Centennial has recently experienced significant developments in its leadership and community projects, reflecting the city’s commitment to growth and resident engagement.
New Leadership in City Council
On January 5, 2026, during a special meeting, a newly elected Mayor and four City Council Members were sworn into office. Centennial Municipal Judge Kevin Ellmann administered the oath of office to Mayor Christine Sweetland and Council Members Cindy Sandhu (District 1), Ashish Vaidya (District 2), Ryan Dwiggins (District 3), and Durrell Middleton (District 4), each of whom will serve a four-year term. The City also expressed its sincere gratitude to Mayor Stephanie Piko, who concluded her eight-year term, as well as outgoing Council Members Robyn Carnes (District 1), Tammy Maurer (District 2), Mike Sutherland (District 3), and Marlo Alston (District 4), for their dedicated service to the community.
Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
On March 3, 2026, Centennial’s District 1 Council Member Amy Tharp was sworn in as Mayor Pro Tem and will serve in the role until March 2, 2027. Elected annually by fellow Council Members, this position carries out mayoral functions during any temporary absences of the Mayor. Council Member Tharp has called Centennial home since 2006 and brings more than 34 years of experience in education and community service to her role on City Council. Her career with Littleton Public Schools included more than 15 years as an instructional coach, supporting educators and advancing academic excellence across grade levels.
Community Development Initiatives
In addition to leadership changes, Centennial is actively pursuing community development projects. The city recently adopted the Midtown Centennial Sub-Area Vision Plan, a strategic roadmap to transform and reinvigorate the Midtown Centennial area. This plan aims to guide thoughtful development, ensuring Centennial thrives well into the future.
Furthermore, the city is addressing housing availability and affordability. Centennial is committed to understanding housing challenges and opportunities across the community. Shaping housing policy and defining the role of local government requires strong collaboration and meaningful input from residents and community partners.
Financial Planning and Budgeting
The city’s budget serves as a communications and operations guide, detailing strategic projects, service levels, and programs that fulfill the policy direction of City Council. The development of the 2025/2026 Biennial Budget aligns with City Council’s strategic goals, community needs, and operational requirements. Each fund in the budget is balanced, as required by the Centennial Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Local Government Budget Law.
These developments underscore Centennial’s dedication to responsive governance and proactive community planning, aiming to enhance the quality of life for all residents.