Apex, NC, May 1, 2026 — PeakFest, Apex’s longest-running community festival, will mark its 45th year on Saturday, May 2nd, with a new footprint centered on Hunter Street and the Town Hall Campus.

The free event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 73 Hunter St. and is expected to draw more than 45,000 attendees. What began in 1980 as a small arts-and-crafts gathering in a church parking lot has grown into Apex’s signature community event, bringing together artists, performers, nonprofits, and local businesses for a full day of activities.

This year’s festival shifts away from its traditional Salem Street location. Hunter Street will be closed to vehicles between Salem Street and Laura Duncan Road from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. to accommodate the event.

More than 100 vendors will be set up across the festival footprint, offering arts and crafts, food trucks, and community engagement opportunities. Attendees can expect live music and performances throughout the day, along with a Kids Zone with inflatables and roving street performers.

Stage schedule

Two stages will host performances throughout the day:

Arch Stage

• 9:45 a.m. — Police and Thieves

• 11:45 a.m. — MikeMickXer

• 2:00 p.m. — Hired Guns

Tunstall Stage

• 9:00 a.m. — Kinderdance

• 10:00 a.m. — Apex Performance Academy

• 12:00 p.m. — Infinity Ballet

• 2:00 p.m. — Bach 2 Rock

What to expect

PeakFest is designed as a full-day, walkable event across the Town Hall Campus. Along with performances and food, attendees can:

• Shop from local artists and makers

• Visit booths hosted by Town of Apex departments

• Connect with local nonprofits and community sponsors

• Purchase licensed “Peak of Good Living” merchandise

• Explore downtown Apex businesses before or after the festival

Organizers encourage attendees to plan to stay for multiple hours, as programming and performances are spread throughout the day.

What to know before you go

Several logistical changes accompany the new location:

• Road closure: Hunter Street will be closed from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Parking impacts: Town Hall, arch lot, and the lot near John M. Brown Community Center will close at 6:00 a.m.; a Town Hall Campus lot near Mason Street will remain open

• Transit: GoApex Route 1 will operate on a detour

• Social district: The festival is outside the district boundaries; cups must be discarded before entry

• Pets: Not allowed within festival boundaries

• Weather: Event will be held rain or shine

Attendees are encouraged to review downtown parking options and plan to walk into the festival area.

As PeakFest reaches its 45th year, the event continues to serve as a large-scale gathering point for Apex residents and visitors, combining arts, entertainment, and community engagement into a single-day event that reflects the town’s continued growth.

Apex, NC, Apr. 29, 2026 — Apex is preparing to restart utility late fees and resume service disconnections this summer as more than $6 million in unpaid customer balances continues to weigh on the town’s billing system. The move marks a return to standard enforcement after a multi-year pause tied to billing disruptions, system changes, and meter upgrades that left penalties and shutoffs largely suspended.

Town data shows about $6.1 million in balances more than 30 days past due, including approximately $4.4 million that has remained unpaid for more than 90 days, spread across 4,405 customer accounts out of more than 30,000 active utility accounts. Those figures reflect the combined impact of deferred enforcement and lingering account issues that developed during the town’s transition to a new billing system and infrastructure upgrades.

The current system differs significantly from how utility billing typically operates. Apex is not charging late fees on overdue accounts and has not been disconnecting service for nonpayment, even when balances have accumulated over several billing cycles. That approach is now shifting back to a standard model, where missed payments trigger penalties and, if left unresolved, eventual service interruption.

Under the timeline presented to Town Council, late fees will resume July 1st, applying a 1.0% charge to outstanding balances one day after the due date. Accounts that remain unpaid and reach at least $500 in combined charges and fees would become eligible for disconnection, with the first round of potential shutoffs beginning September 22nd for customers in the town’s first billing cycle. Additional cycles would follow on a staggered schedule based on billing dates.

The enforcement process is structured to include multiple layers of notification before service is interrupted. Customers would receive at least two written notices and two automated calls, along with updated bill messaging, targeted outreach, and online account alerts. The town is also expanding communication through its website, social media, and direct outreach to customers with larger balances.

Disconnections themselves would vary depending on the services tied to an account. Customers with electric service could see remote shutoffs initiated through the town’s system, while others may require in-person service interruption by utility crews. Water and sewer service may also be affected depending on account configuration, reflecting the town’s combined utility billing structure.

To provide flexibility, Apex is continuing to offer deferred payment arrangements, allowing customers to spread delinquent balances over up to 12 months. Customers enrolled in those plans would not incur late fees as long as both their current bill and payment plan amount are paid on time, providing an alternative path to avoid penalties and disconnection.

Town officials framed the decision as a balance between customer support and fiscal responsibility, noting that utility services operate as enterprise funds that depend on customer payments to remain financially stable. “We want to support our customers, but we also want to provide proper financial stewardship for the town’s resources,” Finance Director Jon Griffin said during the presentation.

The scale of the delinquent balances has also drawn attention from residents, particularly regarding broader town finances. One resident questioned whether taxpayers would ultimately bear the burden, saying, “We’re going to have to… pay… to pay for the people that haven’t paid their utility bills.” Another resident noted that the $6 million in delinquent balances is roughly equivalent to about three cents on the town’s property tax rate, underscoring the size of the issue in budget terms.

