Longwood names Dustin Wilbright finance director; hires Carlos Escobar as purchasing manager

The Longwood City Commission confirmed the appointment of Dustin Wilbright as finance director during the Sept. 15 meeting and staff announced the hiring of Carlos Escobar as purchasing manager.

City staff described Wilbright as having municipal finance and auditing experience, CPA credentials, and a background that included serving as finance coordinator for the Town of Orange Park. Staff said Wilbright joined the city in August and had been filling the acting finance director role while completing the FY2025-26 budget work.

Commissioner Boney moved to appoint Wilbright, and the motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Shoemaker; the appointment was approved by general assent. City Manager also announced Carlos Escobar started that day as the city's purchasing manager, bringing prior municipal and federal contracting experience.

Staff said Wilbright will meet individually with commissioners in the coming weeks and will assume the finance director duties immediately. Escobar will support procurement and purchasing operations.