News Digest for Town of Carrboro, NC 
(November 20, 2023) 

Here's what's new in Carrboro:  Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, household trash collections in Carrboro are two days early this week.  Watch for runners and traffic impacts from the Gallop & Gorge 8K on Thanksgiving! Grab a cup of coffee, some non-perishable items to donate, and come out to cheer on the runners before you begin your festivities. Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! 

Gallop & Gorge 8K on Thanksgiving Day

The final race of the 19th annual Le Tour de Carrboro series is the Gallop & Gorge 8K scheduled for 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 23.

The race will begin and end on Weaver Street in downtown Carrboro so expect traffic delays in that area. View the full race route below. 

There will also be an opportunity to give back to your community.  Collection boxes will be available for non-perishable food items to be donated to the Interfaith Council Food Pantry.

Grab a cup of coffee, some non-perishable items to donate, and come out to cheer on the runners before you begin your Thanksgiving festivities at home.

The race's 2023 Community Partners include The Arc of the Triangle, Carrboro Family Garden, Meals on Wheels of Orange County, Optimist Club of Chapel Hill, Orange County Rape Crisis Center, Table, and UNC Get Real & Heel Cancer Exercise Program.

For more information on the race visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Carrboro/GallopGorge8K 

Thanksgiving Holiday Service Changes

Town of Carrboro offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23-24. 

Due to the holiday, household trash collections are two days early the week of Thanksgiving.

Wednesday’s waste collection route will be collected on Monday, Nov. 20; Thursday’s waste collection route will be collected on Tuesday, Nov. 21; and Friday’s waste collection route will be collected on Wednesday, Nov. 22. 

 Yard waste, loose leaves, and bulk waste will not be collected during Thanksgiving week (Nov. 20-24).

Learn more on our Public Works webpage.

Town Council Update 

Meeting agendas and updates are issued from the Town Clerk’s Office. To receive these by email or text, sign up for Carrboro Town News at https://www.carrboronc.gov/list.aspx 

Civic involvement is a valued tradition in our community. Reach the Town Council with your ideas, views, and questions at Council@carrboronc.gov

Coming Up

The Carrboro Town Council will hold a Council Meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023. The agenda is available at https://carrboro.legistar.com/ 

The Town Council meets at Carrboro Town Hall, 301 W. Main St. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or can view the livestream YouTube.com/CarrboroNC  OR at https://carrboro.legistar.com/ OR Cable TV 18 (in Carrboro). 

Meeting Recap 

The Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 14, and took the following actions: 

• Passed a Resolution Calling for an immediate de-escalation and cease-fire in Israel and Gaza
• Received a Small Business Saturday Proclamation from Mayor Damon Seils 
• Received the Care to Share Day Proclamation from Mayor Damon Seils 
• Proclamations and resolutions are posted at https://www.carrboronc.gov/2630/Proclamations-and-Resolutions
•  Authorized the furniture procurement for the 203 Project, the new library and civic building under construction at 203 S. Greensboro St. 
• Adopted a new capital project ordinance to reflect additional funds (Federal STBG-DA) to design and build the Jones Creek Greenway Project. 
• Authorized a contract extension with Stantec, the consulting firm preparing the updated plans and specifications for the bike loop detector project. 
• Received information about federal funding allocated to the DCHC MPO for transportation projects and adopted a resolution seeking Regional Flexible Funding for fiscal year 2025.
• Discussed the affordable housing component of the Newbury Architecturally Integrated Subdivision project at 904 Homestead Road.
• Received a budget status report for all funds.
• Received a presentation from the Community Safety Task Force (CSTF) about its recommendations to promote racial equity in law enforcement and the criminal legal system, and to enhance the safety and well-being of all Carrboro residents. 

Watch the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/live/XdN4l9TbzrU?si=9SYQhLUADjScvL6r

Town Council 
The Town Council, which is the legislative and policy-making body for Carrboro, comprises Mayor Damon Seils, Mayor Pro Tempore Susan Romaine, Council Member Barbara Foushee, Council Member Randee Haven-O’Donnell, Council Member Danny Nowell, Council Member Eliazar Posada, and Council Member Sammy Slade. More information is available at https://www.carrboronc.gov/248/Town-Council

Resolution Calling for an Immediate De-escalation and Cease-fire in Israel and Gaza

At its meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 14, the Carrboro Town Council passed a Resolution Calling for an Immediate De-escalation and Cease-fire in Israel and Gaza. 

