Mayor Nancy Backus opened the Dec. 15 Auburn City Council meeting by presenting a proclamation that named a dogwood at East Main Street and M Street NE a 2025 heritage tree and then recognized Council member Yolanda Traut Manuel for her 12 years of service.

"I am not going to say goodbye as I don't see myself leaving or going away permanently. I see myself as recreating and redirecting my next chapter in life," Traut Manuel said, thanking family, council colleagues and community mentors. In the mayor's introduction, Backus said Traut Manuel had ‘‘served on the Auburn City Council since 2014’’ and represented Auburn on regional committees including work on domestic violence prevention, children and youth, and water quality.

Traut Manuel cited accomplishments she described as personal priorities, including partnerships celebrating the Latino community, leadership roles in regional organizations and work on domestic-violence protections. She told the council she had participated in a regional domestic‑violence task force and said that the group successfully pursued a protection‑order measure for women in the region.

Colleagues offered tributes. Council member Clinton Taylor and others praised Traut Manuel’s mentorship and community connections; Council member Baldwin noted Traut Manuel’s deep network and years of service.

The meeting included a short video and an award presentation to Traut Manuel marking her years on the council. The mayor and council concluded the segment with photographs and thanks.

The council did not take formal action related to the farewell; the recognition was ceremonial. The meeting then proceeded to appointments and other business.