On the agenda: Apex Detailed List of Actions Taken — automated license plate (Sep 22)

RECAP | REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Council Chambers - Apex Town Hall, 73 Hunter Street
The meeting will adjourn when all business is concluded or 11:00 PM, whichever comes first

DISCLAIMER: This meeting recap is intended to provide residents with a quick recap of key
actions taken by the Apex Town Council. It is not intended to replace official meeting minutes,
agenda materials, or meeting video.

Summary of actions taken. Additional details are included below.
Item
No.

Action

Motion

Second

Votes

Results

N/A

Planning Board
Interviews*

N/A

N/A

N/A

Received

N/A

Adoption of Agenda as
Amended

Mahaffey

Zegerman

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

N/A

Consent Agenda as
Amended

Zegerman

Mu

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

N/A

Responsible
Development Council
Committee Report

N/A

N/A

N/A

Received

TM1

Special Presentation of
Recent Awards – Apex
Electric Utilities and
Proclamation for Public
Power Week – October 4 –
10, 2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

Presented

TC1

Recommendation of
Reappointment of Darryl
Harrien for a Regular
Member Position on the
Culture and Arts Advisory
Board – Term Expires
June 30, 2028

Ballot
Voting

Ballot

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Christy
Famolare for a Regular
Member Position on the
Culture and Arts Advisory
Board – Term Expires
June 30, 2028

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

TC1

Voting

Ballot
Voting

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Item Action
No.

Motion

Second

Votes

Results

TC1

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Amy
Prendes for a Regular
Member Position on the
Culture and Arts Advisory
Board – Partial Term
Expires June 30, 2027

Ballot
Voting

Ballot

Unanimous 5-0

FAILS

Recommendation of
Reappointment of
Julianna Corsetti for the
Voting Youth Position on
the Culture and Arts
Advisory Board – Term
Expires June 30, 2027

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Angela
Liu for the Voting Youth
Position on the
Environmental Advisory
Board – Term Expires
June 30, 2027

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Louis
Gregus for a Regular
Member Position on the
Multimodal
Transportation Advisory
Board – Partial Term
Expires – July 31, 2027

Ballot
Voting

4-1;
Councilmember
Gray supportive

FAILS

Recommendation of
Reappointment of
Samiksha Kadari for the
Voting Youth Position on
the Multimodal
Transportation Advisory
Board – Term Expires
June 30, 2027

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of
Reappointment of Robert
Baber for a Regular
Member Position on the
Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board – Term
Expires June 30, 2028

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

TC1

TC2

TC3

TC3

TC4

Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Page 2 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Item Action
No.

Motion

Second

Votes

Results

TC4

Recommendation of
Reappointment of Jeremy
Croom for a Regular
Member Position on the
Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board – Term
Expires June 30, 2028

Ballot
Voting

Ballot

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Jim
Herbst for the Senior 55+
Member Position on the
Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board – Term
Expires June 30, 2028

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

FAILS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Arni
Pancras to the Non-Voting
Youth Position on the
Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board – Term
Expires June 30, 2027

Ballot
Voting

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Nathan
Jesperson to the NonVoting Youth Position on
the Planning Board –
Term Expires June 30,
2027

Ballot
Voting

4-1; Mayor Pro
Tempore
Mahaffey
dissenting

PASS

Recommendation of Initial
Appointment of Kyrone
Nebolisa to the Regular
Member Position on the
Planning Board – Term
Expires September 30,
2028

Ballot
Voting

3-2;
Councilmember
Reese and
Councilmember
Gray supportive

FAILS

PA1

Presentation of Culture
and Arts Moment – 3rd
Quarter Calendar Year
2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

Received

PR1

Proclamation – Apex
Prisoner of War and
Missing-In-Action
(POW/MIA) Day of Honor
– Friday, September 25,
2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

Presented

TC4

TC4

TC5

TC5

Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Ballot
Voting

Page 3 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Item Action
No.

Motion

Second

Votes

Results

PR2

Proclamation – Fire
Prevention Week 2026 –
Sunday, October 04
through Saturday,
October 10, 2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

Presented

PR3

Proclamation –
Indigenous Peoples Day
2026 – Monday, October
12, 2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

Presented

PH1

Limited Obligation Bond
Order Authorization $16M – Various Streets
and Sidewalk
Improvement Projects,
Town Hall and Tunstall
House Renovations and
Equipment
Improvements, Property
Acquisition of Future
Public Safety Station

Zegerman

Mahaffey

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

PH2

Rezoning Case No.
26CZ06 - Apex Light
Industrial Phase III

Gray

Reese

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

PH3

Unified Development
Ordinance Amendments September 2026 –
continued to October 13,
2026

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A*

N/A

Enter Called Closed
Session Pursuant to North
Carolina General Statues
143-318.11(a)(3)

Gray

Zegerman

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

RA1

Ordinance Amendment –
Chapter 2 –
Administration, Article IV.
Apex Environmental
Advisory Board, Article V.
Culture and Arts Advisory
Board, and Article VI.
Multimodal
Transportation Advisory
Board, and Chapter 15 –
Parks and Recreation

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A*

Vote taken
during
Adoption of
Meeting
Agenda

Vote taken
during
Adoption of
Meeting
Agenda

Page 4 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Advisory Board – Resident
Advisory Board
Appointment Process

Item Action
No.

