Town Maintenance Custodian Receives Employee Recognition Award

GUILFORD, CT — His work ethic, his willingness to go the extra mile and lend a helping hand to all and his kindness and civility were all mentioned when Jonathan Padilla was nominated by several town staffers for an employee recognition award.

A maintenance custodian, Jonathan Padilla has been with the town two years. And in that time, has won praise from several town departments and the Shoreline Outdoor Education Center.

First Selectman Matt Hoey announced that Padilla was given the Guilford Employee Recognition Award for July 2021.

Hoey, who initiated this program, has encouraged all employees to nominate other employees who should be recognized for outstanding achievement and performance in their work.

The Employee Recognition Awards Committee selected Padilla, who received several nominations. Among those who submitted testimony on his behalf were Assistant Facilities Coordinator Giacomo Iovine, Youth and Family Services Administrative Assistant Tracy Nagy, Public Works Shop Foreman Ralph Casey, and Public Works Office Clerk Jane Olsen. In addition, a letter of appreciation for Jonathan’s work ethic was received from Shoreline Outdoor Education Center Director Dr. Karen Christensen.

Iovine who works closely with Padilla, said that he “hears nothing but praise about how well he works and how polite he is” from people in every building. Jonathan has “always gone above and beyond expectations and is an asset to the Town” based on all he does as a maintenance custodian on a daily basis.

At Guilford Youth and Family Services, Nagy stated that ‘Jonathan is always willing to help with any job, no matter how big or small. He is always polite to everyone he meets and he is the first person to lend a hand when needed”. She also cited his attention to detail that is shown in the landscaping around the building.

Padilla also services the Public Works facilities, where both Casey and Olsen work. Casey said that "Jonathan always does an excellent job and gives 110% effort at everything he does." Olsen added, that “he has an excellent work ethic and job performance, including being mindful of safety protocols."

Padilla started with the Town of Guilford as a part-time custodian for the Community Center before being promoted to full-time Maintenance Custodian nearly two years ago. He received an Employee Recognition Award certificate as well as a gift card from First Selectman Hoey, in recognition of his achievements.