Cary Council Hires Russ Overton As Permanent Manager At $344,000

Russ Overton is now the permanent town manager for Cary, a position he has filled on an interim basis since last December.

The town council voted to finalize his contract on Thursday, setting his annual salary at $344,000. The appointment ends an 11 month period of temporary leadership that began when Sean Stegall resigned from the role. Overton took over immediately following Stegall's departure, a move that placed him in charge of the town during a period of financial scrutiny.

Stegall had been placed on leave amid reports of financial issues and concerns regarding a culture of excessive spending. Upon Stegall's exit, Overton inherited a town facing audits and investigations. Councilmember Carissa Kohn-Johnson noted the constraints of that transition, stating that Overton had absolutely no wiggle room as the interim manager. The council decided against conducting a national search for the permanent position, choosing instead to retain an internal candidate who already understood the town's operations.

Mayor Harold Weinbrecht supported the decision, citing Overton's deep knowledge of Cary and his track record. Weinbrecht described the previous 11 months as difficult for the organization but argued that Cary required somebody who knows the town very well to maintain its status as one of the best communities in the nation. Overton addressed the crowd at the swearing in ceremony, expressing pride in the team's continued accomplishments and stating his belief that the town's best days are ahead.

Kohn-Johnson defended the choice to keep the current manager, arguing that longevity and stability are necessary to continue delivering services to residents. She acknowledged that some observers preferred a fresh start but maintained that continuity is the right path for the town. Overton has been involved in implementing recommendations from a recent audit, which include reviewing credit card purchases, reinstating an internal auditor position, and strengthening financial oversight.

The council member indicated that residents should expect a concerted effort to question every expense and review all existing policies. She said the goal is to ensure that staff and council behavior align with established rules. Overton's new contract took effect immediately following the vote on Thursday.

The town will proceed with the financial reforms outlined in the audit under Overton's permanent leadership.