The City of Eustis welcomed a new chapter of leadership as Commissioner Willie Hawkins was officially elected as mayor during Thursday night’s commission meeting. Hawkins, who has served as a commissioner for four years, was nominated by his peers and secured unanimous approval in a roll call vote conducted during the meeting.

The election process began with nominations for the role of mayor, where Hawkins was the only nomination. Hawkins took the gavel and assumed his role as the City of Eustis Mayor for 2025.

In his acceptance, Mayor Hawkins expressed gratitude and humility, acknowledging the contributions of his predecessor. “I have big shoes to fill,” Hawkins says. “I’ve sat beside this man for the last four years, and he’s done a phenomenal job. If I can be half the mayor he was, I’ll be kicking butt.”

The meeting also saw the election of Gary Ashcraft as vice mayor. Commissioner Ashcraft was nominated alongside Commissioner Michael Holland. Following a roll call vote, Ashcraft secured a unanimous  vote and was named the Vice Mayor of Eustis for the upcoming year.

Mayor Hawkins and Vice Mayor Ashcraft will lead the city commission as they address key priorities and continue fostering growth and development in Eustis.