December 1, 2003 - State Senator Stevens and State Representative Stam write open letter to the Town Council opposing forced annexation.

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Mayor and Members of the Cary Town Council:

We are writing you to express our concerns about the annexation plans recently announced by the Town for the Swift Creek/Middle Creek areas including Dutchman Downs and nearby subdivisions.

We understand that the Town of Cary did not initiate involuntary annexations for many years, relying instead on voluntary requests to be added to the Town.  We are aware that in 2001 several "doughnut holes" were annexed to address numerous service problems.  The situation here, however, is neither voluntary nor involves a "doughnut hole".  We have heard from dozens of residents who are strongly opposed to this annexation.  These residents have no water or sewer problems and are satisfied with their current level of services from Wake County.

We realize that North Carolina has a broad annexation law that does not allow for a vote by the affected people.  While this law may have served the interests of cities and towns, such moves as this one could cause the General Assembly to rethink this legislation.

We urge you to reconsider this proposed annexation.

Senator Richard Y. Stevens
Representative Paul Stam