Hinsdale Worker Ends 46-Year Career With Village

HINSDALE, IL – Jimmy Carter was president when Jim Piontkowski started working for the village of Hinsdale.

Tuesday was his 46th anniversary, having started in 1980. He is retiring Jan. 30.

At Tuesday's Village Board meeting, Piontkowski, the village's building maintenance supervisor, was honored for his service.

Officials said he will be given an honorary key to Hinsdale – the second person to receive such an award in the village's history.

"He has dedicated his life to the village of Hinsdale for longer, literally, than I've been alive, which I'm very grateful for," Village President Greg Hart said.

Hart said Piontkowski has taken "immense pride in his work and developed an unparalleled knowledge of the village and its facilities."

"Personally, I will always be grateful for the kindness Jim showed me as I was coming on board to this organization," Hart said.

Village Manager Kathleen Gargano presented a painting of the Memorial Building, which contains Village Hall and the public library, to Piontkowski.

"Jim is one of those employees who has touched all of our lives," Gargano said.

Piontkowski praised his co-workers and village officials. He said they all "helped me keep going."