Cary names Russ Overton permanent town manager

Cary Town Council unanimously appointed Russ Overton as the town’s permanent manager on October 22, 2026, and swore him in at the end of its regular meeting in Town Hall Council Chambers. He had served as interim town manager since December 15, 2025, and is Cary’s 12th person to hold the position.

The appointment puts Overton in charge of town operations and staff, reporting directly to Council. The town clerk and town attorney are exceptions: they are separately appointed by Council, alongside the manager. Cary’s government guide says Council evaluates those three appointed officials annually.

For residents, the distinction is between setting policy and carrying it out. Cary voters elect a mayor and six councilmembers to set priorities and pass laws. The professional manager implements those policies, advises Council, proposes the annual budget and coordinates staff who are not directly appointed by Council.

Cary’s current government guide lists more than 1,300 staff in more than 460 distinct positions. The town has used the council-manager form of government since 1961.

Overton’s background includes engineering, permits and town administration. According to Cary’s announcement, he joined the organization as an engineer in 1998, later led Inspections & Permits, became assistant town manager in 2013 and deputy town manager and chief operating officer in 2017. The town also credits him with managing major projects, including construction of the USA Baseball National Training Complex.