Algonquin utilities supervisor tops in state

The Village of Algonquin's utilities superintendent, Andy Warmus, has been named Operator of the Year by the Illinois Association of Water Pollution Control Operators. And it also named Algonquin's operation as a whole second best among Illinois utilities plants of the year.

There are 5,000 certified wastewater operators in the state who were eligible to be nominated for Warmus's award.

Warmus said he spends long hours on the job and he thanks his family and his co-workers for the support. The department has a high level of professionalism and environmental stewardship, he said.

Being named Operator of the Year is both a great honor and humbling, he said. “I think the award represents commitment. While the award may be personal, on a larger scale it demonstrates a commitment the village has to its people.”

Warmus has been working with the village since 1996. “He grew into the position,” Assistant Village Manager Michael Kumbera said. He has been the superintendent since 2007 and has led the department well.

“The operation is truly a team effort,” Kumbera said. Warmus agreed, ”I could not have been as successful without backing of all of these people.”

This type of recognition lends credibility to the village and its employees, Kumbera said.

“We're proud to have top-caliber staff such as Andy providing services to village residents and businesses,” Village President John Schmitt said.

Nominations for both awards are submitted by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.