Holly Springs · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Holly Springs public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Regional Wastewater Capacity with Cary and Apex
The Council authorized the first $140 million of utility revenue bonds to expand the plant from 6 to 8 MGD — a $219 million project partially offset by a $3 million EPA grant.
Salem Ridge stormwater culvert repair
A $222,215 contract with BLD Services, LLC fixes the Salem Ridge culvert, with $22,225 in contingency.
Water and Wastewater Rates and Rate Study
Holly Springs' typical $93.92 monthly water/sewer bill sits mid-pack in Wake County because of rapid growth and costly infrastructure expansion. A rate study in the budget will examine whether businesses and multifamily customers pay their fair share, with results due at the annual retreat.
Water Bill Round Up Program
Mayor Pro Tem Drees revived her idea to let utility customers round up bills to fund assistance for neighbors struggling to pay. Staff will bring back a feasibility report.
Sewer capacity in the NE Gateway basin
The Middle Creek and Sunset Ridge pump stations are at max capacity, and a new regional pump station (estimated around $25 million) isn't even on the town's CIP. Meridian's developer is committing to fund a basin-wide sewer study but can't build until a solution exists — and the whole NE Gateway's commercial future hangs on it too.
Drought conditions and water conservation
With drought conditions across North Carolina, staff explained the town's Water Shortage Response Plan; Holly Springs draws from the Cape Fear basin via Harnett County and remains at Stage 0, unlike Raleigh's restrictions.
EV charging prices at Womble Park
Two high-school-regulation basketball courts and new open-style dugouts are coming to Womble Park under the 2023 parks bond, with a $319,625 design contract approved and construction targeted for November.
Utley Creek Water Reclamation Facility Phase 2 Expansion
The town is expanding its sewer plant from 6 to 8 million gallons per day with a $153M construction contract, funded by up to $140M in revenue bonds repaid through water and sewer rates. A resident argued the expansion locks in growth without securing more water supply.