The City of Gastonia has injected fresh leadership into its Public Services and Public Utilities Departments, ushering in a new era for these essential municipal apparatus. Gastonia's very own city hall confirmed the appointment of Jim Amaral as the new Public Utilities Director, a role previously held by Brian Potocki who has since ascended to Assistant City Manager. Meanwhile, Dusty Wentz is set to steer the Public Services Department, picking up the mantle from retiring Director Dale Denton after a commendable 38 years of service.
The reorganization is part of a strategic move to align services more effectively, where Public Utilities will now handle stormwater and Public Services will be responsible for electric, along with their existing duties. The revamp, described by City Manager Michael Peoples as a means to "deliver high-quality services to residents while allowing each department to focus more strategically on its core functions," was detailed in a statement issued by the City of Gastonia yesterday without the need for additional funded positions.
Amaral brings a wealth of experience from over 15 years in North Carolina’s municipal water and wastewater realm, having worked extensively in public utilities while earning academic credentials that include a Bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a Master's in Organizational Leadership from Pfeiffer University. Beyond the office, Jim has an interesting sideline as a certified yoga instructor and is no stranger to endurance sports, being known for his prowess as an Ironman competitor and ultra-marathoner. His move to Gastonia will be with his family – wife Heather, a primary care provider, and their young daughter.
Wentz's two decades worth of experience encompasses engineering and management of public infrastructure, including nine years in the private sector and 14 solid years in various leadership roles within public works and public utilities. An alumnus of NC State University with a degree in engineering, he also holds a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University. Dusty currently lives in Startown with his wife Ashley, and their son, and daughter, whose achievements are a source of immense family pride. Wentz is expected to begin his new role on May 19 and Amaral's commencement is slated for May 27.