The resolution states the following: 

RESOLUTION CALLING FOR AN IMMEDIATE DE-ESCALATION AND CEASE-FIRE IN ISRAEL AND GAZA 

WHEREAS, all human life is precious, and the targeting of civilians, no matter their faith or ethnicity, is a violation of international humanitarian law;

WHEREAS, between October 7 and November 13, 2023, armed violence has claimed the lives of over 11,000 Palestinians and over 1,400 Israelis, including Americans, and wounded thousands more;

WHEREAS , hundreds of thousands of lives are at imminent risk if a cease-fire is not achieved, and humanitarian aid is not delivered without delay; and

WHEREAS, the Federal Government holds immense diplomatic and appropriations powers to save Israeli and Palestinian lives;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Carrboro calls upon our US Congressional delegation, both in the Senate and House of Representatives, to join us in –

1. urging the Biden administration to immediately call for and facilitate de-escalation and a cease-fire to urgently end the current violence; and
2.  calling upon the Biden administration to promptly send and facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance -at the scale needed- into north and south Gaza.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town of Carrboro supports all of its Muslim and Jewish residents and condemns Islamophobia and antisemitism.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Carrboro Town Council asks the Town Clerk that copies of this resolution be quickly forwarded to the President of the United States and Carrboro’s Congressional Delegation.

This the 14th day of November 2023. 

A motion was made by Council Member Sammy Slade and seconded by Council Member Danny Nowell that the resolution be approved. 

The motion carried 4 – 3.

Ayes: Council Member Sammy Slade, Council Member Danny Nowell, Council Member Eliazar Posada, Mayor Damon Seils

Noes: Council Member Barbara Foushee, Council Member Susan Romaine, Council Member Randee Haven-O’Donnell

Read the resolution on our website.

Public parking available around downtown Carrboro

It’s easy to find free two-hour public parking in Carrboro, where you can access convenient parking at 10 public lots all over town.

Economic Development Director Jon Hartman-Brown spent Thursday afternoon placing pedestrian-level signage to inform passersby of available parking. Recognizing that wayfinding signage is coming soon, the yard signs are being placed out before holiday shopping is well underway in Downtown Carrboro.

Please remember that the Carr Mill parking area is for mall customers and is NOT a public parking lot. Leaving the mall premises after parking risks towing. When in doubt, always park in public lots, and enjoy a hassle-free and relaxed shopping and dining experience.

Find more information including an interactive parking map on our Downtown Parking webpage.

Thanks to Manager Heather Swanson of Neal's Deli for helping us place signage there! 

The Lost History of the Panamá Canal Zone

Join us at Century Hall of the Carrboro Century Center on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 1 to 2 p.m. for a free lecture by Hector Aizpurúa. The program will highlight the culture and history of the people from the Panamá Canal zone in an effort to preserve the memories of their experience. 

The Panamá Canal is an engineering wonder that has defined the nation of Panamá for over a hundred years. The complexity of foreign influence on Panamá has left the communities that once had a rich history in the Panamá Canal Zone, almost forgotten. 

At the end of the session, traditional music from this area will be performed on Piano.

Carrboro Film Fest celebrates Southern Cinema

3 days. 9 screenings. 55 films. 

The Carrboro Film Fest this Nov. 17-19, 2023, was another great success full of hospitality, curiosity and community. Thank you for coming out to the ArtsCenter and supporting independent cinema!

Leaf Collection Information

Have you noticed leaf piles around town? It’s certainly that time of year. The Town of Carrboro would like to remind everyone that leaves should not be piled into traffic lanes, bike lanes or sidewalks, as they become a dangerous public safety hazard.

Residents should also check collection schedules for yard waste and leaves, so that piles do not remain at the curb longer than necessary. 

Typically, residents receive yard waste and loose-leaf collection twice per month, either on the first and third Mondays of the month or the second and fourth Mondays of the month. It’s important to note that although the collection day is Monday, depending on the volume of material placed at the curb, the routes may take more than one day to complete.  There is no collection on the fifth Monday of the month.

 Check your solid waste collection schedule and note the holiday schedule.

