North Charlotte Today

Rebecca Hefner, the director of Housing & Neighborhood Services, shared her enthusiasm for her work, stating, "I love being a part of something meaningful and impactful, working together for a common goal and having fun while we’re at it." Hefner reflected on her diverse career path within the city, mentioning, "I’ve been a part of Community Engagement, Strategy & Budget, the City Manager’s Office, Innovation & Technology and I now serve as the director of Housing & Neighborhood Services."

Describing the dynamic environment of her department, Hefner highlighted the range of services provided, saying, "I’ve got a great team working every day to provide affordable housing, CharMeck 311 services, code enforcement, neighborhood engagement, grants and training, community outreach, youth programs, and all the business, administration and financial services required to make it all happen. It’s a lot…and a lot of fun!"

One of Hefner's main focuses is on understanding the interconnectedness of various aspects within the city, as she expressed, "The thing I’m most excited about isn’t one single priority, but asking the question – how does it all fit together?" She added, "Every program, service, activity and function of a city...all comes together (and sometimes collides!) in our neighborhoods."

Emphasizing her passion for teamwork and making a difference, Hefner shared, "I love being a part of something meaningful and impactful, working together for a common goal and having fun while we’re at it." She also touched on the fulfilling nature of her role, stating, "Being humans in this world can be a glorious mess sometimes. Working for the city, we have the opportunity, responsibility and the joy to make that mess a little easier for people – A little easier to navigate, a little easier to endure, a little easier to enjoy."

In addition to her professional endeavors, Hefner revealed her hobbies, mentioning her love for cooking and learning how to sew her own clothes. She also shared a current culinary preference, saying, "I’m on a real falafel kick right now, so if you have any restaurant suggestions, send them my way!"