Nebraska: Seward Launches Design Competition for Flag and Seal

APRIL 21, 2026 — The City of Seward, Nebraska, has initiated a public competition to establish its first official municipal flag and a redesigned civic seal, reports the Milford Times.

Open to both current and former residents of all ages, the contest seeks to replace the city’s existing minimalist seal, which Mayor Josh Eickmeier recently described as essentially a circle containing the word “seal”, with more distinct iconography that reflects the community’s heritage.

According to the submission guidelines, submissions are being accepted until May 1, with the municipal government aiming to unveil the winning designs during the local July 4th festivities.

City Clerk and Human Resources Director Derek Bargmann noted that the timing aligns with Seward’s designation as an official host city for the United States’ 250th anniversary.

“Obviously we want something that tells the story of Seward,” Bargmann stated.

Participants must provide a written rationale explaining how their aesthetic choices represent the city.

Though the municipal government has framed the initiative as a way to “get it out into the world,” the final selection remains subject to the approval of the Seward City Council.

The winning designer will receive a $25 prize and a certificate, while the top three finalists in both the flag and seal categories will receive $10.