Patch Candidate Profile: Dr. Yuan Hawkes For Temecula City Council

TEMECULA, CA — With election day approaching, Temecula voters are preparing to cast ballots in contests that could shape the future of their community, including City Council races.

City Council members approve local policies and municipal budgets, oversee public services and make decisions that affect residents, businesses and neighborhood development.

Patch asked all Temecula City Council candidates to answer questions about their campaigns, and we are publishing their responses.

Meet Dr. Yuan Hawkes, candidate for Temecula City Council, District 5:

What is your campaign website?

DrYuan4Temecula.com

What is your educational background?

PhD in molecular genetics

What is your occupation?

homeschool mom

Briefly tell us about your family.

Temecula has been my home for 19 years. I was married here 18 years ago, and I am raising my family here.

My husband and I have two children.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

What is your age?

(No response)

Do you have previous experience in public office, appointive or elective?

I was appointed as the community services commissioner for the city of Temecula (2022-25)

Why are you seeking this office?

To be a new voice for the people of Temecula

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is traffic. I intend to improve traffic flow by better coordinating signals and adding lanes and dedicated turn lanes at problematic intersections where feasible.

There may not be one single solution to traffic, but small, targeted improvements at multiple locations can add up to meaningful results and make daily travel through Temecula easier.

If applicable, what are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My background and approach are different. I am a scientist by training, with a Ph.D. in molecular genetics, and I bring a data-driven approach to problem-solving. I have also served on a school board, as an HOA president, and on Temecula’s Community Services Commission. My priorities are reducing traffic, preserving open space, and creating local jobs. I also believe strongly in listening to residents before major decisions are made. I would bring a fresh perspective to City Hall focused on practical solutions, transparency, and constituent input.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I believe the current officeholder has failed on traffic, transparency, constituent engagement, and creating a more business-friendly City Hall. Traffic improvement is one of his stated objectives, but it remains a major issue. I also believe District 5 residents should be consulted earlier and more directly on major decisions, and local businesses should have a simpler, more responsive permitting process. My approach would be to listen first, communicate clearly, and focus on practical results.

What is your position on the SDG&E Powerlink Project?

oppose. I have spoken against it at council meetings and have rallied against it with our community.

What is your position on more affordable housing in Temecula?

I support creating more affordable housing, but it needs to be done responsibly. Temecula should meet its housing obligations without overbuilding or putting additional strain on traffic, infrastructure, and existing neighborhoods.

I would focus new housing in appropriate and underused areas, rather than simply increasing density everywhere. We should also look for ways to make the approval process more efficient for projects that fit the community and include attainable housing for working families, seniors, and young people.

My approach is housing with balance: provide more affordable options while protecting Temecula's quality of life and making sure infrastructure keeps pace with growth.

What ideas do you have for improving tourism?

I would focus on bringing more visitors to Temecula while making sure tourism also benefits our local businesses and residents. We can strengthen partnerships with local businesses, hotels, restaurants, wineries, and community organizations to promote Temecula as a destination.

I would also like to see more special events throughout the year in places such as Old Town and other commercial areas, along with programs that encourage visitors to shop and dine locally. Better promotion, easier transportation between popular destinations, and highlighting the unique character of Temecula can help visitors stay longer, spend locally, and support our small businesses.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

My top 3 priorities are reducing traffic, preserving open spaces and creating local jobs.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My background combines science, leadership, and community service. I earned a Ph.D. in molecular genetics and worked as a cancer research scientist, which trained me to analyze problems using facts and data. I served on the Springs Charter School board from 2019 to 2022 and on Temecula's Community Services Commission from 2022 to 2025, where I was elected as Vice Chair and later Chair. I have also served as my HOA president since 2018. These roles have given me experience with budgets, governance, public meetings, teamwork, and making decisions that affect a community.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Dream big and never ever give up!