Cary Spotlight | Issue #514

More Frequent Property Assessments in Wake County, Public Input Sought For Schools Budget, Cary Academy Varsity Girls Soccer' s Fourth Straight Win

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

📰 Wake County Homeowners to See More Frequent Property Assessments

📰 Public Input Sought as Wake County Schools Adjust Budget Strategy

📰 Cary Academy Varsity Girls Soccer Secures Fourth Straight Win

😀 Meme of the Day

❤️ Thank You!

☀️ Cary NC Weather

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

📅 Lots Of Events This Week (The Week at a Glance)

Question: Who was the first woman to fly in space?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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Wake County Homeowners to See More Frequent Property Assessments

Following an unprecedented 51% rise in average property values last year, Wake County is moving from a four-year to a two-year property revaluation cycle to better manage future increases and ease the financial burden on homeowners.

The decision is designed to prevent the sharp tax spikes experienced in 2024, ensuring that adjustments are more gradual and predictable. The next revaluation is set for 2027, with the new biennial schedule beginning in 2029.

Real estate professionals suggest that more frequent assessments will also allow the county to properly account for new development, as newly constructed properties are often initially taxed based on land value alone. This shift could help stabilize tax rates, particularly for owners of older homes, by preventing sudden valuation surges.

While homeowners may face higher tax bills when property values rise, increased equity can be an advantage, providing opportunities for home improvements, refinancing, or investment in a future home purchase.

Wake County’s move aligns with state law, which requires counties to revalue properties at least once every eight years, but the accelerated timeline reflects a proactive approach to navigating rapid market fluctuations. Read Full Report

Just curious…

How do you feel about Wake County revaluing homes every two years instead of four?

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Public Input Sought as Wake County Schools Adjust Budget Strategy

CARY, N.C. — With limited resources and growing expenses, Wake County Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor has proposed a $2.28 billion budget for the upcoming school year, requiring both additional funding from the county and internal budget cuts.

To meet the district’s needs, Taylor is requesting $60 million more in local funding, with $40 million coming from Wake County Commissioners and the remaining $20 million covered through budget reductions in what he describes as "strategic repurposing."

The proposed cuts include eliminating administrative positions, reducing instructional supply budgets, and removing 10 digital learning coordinators. Additionally, the district plans to discontinue building-specific substitutes, a change that has raised concerns among educators who worry about its impact on students and staff.

Although the budget does not introduce new programs or services, additional funds are needed to cover the opening of four new schools, potential state-mandated salary increases, and the expiration of federal COVID relief funds. The district also recently lost a federal grant, further straining resources.

Beyond operational costs, HVAC system upgrades remain a priority for many parents, though funding for those improvements falls under the separate Capital Improvement Plan rather than this budget.

The Wake County Board of Education will review the proposal over the coming weeks, with opportunities for public input at upcoming hearings. The final budget proposal will be submitted to the County Commissioners by May 15, with the county’s final decision expected by June 2.

Public Input Opportunities:

📌 April 8 – Budget Public Hearing (Board of Education meeting)
📌 April 11 – Public Input Session at Fuquay-Varina Middle (6:15-8:15 p.m.)
📌 April 16 – Public Input Session at Abbotts Creek Elementary (6:15-8:15 p.m.)

What Should Be Wake County Schools’ Top Budget Priority?

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Cary Academy Varsity Girls Soccer Secures Fourth Straight Win

The Cary Academy varsity girls soccer team continued its strong season with a 4-2 win over North Raleigh Christian Academy on Tuesday, marking their second victory over the Knights this year. The Chargers had struggled in past matchups against their opponent, winning just one of their last nine meetings, but have now turned the tide with back-to-back victories over North Raleigh Christian Academy.

The Chargers remain undefeated at 4-0-1, fueled by an explosive offense that has netted 21 goals in their last four games. Their recent performances include a 7-1 triumph over St. Thomas More Academy and a dominant 9-1 win against Thales Academy Apex.

For North Raleigh Christian Academy, the loss brings their record to 4-3-1, and they will look to rebound when they travel to Wake Forest on Thursday at 5:00 p.m. Meanwhile, Cary Academy will face St. Mary’s at 3:30 p.m., aiming to extend their winning streak to five.

With momentum on their side, the Chargers are proving to be a formidable force this season, demonstrating both strong defensive discipline and an ability to capitalize offensively. Read Full Report.

Special Offer for Cary Spotlight Readers!

To celebrate the impact of NFHS Network on our community, I’m excited to offer Cary Spotlight readers an exclusive discount—just $5.99! This is the perfect opportunity to try it out and support your favorite school at the same time.

Just curious…

Which school will you be supporting this season? Let us know!

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Meme/Thought of the Day.
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Upcoming Local Events

Looking ahead to events happening in Cary, NC for the rest of the week.
Outdoor events may be changed due to weather, so click the links to see latest event information.

March 20th (Thursday)

March 21st (Friday)

March 22nd (Saturday)

March 23rd (Sunday)

March 24th (Monday)

The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇

Valentina Tereshkova made history on June 16, 1963, as the first woman to fly in space aboard the Soviet spacecraft Vostok 6. A former textile worker and amateur skydiver, she was selected from over 400 candidates for the mission.

During her solo flight, she orbited Earth 48 times over nearly three days, proving that women could endure space travel. After her historic mission, she became a prominent figure in Soviet politics and space advocacy. Tereshkova's achievement paved the way for future generations of female astronauts.