The Town of Rolesville is pleased to announce it has hired a new Planning Director.
Beginning January 12, 2026, Stephen Wensman will take over as the new Planning Director for the Town of Rolesville. Stephen brings over a decade of experience in urban planning, economic development, and project management.
Prior to his role in Rolesville, he served as the Planning Director for the Town of Smithfield since 2017, where he led efforts to position the town for sustainable growth while enhancing community engagement.
As a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, Stephen has a deep-rooted connection to the Midwest, where he still has family and many friends. Before moving to North Carolina with his wife Fatoumata, and their son and daughter, he worked as the Planning Director for a fast-growing suburb of St. Paul, MN.
Additionally, Stephen has extensive experience in the private sector, having worked as a Landscape Architect and consultant, providing park planning, city planning, and site design expertise to small cities.
Stephen holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and a Master of Public Administration and is a Certified Planner through the American Planning Association’s American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).
His professional background also includes serving on neighborhood planning committees, planning commissions, and leading numerous community planning groups.
Outside of his professional life, Stephen enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, playing tennis, and cycling, reflecting his passion for both community and the natural world.
With his extensive background and dedication to creating vibrant, sustainable communities, Stephen is excited to contribute to the continued growth and development of the Town of Rolesville.