March 2018 – Santa Monica, CA – Rebecca Abano was appointed as the City Architect by Public Works Director Susan Cline. After an extensive local search, led by Executive VP Brett Byers of The Hawkins Company, Abano, formerly with the City of Los Angeles was the selected candidate. Her decorated portfolio includes major projects such as the $172 million Zoo Capital Improvement Program and the $417 million Citywide Public Safety Capital Program, funded by Proposition Q. Abano stated, “I’m very excited to join the progressive City of Santa Monica and I look forward to being part of the Public Works team.” As City Architect, Abano will manage the 18-member team of the Architecture Services Division of the Public Works Department, with a multi-year capital improvement budget of $500 million. Regarding the selection of Abano, Susan Cline said, “Rebecca’s demonstrated experience overseeing the design of Los Angeles’ first net zero energy projects and delivering several LEED certified buildings made her stand out from the rest of the candidates. Her commitment to sustainable practices and high design standards are consistent with our goals and values, and we are thrilled to have her join our team as a seasoned architectural services leader.” Abano will begin her tenure on Monday, March 26, 2018.
The Hawkins Company would like to congratulate Rebecca on being appointed to this very unique, prestigious and once in a lifetime position at the City of Santa Monica!