Breaking through barriers with not just mere symbolism but meaningful strides, Patrice Y. Toney has concluded an impactful first year as Carrboro's Town Manager. According to the Town of Carrboro, Toney, the first woman and African American woman at the helm, has prioritized equity and sustainability, marking her tenure with significant accomplishments.
Foremost in Toney's agenda was a critical climate justice action—assisting the Town Council in its lawsuit against a monstrous utility company. Her office saw the inception of the first Office of Sustainability and the addition of the town’s first Chief Sustainability Officer. She made sure racial equity training was completed by every member of the police staff and all recruits, embedding these values across the workforce. This resulted in a staff composition where 50% of Carrboro's employees are ethnic minorities, being a stark departure from less diverse days.
Adeptly steering the organizational ship, Toney fortified leadership with key hires including a new Chief Financial Officer and creating a Deputy Finance Director/Budget Manager role. She led the modernization charge, boosting operational efficiency through technology. According to her words in an interview with the Town of Carrboro, "This first year has been about building trust, elevating equity, and laying a strong foundation for Carrboro's future."
Under her guidance, the town achieved a high score of 95 out of 100 on the Municipal Equality Index. She backed a Disparity Study and focused on language access and inclusion, while the Carrboro Rise Student Academy was launched to steep local youth in the spirit of civic participation. The Town of Carrboro also garnered national applause, evidenced by accolades such as the "Leading the Way" Award and the title of All-America City Winner for its race equity and sustainability initiatives.
Toney's touch extended to reimagining community events and bolstering infrastructure. Highlights of her year included the Drakeford Library Complex's grand opening and multiple public works improvements that have left a greener, more navigable town in their wake. These hands-on achievements played a part in Toney’s inclusion on the 2024 Black Business Inc Power 100 NC list and her candidacy for the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation, positioning her as a figure of progress in professional and public service circles alike.
