City of Eustis Mayor and Vice-Mayor Elected

Published on January 07, 2025

At the Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025 Commission Meeting, Commissioner Willie Hawkins was elected as Mayor of the City of Eustis and Commissioner Gary Ashcraft was elected as Vice-Mayor. Hawkins and Ashcraft will serve their respective roles until Mayor and Vice-Mayor elections are held again, in January of next year.

“It is an honor to serve as Mayor. I’m excited about the challenges and the possibilities that this position brings. I know that I won’t be able to please everyone but I’m definitely willing to listen to everyone,” says newly elected Mayor Willie Hawkins.  

During the meeting, Commissioner George Asbate was sworn into Seat #4.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has,” says Asbate. He aims to serve his community by sharing his experiences and ensuring Eustis continues to grow into a vibrant and beautiful place for future generations, all while preserving its cherished small-town charm.

Willie Hawkins and Emily Lee were also formally sworn in to their respective seats, #3 and #5, at the opening of the meeting.

Commissioner Michael Holland will serve as Commission Seat #2 and Vice-Mayor Gary Ashcraft will serve as Commission Seat #1.

The City of Eustis has a council-manager form of government. The Commission consists of five Commission seats. Commissioners are elected for four-year terms, with elections held in even-numbered years. Elections are non-partisan. Elections for Seats 3, 4, and 5 are held in presidential election years. Commission terms begin in January of the year following the election. The Mayor and Vice-Mayor are elected at the first regular City Commission meeting in January each year.