Motion

Second

Votes

Results

RA2

Motion to continue
consideration of the
ordinance amendment
related to the
discontinuance of grass
collection and direct the
Town Manager to prepare
a consolidated report
outlining the items
discussed by Council,
including the financial
impact and cost-recovery
implications associated
with continuing grass
collection, for
presentation to Council at
a future meeting.

Mahaffey

Zegerman

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

CS

Enter Closed Session

Zegerman

Gray

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

N/A

Adjournment

Zegerman

Mu

Unanimous 5-0

PASS

*Prior to the start of the regular meeting, the Mayor and Apex Town Councilmembers convened a
special meeting at 5:00 p.m. to conduct interviews with two candidates for a position on the Town of
Apex Planning Board. Both candidates were asked the same interview questions. The interviews
were open to the public but were not livestreamed.

COMMENCEMENT, INVOCATION, AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Gilbert called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. He read the Town’s diversity statement and
held a private moment of silence.
Councilmember Shane Reese led the Pledge of Allegiance.
A video recording of this meeting can be viewed on the Town’s Youtube Channel here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PETITIONS BY THE GOVERNING BODY
During the announcements and petitions section, members of the governing body may share

Page 5 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
updates on a variety of different topics or submit matters for future consideration by the full
governing body. The following announcements were made:
•

Mayor Pro Tempore Terry Mahaffey discussed the Wake County Commissioners’ recent
approval of the Atrium/WakeMed merger and expressed concerns regarding the potential
impacts on healthcare costs, insurance reimbursement rates, employment, and the Apex
community. He acknowledged that the merger may provide certain benefits but stated that
he remained concerned about the possible local impacts. He also provided an update from
the Environmental Advisory Board, noting that subcommittee appointments had been made
and that the Data Center Subcommittee is now fully staffed and continuing its work. He also
referenced a recent Chatham County court decision involving a data center moratorium and
commented that the decision reinforced the Town’s measured and data-driven approach to
considering data center-related matters.

•

Councilmember Edward Gray echoed comments regarding the Town’s deliberate
approach to reviewing data center matters and emphasized the importance of continuing to
gather and evaluate information before making decisions. He also recognized the Town’s
Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Day proclamation that was on the agenda
and shared a personal connection from his time as a cadet at Howard University. He reflected
on the importance of remembering service members who remain unaccounted for, as well as
the families who continue to await closure, and thanked the Town and his fellow
Councilmembers for recognizing POW/MIA Day.

•

Councilmember Arno Zegerman reported that he had no major updates and recognized
members of the Town’s Electric Utilities and Fire Department staff who were present for
proclamations. He thanked staff for their daily service to the community and for attending the
meeting.

•

Councilmember Sue Mu announced the upcoming Peak Resilience & Wellbeing Task Force
community event scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. She stated that the
event would include presentations and resources related to youth and adult suicide
prevention and encouraged residents, parents, students, and others interested in learning
more about warning signs and available resources to attend. She noted that the event is
open to everyone and encouraged residents to register through the Town’s website.

•

Councilmember Shane Reese recognized the recent passing of Private Ethan Brewer, a
2024 graduate of Apex High School who died in a military training accident at Fort Hood,
Texas. He noted Private Brewer’s military service, including receipt of the Army Achievement
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Medal, and shared that Private Brewer had aspired to become a medic and help others. He
asked that the community keep Private Brewer and his family in their hearts and prayers in
the days ahead.
•

Mayor Jacques Gilbert echoed Councilmember Reese’s remarks regarding Private Ethan
Brewer and shared that he had recently visited with the Brewer family. He asked the
community to continue keeping the family in their thoughts and prayers as they await
additional information from the military regarding services and stated that the community
would continue to support the family.

ADOPTION OF THE MEETING AGENDA
The Town Clerk announced the following amendments to the meeting agenda:
•

Removal of Consent Item No. 4 - Agreement Renewal – Data Voice International –
Maintenance Agreement for Continued Outage Management Software Support for Water
and Electric Systems – through June 30, 2027

•

Continuance of Public Hearing No. 3 – Unified Development Ordinance Amendments –
September 2026 – Related to Resident Advisory Boards until Tuesday, October 13, 2026

•

Continuance of Regular Meeting Agenda No. 1 – Code of Ordinance Amendments – Related
to Resident Advisory Boards until Tuesday, October 13, 2026

With no additional requests, a motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Terry Mahaffey, seconded
by Councilmember Arno Zegerman to approve the meeting agenda as amended. Passed
unanimously (5-0).

