Hawkins: What Affects Downtown Sonora

Matt Hawkins Sonora City Councilmember

Sonora City Councilman Matt Hawkins discussed the economic upturn that is taking place in downtown Sonora.

Hawkins was Friday’s KVML “Newsmaker of the Day”.

As a City Councilman, Hawkins has seen the economic ups and downs of business in the downtown district. Hawkins was first elected in 2010 and after a two year absence, was elected to fill one of the three open seats last year during the Primary Election.

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 directly bring to the City. I certainly don’t do the job for the pay, which is $125 per month. We did not vote for a pay raise for ourselves.”

According to Hawkins, some of the issues that continue to need to be addressed include addressing the homeless issue, branding the city and the need to maintain a small town atmosphere that remains tourist friendly.

Additionally, 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.”

Hawkins concluded, “In my years as a City Council Member, I have learned that Government at all levels, works at a snail’s pace. It can be frustrating. I continue to be 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.