Here’s how to retire like you’re moving to a resort
By Patricia Nugent
Just months away from opening, the area’s newest all-inclusive retirement community—Hudson Meadows—is already generating a big buzz around town, and for good reason.
“Our fantastic research team did its work assessing the needs of people in the Northeast Ohio area, and we discovered that, in this market, seniors really want to retire here and stay close to their families,” says Kelly Jo Hinrichs, vice president of marketing at the parent company Resort Lifestyle Communities (RLC), based in Lincoln, Nebraska. “With such an extensive and diverse business and university climate, families seem rooted to the area. Basically, people want to retire here, where they feel at home.”
The company seems to have the formula right, when it comes to expansive growth. Currently there are 34 RLC communities in the United States that are open, with 17 under construction and roughly 26 properties under contract.
“One of the many things that makes us unique is that we build, own and operate our properties,” says Kelly Jo. “We don’t just have a management company oversee it for us. We are tremendously invested in the community. Our manager couples actually live in the community. The new local managers are Tamela Miller and Scott Barker, originally from Findlay. Tam and Scott are thrilled to have relocated back home to live and manage this property.”
Another novel component to RLC is its resident travel program. Residents can travel and stay for free in other communities across the country, from Florida to Arizona.
A Vibrant Place to Call Home
Hudson Meadows is the first in Northeast Ohio. The $30 million community covers 180,000 square feet of independent living space within three floors, and is a perfect fit for independent seniors who are 55-and-over. Its earthy, craftsman-style architecture beautifully complements the verdant terrain.
Built on eight rolling acres, the 130 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes are surrounded by green space, which includes walking paths, an outdoor fireplace and sitting spaces.
“We even have bag stations along the walkways to encourage residents to walk their dogs,” she says.
Indoors, residents can stroll down Main Street, which includes a 150-seat theater, a general store, and a salon.
To make things easy for residents, everything is included in the month-to-month rent, such as utilities, a 24/7 emergency alert system, a wellness and fitness center, concierge services and weekly housekeeping. Unlike most other places, there is no buy-in cost or long-term lease contracts.
Apartment floor plans include large, open kitchens with granite countertops, custom cabinetry and high-end appliances.
Now This is Dining
Flexibility is the mission of Hudson Meadows’ all-inclusive Freedom Dining Program. Residents enjoy sit-down, restaurant-style meals with table service, casual dining, room service and even a chef’s pantry for snacking during the off hours.
“Our chef-prepared meals are made from scratch daily,” she says.
How to Become a Charter Member
“To take advantage of our Charter Member program, just place a simple risk-free deposit to receive $1,000 pack and move, a new washer and dryer in their apartment, and coupons for 20 free meals for family and friends, invitations to pre-opening parties and signage at their front door,” says Kelly Jo. “And residents receive top priority in selecting their accommodations, too.”
Look for updates on the last stages of construction, as Hudson Meadows prepares to officially open soon.
Hudson Meadows Retirement Community is located at 1275 Barlow Road in Hudson. Call 330-805-9988 or visit RLCommunities.com. It’s owned by Resort Lifestyle Communities.