Vontray "Von" Norris serves as the City Manager for the City of Hawthorne, where he has led a bold and effective transformation of city operations, community engagement, and financial health. Appointed in 2021, Norris has brought vision, discipline, and energy to the role-earning him a 2025 nomination for City Manager of the Year by the California City Management Foundation (CCMF).

With over 31 years of experience in local government, Norris oversees day-to-day operations across 11 departments and supports the Mayor and City Council in advancing their policy agenda and community goals. Under his leadership, Hawthorne has completed over $5 million in infrastructure projects, increased annual revenues, and grown general fund reserves by more than 1,700% since 2016.

Norris has spearheaded major initiatives including the Hawthorne Nursery housing development, Dodgers Dreamfields at Jim Thorpe Park, telehealth services for fire victims, and the revitalization of city parks, streets, and facilities. He also secured funding through the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) and successfully managed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

A champion of innovation and accountability, he introduced the city's 311 app, launched the Hawthorne City View newsletter, and prioritized transparency, long-term planning, and staff development.

Norris is a member of the League of California Cities, Independent Cities Association, and Contract Cities Association, and has completed CERT training to strengthen emergency preparedness. He leads with a commitment to equity, sustainability, and community-focused governance-believing that strong cities are built on trust, teamwork, and vision.