Trusted and effective civic leader guiding cities and municipalities toward meaningful community change
About STEPHANIEStephanie brings a proven track record with 15+ years of experience working in Alaskan municipal government
My journey began in 2008 as the Soldotna City Planner, leading the development and implementation of the city’s Comprehensive Plan.
Over the next decade, I partnered with local land owners, business owners, and community organizations to promote economic development, manage municipal lands and resources, and advance the City Council’s land use policy goals and objectives.
In 2018, I was appointed City Manager, where I served for over five years and spearheaded impactful projects such as:
Soldotna Field House: A 40,000 square multi-use facility for year-round recreation and wellness.
COVID-19 Response and Recovery: Led the city’s pandemic response, and created new programs to distribute nearly $10m in federal disaster funds to businesses, residents, and community partners.
Downtown Improvements: Facade improvement grant program, highway gateway signage and beautification, and Riverfront Redevelopment planning.
Inter-Agency Collaboration: Partnered with neighboring municipalities for shared and more efficient service delivery.
Recruitment and Retention Strategies: Provided paid parental leave, an employer match for retirement savings, and lower health insurance premiums for city employees.
In 2024, I launched Stephanie Queen Consulting to partner with Alaskan civic leaders who want to make a lasting change in their community.
I have a strong passion for service and seeing our communities and people thrive.
As a lifelong Alaskan, I am deeply committed to this place and believe the work of local governments and their partners is critical for shaping our shared future.
Stephanie is a champion for Alaskan communities
EXPERTISEPROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION + EDUCATION
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certified since 2012
Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering
CAREER RECOGNITION
Alaska Municipal League (AML): ‘Emerging Municipal Leader of the Year’ in 2022
Greater Soldotna Area Chamber of Commerce: ‘Excellence in Profession’ award (2022) and ‘Government and Civic Affairs’ award (2017)
PROJECT AWARDS
AML: ‘Excellence in Local Government, Economic + Work Environment’, Soldotna Recruitment + Retention Strategies (2023)
Alaska Chapter, American Planning Association: ‘Grass Roots Effort’ award, Frozen Riverfest (2016); ‘Comprehensive Plan of the Year,’ Envision Soldotna 2030 (2013); ‘Best Practices’ award, Soldotna Storefront improvement Program (2012)