CONSENT AGENDA
The Town Clerk announced the following amendments to the consent agenda:
•

Removal of Consent Item No. 4 - Agreement Renewal – Data Voice International –
Maintenance Agreement for Continued Outage Management Software Support for Water
and Electric Systems – through June 30, 2027

With no additional requests, a motion was made by Councilmember Arno Zegerman, seconded by
Councilmember Sue Mu to approve the consent agenda as amended. Passed unanimously (5-0).
CN1

Agreement - Memorandum of Agreement w/Central Pines Regional Council - Solid
Waste Consortium - through June 30, 2027

Page 7 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Council voted to approve a Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) between Central Pines Regional
Council and Town of Apex, for the Town’s continued participation in the Triangle Region Solid Waste
Consortium, effective through June 30, 2027, and authorized the Town Manager, or their designee,
to execute on behalf of the Town.
CN2

Agreement Multi-Year - ITpipes Opco, LLC - IT pipes Mobile CCTV Software to Inspect
Sewer Pipe for Compliance - through June 30, 2029

Council voted to renew the multi-year agreement with ITpipes Opco, LLC for ITpipes SmartVision
mobile CCTV software and implementation services to inspect sewer pipes for compliance, effective
through June 30, 2029, and authorized the Town Manager, or designee, to execute the agreement
on behalf of the Town.
CN3

Agreement Multi-Year Ratification - Blue Arrow - Geotab Vehicle Telematics Services through June 30, 2029

Council voted to ratify an oral Multi-Year Services Agreement between BlueArrow Telematics, Inc
and the Town of Apex, for Geotab vehicle telematics services at a monthly cost of $8,779, effective
through June 30, 2029, and authorized the Town Manager, or their designee, to execute on behalf
of the Town.
CN4

REMOVED Agreement Renewal – Data Voice International – Maintenance Agreement
for Continued Outage Management Software Support for Water and Electric Systems –
through June 30, 2027

This item was removed as part of the regular meeting agenda vote as well as the consent agenda
vote. The contract terms is within the Town Manager’s signature authority and does not require
Council approval.
CN5

Annexation No. 797 – Apex Medical Center – 1405 and 1407 Zeno Road – 3.60 acres

Council adopted a Resolution Directing the Town Clerk to Investigate Petition Received, accepted the
Certificate of Sufficiency by the Town Clerk, and adopted a Resolution Setting the Date of a Public
Hearing for Tuesday, October 13, 2026, on the Question of Annexation - Apex Town Council's intent
to annex 3.60 +/- acres, Apex Medical Center located at 1405 Zeno Road (PIN No. 0732-83-6597
and 1407 Zeno Road PIN No. 0732-83-4782), Annexation No. 797, into the Town Corporate limits.
CN6

Annexation No. 837 – Ivy Glen Subdivision – 0 and 7104 Camp Branch Lane – 22.19

acres
Council adopted a Resolution Directing the Town Clerk to Investigate Petition Received, accepted the
Certificate of Sufficiency by the Town Clerk, and adopted a Resolution Setting the Date of a Public
Hearing for Tuesday, October 13, 2026, on the Question of Annexation - Apex Town Council's intent

Page 8 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
to annex 22.19 +/- acres, located at 0 Camp Branch Lane (PIN No. 0731-14-2050) and 7104 Camp
Branch Lane (PIN No. 0731-14-0691), Annexation No. 837, into the Town Corporate limits.
CN7

Tax Report – July 2026

Council approved the Apex Tax Report dated August 20, 2026.
CN8

Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Amendments – August 2026 – Statement

Council approved the Statement of the Apex Town Council pursuant to G.S. 160D-605(a) addressing
action on the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Amendments of August 25, 2026, proposed by
staff.

TOWN COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
TR1

Responsible Development Committee Report – Friday, September 18, 2026
Mayor Pro Tempore Mahaffey reported that the Committee held its first meeting on Friday,

September 18, 2026, under the Town’s new Council Committee structure. He explained that the
Committee reviewed several proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) amendments, none
of which required immediate Council action because they will proceed through the applicable
statutory review process before returning to the Town Council. He also noted that the agenda
materials from the September 18 Committee meeting were included in the September 22, 2026,
Regular Town Council Meeting agenda packet for reference.
He stated that the Committee discussed proposed changes related to electric vehicle charging
infrastructure within structured parking facilities following public safety concerns regarding access to
and response to potential electric vehicle fires. He said the Committee members expressed support
for modifying the UDO so that electric vehicle charging infrastructure would not be required in
locations that may present public safety concerns, with staff to develop proposed language for
future consideration.
He also reported that the Committee reviewed several UDO amendments necessary to conform with
recent changes in State law. He highlighted changes affecting municipal authority to require offstreet parking and provisions allowing certain residential redevelopment of commercially zoned
property. He said that staff will bring the required amendments forward through the UDO
amendment process based on their respective effective dates.
Page 9 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT
TM1 Special Presentation of Recent Awards received by the Apex Electric Utilities
Department and Proclamation - Public Power Week 2026 - Sunday, October 04
through Saturday, October 10, 2026

Town Manager Vosburg stated that the first item would be a hybrid of employee recognition and a
Public Power Proclamation. He asked Electric Utilities Director Kathy Moyer to come forward.
Director Moyer recognized members of the Apex Electric Utilities Department for several recent
awards and achievements. She said the department received the ElectriCities Safety Award,
recognizing its safety performance and absence of lost-time accidents; an American Public Power
Association reliability award, reflecting system reliability of 99 percent or greater and placing Apex
among the top-performing public power utilities nationally; and ElectriCities Public Power Awards of
Excellence in the areas of Future Focused, Provide Superior Power, and People. She stated that the
awards reflected the department’s long-term planning, safety and reliability performance, and the
contributions of Electric Utilities employees.

