Introducing Alex Panduro, an 18-year veteran of the Public Works Department who, among other talents, is a certified playground safety inspector.
The certification is especially valuable while maintaining new equipment at the Powerhouse Park Tot Lot, which opened in April.
Panduro earned the three-year certificate from the California Parks and Recreation Society after a three-day course that included a site visit and testing.
Years earlier, he joined the department as a utility worker. He holds State-issued operator certificates for potable water and wastewater systems. His Class B driver license means he can operate any of the equipment in Del Mar's fleet.
Public Works Director Joe Bride praised Panduro's leadership and skill in explaining procedures to less-experienced crew members.
"He thinks outside the box and comes up with creative solutions to difficult challenges," Bride said.
During 18 years on the job, there's not much Panduro hasn't seen or done.
Working on the playground is especially rewarding, said the father of two. He added that the Powerhouse Park Tot Lot is excellent for kids.
"It's where kids come to learn and develop skills," Panduro said. "You know it’s all part of child development, so it’s important to have a good playground."