Algonquin Utilities Supervisor Named Operator of the Year

Source: Village of Algonquin press release

Gary Hallaert, Utilities Supervisor for the Village of Algonquin, was named Operator of the Year in the distribution category, by the Illinois Potable Water Supply Operators Association (IPWSOA). 

Hallaert, an Algonquin employee for the past 17 years, was nominated by his peers and selected based upon his leadership ability and foresight in the operation and maintenance of Algonquin’s water distribution system.  

The recognition is also accredited to Hallaert’s leadership while implementing and utilizing Geographic Information Systems for distribution operations, as well as the importance he has placed on staff development within the Utilities Division of the Public Works Department. 

“Gary’s contributions throughout his career with the Village exemplify the professionalism expected and demonstrated within our organization” said Village President John Schmitt.  “Through hard work and a commitment to professional development, we’re able to continuously improve our operations.”

Hallaert is the fourth Utilities Division employee to be recognized in the industry in the past six years.  

Last year, Andy Warmus, Utilities Superintendent, was named Operator of the Year by the Illinois Association of Water Pollution Control Operators.  Additionally, Ed Brown, Chief Wastewater Operator, was named Operator of the Year by the Fox Valley Operators Association.  

In 2008, Jason Schutz, Chief Water Operator, was named Groundwater Operator of the Year by the IPWSOA.

Hallaert will be recognized by the Village Board at their meeting on October 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ganek Municipal Center, 2200 Harnish Drive.

For more information regarding Algonquin’s water and sewer utilities, please visit the Village online at www.algonquin.org/publicworks.