Town Manager Vosburg thanked the department’s staff for their work and expressed appreciation
for the Town Council’s continued support.

Mayor Gilbert proclaimed the week of Sunday, October 04, 2026 through Saturday, October 10,
2026 as Public Power Week in the Town of Apex and expressed sincere appreciation to the
employees of the Apex Electric Utilities Department for their professionalism and outstanding
service to our community.

Town Manager Randy Vosburg provided several organizational and community updates related to
utility billing assistance, downtown programming, and upcoming community events.

•

Utility Billing and Payment Assistance: He provided an update on utility accounts facing
disconnection and reported that the number of affected accounts had decreased significantly
as customers established payment plans and sought assistance. He noted that staff had
expanded customer service resources, extended operating hours, conducted direct outreach
Page 10 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
to residential and commercial customers, and continued working with NeighborUp to
connect eligible customers experiencing financial hardship with utility assistance. In response
to questions from Councilmembers, he clarified that customers may initiate payment plans
online outside of normal business hours and that NeighborUp provides assistance to
qualifying customers experiencing financial hardship, generally through one-time assistance.
He emphasized that customers do not need to bring their accounts fully current in order to
avoid disconnection and encouraged those with outstanding balances to contact the Town
and establish a payment plan.
•

Love Local – Fall into Downtown: He recapped the first Love Local – Fall into Downtown
event, which was held the previous Friday near the Depot and included street hockey
activities in partnership with the Carolina Hurricanes. He thanked the Hurricanes for providing
equipment, activities, and other event resources and noted continued growth in the Town’s
street hockey program. He also recognized the downtown business owners who have been
assisting staff with planning and providing feedback on ways to support downtown
businesses. Upcoming events include Fall Harvest Night on October 16 and Jazz and Jive
Night on November 20, both scheduled from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

•

Stanley Cup Visit to Apex: He announced additional details regarding the Stanley Cup’s
upcoming visit to Apex on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. at Pleasant
Park. He explained that staff developed a public access plan intended to allow as many
community members as possible an opportunity to view and photograph the Stanley Cup
during its limited stop in Apex. A Councilmember commended Town staff for quickly
coordinating the event and working to maximize public access given the limited notice and
time available. Town Manager Vosburg thanked the Communications and Parks, Recreation
and Cultural Resources departments for their rapid planning and coordination efforts.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT
Mayor Jacques K. Gilbert provided recommendations for appointments to each of the following
Resident Advisory Boards and the Town Council conducted votes by ballot as outlined in their
adopted Rules of Procedures. A copy of the ballots are available for public inspection and can be
viewed in the Office of the Town Clerk during normal business hours Monday through Friday
between 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
TC1

Appointments – Culture and Arts Advisory Board (CAAB)
Page 11 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Mayor Gilbert recommended reappoint of Mr. Darryl Harrien to the Culture and Arts Advisory
Board (CAAB) effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028 (1st Full Term).
Following the ballot voting process, Mr. Harrien was appointed.
Mayor Gilbert recommended Ms. Christy Famolare for initial appointment on the Culture and Arts
Advisory Board (CAAB) effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028 (1st Full Term).
Following the ballot voting process, Ms. Famolare was appointed.
Mayor Gilbert recommended Amie Prendes for initial appointment on the Culture and Arts
Advisory Board (CAAB) effective September 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 (Partial term previously
occupied by Ranjit Hota).
Following the ballot voting process, the recommendation failed. Mayor Gilbert did not
present any additional names. The position remains vacant.
Mayor Gilbert recommended reappoint of Julianna Corsetti as the Voting Youth Representative on
the Culture and Arts Advisory Board (CAAB) effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 (Final
Term).
Following the ballot voting process, Ms. Corsetti was appointed.
TC2

Appointments – Environmental Advisory Board (EAB)

Mayor Gilbert recommended Angela Liu for initial appointment as the Voting Youth Representative
on the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.
Following the ballot voting process, Ms. Liu was appointed.
TC3

Appointments – Multimodal Transportation Advisory Board (MTAB)

Mayor Gilbert recommended Louis Gregus for initial appointment to the Multimodal Transportation
Advisory Board (MTAB) effective July 1, 2026, to fill one (1) partial-term expiring July 31, 2027. The
position was previously occupied by Wendy Perry.
Following the ballot voting process, the recommendation failed. Mayor Gilbert did not
present any additional names. The position remains vacant.
TC4

Appointments – Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB)

