Hawkins Discusses Issues Facing The City Of Sonora
Matt Hawkins is a new face on the Sonora City Council… but in reality, he’s a returning face.
Hawkins was Friday’s KVML “Newsmaker of the Day”.
After a two year absence, Hawkins was elected to fill one of the three open seats earlier this year, during the Primary Election.
“It’s good to be back,” Hawkins said. “I love this community and I feel that my generation (which is the tail end of Generation X), needs to be represented. I’m a father, who works hard and faces issues that I can be bring to the City.”
According to Hawkins, some of the issues from two years ago, that continue to need to be addressed include attracting new business, branding the city and the need to maintain a small town atmosphere that remains tourist friendly.
Homelessness is a problem that Hawkins would like to see more involvement from various leaders, working together. These leaders would include representatives from the City, Tuolumne County and regional churches.
Hawkins stated, “Some of the issues we continue to look at include public transit facilities, lack of parking spaces, uneven sidewalks, abandoned buildings, traffic congestion and historic preservation.”
“In my previous time as a City Council Member, I learned that Government at all levels, works at a snail’s pace,” said Hawkins. “It can be frustrating. In the two years that I’ve been a private citizen, I learned a lot and am now ready for action in representing our constituents.”
The “Newsmaker of the Day” is heard every weekday morning on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 AM.