MAGGIE VALLEY — What a difference a few months can make. In late June, the Maggie Valley Board of Aldermen passed a budget that cut taxes, spending — and the town’s festival director position. Now, as summer turns to fall, Audrey Hager, director of festivals and special events, is staying on. At least for now.

The Maggie Valley Parks, Recreation, Festival Advisory Committee recently recommended Hager stay through Oct. 31, a move the aldermen approved. After that, Hager’s not sure what the future holds. She has been given an offer to stay on longer, but the specifics aren’t completely known yet.

“I’m going to consider all my options,” she said, adding that she and her husband plan to stay in the area.

While nothing’s for certain, Hager’s choices could include her working her previous job ...