Mayor Gilbert recommended reappoint of Robert Baber to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board (PRAB) for a two-year term effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028 (1st Full Term).
Page 12 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Following the ballot voting process, Mr. Baber was appointed.
Mayor Gilbert recommended reappoint of Jeremy Croom to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board (PRAB) for a two-year term effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028 (2nd Full Term).
Following the ballot voting process, Mr. Croom was appointed.
Mayor Gilbert recommended Jim Herbst for initial appointment in the Senior 55+ position on the
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) for a two-year term effective July 1, 2026 through June
30, 2028 (Full Term). This individual replaces Mary Lee Blatchford who is not seeking
reappointment.
Following the ballot voting process, the recommendation failed. Mayor Gilbert did not
present any additional names. The position remains vacant.
Mayor Gilbert recommended Arni Pancras for initial appointment in the Non-Voting Youth
Representative Position on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) for a one-year term
effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. This individual replaces Adhvick Rao who is not
seeking reappointment.
Following the ballot voting process, Ms. Pancras was appointed.
TC5

Appointments – Planning Board

Mayor Gilbert recommended Nathan Jesperson for initial appointment in the Non-Voting Youth
Representative Position on the Planning Board for a one-year term effective July 1, 2026, through
June 30, 2027.
Following the ballot voting process, Mr. Jesperson was appointed.
Mayor Gilbert recommended Kyrone Nebolisa for initial appointment on the Planning Board
effective October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2028.
Following the ballot voting process, the recommendation failed. Mayor Gilbert did not
present any additional names. The position remains vacant.

PUBLIC ART MOMENT QUARTERLY
The quarterly public art moment spotlights local creativity, reflects community voices, and supports informed decisions that strengthen a
vibrant and growing cultural landscape. The purpose of this item is to bring awareness and appreciation of local artist.

PA1

Culture and Arts Moment – 3rd Quarter
Page 13 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Culture and Arts Advisory Board Chair Tom Colwell provided the quarterly Culture and Arts
Moment and highlighted several current and upcoming public art initiatives. He reported that two
mural projects are in the design and public comment phase, including a mural at the Saunders
Street parking lot retaining wall and a 360-degree mural at the Apex Nature Park Amphitheater.
Public comment will remain open through early October, after which the designs will move through
the Culture and Arts Advisory Board and Town Council approval process.
Mr. Colwell also announced the current Brett Gantt Apex Sculpture Walk award recipients, including
the People’s Choice Award for Butterfly Enchanter and the Best in Show Award for Inspired. He
further reported that work is underway on a public art master plan intended to guide the Town’s
public art program over the next decade, with the draft expected to move forward for review and
approval later this fall.
He also highlighted the annual downtown window painting event, scheduled for November 30,
2026, in partnership with local high schools, and encouraged participation. In response to Council
questions, Mr. Colwell noted that a sculpture purchase from the current Sculpture Walk is expected
to be brought forward for consideration at a future meeting and that the call for artists for the next
Sculpture Walk is currently open, including opportunities for local artists.

PROCLAMATIONS / SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Town Council recognized three (3) important observances focused on community
preparedness, safety, and well-being:

•

Proclamation – Apex Prisoner of War and Missing-In-Action (POW/MIA) Day of Honor –
Friday, September 25, 2026: Mayor Gilbert proclaimed Friday, September 25, 2026, as
Prisoners of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day in the Town of Apex, recognizing former
Prisoners of War, those who remain Missing in Action, and the families who continue to await
answers. Representatives of American Legion Post 124, including Surel Helms Jr., Marcus
Jackson, Karen Etelis, and Jesus Etelis, were invited forward to receive the proclamation.
o

Dennis Schmidt, Commander of Apex American Legion Post 124, thanked the Mayor
and Town Council for the recognition and spoke about the continuing importance of
the POW/MIA mission. He described the POW/MIA chair displayed at official
Page 14 of 23

RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
American Legion meetings as a reminder of those who remain unaccounted for and
emphasized the importance of continued remembrance, repatriation efforts, and
support for families who have not received closure.

•

o

A copy of the official proclamation can be viewed here.

o

Photos of this item can be viewed here.

Proclamation – Indigenous Peoples Day 2026 – Monday, October 12, 2026: Mayor
Gilbert proclaimed Monday, October 12, 2026, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the Town of
Apex, recognizing the history, cultures, traditions, and continued contributions of Indigenous
Peoples. He also highlighted the Town’s upcoming Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration at
Apex Nature Park, which will include performances, storytelling, friendship dances, food,
crafts, and educational opportunities in partnership with the Triangle Native American
Society.
o

Members of the Triangle Native American Society, including Danny Bale, JD Freeman,
and Larry Edwards, were invited forward to receive the proclamation. Mr. Freeman, an
Apex resident and member of the Lumbee Tribe, reflected on the growth of the
Town’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration over the past several years and invited
the community to participate. Another representative expressed appreciation for the
Town’s continued recognition of Indigenous history and culture and presented Mayor
Gilbert with commemorative Sacagawea coins in recognition of the Town’s support.

•

o

A copy of the official proclamation can be viewed here.

o

Photos of this item can be viewed here.

