Auburn Council Weighs Fireworks for New Years, Board of Public Works Budget and Proclaims Small Business Season

The Auburn City Council met Nov. 10 to handle a packed agenda that included public comments on fireworks regulations, a proclamation supporting local businesses, and approval of the 2026 Board of Public Works budget.
As part of the consent agenda, special-designated liquor licenses were approved for Ruth Heywood at The White Spot, Gallery 75 Event Space and Nellie’s Nook for events on Nov. 22, Dec. 5 and Dec. 13. Approvals were also issued to the Auburn Chamber of Commerce for Midnight Madness events at Scarlet & Green and The Flower Shoppe on Dec. 5.
Fireworks
During public comment, Auburn resident Jenica Mullins urged the council to allow fireworks sales and use on New Year’s Eve. She said permitting fireworks would boost local sales and keep spending in Auburn instead of neighboring communities. Mullins added that fireworks help build community pride and ease enforcement challenges, since many residents already cross the river to buy fireworks and celebrate.
The council later introduced an ordinance to allow fireworks sales from Dec. 28–31 and use between 6 p.m. Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. Jan. 1. The ordinance passed its first reading, with Council Members Rick Janssen and Brian Lavigne dissenting. It will move on to a second reading at the Dec. 10 meeting.
On a separate note, council members voted to contribute $7,500 toward the 2026 community fireworks show, organized by the Auburn Fire Department and the Eagles Club. Lee Conner with the Eagles addressed the council, noting that this is an increase from last year’s $5,000 contribution as costs are rising and tariffs will likely impact the budget. The annual event is scheduled for July 4 at Auburn High School, with a rain date of July 5. Conners said planning is already underway to incorporate the nation’s 250th anniversary into the 2026 celebration alongside the Auburn 250 Committee.
Small Business Season 
Mayor Chris Erickson proclaimed Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 as Small Business Season in Auburn, encouraging residents to “shop local, dine local and discover Auburn” throughout the holidays. The proclamation highlighted the role small businesses play in shaping the city’s character, creating jobs and reinvesting in the community.
Board of Public Works
The council unanimously approved the 2026 Board of Public Works budget, which includes anticipated increases in wholesale power costs and water department expenses. Electric rates are expected to rise slightly due to inflation and higher power purchase costs. BPW has entered into a new 35-year contract with the Nebraska Public Power District and the Western Area Power Administration that will take effect Jan. 1, 2026.
“We’re facing higher wholesale power costs due to increases from our energy suppliers and ongoing water supply challenges, but these investments position Auburn for long-term reliability and growth,” said Ray Luhring, the Board of Public Works general manager, during the budget presentation.
Luhring noted that the water department had a challenging year due to drought conditions and infrastructure needs. The Longs Creek Project, which will draw surface water, along with the purchase of new well pumps for emergency replacement, will add costs and leave the water budget in the red.
He added that BPW is working with JK Energy Consulting on a cost-of-service rate review. “We may have to bite the bullet and raise customer rates,” Luhring said.
Wastewater system improvements are also planned, with the city pursuing a State Revolving Fund loan of up to $650,000. BPW has made the final payment on the bond that funded the wastewater treatment plant, which will help the city budget for replacing aging equipment.
Nuisance Property, Appointments, Officer Compensation
Council members also addressed a long-standing nuisance property at 1220 11th St., voting to authorize city cleanup as the property owner fails to comply. City Attorney Angelo Ligouri said the owner has made progress, “but it doesn’t seem to stick.” Council Member Tom Clark noted that law enforcement should be present when city employees are on-site.
The appointment of Cade McFarland of Auburn to the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department was denied following discussion about internal concerns and past performance. The motion to deny the appointment passed unanimously. 
Fire Chief Darwin McCollum noted this wasn’t the right fit however the department is always seeking volunteers. 
An ordinance updating compensation for city officers and employees was passed on final reading. The update reflects staff transitions and organizational adjustments following the recent budget cycle. 
The council also approved the annual certification of the City Street Superintendent as required by state law.