Patrice Y. Toney, Carrboro's first female and African American town manager, wrapped up an impactful first year that has reshaped the town’s landscape with forward-thinking initiatives. Toney’s tenure has been marked by an emphasis on sustainability, diversity, and organizational strength, reshaping the town's future with mindful governance. Town of Carrboro's official announcement highlighted her accomplishments, stating, "This first year has been about building trust, elevating equity, and laying a strong foundation for Carrboro’s future."
In the realm of advancement and racial equity, Toney was instrumental in supporting the Town Council in a precedent-setting lawsuit against a major utility company. Under her guidance, Carrboro opened its first Office of Sustainability and welcomed its first Chief Sustainability Officer. 100% of police staff and all new hires underwent racial equity training, a move intended for ensure an inclusive work environment. Toney also played a key role in the creation of the Race Equity-focused Town Hall, which saw significant turnout and produced meaningful dialogue on local governance—according to the Town of Carrboro’s press release.
Structural improvements within the organization were prioritized, with strategic hires including a new Chief Financial Officer and the creation of a Deputy Finance Director/Budget Manager position. Toney's work modernizing Carrboro included leveraging technology and guiding comprehensive planning studies like the Downtown Area Plan and Unified Development Ordinance. Her leadership also fostered the growth of community-focused programs such as the Social Work Diversion Program.
Throughout Toney's first year, Carrboro achieved national acclaim, receiving accolades such as the "Leading the Way" Award and being named an All-America City Winner—commendations that underscore the town's commitment to equity and sustainability. The city's workforce now boasts that 50% of its employees identify as ethnic minorities. Toney’s efforts in expanding community engagement also shone, with town events getting reimagined and the implementation of the Carrboro Rise Student Academy to nurture young civic minds.
Infrastructure also saw major investments, most notably with the grand opening of the Drakeford Library Complex—the town’s largest public facility. Other enhancements included revamping public spaces, updating technology, and improving environmental sustainability through various projects. Toney, also named to the 2024 Black Business Inc Power 100 NC list, continues her professional growth as an ICMA Credentialed Manager Candidate, embracing roles in organizations such as the NFBPA, National League of Cities, and ICMA—her dedication to Carrboro's thriving future remains unwavering.
