WPCOG names Dustin Wilson to lead regional planning

Dustin L. Wilson has been named the new community and regional planning director for the Western Piedmont Council of Governments, the regional agency providing planning and technical support to local governments across Burke, Caldwell, Alexander, and Catawba counties.

Wilson will assume the post Nov. 30, overseeing WPCOG’s planning division as it delivers long-range and daily planning assistance, zoning administration, and project support to the four counties and their 24 municipalities, including Morganton, Valdese, and Lenoir.

He brings more than 20 years of experience in urban planning, community development, environmental review, and public administration at both the municipal and federal levels.

Most recently, Wilson worked as a tribal liaison coordinator with the Marine Minerals Administration, directing intergovernmental initiatives and advising agency leadership on regulatory issues. He previously spent nearly 10 years with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, leading environmental and planning reviews for more than 70 infrastructure and hydropower projects nationwide.

Wilson also has municipal government experience in North Carolina. As land management director for the Town of Spencer, he oversaw zoning, historic preservation, code enforcement, and community development, including the implementation of the town’s first comprehensive land-use plan.

“Dustin brings an exceptional combination of federal experience, local government leadership, and regional planning expertise. His ability to navigate complex projects, build partnerships, and support communities aligns perfectly with WPCOG’s mission. We are excited about the future of our planning department under his leadership and confident that his vision and experience will strengthen our service to member governments across the Western Piedmont,” WPCOG Executive Director Anthony W. Starr said.

Wilson holds a doctorate from Clemson University and a master’s degree in public affairs from Western Carolina University. He is also a certified Project Management Professional.

“I am excited to join the Western Piedmont Council of Governments and to support the communities of this region. The Western Piedmont has a long tradition of working together to move the region forward, and I’m excited to work alongside WPCOG’s talented staff and member governments to advance projects, strengthen local capacity, and help communities achieve their long‑term goals,” Wilson said.

Organized in 1968, the WPCOG is one of 16 regional councils of government established across North Carolina to foster intergovernmental collaboration and assist local communities with planning, grant administration, and regional policy.

— AKC