Your City, Answered

Does the City lend lawn equipment for residential use?

In this episode, guests Bryce Abernethy and Emily Freeman share how the City’s Tool Share program is making lawn care more accessible for residents across Raleigh. They walk listeners through what equipment is available, how the program works, and the simple steps residents can take to borrow tools for residential use — all at no cost. Let’s dig into how this community‑minded service is helping neighbors maintain their homes with ease.

How does the City decide what to fund?

In this episode, we explore a question at the heart of local government: how does the City decide what to fund? Budget and Management Services Director Sadia Sattar joins us to explain how the annual budget is shaped by the City’s values and priorities. She highlights how resident input guides the process from the very beginning, and breaks down how the City maintains a balanced budget and where its revenues come from.

What is the City of Raleigh doing to limit the impacts of heavy rain in flood-prone areas?

In this episode, we sit down with Engineering Services Assistant Director for Stormwater Wayne Miles, Stormwater Engineer Kelly Daniel, and Engineering Supervisor Seamus Riley to unpack how Raleigh is working to reduce flooding impacts—especially in vulnerable areas like Crabtree Valley Mall. From major infrastructure upgrades to long‑term watershed planning, our guests explain the strategies, challenges, and innovations shaping the City’s approach to heavy rain and resilience.

How does the City decide what to fund with parks bond money, and how do we know what playground equipment kids actually want?

In this episode, we sit down with Capital Projects Superintendent Shawsheen Baker to get the answers. We explore how Raleigh uses its guiding documents, staff expertise, and community engagement to shape park and greenway investments funded by the 2022 Parks Bond. From staying up to date with industry standards to having conversations with families right on the playground, we break down how decisions are made for our award‑winning parks system.

What's happening at Red Hat Amphitheater?

In this episode, we sit down with Kerry Painter, Executive Director of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex, to talk about a truly historic moment for Raleigh’s live‑entertainment scene. Two major storylines are unfolding at once: the relocation and construction of the new Red Hat Amphitheater, and the launch of the final performance season at the original location. Kerry shares what’s happening behind the construction fences—after a year of intense utility work, the new amphitheater is finally rising from the ground. The concrete stage has been poured, steel is going up, and the venue’s future is becoming real and visible. At the same time, the current Red Hat Amphitheater is celebrating its last season in unforgettable style. With artists like Sting and Alabama Shakes, plus special commemorative concessions and experiences, this farewell season promises to honor the legacy of a beloved Raleigh venue. Join us for insights on the progress, the excitement, and what fans can look forward to—both this season and in the amphitheater’s next chapter.