On the agenda: Fuquay Varina minutes — automated license plate (Sep 8)

Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting Minutes
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Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting
September 8, 2026

William H. Harris Mayor
Marilyn Gardner, Mayor Pro-Tem
Charlie Adcock, Commissioner
Bryan Haynes, Commissioner
Kristopher Vorren, Commissioner
Larry Smith - Commissioner
Adam G. Mitchell, Town Manager
Mark D. Matthews, Assistant Town Manager
James (Jim) E. Seymour, Assistant Town Manager
Teresa Wilder, Town Clerk
James S. Adcock, III, Town Attorney

The Regular Meeting of the Fuquay-Varina Town
Board scheduled for September 8, 2026, at 7:00
p.m. was held at the Fuquay-Varina Town Hall,
134 N Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC.

Mayor William Harris, Mayor Pro-Tem Marilyn Gardner, and Commissioners Charlie
Adcock, Bryan Haynes, Kristopher Vorren, and Larry Smith were in attendance. Also
present were Town Manager Adam Mitchell, Assistant Town Manager Jim Seymour, Town
Attorney James Adcock, Town Clerk Teresa Wilder, IT Director Scott Clark, and other
department directors. Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews was absent.

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Harris called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
Commissioner Larry Smith provided the invocation; Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner led the Pledge
of Allegiance.

VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOL
Town Manager Adam Mitchell reviewed the meeting protocol, noting that the meeting was
both in person and live-streamed on the Town’s YouTube and Facebook channels.

3A

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The August 18, 2026, Town Board of Commissioners Regularly Scheduled Meeting.
MOTION:

Commissioner Vorren

SECOND:

Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner

MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0)

PRESENTATIONS
4A

Completion of North Carolina Justice Academy Leadership Certificate Program
Purpose – To recognize Captain Michael MacDonald, Lieutenant Phillip Wallinger,
and Sergeant Joshua Starkey for recently completing the North Carolina Justice
Academy's Leadership Certificate Program.
Police Chief Tim Smith proudly recognized Captain Michael MacDonald, Lieutenant
Phillip Wallinger, and Sergeant Joshua Starkey of the Fuquay-Varina Police
Department for successfully completing the North Carolina Justice Academy's
Leadership Certificate Program (LCP). This accomplishment highlights their
commitment to professional growth and their dedication to delivering the highest
level of service to the Fuquay-Varina community.
The LCP is an intensive certification program designed to prepare professionals for
executive leadership roles in the criminal justice field. To earn this credential,

participants must complete 400 hours of rigorous training focused on leadership. A
key component of the program is a three-week, 120-hour Leadership Institute that
offers a comprehensive curriculum covering strategic planning, innovative problemsolving, and advanced organizational management. This curriculum is specifically
tailored to address the unique challenges faced by modern law enforcement.
Captain MacDonald, Lieutenant Wallinger, and Sergeant Starkey have successfully
completed a rigorous curriculum that has enhanced their skills to lead the FuquayVarina Police Department into the future. Their achievements reflect a broader
culture of excellence within the department, as it works to build a leadership team
that is prepared, proactive, and equipped to address the challenges of modern public
safety.
The Fuquay-Varina Police Department fully supports this program, which is free for
the agency and has produced several successful graduates thus far.
Kevin Tingen, who instructs and oversees the Leadership Certificate Program at the
North Carolina Justice Academy, presented each officer with their certificate.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
5A

The following spoke regarding the zoning map amendment for 417 & 419 Raleigh
Street:
Greg Buhrman, 644 Aiken Parkway
Grant Stokke, 518 E. Academy Street
Eric Christofferson, 504 E. Academy Street
Chris Strickland, 305 E. Hillside Drive
Jim Hunsberger, 508 E. Academy Street
Laurie Chamberlain, 404 Wade Street

