LINCOLN, Neb. — Former treasurer Tom Briese announced his resignation Monday after two years in the role, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. Joey Spellerberg, his successor, was officially sworn in on Thursday by Gov. Jim Pillen and began his first full day in office on Friday, with Briese assisting in the transition.

"He has been very supportive in the transition and willing to help," Spellerberg said. "And like I said in my speech on Monday, I'll just want to continue his legacy here at the Capitol."

Spellerberg, a Fremont native and small business owner, was serving his second term as mayor before this appointment. According to a 2024 property tax statement on first-class cities by the city of Kearney, Fremont has one of the lowest property tax levies in the state. Spellerberg believes his experiences will guide his actions as treasurer.

"Being able to bring that experience to the Treasurer's office I think will be key," he said. "Controlling our spending is going to be important as well as having, you know, experience being able to lower our property tax levy in Fremont."

Although still acclimating to the role, Spellerberg says he will be "jumping right in" with a desire to use his experience on issues such as economic development, housing, and infrastructure, which he encountered in Fremont. As treasurer, he is now responsible for receipting and disbursing all state funds and reporting transactions to the State legislature.

"I think our main focus is going to be how can we serve Nebraskans in unclaimed property, in our college 529 savings plan," Spellerberg said. "And then with continuing, obviously, treasury management in the office...[I'm] very impressed with the staff that we have and the work being done right now."

Spellerberg emphasized the importance of communication with Nebraskans as he settles into his new role. "So I think that's going to be my focus...listening right now, talking to Nebraskans and continue to do better for them," he said.

Former Republican state Sen. Julie Slama endorsed Spellerberg for treasurer after withdrawing from the treasurer's race earlier this week. The position for treasurer will be on the 2026 ballot.

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