Written by Jamie Polley
The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office and Parks, Recreation, & Forestry (PRF) Department have teamed up to create a brand-new Recreation Deputy position after the retirement of the County’s Park Ranger. These departments have the shared goal of enhancing year-round public safety at County-owned parks, forests, and recreation sites — making this creative partnership a win-win.
Taxpayers will be happy to learn that State aid (through Department of Natural Resources reimbursements) can fund 70–80% of the costs involved for one of the positions, meaning there will be minimal additional tax levy funding to significantly enhance our public safety presence to keep the County’s parks, trails, and forests safe and enjoyable for residents and visitors.
Get to Know Your New Recreation Deputies…
Deputy Michael Van Offeren has been a Deputy with the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 5 years and is an active member of both the dive team and crash team. He attended college at UW–Stevens Point for Resource Management—Law Enforcement and is a certified DNR Safety Instructor. He grew up fishing, hunting, and camping and is looking forward to spending time in the County’s parks and forests.
Deputy Brian Modrzejewski has been a Deputy with the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office for almost 5 years and is a certified Bomb Technician as a member of the Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad. He attended college at Northcentral Technical College, obtaining a degree in Criminal Justice. Prior to working for Marathon County, Brian was a Deputy with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Brian enjoys hunting and fishing and has a love for the outdoors.
If you see these new deputies during your outdoor endeavors,
say hello and let them know that you appreciate their dedicated service.
Jamie Polley
Director | Wausau / Marathon County Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department
Jamie Polley is the Director of Parks, Recreation, & Forestry for the City of Wausau and Marathon County. She is a native of Marathon County and after living in Minnesota for 11 years, she made her way back home in 2018. Jamie is excited to lead this unique City/County department forward and tell the story of what the Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department is and does so that all citizens know of the opportunities available to them. Jamie has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a master’s degree in Sports Management. Outside of work, Jamie is an avid runner and loves to spend time with her family enjoying the outdoors. Email Jamie Polley.
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