Paul Cathey is Dedicated to Excellence Since 1995

Paul Cathey, Superintendent of Parks and Planning, received the Dedicated to Excellence Award at the May 21 Board Meeting, from Executive Director John Hecker. Cathey was recognized for his leadership and management skills, his strong work ethic, and long-standing loyalty to the District. 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.

Cathey began his career at the Des Plaines Park District in April of 1995 as Superintendent of Parks, with ten years of experience in the field of Parks and Recreation. His responsibilities include managing a full-time staff of 25 in Building Services, Special Projects, Mechanical Operations, and Landscape Maintenance. His staff handles building maintenance and rental set-ups; capital and special projects; horticulture and forestry, including landscaping, mowing, and litter control; ball field maintenance; park security and vandalism repairs; golf course maintenance; aquatic mechanical services; fleet and mechanical maintenance; athletic facility lighting; and facility custodial work.

Cathey is the author of the Park District's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) transition plan and was instrumental in helping the District become an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency. During his tenure, Cathey has managed the renovation of 29 District playgrounds; development and installation of North Lake Park; Mountain View Adventure Center, including the Skate & BMX bike parks, and the batting cages; the addition of new soccer fields at Prairie Lakes, and the renovation of the Administrative & Leisure Center office area. Under Paul's management, Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center, one of the largest water parks in Northern Illinois, was built on the site of the old Rand Park Pool. He has also overseen improvements to Golf Center Des Plaines, including the 9-hole golf course, the 300-yard outdoor driving range, and the banquet room.

Internally at the Park District, Cathey chairs the Strategic Planning Committee, and is on both the Long Range Planning Committee and the Safety Committee. He is also responsible for overseeing all public bids. Cathey serves on the Crimestoppers Board of Directors, the Maine West Community Relations Committee, and the Maine West Athletic Boosters as a representative of the Park District. “Paul is completely dedicated to the District and works tirelessly to make sure all of our facilities are in excellent condition, our parks, green spaces and landscaping are truly beautiful, and that we continue to grow and serve the increasingly diverse population in our community,” said Hecker. “Paul personifies the vision of the Park District: Enriching lives everyday.”

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