Briese stepping down as treasurer, Gov. Pillen appoints Fremont mayor to fill role
LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska will soon have a new state treasurer.
Current Treasurer Tom Briese, who was appointed to the post in September 2023 and officially took office that November, has decided not to seek a full four-year term.
In recent months, Briese said he spoke with Gov. Jim Pillen about his and his wife’s thoughts on whether to continue serving or step down. Ultimately, he chose to leave the position.
Pillen has appointed Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg to fill the role.
“He’s got extraordinary credentials," Pillen said. "He’s a fiscal conservative, he knows how to say no, he’s a business owner, and he’s a leader in the community of Fremont.”
Spellerberg has served as mayor of Fremont since 2020.
“Right away I’ll be focused," Spellerberg said. "I’ll work with Treasurer Briese on a smooth transition.”
He also confirmed that he plans to run for reelection next year. Pillen expressed his support for the incoming treasurer.
“I will be doing everything in my power to help Joey win and continue to serve long term for the state treasurer," Pillen said.
Former state senator Julie Slama also announced her intentions to run for the office on Monday.
There is no official timeline yet for when Briese will cede his duties and Spellerberg will assume the office.