Proclamation – Fire Prevention Week 2026 – Sunday, October 04 through Saturday,
October 10, 2026: Mayor Gilbert proclaimed Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, 2026,
with the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” The proclamation
emphasized safe charging practices, the growing use of lithium-ion batteries, and the Apex
Fire Department’s continued work in emergency response, prevention, public education,
inspections, and community risk reduction.
o

Courtney Butler, joined by Fire Chief Tim Herman, Assistant Town Manager Demetria
John, and members of the Apex Fire Department, thanked the Town Council for
recognizing Fire Prevention Week and discussed the importance of lithium-ion battery
safety. Ms. Butler referenced a recent incident in Apex involving a power bank that
caught fire and encouraged residents to use approved and third party-tested
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
charging equipment and to recognize warning signs of damaged or overheating
batteries. She also shared the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention
Week safety message through a brief video and encouraged residents to participate
in Fire Department activities throughout the week.
o

A copy of the official proclamation can be viewed here.

o

Photos of this item can be viewed here.

PUBLIC FORUM
During Public Forum, seven speakers addressed the Town Council. The predominant topic was the
Town’s use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology and Flock cameras, with several
speakers expressing concerns regarding privacy, data security, constitutional rights, vendor trust,
potential misuse of collected information, and the risk of inaccurate license plate reads. Speakers
urged the Town Council to reconsider or discontinue the use of ALPR technology and, in some cases,
specifically opposed renewing the Town’s contract with Flock or replacing it with another vendor.

One speaker also commented on the Town’s advisory board appointment process, expressing
opposition to potential changes that, in his view, would alter the existing roles of elected officials in
making appointments. The same speaker also spoke in support of the Town’s use of Flock cameras.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
PH1

Limited Obligation Bond Order Authorization - $16M – Various Streets and Sidewalk
Improvement Projects, Town Hall and Tunstall House Renovations and Equipment
Improvements, Property Acquisition of Future Public Safety Station
Council received a presentation from Finance Director Jon Griffin regarding the proposed

issuance of limited obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $16,000,000 to finance various
previously approved capital improvement projects. Mr. Griffin reviewed the financing process,
proposed projects, anticipated repayment structure, use of the Community Investment Fund, and
distinctions between limited obligation bonds and general obligation bonds. In response to
questions from Councilmembers, he further clarified that the financing is incorporated within the
Town’s existing property tax rate model and is intended to spread the cost of long-term capital
improvements over the useful life of the projects.

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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Council conducted a public hearing, during which one speaker spoke in opposition to the proposed
bond financing and expressed concerns regarding Town spending and the financial impact on
senior residents. Following the public hearing, a motion was made by Councilmember Arno
Zegerman, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Terry Mahaffey, to adopt the Resolution Approving
and Authorizing the Sale and Issuance of Limited Obligation Bonds and related documents in
connection with the financing of various capital improvements for the Town of Apex, in an amount
not to exceed $16,000,000, and requesting approval of the financing arrangement by the North
Carolina Local Government Commission (NCLGC). Passed unanimously (5-0).
PH2

Rezoning Case No. 26CZ06 - Apex Light Industrial Phase III
Council received a presentation from Senior Planner Joshua Killian regarding Rezoning Case

No. 26CZ06 for approximately 8.45 acres along US 64. The request would retain the existing
Tech/Flex Conditional Zoning and previously approved conditions while increasing the maximum
allowable development by approximately 30,000 square feet, allowing up to approximately 70,000
square feet of development on the Phase III site. Mr. Killian stated that the request is consistent with
the 2045 Land Use Map, that Planning staff recommended approval, and that the Planning Board
had unanimously recommended approval following its public hearing.
In response to Council questions, staff and the applicant’s engineer explained that the additional
development capacity resulted from a revised site layout and greater usable acreage following
removal of a former pond. They also reviewed planned transportation improvements along US 64,
including signalization at Goodwin Road, a signalized U-turn associated with the superstreet
configuration, and internal site access for Phase III. The applicant further clarified that the additional
square footage would provide flexibility for commercial development within the final phase.
Council conducted a public hearing, during which no speakers addressed the item. Following the
public hearing, a motion was made by Councilmember Edward Gray, seconded by
Councilmember Shane Reese, to approve Rezoning Case No. 26CZ06. Passed unanimously (5-0).
PH3

Unified Development Ordinance Amendments - September 2026

Council voted to continue this item until October 13, 2026. The official vote was taken during the
adoption of the meeting agenda at the beginning of the meeting.

CS

Called Closed Session
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
A motion was made by Councilmember Gray, seconded by Councilmember Arno
Zegerman, to enter into closed session to consult with the Interim Town Attorney pursuant to North
Carolina General Statutes 143-318.11(a)(3). Council entered into closed session at 8:10 p.m.
Council returned to open session at 8:45 p.m.

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
RA1 Ordinance Amendment – Chapter 2 – Administration, Article IV. Apex
Environmental Advisory Board, Article V. Culture and Arts Advisory Board, and Article
VI. Multimodal Transportation Advisory Board, and Chapter 15 – Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board – Resident Advisory Board Appointment Process
Council voted to continue this item until October 13, 2026. The official vote was taken during the
adoption of the meeting agenda at the beginning of the meeting.

