Meet Brian Bernier
Four Beaches Property Maintenance Technician
When Brian Bernier first visited Four Beaches he was immediately overwhelmed by the scope and beauty of the community. After 21 years as the Four Beaches Property Maintenance Technician, he still appreciates the environment and views. As he explained, “I feel lucky to get to come to work and be outside on a property like this all day.”
Brian hails from Derby, Connecticut, where he attended elementary and high school. After 1 & 1/2 years at Naugutuck Valley Community College, he was employed by a local lumber company and then by Derby Water Pollution Control. Brian started work at Four Beaches in 2000 and over the years has witnessed a property transformation. He points out that the 2015 renovations and improvements completely changed the look of the community. In addition, the attention he and resident volunteers have given to the landscaping has made the grounds far more visually appealing. He feels that residents are happier as a result of the improvements, and he is proud to have been a part of that. Brian is constantly surprised by the number of non-residents who wander into Four Beaches thinking it is a public park.
When asked what readers might not know about his job, Brian responded that the sheer amount of work required to keep Four Beaches looking great and running smoothly surprises even him. Nearly every day, he is called upon to address a different type of maintenance situation: wild animals wreaking havoc in the parking structures, wind damage to pool furniture, and missing kayaks, to name a few. He can easily complete 10,000 steps by noon as he races around attending to all of his duties. He frequently participates in Fitbit step challenges and almost always comes in first place. Sweeping salt takes up the largest amount of time, with power washing a close second.
Brian often encounters wild animals around the property. He has become adept at relocating nesting squirrels and doves, and he helped an injured owl return to flight a few years back. However, the geese remain his nemeses as he is continuously working to redirect them away from the Great Lawn and beach areas (aren’t we all).
When he is not hard at work here at Four Beaches, Brian enjoys spending time with his partner, Erica. They are avid soapers - making 100s of diverse bars each year. If you have a question about essential oils and other ingredients used in soap making, Brian is your go-to source.
Brian truly appreciates his job at Four Beaches: “As I see it, I’m way more than a custodian; I am a caretaker of the property. I see my job as maintaining smiles.”
Here is what residents have to say about Brian:
“Brian is responsive, personable, engaging, and interesting. In my five years at Four Beaches, I’ve never seen him in a bad mood!”
“Brian is always so friendly and cheerful. He is an amazing worker. He never stops and he is such an asset to Four Beaches. We are so lucky to have him here. Thank you Brian!”
“Brian was so kind to us when we purchased our condo last September. He took us around the property and answered all our questions. We always enjoy seeing Brian.”
“My experience with Brian is kind honest hard worker and never complains. 5 star. Thank you Brian for keeping Four Beaches beautiful, words can not thank you enough. Stay safe and keep up the good work.”
“Brian has helped me on several occasions and he is always a pleasure to be around. As a part time resident of Four Beaches it gives me great comfort to know that he is keeping an eye on our beautiful property.”
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