Manatee County Announces New Appointments to Utilities Department Leadership

BRADENTON — This week, the Manatee County Government announced the new appointees to leadership positions within the Utilities Department. The announcement comes just months after two deputy director vacancies were created when long-time utilities employee Katie Gilmore resigned from her position in Sept., and former deputy director Kevin Morris announced his retirement in Oct.

The county’s Utilities Department provides potable (drinking) water, wastewater (sewer) services, reclaimed water (processed wastewater suitable for irrigation), and garbage collection services to more than 300,000 residences within the unincorporated portions of Manatee County. Hundreds of businesses are also county Utilities customers.

Three new Utilities Deputy Directors were named on Friday, including one Deputy Director of Distribution and Collection, one Deputy Director of Solid Waste, and a Deputy Director of Treatment Facilities. 

Nickolas Wagner, who has served more than 24 years in wastewater operations, has been named Utilities Deputy Director of Distribution and Collection. Wagner began his career with Manatee County in 2000 as a Utilities Maintenance Technician.

In a press release, Manatee County highlighted that Wagner’s contributions over his tenure “have been crucial in advancing critical infrastructure projects, managing multi-million-dollar budgets, and overseeing Capital Improvement Planning (CIP).”

The county added that throughout his career with Manatee County Utilities, “Nikolas has demonstrated exemplary leadership, insight, and dedication.” 

Albert Rosenstein, PE, will advance to the role of Utilities Deputy Director of Solid Waste. Rosenstein began his career with Manatee County in 2013 and has over 35 years of experience in civil engineering, maintenance, permitting, and construction.

Prior to joining Manatee County’s Public Works Department as an Operations Engineer and later as a Senior Project Engineer, Rosenstein worked for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) where he oversaw multi-million-dollar programs and maintained over 1,200 miles of state roadways. 

“Albert’s leadership and technical expertise will be essential in advancing the Solid Waste division’s goals,” the county shared in its press release.  

Christian Collins, a professional with over 30 years in water and wastewater treatment, has been appointed Utilities Deputy Director of Treatment Facilities. Collins has 28 years of service with Manatee County and holds FDEP licenses in water, wastewater, and water distribution.

According to the county’s release, Collins has played key roles in launching major projects such as the Sodium Hypochlorite system, SCADA implementations, the Master Reuse System, and the Biosolids Dryer Facility. He holds leadership roles in relevant professional organizations and has provided frequent presentations at industry conferences

“Christian’s leadership has been pivotal in managing multi-million-dollar budgets and enhancing critical infrastructure.” said the county. “He has also overseen franchise hauling agreements and projects that have extended the landfill’s lifespan by over 21 years.”

“I am thrilled to see Nickolas, Albert, and Christian step into these key roles," shared Manatee County Utilities Director Patrick Shea. "Their collective experience, leadership, and commitment to excellence have been evident throughout their careers. I have no doubt that their vision and dedication will continue to advance Manatee County’s infrastructure, innovation, and community service. We are fortunate to have such passionate leaders guiding our Utilities Department into the future.” 

Click here to read the county’s full press release dated Friday, December 20, 2024.