February is a meaningful month in Carrboro—one that calls us to both reflect and connect. There are many opportunities for connection this month as we observe and celebrate Black History Month. During Black History Month, we honor the profound contributions, leadership, creativity, and resilience of Black Americans, whose history is deeply woven into the story of Carrboro, Orange County, and our nation. This month is an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements, but also to listen, learn, and recommit ourselves to the values of equity, justice, and inclusion that Carrboro strives to uphold. Here is a link to the town’s Black History Month events, https://www.carrboronc.gov/2978/Black-History-Month
February also brings Valentine’s Day, reminding us of the importance of love in all its forms—love for our families, our friends, our neighbors, and our community. In Carrboro, love shows up through kindness, civic engagement, volunteerism, and care for one another, especially during challenging times so as we move through this month together, let us honor our history, strengthen our connections, and continue building a Carrboro that is welcoming, compassionate, and committed to dignity and opportunity for all. And let’s not forget about the other holidays and observances this month, all of which provide opportunities to celebrate each other, to connect and to support various causes.
Recently, the 2026 Carrboro Town Council Retreat provided an important opportunity for reflection, collaboration, and alignment as we looked ahead to the work before us. Over the course of the retreat, Council members engaged in thoughtful and productive discussions centered on our town pillars, shared values, community priorities, and long-term vision for Carrboro. Council priorities include housing (affordable, workforce, emergency and transitional); transportation, climate resilience and land use.
Together, we examined the challenges and opportunities facing our town, strengthened our working relationships, and reaffirmed our commitment to equity, transparency, sustainability, and inclusive governance. As we move forward, the insights and direction established during this retreat will help guide our policy decisions, town budget decisions and collaboration with staff, boards, and residents.
Finally, please take the time to check your voter registration, early voting schedules and polling sites and above all, make a plan to vote. Tell your friends and neighbors because all elections are important so let’s get ready to vote!
--Mayor Barbara Foushee