Worker 1st To Reach Burr Ridge Milestone

BURR RIDGE, IL – John Wernimont has worked for Burr Ridge for the majority of the village's existence.

Thursday marks Wernimont's 40th year with the village. He is the first village employee to achieve that milestone in Burr Ridge's 68-year history.

On Monday, Wernimont, the operations division supervisor for public works, was honored by a resolution adopted by the Village Board.

In 1984, Wernimont started when the village's population was less than 4,000. The village has since tripled.

Wernimont has served under five mayors and reported to work in three different public works buildings, according to the resolution.

Wernimont is "widely known for his perpetual politeness, gracious smile and assuring presence," the resolution said.

Wernimont is credited with plowing every mile of the village's streets. He continues to manage and maintain the village's fleet, streets, snow operations, storm sewers, flood control, HVAC systems and general building maintenance.

"It's been a journey, and I am so grateful," Wernimont told the board. "Burr Ridge is a very, very special place. It's like a second home."

He said he hoped to work for the village for another year or two.