Wilmington Names New Solid Waste Services Director

Heather Cashwell brings over 15 years of experience to lead the city's waste and recycling operations.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:04pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a stylized garbage truck or recycling bin in vibrant neon shades, conceptually representing Wilmington's commitment to modernizing its waste and recycling services.Wilmington's new Solid Waste Services department aims to elevate the city's waste management operations through innovative leadership and customer-focused initiatives.Wilmington Today

The City of Wilmington has appointed Heather Cashwell as its new Solid Waste Services Director. Cashwell has over 15 years of experience in solid waste, recycling, and environmental program management, previously serving in leadership roles with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, the Town of Apex, and North Carolina State University.

Why it matters

Providing reliable solid waste services is a critical function for the city, and the appointment of a dedicated Solid Waste Services Director signals Wilmington's commitment to delivering exceptional waste and recycling services to support clean, safe, and healthy neighborhoods.

The details

In her new role, Cashwell will be responsible for collecting and managing the city's waste and recycling services. She is expected to begin her position on May 4, 2026.

  • Cashwell's appointment was announced on April 15, 2026.
  • Cashwell is expected to start her new role on May 4, 2026.

The players

Heather Cashwell

Wilmington's new Solid Waste Services Director, with over 15 years of experience in solid waste, recycling, and environmental program management.

Becky Hawke

Wilmington City Manager, who stated that establishing Solid Waste Services as its own department recognizes the importance of this work and will allow it to receive the focus it deserves.

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What they’re saying

“Providing reliable solid waste services is one of the most visible ways we serve our community every day. By establishing Solid Waste Services as its own department, we're recognizing the importance of this work and giving it the focus it deserves.”

— Becky Hawke, City Manager

The takeaway

Wilmington's decision to appoint a dedicated Solid Waste Services Director demonstrates the city's commitment to providing high-quality waste and recycling services that support a clean, safe, and healthy community.