The Clerk functions as the primary source of information about the City and maintains the official records of the City. Upon request, the City Clerk provides assistance in locating information and documents related to City government and actions by the City Commission. Fees for copying (and in special cases for performing research) are governed by Florida Statutes.

As Records Custodian, the City Clerk is primarily responsible for identifying, maintaining, and preserving vital, permanent, historical, and archival records. These documents include contracts, permits, licenses, grants, surveys, deeds, and municipal election information. The City Clerk prepares City Commission agendas and minutes of Commission meetings, advertises ordinances, and other required legal notices.

 

LaKesha McGruder has been with the City of Hawthorne since 2000 and has served as the Deputy Clerk since 2003 and City Clerk since 2009.  She has lived in Hawthorne all her life and is a graduate of Hawthorne High School.  She has attended South Florida Community College and Santa Fe Community College and holds a Associate of Arts degree in Elementary Education.  In addition, she has completed one year of training from the Florida Government Finance Officers Association.  She is a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, International Government Finance Officers Association, and the American Payroll Association. You can contact the City Clerk via email at lmcgruder@cityofhawthorne.net.