Requirements for Leaf Pickup

•  Residents must pile their leaves behind the curb.
• Don’t put leaves in the street or block sidewalks, bike lanes or storm drains.
• Optional use of a roll-out cart which is collected with an automated side loader refuse truck. 
• No plastic or paper bags are allowed.
• Keep the gutter clear. Allow at least 1 foot between the curb and the leaves.
• Loose leaves waste must be free of all debris.  No dirt, sod, rock, or concrete. 
• Separate loose leaves and brush. Piles that contain limbs, brush or other yard waste will not be picked up.
• Place your leaf piles away from trees that have overhanging branches less than 14 feet from the ground, or lower branches that protrude into the lane of travel. These branches pose hazards to our equipment.
• Park vehicles at least 10 feet away from piles.
• Do not place leaves in lanes of travel (bike lanes/travel lanes).
• Help keep your neighborhood safe for people walking, biking, and driving by placing your trash, recycling and yard waste carts where they don't block the sidewalk, bike lane, or traffic flow.

Facts

• Loose leaves are picked up at no extra charge to our residents. 
• This program helps to keep gutters and storm drainage grates clean and working properly through the winter.
• Carrboro’s Loose Leaf Collection Program is year-round. 
• Often, when residents see our machinery approaching, they will come out and move their parked vehicles so we can access their leaf piles more easily. The crews appreciate this, as it makes the process go more smoothly.
• The Town recycles leaves as compost. Diverting these natural materials from the solid waste stream helps extend the usable landfill space and keeps methane-producing materials out of the landfill. FREE leaf compost is available to Carrboro residents. 
• With appreciation and recognition to the New Hope Audubon Society, the Town is encouraging residents to follow the "Leave the Leaves" initiative. Leaving leaves where they fall, or close thereby, saves time and money and recycles nutrients into the local ecosystem. 

More information about Loose Leaf Collection.

Contact Carrboro Public Works at (919) 918-7425 or PWorks@carrboronc.gov  

Learning about Life on Wheels 

Thanks to everyone who rolled on over to South Green on Saturday, Nov. 18 to experience Life on Wheels. There were a variety of bikes to view and test out in the "Bike Petting Zoo", lots of information about bicycles and bicycle safety, a fun traffic garden for the kids,  and so much more!

Leave the Leaves

Did you know that leaves are natural fertilizers and help protect wildlife? Nature’s bounty provides an opportunity to put fallen leaves to good use.

The Town of Carrboro is partnering with the New Hope Audubon Society, Town of Chapel Hill, and Keep Durham Beautiful to encourage community members to Leave the Leaves, support biodiversity, improve water quality, and reduce pollution.

Leaving Your Leaves has several important benefits:

• Wildlife Habitat: Leaves provide winter habitat for native wildlife that are essential to a healthy ecosystem and biodiversity. Insects and pollinators such as bees and butterflies depend on leaves for shelter which in turn will boost gardens in the spring. Leaves also serve as a habitat for other wildlife such as lizards and birds. 
• Soil Health: Leaves prevent soil erosion, retain moisture, act as a natural mulch by providing ground cover, and improve soil fertility by adding essential nutrients as they decompose. 
• Less Pollution: Blowing and moving leaves often involves fossil fuel-powered equipment which produces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Leaving the leaves reduces this environmental impact and the noise associated with this equipment.
• Water Quality: Leaves are natural fertilizers and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers that pollute waterways and kill beneficial fungi. 
• Time Savings: Spend your days relaxing, hiking, or visiting with friends and family instead of cleaning up loose leaves.

Overall, not raking leaves is a simple way to support the environment and local biodiversity while also making yard maintenance easier and more sustainable.

Pledge to Leave Your Leaves and receive a free yard sign! 

Free yard signs are available to Carrboro and Chapel Hill participants while supplies last. Yard signs measure 18 x 24 inches, are made of sturdy, weather-resistant materials, and are printed with low-VOC vegetable-based inks. There is a limit of one yard sign per household per year. 

Support Small Business Saturday in Carrboro

Mayor Damon Seils has proclaimed Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, (the Saturday after Thanksgiving) as Small Business Saturday in Carrboro.

There are 386 small businesses in Carrboro, making up over 97% of all business in our town. These small businesses employ 2,550 people and provide over $116 million in payroll. The Town of Carrboro celebrates our local small businesses and the contributions they make to our local economy and community. 

“I urge the residents of our community and county to support small and local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the year,” Mayor Seils said.

Read the proclamation.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade set for December 9

The annual Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade is kicking off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. The parade route begins at 140 West Plaza, travels along Franklin Street in Chapel Hill, proceeds to Main Street in Carrboro, and ends at Carrboro Town Hall.  

