HUNTLEY — Having worked for the Village of Huntley since July 2006, Executive Assistant/Special Events Manager Barb Read is set to conclude this chapter in her life in preparation for retirement come mid-January.
“My family is spread over three states and this grandma just wants to spend more time with my kids and grandkids. I have worked for municipalities for about 28 years and full-time totally for 44 years — it is time,” Read told My Huntley News.
Barb Read, the executive assistant and events manager for the Village of Huntley retires after 44 working for municipalities. (Photo by Tony Pratt/My Sun Day News)
Read first began working as the permit coordinator for Huntley, however, in January 2007, she utilized her prior experience working in planning departments at other villages to move to the position of management assistant for Huntley’s Village Manager’s Office.
Since that time, Read says that she has enjoyed the variety of opportunities her job has provided.
“I have had the opportunity to be part of many programs and events. Everything from inspecting Ash trees to coordinating special events to working with the downtown businesses and working with many local organizations and other taxing bodies here in Huntley,” said Read. “Some of my favorite memories include the first day of the Huntley Farmers Market in 2007 when we had only three vendors and now, we average about 30 vendors each week with a wide variety of events taking place in conjunction with the market.”
Additionally, Read described her fondness of the village’s yearly Christmas on the Square event, describing the event as “magical.”
“I love when I see families/friends/neighbors meeting up and enjoying time together. I love the kids running around and having fun. It gives such a sense of community and while we are a large village, it seems like a small town,” she explained.
Read stated that a typical day on the job begins with her completing a list of tasks she creates.
“And if I get them all done that would be a surprise as things come up and change constantly, but I would not change it for the world,” she said.
When asked what the most valuable lesson working for the Village of Huntley has taught her, Read highlighted the importance of putting in the maximum effort possible into all work tasks.
“Always give it your all and you’ll be happy with the results and yourself,” said Read. “And, work to improve on what you are doing. After each event, I think about how it can be better next time. Or setting up the farmers market, I think of how each vendor might do in a particular spot and make sure, if possible, it helps them.”
Reflecting on her work legacy and the impact she will leave behind; Read told My Huntley News that nothing could have been accomplished without the help of co-workers and volunteers.
“I so appreciate all the help that I’ve been given over the years. It is the team that will keep things running,” she said.
Read advises anyone who is thinking of entering a field like the one she is retiring from to simply work hard, appreciate every day, and most importantly, “put away money out of each check so you can retire.”
Other than looking forward to spending more time with her family, Read hopes to be able to clean and organize her home once she officially retires. Since she often had to work six days a week, she explained that she did not have the opportunity to always keep up with the hustle and bustle of housework.
Read says she also hopes to get back into baking and trying new recipes as well as enjoying her yard.
“I truly have loved working for the Village of Huntley. This is a great community and the residents and businesses are the very best. They truly follow the motto of ‘A Friendly Village with County Charm,’” said Read as a final takeaway.
