Eagles working with 250th committee for July 4

AUBURN - Lee Conner said the Auburn Eagles are working with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce for the commemoration of the United State’s 250th anniversary culminating on July 4, 2026.

The city council approved a contribution of $7,500 for fireworks.

After the city council noted last year’s $5,000 contribution, Conner assured the council that whatever amount they give, they will blow it up 100 percent of the city’s contribution.

An early fireworks order qualifies for a 15 percent reduction in price, but Conner said it remains to be seen how tariffs will impact the costs.

The fireworks display is planned at the Auburn High School grounds.

In other action, the council approved a wage increase for utility general manager Ray Luhring to a base salary of $15,000 a month.

Mayor Chris Erickson proclaimed Nov. 1 to Dec. 31 as Small Business Season in Auburn.

The proclamation described small business as the backbone of the economy and said citizens do their part to fuel local prosperity when they shop, dine and do business locally.

This year's theme is "Every Purchase Has a Purpose."

The city council voted to reject an Auburn truck driver for the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department.

Councilman Shawn Clark said Cade McFarland previously left the fire department on bad terms. The fire department's general membership voted McFarland back on. Fire Chief Darwin McCollum said several volunteers were give second chances. He said the fire department roster is down a little due to volunteers aging into inactive status.

The library reports it will take part in Auburn's Hometown Christmas with a craft time from 9:30 to 11 a.m.