As shortfall looms, Pillen installs allies on board originally designed to keep politics out of budget forecast

Pillen’s board shakeup, biggest in forecasting board’s history, includes appointment of two prominent former Republican lawmakers

September 17, 2026Updated: September 17, 2026

By Flatwater Free Press

As shortfall looms, Pillen installs allies on board originally designed to keep politics out of budget forecast

Then-State Sens. Lou Ann Linehan, who represented a west Omaha area legislative district, and Tom Briese of Albion flank Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen as he signs into law the 2023 tax cut bills they each sponsored.Photo courtesy of the Governor's Office

Regional

Norfolk leaders discuss wastewater treatment problems at emergency meeting

O’Neill man faces child pornography charge in Cherry County, already charged with sexual assault in Antelope County

A 25-year-old O’Neill man already facing a first-degree sexual assault charge in Antelope County now faces a child pornography charge in Cherry County.

Possible cell phone tower planned between Cody and Merriman

Cherry County Interim Zoning Administrator Jane Stolzenburg told county commissioners Tuesday that a company has been in communication with her about a possible cell phone tower in the area.

New grant to bring healthier options to school concession stands in north-central Nebraska

Families attending school sporting events in north-central Nebraska could soon have more healthy food options to choose from, thanks to a new grant program.

Should you separate excellent readers from struggling readers? A look at the Valentine School Board meeting

After separating some grades into reading groups based on ability, the school has decided to take a different approach this year.

Election mailers causing confusion in Cherry County

Cherry County residents are receiving election-related mailings that are not from the county’s election office.

As shortfall looms, Pillen installs allies on board originally designed to keep politics out of budget forecast

Regional

Norfolk leaders discuss wastewater treatment problems at emergency meeting

O’Neill man faces child pornography charge in Cherry County, already charged with sexual assault in Antelope County

Possible cell phone tower planned between Cody and Merriman

New grant to bring healthier options to school concession stands in north-central Nebraska

Should you separate excellent readers from struggling readers? A look at the Valentine School Board meeting

Election mailers causing confusion in Cherry County

State

Omaha selected as host city for 2027 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup

As shortfall looms, Pillen installs allies on board originally designed to keep politics out of budget forecast

Investigation into Norfolk wastewater problems underway, industrial plants examined

North Central District Health Department launches healthy concession stand grants for area schools

One woman in custody, one juvenile boy injured following hit-and-run

Back on the green, Pierce community rallies to save local golf course

Sports

Big Red Roll: Reviewing the Bowling Green Rout & Previewing Week 3 Nebraska Football NOW

Shorthanded at middle blocker, top-ranked Huskers sweep Jays in I-80 rivalry

CBS College Basketball Analyst Jon Rothsten delivers on happy hour promise

Lady Raiders Sweep Home Triangular

Bluejays Bury Bravettes in a Sweep

Potter-Dix dominates Leyton

Ag & Outdoor

Nebraska's congressional delegation critical of Trump plan to lower beef prices

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April