The following spoke regarding the No-Parking Ordinance in North Lakes Subdivision:
David Bubnoski, 3450 Fontana Lake Drive
Todd Young, 527 Catfish Drive
Ryan Cox, 325 Lake Lure Way
Chris Tafalla, 401 Long Lake Drive
Brian, Hoegg, 613 Long Lake Drive
Janet Allen, 308 Long Lake Drive
Brian Lorichon, 515 Long Lake Drive
Jennifer Munchick, 831 Long Lake Drive
The following spoke regarding the automated license plate reader cameras, also
known as Flock camersa:
Joe Dasilva, 324 Price Lake Way
Captain Matt Auchtung, 501 Highrock Lake Road
Mayor Harris reiterated the purpose of the public comment guidelines, assuring
attendees that the Town Board listens to and values their comments, concerns, and
feedback. He thanked everyone who attended and spoke during the public comment
period.

ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED
6A

No items were previously tabled for the September 8, 2026, Town Board meeting.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
7A

There are no public hearings for the September 8, 2026, Town Board meeting.

CONSENT AGENDA
8A.

FY 2027 Roll Forward of FY 2026 Unfulfilled Obligations - BA-27-05
Purpose - To recommend the approval of Budget Amendment BA-27-05 to establish
funding for various FY 2026 unfulfilled obligations as presented and recommended
by management and staff.
Recommendation - Approve Budget Amendment (BA-27-05) to appropriate funding
for FY 2026 unfulfilled obligations as presented and recommended.

8B.

Special Event Application, Parade Permit, and Amplified Sound Permit Request Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tours - October 2026
Purpose - To consider approval of a special event application, parade permit, and
amplified sound permit request for Sisterhood of Spirits LLC downtown Ghost Tours
events to be held in downtown October 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, and 30, 2026.
Recommendation – Approve the special event application, parade permit
application, and amplified sound permit request for the Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tours
to be held in the Fuquay downtown district, as presented and recommended.

8C.

Budget Amendment - Recognize Insurance Proceeds - Fire Department - BA-27-07 $12,918
Purpose – To consider a budget amendment recognizing insurance proceeds for
repairs to Fuquay-Varina Fire Department Vehicle Unit 137, a 2016 Spartan Rescue
Truck.

Recommendation - Approve the Budget Amendment BA-27-07 as presented and
recommended.
A motion was made to approve all Consent Agenda Items 8A – 8C.
MOTION:

Commissioner Haynes

SECOND:

Commissioner Smith

MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0)

ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT
9A

There were no items removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
10A

There are no Administrative Reports for September 8, 2026, Town Board meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS
11.A

Manager’s Report
Town Manager Mitchell gave the following additional updates:
o Public Utilities Department – The department has conducted its lead and copper
sampling of the water distribution system. All samples came back "good" and in
compliance.
o Engineering Department – Duke Energy is completing utility relocations at the Old
Honeycutt at NC55 intersection project. The project is anticipated to be ready to
advertise for construction in the next 30 to 60 days. The Sunset Lake Road Phase
II Widening Project (LAPP HL-0027) has completed ROW acquisition and is

undergoing final NCDOT reviews. The Engineering Department has requested
Construction Authorization from FHWA and will advertise for construction once
received. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027. The department has
received and reviewed over 165 fiber encroachment submittals/resubmittals for
review since the beginning of 2026.
Commissioner Adcock inquired about the possibility of reducing the number of
fiber encroachment submissions in the Town. Town Manager Mitchell explained
that providers have legislative authority to operate within the Town under marketshare and free-market provisions, which means the Town cannot limit these
submissions. However, the Town collaborates with providers to promote better
communication and to ensure that affected areas are restored to their original
condition.
Commissioner Adcock inquired about the number of fiber encroachment
submittals the Town has received this year. Town Manager Mitchell replied that
the Town received 165 separate encroachments, not 165 different companies.
Commissioner Adcock requested clarification on the process. Town Manager
Mitchell explained that whenever a company needs to encroach on the public
right-of-way, they must obtain a permit from the Town. This procedure ensures
that their work does not interfere with other public utilities located within the
right-of-way.
Commissioner Adcock mentioned that he has received many complaints
regarding fiber companies damaging existing utility lines, including electric, gas,
and sewer lines. Town Attorney James Adcock clarified that most broadband
providers are protected under state law and are generally only required to inform

