Flemington Mayor Sandra Martin is not seeking re-election. Flemington Mayor Pro-Tem Paul Hawkins is running unopposed.
Hawkins, 75, has served on the Flemington Council for more than 20 years, most as the mayor pro-tem.
“As my duties of being mayor pro-tem, I have served as acting mayor and would like to continue serving the citizens of Flemington,” he said.
Hawkins was born in Greenville, S.C., where he attended school.
He became a certified master electrician, and owned and operated Hawkins Electric for 48 years in Liberty County before retiring.
Hawkins and his wife Linda have been married for 50 years. They have two sons, Grant and Stevie Hawkins, and a daughter, Jami Maudlin.
Hawkins said he is running for mayor to continue representing the residents of his community.
He said he will continue to find the balance of attracting businesses while keeping a small-town feel.
“I feel like the business will be attracted to Flemington because of our residential growth,” he said. “With a good council behind me, I feel we can maintain the feeling of a small town and ‘Preserve our heritage while shaping our future’ (city’s motto).”
If elected, he hopes to update the city’s charter and resolve traffic issues.
“I would like to continue pursuing the issue of installing a signal light at McLarry’s Curve to ensure better safety to those traveling through our city, along with relieving some of the traffic problems,” he said.
He said the city needs to address growth.
“Another issue is the fast growth of residents coming to our community,” he said. “In the near future, this growth could cause the city to impose a levy on the city’s residents for service that is provided.”
Hawkins said he is approachable and open to ideas and exchanges to improve the city.
“I want the people of Flemington to know that I am available for any problem that may arise and am willing to discuss any issues that may develop,” he said. “I will do my best to resolve any problems that fall within the city’s ordinances. The city of Flemington is my home, and I have its best interest at heart.”
Early voting starts Monday for municipal elections. The last day to mail or issue absentee ballots is Nov. 3. Regular voting is on Nov. 7.