RA2 Ordinance Amendment - Chapter 12 - Municipal Utilities and Services, Article V.
- Yard Waste Collection – Follow-up from May 28, 2026
Public Works Director John Mullis presented the proposed ordinance amendment to
discontinue Town collection of grass clippings effective January 1, 2027. Mr. Mullis stated that the
recommendation resulted primarily from limited regional disposal capacity and changes within the
yard waste processing market. He emphasized that the proposed change would apply only to grass
clippings and that the Town would continue collecting leaves, limbs, brush, and other eligible yard
waste. He stated that staff had contacted available processors and disposal facilities but had been
unable to identify a nearby provider willing to enter into a long-term agreement for the Town’s
volume of grass clippings. He also discussed operational impacts associated with grass collection,
including equipment wear, hauling and transfer costs, and the Town’s planned transition toward
containerized yard waste collection.
Director Mullis also reported that the Town had raised the broader issue of regional
organics and yard waste capacity with the Central Pines Regional Council and that a regional solid
waste organics infrastructure assessment was underway. He stated that staff viewed the study as a
potential avenue toward a longer-term regional solution but did not anticipate an immediate
resolution to the Town’s current disposal challenges.
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During Council discussion:
Mayor Gilbert asked where the Town currently disposes of grass clippings, the associated
disposal costs, and whether the Town’s current provider had been approached regarding a longterm agreement.
Director Mullis explained that grass was currently transported through Greenway Waste to
another disposal location and that the Town had sought a longer-term arrangement, but the
provider had not committed to the five-year term staff believed necessary to support related capital
investments.
Mayor Pro Tempore Mahaffey also asked about communities that co-mingle grass with
other yard waste and whether a similar model could be used in Apex. Mr. Mullis explained that the
contents of a container ultimately depend on what the receiving processor is permitted and able to
accept.
Mayor Pro Tempore Mahaffey asked specifically about Holly Springs and whether the Town
had recently contacted the disposal facility used by that community. The discussion included the
potential for co-mingling grass with other yard waste, the distance required to haul material,
processing capacity, and whether the Town could revisit that provider.
Staff agreed that additional inquiries could be made but reiterated that hauling distance and
disposal capacity remained significant operational considerations.
Councilmember Zegerman questioned whether the Town could pursue a short-term
extension of its current arrangement rather than discontinue grass collection before the Central
Pines regional study is completed. He expressed concern that the Town could make significant
capital and operational changes to eliminate grass collection only to have a regional option become
available later that would require another change in equipment or collection practices. He asked
whether the existing arrangement could be extended approximately 12 to 18 months to preserve
flexibility while the regional study moves forward.
Town Manager Randy Vosburg responded that staff had discussed the concept of a
temporary agreement with the provider and that there had been some interest, although a formal
proposal had not materialized and additional operational and legal issues would need to be
resolved.
Councilmember Mu asked whether GFL Environmental, which provides other solid waste
services in the region, could collect Apex yard waste and why communities such as Morrisville and
Wendell are able to place grass in the same collection stream as other yard waste.