the Town of their work plans and locations. As a result, the Town has limited
authority to impose additional requirements on these providers.
Commissioner Adcock inquired about the consequences when a company
damages a utility line. Town Manager Mitchell clarified that the responsible
company must coordinate with the affected utility provider and bear the cost of
repairs.
Commissioner Adcock inquired whether the Town has the authority to impose
fines on companies for damaging utility lines or to seek reimbursement when
emergency personnel, such as fire trucks, respond to such incidents. Town
Manager Mitchell responded that he was not aware of the Town having that
authority, and Town Attorney Adcock concurred.
Commissioner Adcock stated that the Town should explore available measures
to prevent these companies from damaging utility lines.
o Planning Department – Development Services currently has 30 projects in the
review queue and 23 of them are commercial/non-residential projects.
o Police - On August 21, 2026, the Police Department distributed approximately
200 plus backpacks and school supplies to children at the South Park Community
Center. Thanks to generous donations, the department was able to assemble 410
backpacks filled with school supplies. More backpacks will be distributed at
National Night Out, scheduled for September 18, 2026, from 5p-8p in the Target
shopping center parking lot. Telecommunicator Shelby Goforth has advanced
through the career ladder and obtained Telecommunicator II. Officer Anna
Guarino has advanced through the career ladder and obtained the rank of
Corporal.

o Finance - Tiffany Marchman received a scholarship to attend the Institute for
Public Procurement Forum in August. The Forum is North America's premier
annual conference for public procurement professionals. It brings together
thousands of practitioners, agency leaders, industry suppliers, and subject
matter experts for education, networking, and professional development. We
look forward to Tiffany bringing back ideas for continually improving the
procurement process in Fuquay-Varina.
o Arts Center – The International Cultural Festival takes place this Saturday from
11am to 4pm at the Arts Center--featuring cultural displays, information and
activities, music and dance performances on the stage, and dance lessons,
storytelling, and drum circles representing 20 plus countries. Program
Coordinator Jennifer Rankins and Special Events/Rental Coordinator Katie Crush
recently returned from the Leadership Exchange in Arts & Disabilities, an annual
conference sponsored by the Kennedy Center, highlighting ways in which
organizations can improve their accessibility for residents of all abilities. The Arts
Center looks forward to implementing some of the ideas that they have brought
back. Fall classes, and upcoming theatre performances and concerts can be
found on the website FVArts.org.
o Parks and Recreation - Updates from the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources
Department:


The Teen Council kicked off the new school year by hosting its first meeting on
August 17, 2026, with 120 teens registered.



The Recreation Division experienced significant participation growth over the
past year:
 Preschool, Youth, and Teen Programs: Up 17%
 Adult Programs: Up 15%
 Active Adult Programs: Up 60%
 Fitness Room Memberships: Up 59%
 Open Gym and Pickleball Participation: Up 39%

o Public Works – Robert McNeil, Mason Simo, Jackie McKoy, Jr., and Shannon Hill
joined the Sanitation Department, filling the new crew positions for the 2027
budgeted sanitation crew and vacancies from recent departures. The Street
Department staff attended an ADA compliance field training through ITRE at NC
State University. As a part of the class, they toured sidewalk infrastructure on the
surrounding campus, identifying various compliance-related issues
11.B

FM2FV Concert - Band of Oz - Thursday September 10, 2026 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Centennial Park

11.C 9/11 National Day of Remembrance Event - Friday September 11, 2026 - 8:30 am Fuquay-Varina Arts Center
11.D International Festival - Fuquay-Varina Arts Center - September 12, 2026 - 11:00 am 4:00 pm
11.E

Food Truck Rodeo - Sunday September 13, 2026 - 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm - Durham
Street Parking Lot - 801 Durham Street

11.F

FM2FV Concert - North Tower - Thursday September 17, 2026 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Centennial Park

11.G National Night Out Against Crime - Fuquay-Varina Police Department - Friday,
September 18, 2026 - 5:00 - 8:00 pm - Gold Leaf Crossings - Target Parking Lot

BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Commissioner Haynes expressed his enjoyment of the panel discussion with the FV
Leadership. He also highlighted the upcoming football game this Friday between Willow

Spring High School and Fuquay-Varina High School. Additionally, he shared his experience
attending last year’s Indian Garba and Dandiya Night at Fuquay-Varina High School. He
encouraged those interested in learning about the Indian community to attend this year’s
event on Saturday, September 19, 2026, as tickets are still available.
Commissioner Haynes extended his gratitude to all participants and sponsors of the Pine
Acres Community Center Fundraising Gala. The fundraiser supports the Center’s ongoing
services, including Meals on Wheels and the summer feeding program, while also raising
funds for the parking lot project.
Finally, he expressed appreciation to everyone who attended the FV Chamber ribboncutting ceremony for his new BBQ catering company, On Que BBQ & Catering. He
mentioned that the community’s support filled his heart with gratitude, and he was
delighted to share his BBQ with those present.
Commissioner Adcock expressed that he couldn’t think of a better ribbon-cutting event than
the one organized for Commissioner Haynes. He mentioned that he would gladly support
another event and looks forward to enjoying the delicious food prepared by Commissioner
Haynes.
He also discussed the no-parking ordinance in North Lakes, stating that while he has no
regrets about implementing it, he understands that it has negatively impacted the daily lives
of some residents. He asked the staff to explore potential solutions to address the concerns
that were raised during public comments.
Finally, Commissioner Adcock commented on the use of Flock cameras, noting that this
issue is part of a larger discussion occurring both statewide and nationwide. Although he
admitted that he does not have extensive knowledge about the topic yet, he is open to
engaging in further discussions with the Town Board.

Commissioner Smith expressed his enjoyment of the FV Leadership panel discussion,
highlighting the valuable opportunity to meet some of the community’s future leaders. He
also appreciated the ribbon-cutting event hosted for Commissioner Haynes, complimenting
the excellent food provided. Additionally, Commissioner Smith acknowledged and thanked
Commissioner Haynes for his investment in the community.
Commissioner Vorren expressed hope that everyone had a pleasant Labor Day holiday
weekend and thanked those who participated during the public comment period,
emphasizing that he values community feedback. He also shared that he recently toured the
Shearon Harris Nuclear Plant. During the tour, he learned that the facility is considering
expanding its nuclear generation capacity, an effort estimated to cost around $20 billion.
Currently, the site has one reactor but has the capacity to accommodate up to four reactors.
Commissioner Vorren mentioned that he enjoyed the tour and appreciated the opportunity
to learn more about the plant.
Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner reported that she attended the Women’s Equality Day celebration
on August 26, 2026, alongside other elected women officials from Wake County. She
expressed her gratitude to everyone who spoke during the public comment period to share
their concerns and issues. She emphasized that the Town Board values residents’ feedback
and voiced hope that a fair solution can be found to address the matters raised during public
comments.
Mayor Harris expressed his appreciation for the high level of participation at the meeting.
He emphasized that residents are encouraged to share their opinions and concerns. As
elected officials, the Town Board is committed to listening to the community and making
decisions that serve the best interests of all residents.

CLOSED SESSION
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (a)(3) - Attorney Client Privilege
A motion was made to conduct a closed session meeting at 8:24 p.m.
MOTION:

Commissioner Smith

SECOND:

Commissioner Bryan

MOTION RESULT:

Passed Unanimously (5-0)

RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
The Town Board returned to the open session at 9:13 p.m., with nothing to report.
MOTION:

Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner

SECOND:

Commissioner Vorren

MOTION RESULT:

Passed Unanimously (5-0)

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 9:13 a.m.
MOTION:

Commissioner Smith

SECOND:

Commissioner Adcock

MOTION RESULT:

Passed Unanimously (5-0)

The minutes from the Town Board of Commissioners meeting held on September 8, 2026,
are adopted this 22nd day of September, 2026, in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina.

FUQUAY-VARINA, NORTH CAROLINA

William H. Harris, Mayor
ATTEST

Teresa Wilder, Town Clerk

(TOWN SEAL)