Auburn Council Rejects Ordinance for New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Accepts Cemetery Transfer and Approves Budget Changes

The Auburn City Council on Monday December 10 and rejected a proposal to allow New Year’s Eve fireworks sales and discharge, even as it approved a major cemetery transfer, amended the city’s water budget, and moved forward on several infrastructure and licensing items during its regular meeting.
Local fireworks business owner Jenica Mullins urged the council to approve the ordinance, saying community interest was strong and sales would keep revenue in Auburn. Several residents submitted letters supporting the proposal, citing convenience and potential economic benefits.
The ordinance failed on a 4–2 vote after council members agreed to suspend the rules and forgo a second reading at Mullins’ request to meet a Dec. 11 state fireworks permit deadline. Tom Clark, Rick Janssen, Nathan Sietz, and Brian Lavigne voted against the measure, while Shawn Clark and Johnny Curtwright supported it. A supermajority was required for passage.
After the vote, Mullins said she was disappointed and would likely operate a stand in a neighboring community. She added that her business may consider leaving Auburn entirely.
City to Take Ownership of Sheridan and West Cemeteries
In one of the evening’s most significant actions, the council unanimously approved a resolution transferring ownership of the Sheridan and Sheridan West cemeteries from the volunteer-run Sheridan Cemetery Association to the city. Kathy Grant of the Sheridan Cemetery  Association cited lower interest rate payouts, rising maintenance costs, worker shortages, and financial strain as reasons it could no longer sustain operations long term.
Representatives said caring for the two cemeteries is nearly a full-time job in the summer. Steve Mattis told the council it takes about 10 hours to mow each cemetery and 25 hours to weed, with additional time required for the old Sheridan Cemetery. The city will assume responsibility once the association’s board meets to formally accept the council’s resolution.
The transfer includes all cemetery property, equipment, and financial accounts: approximately $22,700 in savings, $78,400 in certificates of deposit, and a restricted $57,377 perpetual care fund. City officials said two seasonal maintenance workers will likely be needed. The cemeteries will fall under the Parks and Recreation Department, which will prepare a dedicated budget.
Council Amends Water Budget After Emergency Year
The council approved an amendment to the 2025 water budget following months of emergency water operations. General Manager Ray Luhring reported that overtime and staffing demands increased wages by $65,000, while an additional $215,000 was needed for the Longs Street water line project. A planned $280,000 main replacement on P Street was removed due to the emergency and funding reallocation.
The Board of Public Works unanimously recommended the amendment at its Nov. 19 meeting.
Liquor License, Construction and Housing Approvals
Council members approved a liquor license for Baltic LLC, doing business as Arbor Manor Steakhouse and Lounge. Two of the new owners, Jennifer Thompson and Jackie Caudillo, were present and happy to have the council’s support.
A temporary liquor license was also granted for Gallery 75 and The White Spot for an event on Jan. 17, 2026.
The council took several construction-related actions, including:
Final payment and project closeout for Graham Construction for work in the Westgate Addition.
First payment to MC Wells for the J Street culvert replacement project near El Portal.
Approval of a new home construction grant for Mitch Bishop for a single-family residence at 14th and I Street.
Leadership, Contracts and Traffic Control Updates
Council member Nathan Sietz was re-elected council president for the 2025–26 term. The council also approved holidays for staff, annual city appointments and committee assignments, which Mayor Chris Erickson noted were largely unchanged from the previous year.
The council renewed its solid waste contract with American Recycling & Sanitation, which includes a 10% monthly rate increase. Erickson noted the company was the only bidder.
Members also voted to keep Auburn State Bank as the city’s official depository.
A resolution approving additional stop signs in the Westgate neighborhood passed, intended to improve traffic safety. New stop signs will be placed at:
16th & U (westbound)
18th & Westgate Ave. (northbound)
16th & T (northbound)
16th & R (northbound)
Westgate Ave. & R (southbound)
19th & Q (northbound)
16th & Q (northbound)
Q Street at 14th Street (northbound)
The city also renewed its annual maintenance agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for snow removal along Highways 75 and 136 through town.