Making Centennial A Safe, Healthy & Prosperous Community

Meet Stephanie

Stephanie Piko is the Mayor of Centennial, Colorado, with over 20 years of experience in local government and community leadership. Known for her pragmatic, solutions-driven approach, she has led the city through major initiatives focused on public safety, infrastructure, environmental responsibility, and economic resilience. Under her leadership, Centennial has earned national recognition as one of the safest and most livable cities in America. She’s expanded law enforcement partnerships, invested in programs like School Resource Officers, and championed workforce development by connecting students with local businesses through the Cherry Creek Schools Innovation Campus.

Stephanie also played a key role in bringing professional women’s sports to the city through a partnership with Denver NWSL, helping secure a stadium and training center. Her leadership extends beyond Centennial through her service on regional, state, and national boards covering transportation, flood management, opioid response, and more. A long-time resident since 2001, she and her husband James raised their family in Centennial, and her deep personal and professional roots continue to shape her passionate commitment to the community.

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Key Initiatives

Leadership Roles

    • Mayor of Centennial(2018–Present)

    • City Council Member – District 4(2012–2017)

    • Mayor Pro Tem(2013, 2017)

    • Chair, Centennial Open Space Advisory Board

    • Member, Budget, Audit, and Investment Committees

    • Chair, Mile High Flood District (2025)

      • Vice-Chair (2024), Treasurer (2023)

    • Chair, Denver South TMA (2024–2025)

    • Board Member, Regional Air Quality Council (2024-2025)

    • Board Member, Denver South EDP (2018–Present)

      • Executive Committee (2024–2025)

    • Executive Committee, Metro Mayors Caucus (2024–2025)

      • Member (2018–Present)

    • Chair, Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority (2018–2021)

      • Board Member (2013–2024)

    • Honorary Commander, Buckley Space Force Base

    • Member, Arapahoe County Collaborative Transportation Forum

    • National League of Cities (NLC)

      • Advisory Board (2024–2025)

      • Board of Directors (2019–2023)

      • Research Advisory Committee (2024–2025)

      • EV Workforce Development Collaborative – Co-Chair (2024–2025)

      • Chair, IT & Communications Committee (2019)

      • Executive Advisory Committee

    • Colorado Municipal League

      • Legislative Policy Committee (2015–2017)

    • Board Member, Colorado Business Roundtable (2022–2025)

      • Chair, Community Pillar (2025)

    • President, Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation (2020–Present)

      • Founding Member

    • Founder & Member, Centennial Faith Council (2021–Present)

City Of Centennial Awards

  • As an eight-time winner, Centennial remains one of the few governmental entities to be recognized.

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  • This recognition highlights Centennial’s strong economy, high quality of life, and commitment to fostering a connected and thriving community.

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  • It reflects the dedication and hard work of our City Staff, but more importantly, it highlights the collaborative effort between the City and you, our vibrant community.

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  • This prestigious award highlights our commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration in creating safer, more accessible streets for everyone.

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  • Centennial Center Park has been recognized as the Best Park, offering a beautiful and vibrant space for residents and visitors to enjoy.

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  • Awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 2024 budget (2024)

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  • Centennial YMCA Center of Generations has been acclaimed as the Best Place to Meet People, underscoring its role as a vital community hub.

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Major Achievements

Revamping Digital Infrastructure

Recognizing the importance of agility in city services, Stephanie prioritized a full digital platform overhaul in 2019 — just ahead of the pandemic. This strategic move ensured the city could seamlessly transition to remote operations and continue engaging residents when in-person access was limited.

Boosting Economic Development

Mayor Piko helped position The District for future success, supported strategic redevelopment efforts, and partnered with regional economic organizations to attract diverse businesses to Centennial. Her work helped strengthen the city’s tax base while retaining its community-focused identity.

Launching Centennial’s First Strategic Plan

In 2018, Mayor Piko led the development and implementation of Centennial’s first long-range strategic plan, aligning the City Council, staff, and residents around a clear vision for growth, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility. This initiative laid the foundation for data-informed decisions that guide investments and operations citywide and it is revisited and updated every year.

Media Appearances

Stephanie Piko is a respected civic leader and Mayor of Centennial, Colorado, known for her commitment to community engagement, smart growth, and transparent leadership. She has been featured in media outlets such as 9News, Denver7, and The Denver Post, and is a frequent guest on panels and podcasts discussing city planning, innovation, and public safety. Her thoughtful approach to governance continues to make her a sought-after voice in civic conversations across Colorado and beyond.

2024 State of Our City

9 News NWSL Soccer Team Stadium

K4CO - LIVE with Stephanie Piko

Centennial Lifestyle - Mayor Stephanie Piko

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