Beloved Assistant City Manager Kevin Hawkins Honored At Retirement Party, Council Meeting

TEMECULA, CA — Assistant City Manager Kevin Hawkins was celebrated at the Tuesday City Council meeting, concluding his 35-year career in public service.

During his more than three-decade-long career, Hawkins held positions in Inglewood and San Bernardino before joining the City of Temecula in 2013 as director of Community Services. Most recently, he has served the city as Assistant City Manager.

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During his tenure in Temeucla, Hawkins worked on community-building initiatives, executive management and employee development and retention efforts. He also cherishes his role as a husband, father, son and friend above all others.

Temecula's City Manager, Aaron Adams, spoke on Hawkins in a recent news release, saying he had "made a lasting impact on the city."

“Kevin’s impact on Temecula is immeasurable,” Adams said. “His passion to serve not just the community, but his community of co-workers, is what will be his enduring legacy.”

The city hosted a public recognition ceremony on Tuesday, April 28, in honor of Hawkins’ decades of service.

"I am touched, blessed and honored for all of you to be here," Hawkins said. "There have been folks who have been part of this city, and they've come and they've gone. It's not this. For you to come out to share your time, love, and presence to honor my family and me, you don't know what it means to me."

During the meeting, Hawkins thanked his wife, Lisa, his son and daughter, his mother, and his lifelong friends. Special guests included Third District Supervisor Chuck Washington, Rancho Community Church Pastor Scott Treadway, former city councilmember Mike Naggar, local historian and author Rebecca Farnbach and others.

Hawkins took the time to tell personal stories and share what matters most to him.

"You are the most naturally talented councilmember I've come across," he told Councilmember Brenden Kalfus. "I encourage you to keep using your powers for good because you make a difference, you matter."

He also gave personal messages to councilmembers Matt Rahn, James "Stew" Stewart, Zak Schwank and current mayor Jessica Alexander.

"This council is not dysfunctional. You have outstanding policymakers," he said. "It doesn't matter if you're a Republican or a Democrat; we all serve the same God. You matter.

"Today isn't about the destination, the retirement; this is the celebration of the journey," he said, sharing from the heart. "Today is my day, but tomorrow isn't promised."

The new Assistant City Manager, Luke Watson, will move up from his current role as deputy city manager. Watson began his career with the city more than 20 years ago as an intern and later worked in the Planning and Community Development Department.

He later served as Community Development director and joined the city’s executive staff. In 2021, he was appointed deputy city manager.

Adams said of Watson, "Luke has earned the respect of this organization through consistent performance, sound judgment, and a clear understanding of Citywide priorities."

Of Hawkins, Adams said, "He will be deeply missed."

Meanwhile, Hawkins reflected on his time in Temecula, saying:

"I am truly thankful to have been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of the Team Temecula Family, where we not only find a way to Yes, but along the way we find a way to Grace."