council members have not publicly disclosed whether they intend to return.

Council Member Ed Gray is running for another term. Audra Killingsworth and Brett Gantt, who currently hold the other two expiring seats, have yet to announce their plans. As of July 11, neither Killingsworth nor Gantt has an Active Campaign Committee on file (link) with the Wake County Board of Elections.

Note: Holly Springs Update reached out to Gantt and Killingsworth via email to inquire about their intentions. As of publication, neither had responded.

Declared Candidates for Apex Town Council

Ed Gray – Incumbent Seeking Re-Election

Gray, an attorney, U.S. Air Force veteran, and former federal prosecutor, is campaigning on continued investment in public safety, expanded parks and green spaces, and affordable housing. His campaign points to accomplishments like securing funding for Pleasant Park and supporting firearm safety programs. (Campaign Website)

Mary Miskimon – First-Time Candidate

Miskimon is a former journalist, substitute teacher, and community volunteer. Her platform centers on smart growth, fiscal transparency, and protecting Apex’s identity and green spaces. She advocates for curbing sprawl, opening the town budget process, and supporting strong schools and neighborhoods. (Campaign Website) (Press Release)

Sue Mu – First-Time Candidate

Mu is a longtime civic volunteer and small business owner. She is focused on “balanced and sustainable growth, affordable housing choices,” environmental sustainability, expanded public transportation, and support for mental health and EMS services. Mu cites two decades of community involvement and leadership in school and civic organizations. (Campaign Website)

Shane Reese – First-Time Candidate

Reese, who is the former president of the Apex Downtown Business Association, is running on a platform that emphasizes responsible growth, small business support, and improvements to sidewalks, greenways, and parks. He also helped lead the creation of the Town of Apex's Downtown Master Plan and Parking study, and served on its steering committee, as well as the Advance Apex 2045 Land Use Map and Transportation Plan steering committee. (Campaign Website)

A Race in Transition

With three Town Council seats on the ballot this year, Apex voters have a significant opportunity to shape the future of their town.

The filing period is currently open and runs through July 18, giving other candidates additional time to enter the race.

In the meantime, Apex residents can expect a robust campaign season focused on competing visions for the town’s future.

How to Register to Vote and Check Your Status

To vote in the November Apex municipal election, you must be registered in Wake County.

• To register to vote, update your registration, or learn more about eligibility, visit the Wake County Board of Elections:
  https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/board-elections/voter-information/register-vote

• To check your current registration status, confirm your polling place, or view your sample ballot, use the NC State Board of Elections Voter Lookup Tool:
  https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/

Holly Springs Update will continue to follow this race and provide updates as new information becomes available.