Algonquin Recognizes Code Enforcement Inspectors

It is a thankless job.

Algonquin’s code enforcement officers hear when something looks bad or someone’s grass hasn’t been cut.

When things look good, no one calls to thank the officers, said Craig Arps, building commissioner.

But Algonquin’s village board thanked its officers, Diana LaCalamita and Kim Nix this week in recognition of National Code Enforcement Officers Appreciation Month in April.

“Not only is a somewhat thankless position, it is a challenging position as well,” Arps said. “The people Diane and Kim come in contact with aren’t necessarily happy to hear from them. Frankly, it amazes me how they maintain such a positive attitude on a daily basis.” 

Arps read a proclamation in honor of Algonquin’s property maintenance inspectors, or code enforcement officers, citing the department’s accomplishments and contributions to the village.

“They work incredibly hard to keep the village pristine,” Arps said.

Last year, the department had almost 2,000 code violations or complaints and had a 96 percent compliance rate, meaning residents complied with the inspectors without having to issue tickets, Arps said.

“We don’t want to be heavy-handed," he said. "We are not here to brow beat people. We are here to work with them.”

“I can say sincerely that I feel fortunate that Diane and Kim are on the code enforcement team,” Arps said.

It is obvious the amount of work the inspectors do because the village is in nice shape, Mayor John Schmitt said.