Stella Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Stella, Nebraska government websites.
About Stella, Nebraska
Stella is a city in Richardson County, Nebraska. Use the official town and county resources on this page to reach the clerk, court, assessment, public records, and Freedom of Information request pages serving residents and researchers.
Economically, Stella has a rich agricultural background, with many residents engaged in farming and related industries. The village is situated near the Missouri River, which historically provided vital transportation routes for goods and resources. The community is characterized by its residential neighborhoods, such as the quaint streets surrounding Main Street, where local businesses and community events thrive. Stella's commitment to preserving its history and supporting the community spirit makes it a unique place in Nebraska's scene.
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement coverage for Stella, Richardson County comes through a network of agencies working across the area. These agencies coordinate on serious crimes and emergencies, making sure of residents throughout the county receive protection regardless of jurisdiction lines.
Jail & Inmate Records
Falls City houses the Richardson County Jail, which is the primary detention facility for Richardson County. When someone is booked, staff photograph and fingerprint them while recording their personal information. The county maintains an online inmate lookup system for public searches. Visitation follows specific rules and schedules set by the facility, and visitors must comply with posted guidelines. Bond and bail procedures follow Nebraska state law, which allows for release of detainees under certain conditions.
Arrest Records
The Richardson County Sheriff's Office keeps arrest records for the area, documenting the circumstances of each arrest along with charges and booking details. Residents and attorneys seeking these records can contact the Sheriff's Office directly. The Nebraska Public Records Law governs how these documents can be accessed, balancing transparency and public access against the need to protect sensitive information.
Court Records
Legal matters affecting Stella residents flow through the Richardson County District Court and County Court, which handle everything from civil disputes to criminal cases. Court records, including case files, dockets, and transcripts, are open to the public. Those seeking access can visit the respective court offices in person or submit a request online.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Richardson County cover felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and sex offender registry information. Background checks can be conducted through the Nebraska State Patrol, which provides criminal history reports. The Nebraska State Patrol offers additional resources and support for Richardson County residents seeking information on criminal records.
Public Records Access
The Richardson County Clerk's Office is the repository for vital records affecting Stella, maintaining birth certificates, marriage licenses, and death certificates. Residents can obtain these documents by visiting the office in person or submitting a request online. Meanwhile, the Richardson County Assessor's Office provides property tax information and assessment records for homeowners and businesses throughout the village.
Vital Records
The Richardson County Health Department oversees vital records for Stella, including birth, death, and marriage certificates. Residents can obtain copies of these records by visiting the department's office or by submitting a request online. The department also maintains immunization records and other health-related data for the community.
Business & Licensing Records
Business related records for Stella are maintained by the Richardson County Register of Deeds office. The office keeps files on business licenses, commercial property deeds, and commercial lease agreements. Those needing access to these documents can visit the office in person or submit a request online.
Economy & Demographics
The Richardson County Economic Development Office tracks economic data and business activities in Stella, including employment figures, tax revenue, and major employers. This information is available to the public and can be accessed by visiting the office or by submitting a request online.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Stella are administered by the Richardson County Election Commissioner/County Clerk, whose office is located at 1700 Stone Street, Suite 201, Falls City, NE 68355. The office can be reached at (402) 245-2911 and handles voter registration, election administration, and ballot processing for the village and all county precincts. Nebraska residents can register online at https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-voter-registration/ through the Secretary of State's website, or submit a paper application to Richardson County Clerk.
Registration deadlines fall at 6:00 PM on the third Friday before any election for mailed applications, while online and in-person registration extends to 6:00 PM the second Friday before election day. Registrants must provide either a Nebraska driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. At the polls, voters must show ID, acceptable forms include a Nebraska driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or tribal ID. As an incorporated village, Stella conducts municipal elections for village board trustees and other local offices. These elections typically coincide with the statewide primary in May of odd-numbered years, with the next one scheduled for May 2025. Village board members serve four-year staggered terms. Residents can locate their polling place using the Nebraska Voter Portal at https://www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/VoterView or by contacting Richardson County Clerk. Under Nebraska law (Neb. Rev. Stat. §32-1502), voter registration lists are public records available for election related purposes. Campaign finance reports for local candidates are filed with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission and searchable at http://www.nadc.nebraska.gov/. The county clerk maintains election results by precinct as public records. The November 3, 2026 general election will present several significant races for local voters: Nebraska's statewide elected offices including Governor (Pete Ricketts' successor seeking re-election) and all constitutional offices, the nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature District 1 seat representing the county, and Richardson County offices including County Commissioner districts, County Clerk, Sheriff, Assessor, Attorney, and Treasurer. Nebraska does not have U.S. Senate races in 2026. Early voting begins 30 days before any election at Richardson County Clerk's office, and mail-in ballots are available by request without requiring an excuse. Applications for mail ballots must be received by the second Friday before the election.
Frequently Asked Questions
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Stella, Richardson County, Nebraska, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Stella, Richardson County, Nebraska including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Nebraska Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Richardson County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7 How do I register to vote in Stella, Nebraska?
To register to vote in Stella, Nebraska, residents can register online through the Nebraska Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Richardson County elections office. Nebraska requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Nebraska Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Stella, contact the Richardson County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Stella, Nebraska?
Property records for Stella, Nebraska are maintained by the Richardson County Assessor's Office and the Richardson County Register of Deeds. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Richardson County, including parcels in Stella. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Richardson County Register of Deeds maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Nebraska counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Richardson County offices at the county courthouse. The Richardson County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Stella, Nebraska?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Stella, Nebraska residents are available through both county and state offices. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Vital Records, located in Lincoln, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Nebraska. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Richardson County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Richardson County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
Stella Community Library
222 N. Main St., ZIP 68442 • (402) 883-2232
Source: IMLS Public Libraries Survey FY2022
Source: IMLS Public Libraries Survey FY2022