LINDA PAYNE

Professional. Dedicated. Loyal. Those are just a few of the adjectives friends and colleagues of Linda Story used to describe the woman who has dedicated 40 years of her life to serving her hometown.

"She is someone who I always will treasure as a colleague and a friend," said Dr. Caryl Burns, who has worked alongside Linda Story for many years. "She is a wonderful person, and I'm quite glad she came my way. She truly is one in a million, and I don't think there is anyone who loves this town more than she does."

Mayor Pro Tem Frank Mackie agreed, noting that working with Story has been a pleasure because of her high level of professionalism.

Story retired as town manager at the end of November after working for the town nearly 40 years.

"She has been the perfect fit for this town," added Granite Falls Mayor Barry Hayes. "I don't think this town could have found anyone better to serve this town.

"I've met managers from all across the state, and there isn't anyone I would trade Linda in for. She loves this community and has been very dedicated to seeing this town prosper. I am really going to miss the wealth of knowledge she brought to this town, but I am sure she will continue to support this town to the best of her ability."

Story began working for the town of Granite Falls in the 1970s and became town manager in 1982. She said she never expected to stay in one place as long as she did but considers herself blessed for that opportunity. She said she has seen the town grow over the years and is quite proud of the accomplishments her staff has achieved.

"I've always enjoyed seeing project ideas become reality," Story said. "Seeing the hard work of our employees pay off as a project comes to life is probably the most rewarding aspect of this job. We have been able to complete so many projects over the years, and for that I am grateful."

Many of the projects Story and her staff have been able to complete have been made possible thanks to grants. She said the town has received several million dollars worth of grants in her years with the town, which has allowed it to expand facilities and services, and provide the community with unique memories.

Story said her two favorite projects of all time are probably the transformation of the Baird House into a transportation museum and the preservation of public access areas at Lakeside Park.

"I am mostly proud of these projects because it will have a lasting effect on our citizens," she said. "We have been able to provide our community with access to the lake for many years to come, and the museum is something that can be shared with generations to come."

The success Story has experienced while serving in local government has extended far beyond the county line. Burns said Story is respected by her peers throughout the state for her dedication and loyalty to the town.

"We used to travel to a lot of meetings together, and it always was hard to keep with her," Burns said. "She had a network of people and companies throughout the country who she worked with. She always was focused on doing what was right for the town."

Rebecca Bentley, Hudson town manager, said she remembers calling upon Story for guidance when she first became town manager. She said Story always was very thorough in her understanding of local government, and that guidance has helped Bentley become the town manager she is.

"She has done just about all of it in her years as town manager," Bentley said. "Her experience has been tremendous, and that is something that cannot be replaced. This county, region and state will miss her tremendously."

Story officially stepped down as town manager earlier this week so she can spend more time with her family and travel. She said she looks forward to spending quality time with her children and grandchildren, but also wants her colleagues to know that walking away has not been easy.

"I am really going to miss the employees and elected officials I have worked with, as well as the many citizens in town," Story said. "But I am not going far. I will always call this town my home, and I will be available to help as needed."