For residents with overdue accounts, the next several months represent a transition period before enforcement fully resumes. Late fees will begin in July, while disconnections will not start until late September, creating a window for customers to bring balances current or enter payment plans before facing service interruption.

The return to standard billing practices signals the town’s effort to stabilize its utility system after several years of disruption, while also reestablishing expectations around payment and enforcement. How quickly the outstanding balance declines and how residents respond to the renewed policies will likely shape the town’s financial outlook in the months ahead.

Apex, NC, April 21, 2026 — Tonight’s Apex Town Council’s Work Session wasn’t about a rezoning or budget vote. It was about the machinery behind those decisions, how the council organizes itself, how residents are appointed to advisory boards, how elected officials communicate, and how the town manages expenses, events, and public input.

Held at Town Hall, the session covered council committees, advisory boards, financial policies, social media practices, town-sponsored events, and public comment rules.

Town Clerk Allen Coleman framed the discussion through research across 21 North Carolina municipalities, emphasizing that staff were presenting data, not recommendations.

“We don’t really have a proposal… This is really what you all feel like you want to do,” Coleman said.

Committees: Streamlining Work or Shifting Power?

The longest discussion focused on council committees, how they function, and the influence they wield.

Coleman said just over half of the surveyed municipalities use formal committees, with wide variation in structure and mayoral involvement. Apex currently uses two-member committees, quarterly meetings, and no livestreaming, a structure adopted in 2025 and implemented in 2026.

Mayor Jacques Gilbert defended the committee's involvement, including his own participation, and presented an updated assignment structure that largely maintains continuity, especially in areas like environmental leadership, where ongoing issues, such as data center discussions, remain active. He also noted that another council member had expressed that a person should be placed on a committee based on financial skillset and experience, reflecting how peer input shaped assignments.

But the core debate wasn’t who serves. It was what committees do.

“A committee can’t kill an idea, only council. A committee can’t approve an idea, only council,” one member said.

That view framed committees as working groups designed to refine, vet, and narrow options before returning them to the full council.

Tension emerged around whether committee chairs could control what moves forward. Some members supported mayoral participation but drew a line at leadership roles that could influence legislative flow.

“I have no problem participating… but not as a chair or vice-chair,” one member said.

Council ultimately signaled support for keeping committees, maintaining two-member structures due to quorum limits, and reinforcing their role as issue-refining, not decision-making, bodies, with the mayor proposing assignments and council confirming them.

Advisory Boards: More Structure, More Scrutiny

As resident participation grows, so does pressure on how advisory board seats are filled.

Apex currently uses a mayor-recommends, council-appoints model. Coleman said that approach is common, though not universal.

The sharper debate centered on interviews.

Most municipalities don’t conduct them, Coleman said, but some use them for statutory boards or when candidates are tied. That became relevant to Apex’s recent Planning Board process.

Some council members supported interviews, especially for boards requiring public decision-making, arguing that applications alone don’t reveal how candidates perform.

Others warned about overcomplicating a volunteer process.

“I don’t want people to feel like pawns,” one member said.

Council also moved toward a clearer voting structure. Members can vote yes or no on each candidate rather than being limited to one choice per seat. Interviews could then be triggered if no candidate receives a majority or a tie remains.

The direction taking shape includes keeping the mayor-recommends, council-appoints model, using interviews for statutory boards, and using interviews elsewhere only for ties or no-majority outcomes.

Stipends and Spending: Policy Meets Reality

Financial policy for elected officials exposed a gap between guidelines and real-world costs.

Coleman outlined best practices, including limiting the use of individual credit cards, defining reimbursement boundaries, and requiring documentation. A proposed four-county boundary, Wake, Durham, Johnston, and Chatham, would treat most local travel as covered by stipends.

Mayor Gilbert addressed one of the more sensitive topics directly.

“When I took office… I was told, ‘you get a P card.’ I didn’t ask for one,” he said. “I don’t have a problem with giving up my P card.”

Council responses leaned toward eliminating individual cards in favor of reimbursement. But the bigger issue was whether the stipends themselves are set correctly.

Members noted that the mayor, mayor pro tem, and council members face different workloads and expenses, particularly related to events and travel. Rather than tightening rules alone, the council asked staff to review whether stipend levels reflect actual costs.

Social Media: Personal Voice vs. Official Position

As council members increasingly communicate directly with residents online, Apex is trying to define where personal opinion ends and official messaging begins.

Coleman said social media policies for elected officials are uncommon, but archiving is not.

Council members raised concerns about confusion and liability if official and personal messaging blur.

“If you start blurring those lines… it creates confusion… and potentially creates a liability,” one member said.

Legal guidance made clear the town cannot tightly control elected officials’ speech due to First Amendment protections.

“If you want the official… position… you need to be reaching out to the town,” the staff said.

The emerging direction includes encouraging disclaimers that distinguish personal views, archiving elected officials’ activity, avoiding the use of town logos on personal accounts, and directing constituent requests through official channels.