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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Director Mullis explained that those communities generate substantially less yard waste
volume than Apex and that GFL had not offered to provide Apex’s full existing yard waste program
or guarantee disposal capacity.
Councilmember Mu also asked whether the Town could divide its approximately 7,000 tons
of annual yard waste among multiple providers.
Staff responded that managing different providers, routes, materials, equipment, and
disposal arrangements across approximately 26,000 collection points would create significant
operational challenges.
Councilmember Mu also questioned representatives of Liberty Waste Solutions regarding
why the company could accept leaves and branches but not grass clippings.
Liberty Waste Solutions, Vice President of Sales, Mr. Dan Shields stated that Liberty could not
accept grass clippings regardless of whether they were containerized because the material requires
either composting or another lawful disposal outlet. He stated that Liberty does not currently
compost on site and is not equipped to transfer Apex’s grass to another disposal facility, although
the company continues to explore future composting opportunities.
Councilmember Reese questioned the estimate that approximately 60 percent of Apex
residents currently mulch grass clippings and asked how the estimate had been developed.
Director Mullis explained that it was an operational estimate based on observations from
solid waste drivers, crew leaders, and staff working throughout Town neighborhoods rather than a
scientific survey.
Councilmember Reese discussed concerns raised by residents who stated that mulching
may be difficult depending upon grass type, lawn conditions, HOA requirements, weather, and the
amount of time available for lawn maintenance.
North Carolina State University Professor Dr. Grady Miller responded to questions
regarding turf management and stated that returning grass clippings to the lawn is generally
appropriate, although mowing frequency and other maintenance practices may need to be
adjusted.
Councilmember Reese emphasized that residents had expressed concern that additional
mowing or lawn-management requirements could be difficult to accommodate and asked that those
practical impacts be considered.
Councilmember Reese also asked staff about a potential vendor, Really Clean Streets, after
information regarding the company had been provided by a resident.
Director Mullis stated that staff had followed up with the company and determined that it
primarily supplies equipment and provides certain contracted leaf collection services in Virginia but
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
did not have an established North Carolina curbside collection operation comparable to the Town’s
program. He stated that the company indicated that it could provide certain services but did not
identify an established disposal solution that would address Apex’s needs.
Councilmember Reese stated that the purpose of the questions was to ensure that the Town
had explored available leads before telling residents that no viable alternative existed.
Town Manager Vosburg acknowledged the competing operational and customer-service
considerations. He stated that staff’s recommendation reflected the Town’s strategic goals related to
environmental leadership and high-performing government, noting that leaving grass clippings in
place is environmentally preferable and that the existing collection method is operationally and
financially inefficient. He also recognized that Councilmembers were hearing concerns directly from
residents who rely on the service.
Manager Vosburg stated that continuing collection without a secured disposal arrangement
would involve risk because the existing disposal option could become unavailable with little notice,
potentially requiring the Town to discontinue service abruptly. He also noted the fiscal risk of
purchasing replacement equipment that could later become unnecessary if disposal capacity is lost.
Councilmember Gray noted that the Town had been working through yard waste disposal
issues for several years and stated that the central limitation remained the lack of a reliable location
to dispose of grass clippings.
Mayor Pro Tempore Mahaffey said that he needed more data in one centralized report. He
requested a consolidated comparison of surrounding municipalities showing each community’s yard
waste and grass collection model, collection method, service provider, contractual arrangement,
annual volume, and the specific reason Apex could or could not implement the same approach. He
also requested information regarding the capital investment, land, permitting, and time that would
be required for Apex to establish its own transfer or composting operation. He stated that having
the information consolidated in one location would assist Council in explaining the options and
tradeoffs to residents.
Councilmember Zegerman agreed that Council needed the information presented in a
single, comprehensive format before making a final decision. He requested that staff identify the
financial implications of continuing grass collection for an additional 12 to 18 months, including any
replacement equipment or additional operating expenses that would be required. He stated that the
decision involves environmental, financial, and service-level considerations and that Council should
understand the cost of maintaining the existing service before determining whether it should
continue. He also reiterated his interest in allowing sufficient time for the Central Pines study to
develop further before the Town makes capital decisions that could limit future options.
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Councilmember Mu supported preparation of a comparison chart identifying surrounding
municipalities, their providers, collection volumes, costs where available, and why those
arrangements could or could not be replicated in Apex. She stated that presenting the information
in this manner would help residents understand the available options and the reasons behind any
eventual Council decision.
The discussion also addressed the financial structure of the yard waste program.
Councilmembers discussed the need for information showing the potential customer rate
and cost-recovery implications both with and without grass collection, including whether grass
collection could potentially be offered as an optional service for customers willing to pay an
additional fee.
Staff noted that yard waste fees currently support more than grass collection and discussed
the need to consider differences between single-family and townhome customers as part of any
revised rate model. Councilmembers also discussed the possibility of identifying private providers
that could serve residents who wish to continue having grass removed if the Town ultimately
discontinues the service.
Following discussion, Council directed staff to prepare a consolidated report addressing the
issues raised, including comparisons with surrounding municipalities; providers and disposal
arrangements; collection volumes; available capacity; alternatives previously explored by staff and
the outcome of those inquiries; capital and operating costs associated with continuing grass
collection; cost-recovery and rate implications; potential transfer or composting infrastructure;
private-sector alternatives; and other information necessary to evaluate whether grass collection
should continue.
Mayor Pro Tempore Mahaffey asked that the information be presented in a concise chart or
spreadsheet format so that the various alternatives could be reviewed together.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Terry Mahaffey, seconded by
Councilmember Arno Zegerman, to continue consideration of the ordinance amendment related
to the discontinuance of grass collection and direct the Town Manager to prepare a consolidated
report outlining the items discussed by Council, including the financial impact and cost-recovery
implications associated with continuing grass collection, for presentation to Council at a future
meeting.
VOTE: 4-1 with Councilmember Gray dissenting.
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RECAP | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 REGULAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Information items focus on educating and bringing awareness to matters or topics that do not require immediate decision or action.
Information items are for informational purposes only and may not be discussed as part of the business meeting.

CLOSED SESSION
A motion was made by Councilmember Arno Zegerman, seconded by Councilmember
Edward Gray to enter into closed session for the following two (2) items at 10:05 p.m. Passed
unanimously (5-0).
CS1

Dianne Khin, Director, Planning Department

NCGS §143-318.11(a)(5):
“To establish, or to instruct the public body's staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be
taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price and other material terms of a
contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or
lease.”
CS2

Karmen McGee, Director, Human Resources Department

NCGS §143-318.11(a)(6):
“To consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of
appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or
prospective public officer or employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by
or against an individual public officer or employee.”

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Councilmember Arno Zegerman, seconded by Councilmember
Sue Mu to adjourn the meeting at 10:41 p.m. Passed unanimously (5-0).

DISCLAIMER: This meeting recap is intended to provide residents with a quick recap of key
actions taken by the Apex Town Council. It is not intended to replace official meeting
minutes, agenda materials, or meeting video.

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