Jim Poloniak is Dedicated to Excellence Since 1992

Jim Poloniak, Facility Maintenance II worker and a long-time, highly-respected member of the Des Plaines Park District Parks Department, received the Dedicated to Excellence Award at the October 18 Board Meeting, from Paul Cathey, Superintendent of Parks and Planning. Poloniak was recognized for his outstanding technical and mechanical maintenance work, and his commitment to safety for pool patrons and program participants. The Dedicated to Excellence Award is presented three times a year to employees who have made a positive contribution to the Park District. Potential recipients are nominated by Park District staff members, and evaluated by the Employee Relations Committee and Administrators for creativity, responsibility, community relations, and customer service.

Poloniak began his career at the Des Plaines Park District on August 6, 1992. His responsibilities include electrical work, plumbing, emergency repairs, painting, and safety inspections. “His most important duties, however, are the pre-season maintenance of the Park District's two neighborhood pools and Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center; the seasonal upkeep and operations of the pools during the summer months; and the winterizing of the facilities after they close,” said Cathey. Poloniak is in charge of weekend pool operations and the “Early Bird” maintenance crews, who tend to the water quality, cleanliness of the facility, and repair of the amenities during the busiest days of the week.

Internally at the Park District, he is a member of the Safety Team Committee. “Jim is vigilant about his responsibilities, and takes pride in his work,” said Cathey. “He is a great representative of the District out in our community.”

For more information about the Des Plaines Park District, visit www.DPParks.org.