Town Events: Engagement vs. Campaign Boundaries

Council also addressed how town resources support events hosted by elected officials, including town halls and office hours.

Coleman emphasized a firm legal boundary.

“We cannot use public funds on campaign events…”

Council supported access to town facilities for official events, the promotion of events open to the public, and limited financial support, typically in the form of stipends, subject to approval.

The goal is to support engagement without crossing into campaign activity.

Public Comment: Managing Demand Fairly

The session closed with a practical issue: how to handle public comment when turnout exceeds limits.

Apex currently caps public forums at 12 speakers or 36 minutes and requires in-person participation.

Rather than cutting off speakers, the council discussed adjusting the time before comments begin when turnout is high, shortening each speaker’s time so more residents can be heard.

“So from an equitable standpoint, you’re doing that on the onset,” Coleman said.

One Item Deferred

Naming practices requested by elected officials were listed on the agenda but not discussed and will return at a future work session.

What Comes Next

Staff will convert this direction into formal policy drafts for council review in June.

The discussion made clear that Apex isn’t just managing growth. It is redefining how decisions are made, who shapes them, and how residents engage with them.

Apex, NC, Apr. 17, 2026 — Apex is preparing to significantly change how yard waste is collected, with a multi-year plan that would eliminate grass pickup, shift residents to biweekly collection, and eventually replace curbside piles with cart-based service.

The proposal, presented by Public Works Director John Mullis during the town council meeting held on April 14th, follows nearly three years of study and prior council direction. If adopted, the first ordinance changes would take effect July 1st, 2026, with additional changes rolling out through 2028 as the town transitions to a more structured system.

What’s Changing and When

The most immediate impact for residents would come in 2027. The town is proposing to stop collecting grass beginning Jan. 1st. Mullis made the timeline explicit: “So January 1st of 2027 is where we’re proposing to eliminate the collection of grass.”

Beyond that shift, the town is also preparing to change the yard waste collection frequency. Beginning Feb. 8th, 2027, Apex would move to biweekly pickup, with routes divided into A and B zones using I-540 as the boundary. Leaf vacuum collection would remain in place during fall, with seven sweeps planned each season.

The longer-term change is structural. Yard waste carts would be delivered in May and June of 2028, with containerized collection beginning shortly after July 4th. Staff said the move is intended to standardize service, reduce the amount of material entering stormwater systems, and improve neighborhood appearance, while aligning with the town’s sustainability goals.

Why Grass Collection Is Ending

At the center of the proposal is not the overall yard waste volume, but the difficulty of handling grass. Mullis drew a clear distinction between materials the town can process and those it cannot. “We have no trouble getting rid of woody material… But grass is one of those items that have herbicides, pesticides, [and] people fertilize their yard,” he said, pointing to contamination as a limiting factor.

He also said Apex does not have guaranteed long-term disposal contracts for grass, a constraint shared by nearby communities, including Cary and Holly Springs. That reality, combined with environmental considerations, is driving the shift away from collection.

Staff framed the change as part of a broader effort to reduce nutrient inputs to waterways and protect Jordan Lake as a drinking water source. Mulching grass in place, rather than hauling it away, was presented as a more sustainable alternative that reduces strain on both disposal systems and stormwater infrastructure.

What Residents and Council Raised

To support the transition, the town is proposing a series of ordinance updates that would reshape how yard waste is handled at the curb. Material would need to be placed three feet behind the curb instead of at the edge of the street, and limb length would be reduced from eight feet to six feet to accommodate rear-loading trucks. The town would also define more than two cubic yards of material as excess yard waste, roughly the volume of a pickup truck bed, with additional fees applied for larger amounts.

Additional restrictions would prohibit placing yard waste near storm drains or in sidewalks, ramps, and bike lanes, and would prevent residents from combining material from multiple properties. Mullis tied those changes to a broader shift away from the current system, saying, “We can’t use the street as a dumping ground,” as the town looks to move away from loose debris at the curb.

Council members focused much of their discussion on how the changes would play out in everyday situations. Questions centered on cul-de-sacs with limited frontage, whether homeowner associations would accommodate a third cart, and how elderly or disabled residents would manage the transition.

Mullis said staff expect to work directly with residents to address placement challenges and said other communities have adapted HOA requirements to accommodate similar systems. He also said the town is planning an opt-out option, though residents would still pay the yard waste fee, and that backdoor collection could be available for eligible residents if material can be placed in the cart.

The discussion reflected a broader tension between system efficiency and household practicality. While staff emphasized environmental benefits and operational constraints, council questions repeatedly returned to how those changes would affect residents' daily routines across different types of neighborhoods.

Council has already taken initial steps toward the transition. At its February retreat, members unanimously supported moving to biweekly collection and evaluating containerization, while a motion to begin communicating the eventual elimination of grass collection passed 3-2. A separate motion to immediately eliminate grass collection did not receive a second.

The next step will be additional public input at the April 28th meeting, followed by proposed ordinance revisions on May 12th. If approved, the changes would set Apex on a path toward a fundamentally different yard waste system, one that replaces flexibility at the curb with a more controlled and environmentally driven model.

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.