Stephanie Holmes
How long have you lived in Auburn?
I was raised in Nemaha County, attended Auburn Public Schools and graduated from Johnson-Brock. After college and starting a family, I spent 10 years as a military spouse. In 2016, I returned home to Auburn, where I am proud to live, serve and stay connected to the place that shaped me.
Why are you seeking election to the office of mayor?
I am seeking election as mayor to strengthen transparency and trust between city leadership and the community. Public service has long been a part of my family. My father served as Nemaha County Commissioner for District 3, and my great aunt served as Nemaha County Clerk. I would be the third generation in my family to serve and I take that responsibility seriously.
Guided by my slogan, “Progress through Partnerships,” I am committed to collaboration, unity and shared purpose in decision making. I regularly attended city council meetings, and I am concerned by the limited attendance. As mayor, I want to encourage greater civic engagement by creating an environment where residents feel informed, valued and heard. My goal is simple: to move Auburn forward through partnerships, transparency, respect and a genuine commitment to its people.
Describe your qualifications to serve as mayor?
I am a lifelong educator with a master’s degree and experience in leadership, collaboration and service. I am a wife, mother and community volunteer who values strong relationships and responsible decision-making. I currently serve on the City Planning Committee and am a graduate of Nemaha County Leadership Class #7. I have held officer and leadership positions throughout my professional career, providing me with the skills, perspective and accountability necessary to effectively serve as mayor.
What are your top priorities should you be elected to serve the city?
If elected, my top priorities center on building trust, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring Auburn continues to move forward in a thoughtful and inclusive way.
First, I will focus on transparency and open communication. Residents deserve to understand how decisions are made and to feel comfortable engaging with their local government. I want city meetings and processes to be welcoming, respectful, and grounded in psychological safety so that ideas, concerns and differing perspectives can be shared.
Second, I am committed to community engagement and partnerships. Auburn is strongest when we work together. I will actively encourage community participation and seek partnerships that support shared goals and long-term progress.
Third, I will prioritize collaborative and accountable leadership. Good decisions come from unity and shared purpose, not division. I want to foster a culture where city officials, staff and citizens collaborate, communicate clearly and remain accountable.
Finally, I will support responsible planning for Auburn’s future, ensuring that decisions made today consider sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and the needs of future generations.
What do you believe to be the top issues facing Auburn and your proposed solutions to addressing them?
One of Auburn’s top challenges is limited community engagement and trust in local government. When residents feel disconnected, participation declines. I believe the solution starts with transparent communication, and leadership that fosters psychological safety, so people feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns.
Through collaborative leadership and partnerships with residents, local organizations and regional resources, we can plan responsibly for the future.
Describe your experience working with civic matters, city council, or elected officials.
I have hands on experience working with civic leaders, elected officials and community partners. During my participation in Nemaha County Leadership Class #7, I worked closely with the Peru City Council, the mayor, and council members on the Peru Bark Park project. This project required collaboration across multiple levels, including a partnership with Omaha Public Power District to assist with installation, as well as securing numerous community donations to successfully fund and complete the project.
In addition, I have gained experience through my application to run for city council in 2025 and my continued involvement in local government and civic engagement. My background in education and professional leadership has provided many opportunities to work collaboratively, navigate complex processes, and bring people together around shared goals.
Do you have recommendations for improving our city’s infrastructure (water, sewer, streets, internet, etc)?
Auburn faces important challenges related to infrastructure and long‑term planning. Maintaining and improving our water, streets, and other essential services requires thoughtful decision‑making and fiscal responsibility.
Equally important is community engagement. By improving transparency and encouraging resident participation, we can make better, more informed decisions together and ensure our infrastructure investments align with Auburn’s long‑term goals.
Do you have any additional thoughts which you would like to share with our readers?
Nemaha County shaped who I am, and I am committed to leading with integrity, transparency, and collaboration to build a future we are proud to share with “Progress through Partnerships!”
