Trudy Martin was honored with The Senate Award, which was presented to her by state Senator Harvey Peeler during Martin’s retirement party at Iron City Place. Blacksburg’s grass is greener today than it was in 1973, thanks in large part to one woman.

Blacksburg Town Administrator Danny McDaniel credited Iron City’s improvements to his predecessor, Trudy Martin, who first went to work for the town in July of 1973 at age 16. She collected money for water bills before becoming town clerk in 1974 and administrator in 1989. As the accolades continued Saturday during Martin’s retirement party at Iron City Place, it was apparent everyone was in agreement with the new administrator.

Blacksburg councilman Steve Wilson serenades former town administrator Trudy Martin with an Elvis Presley song Saturday during her retirement party. Ledger photos by TARA JENNINGS “In 30 years, she’s made the town what it is,” McDaniel said. “I’ve always said I could never work for a woman,” he joked. “But I can honestly say (Martin) has been the best supervisor I’ve ever had. I appreciate everything you’ve done for us.”

One major accomplishment during Martin’s service to the town was helping to extend water lines to Hwys. 198 and 5, areas that have since seen substantial growth with the development of gas stations and restaurants. At the time of the request to extend the water lines, the town was under a water moratorium because of the condition of its water lines. Martin helped the town find the needed money to upgrade its system and has helped the town secure nearly $5 million in grant money over the years.

“I’ve seen how you care and how Blacksburg has grown and it’s because of you,” Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Director Jim Cook said.

State Senator Harvey Peeler also agreed there’s no comparison between the Blacksburg of today with the town of years ago when he began his political career.

Peeler presented Martin with The Senate Award for her dedication during 32 years of employment with the town.

For many of the town’s leaders, including Blacksburg Mayor David Hogue, Martin has been an integral part of their success.

“There’s always been two women in my life, my beautiful wife and Trudy,” Blacksburg Mayor David Hogue said. “One I shared my bed with, and the other I shared by head with. ... Trudy’s made me look good, much better than I am. ... Blacksburg’s not the same place. We all can pat ourselves on the back for those accomplishments. But the name ‘Trudy Martin’ will always be remembered for what she did for this town.”

Over time, those professional relationships have developed into close friendships.

“The friendship means more to me than anything,” said Blacksburg Police Chief Jamie Ham. “I’m going to miss you a lot and we all love you.”

“We truly are a family,” Martin said emotionally. “The town was a great employer and they cared about my family, so, in turn, I cared about the town’s employees.”

Martin is retiring to spend more time with her family, including her new grandchild.

Although Blacksburg councilman Steve Wilson hasn’t known Martin for long, he knew of her love for Elvis Presley music and serenaded her with a song during the retirement party.

“I haven’t known you a long time, but in the short time I have you have been extremely valuable to me and to this town,” he said.

On a more serious note, he said, “Sincerely, I wish you all the luck in the world with your new grandbaby coming, but I’m still going to call you.”