A Connected Region Conversation: Water Regionalization
November 13, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 AM | Breakfast & Networking at 9:00 AM

As our region continues to grow rapidly, the demand for robust water infrastructure is intensifying. This session will bring together local governments, state agencies, utilities, and private sector partners to explore successful collaborative approaches to water regionalization, ensuring sustainable access to water across our region.

Through case studies, facilitated discussions, and peer exchange, attendees will gain practical tools to:

Coordinate water infrastructure investments across boundaries
Navigate regulatory, land use and governance challenges
Integrate water planning with housing, land use and transportation strategies
Build partnerships that strengthen regional connectivity

Who should attend: Policymakers (local and state), managers, planners, utility providers, and community leaders.

Panel 1: Partners in Delivering Water & Sewer

Hal Hegwer, City of Sanford, City Manager
David Lambert, NC Department of Commerce, Director of Strategic Projects
Whit Wheeler, City of Raleigh, Director of Raleigh Water

Panel 2: From Source to Service - Local Voices in a Regional System

Kip Padgett, Town of Wake Forest, Town Manager
Vivian Jones, Town of Wake Forest, Mayor
Kyle Shipp, Town of Pittsboro, Mayor

About the Connected Region Series

The Connected Region Conversation series will convene local governments, state agencies, and community leaders to actively plan for the region’s growth. Our strong economy and high quality of life draw hundreds of new residents each day—but without coordination, rapid growth will drive up housing costs, clog roads, and strain aging infrastructure, including water systems.

Each session will zero in on practical, cross-jurisdictional strategies to better align transportation, housing, water, and land-use decisions. Participants will leave with concrete action items and tools they can bring back to their own organizations, and a better understanding of how to forge new partnerships that strengthen connectivity across the region.

Next Up: REGIONAL DAY! Save the Date: February 20, 2026!

Contact the host of Connected Region: Water Regionalization

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