'I wanted to make a difference'

Apr. 2—Working as the town manager of Hudson was Rebecca Bentley's dream.

"Eight years after becoming the finance officer for Hudson, the spot for town manager opened up. It was like I could hear a small voice telling me to take it," she said.

Bentley will retire at the end of June after over 32 years of service. She grew up in Hudson and has always loved the people and the joy the community brings her.

She said she has many responsibilities as town manager. She handles the budget, keeps up with legislation changes, supervises all the town staff, upholds the open-door policy for citizens and works with other towns and the county or state government, among other duties.

Bentley said she likes her job because every day is different, and she enjoys working with the community.

"I like working with people that I know and care about," she said. "I could not possibly point to just one person. Everyone in this town has meant a great deal to me."

She said that watching the growth of the town over the past three decades has been incredible. Since she first started as town manager in May 1996, she has helped with many projects and improvements over the years. One project she is most proud of is the improvement of the Hudson Uptown Building.

Bentley said that when Keith Smith, a local playwright who works in customer service for the town of Hudson, began producing plays at the HUB, the building didn't have a stage curtain, dressing rooms, lights, sound systems or really anything else to work with while putting on shows.

"We didn't have anything except the determination that we could do it," she said. "And here it is, all this time later. To see how the building has transformed over 20 years is amazing."

Smith said that Bentley was always working behind the scenes of numerous shows, spending her time backstage and in the sound booth.

"She's been so helpful behind the scenes and really worked to make it all possible," he said. "We couldn't have done it all without her support. She's believed in it since the beginning."

Bentley said the money and work put into the HUB have transformed it into a place full of life, where the town can hold plays and other community events throughout the year.

"I remember dancing into the new year with Mayor (Billy) Beane on New Year's Eve in 2005 at the HUB. He was dressed like Father Time and we just had so much fun," Bentley recalled, laughing at the memory.

Smith said that Bentley's resolve and determination in all aspects of her life have touched many in the community over the years.

"She really loves the town, she's very devoted," he said. "She has more than proved herself through her work and perseverance."

After all her years of service to the town, Bentley said she is ready to step down and relax.

"It's time for newer, fresher ideas, and a younger person to present those," she said.

As her retirement draws closer, she reflects on why she took the job in the first place.

"I wanted to make a difference, and I have been able to see that difference over the course of my work here," she said. "It's been a very rewarding career."

Reporter Carmen Boone can be reached at 828-610-8723

Reporter Carmen Boone can be reached at 828-610-8723