This year’s theme will be “Walkin’ in a winter wonderland” to feature modes of travel like walking, biking, and rollerblading. Earlier this year, the parade’s planning team made the decision to remove motor vehicles from the 2023 Community Holiday Parade for the safety of both participants and spectators. This decision also demonstrates Chapel Hill and Carrboro’s commitment to environmental sustainability.  

Participant registration for the parade is open through Sunday, Nov. 12. Parade participants are encouraged to decorate with a winter theme and should plan to entertain or engage spectators. Organizations with diverse cultural and faith traditions are encouraged to apply at https://www.chapelhillarts.org/parade-participant-application/ 

“We're lucky to have such a diverse array of community groups and organizations here in Chapel Hill and Carrboro,” said Community Arts & Culture Interim Director Meeghan Rosen. “They're what make the holiday parade such a fun, festive and uniquely local event. We're looking forward to this year's parade!” 

Attendees should arrive early to secure their spots and explore the area’s restaurants and shops after the parade ends. To see local offerings, visit https://downtownchapelhill.com/ and https://visitcarrboro.com/. ;

Parking will be available at 140 West and other lots downtown. Learn more about parking in Chapel Hill at ?parkonthehill.com? and parking in Carrboro at? https://www.carrboronc.gov/2774/Downtown-Parking

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade is planned and organized by the towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro; Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture;  Carrboro Recreation, Parks & Cultural Resources; and the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership.  

To learn more, visit? https://www.chapelhillarts.org/calendar/chapel-hill-carrboro-holiday-parade/ 

Save the Dates for Carrboro’s Holiday Events

Join The Town of Carrboro in celebrating the Holiday season and save the dates for these upcoming festive events.

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

Join us at Carrboro Town Hall as we gather and celebrate the festive season!

We welcome all community members to join members of the Town Council along with local schoolchildren from Carrboro and McDougle Elementary as we officially kick off the season with music and the lighting of the community tree.

This event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, in front of Carrboro Town Hall, 301 W. Main St. 

Chapel Hill – Carrboro Community Holiday Parade

The annual Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade is kicking off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. The parade route begins at 140 West Plaza, travels along Franklin Street in Chapel Hill, proceeds to Main Street in Carrboro, and ends at Carrboro Town Hall.  

This year’s theme will be “Walkin’ in a winter wonderland” to feature modes of travel like walking, biking, and rollerblading.

Kids, Cookies & Candy Canes

Join our holiday celebration for children of all ages! Bring the family to the Carrboro Century Center, 100 N. Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC on Thursday, Dec. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to noon and enjoy some holiday fun!  Join us for cookies, crafts, and a children's show.

Visit the Events Calendar on our website to learn more about all our upcoming events.

Avoid collisions with deer 

Drivers should remain vigilant on the roads to avoid deer-vehicle collisions, especially between September and December. Deer movement increases dramatically during this time, and limited lighting makes it more difficult for drivers to see them on or near roads.

Safety Advice

Below are important tips from the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) regarding animal (usually deer) crashes: 

• Always maintain a safe amount of distance between your vehicle and others, especially at night. If the vehicle ahead of you hits a deer, you could also become involved in the crash. 
• Slow down in areas posted with deer crossing signs and in heavily wooded areas, especially during the late afternoon and evening.
• Most deer-vehicle crashes occur where deer are more likely to travel, near bridges or overpasses, railroad tracks, streams and ditches.
• Drive with high beams on when possible and watch for deer eyes reflecting in the headlights. 
• Deer often travel in small herds so if you see one deer near a road be alert for others.
• If you see deer near a road, slow down and blow your horn with one long blast
• Do not swerve to avoid a collision. This could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and cause a more serious crash.

If your vehicle does strike a deer, do not touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can be dangerous or further injure itself. Get your vehicle off the road, if possible, and call 911.

Read more in our newsflash.

Put your ideas into action! 
Apply to serve the Town of Carrboro

The Town of Carrboro is seeking volunteers to provide a fresh perspective on important local issues.

Carrboro local government has various advisory boards and commissions that advise the Town Council on a wide range of issues. We are currently looking to fill vacancies!

When you serve, you become an advocate for the Town of Carrboro, provide feedback to the Council, and help strengthen the community with your unique perspective. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people as you put your ideas into action.

Learn more about the openings available.